In life’s valleys, we build resilience and character. It’s here that we gather the strength to climb higher peaks. Learn from the past but don’t cling to it. Envision your next peak and work diligently towards it. Our future is shaped by our actions today. #BeThe1st #ReaRealty #Election2024
Friends, let me tell you, there’s something truly special about the basketball tournament season. It’s a time when we all come together, filling out those bracket sheets for the WNBA and NBA tournaments, dreaming big for our favorite teams. The magic is in spotting those “Cinderellas” like the Cleveland Cavilers or “underdogs” who rise above the odds and pull off the impossible.
Watching the elite eight match-up in the NBA got me thinking about Ohio, my home state, and its electoral journey. It reminded me of the times Representatives Marcy Kaptur and former “underdog” Congresswoman Joyce Beatty found themselves in the thick of it during Congress’s low 10% approval rating back in 2012.
Did their electoral outcomes reflect the voters’ instincts? There’s no denying that the sentiment against Washington’s gridlock—be it the debt ceiling standoffs, stalled educational reforms, climate change inaction, or the attacks on women’s healthcare—will resonate in the 2024 elections.
As our economy recovers, and with the rise of U.S. semiconductor chip manufacturing becoming this year’s “Cinderella story,” there’s a renewed sense of hope. Toledo alone has seen an addition of manufacturing jobs. General Motors and Chrysler are hiring more workers, and unemployment has dropped to 3.7%. With the “Chips Act” in motion, manufacturing will soon constitute 18.3% of Ohio’s economy. Middle and working-class voters are moving away from the divisive politics of old, looking instead for leaders who offer economically sound policies.
To win the heartland, politicians need to reignite Franklin Roosevelt’s “Lunch Pail / Hard Hat Coalition.” This modern coalition, embracing progressive Whites, Latinos, African Americans, Asians, Native Americans, unions, and young voters, is the way forward.
Remember the 2006 elections? We saw governorships and Senate seats flip to blue in states like Ohio, Colorado, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Missouri. That was the “Lunch Pail Coalition” at work, with Voters of Color (VOC) playing a critical role. In Ohio’s Cuyahoga County, for instance, VOC made up 14% of the electorate.
Ohio has a rich history of this coalition. African American mayors have led cities like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, Dayton, Youngstown, and Mansfield. This coalition has consistently elected candidates of color, showing the power of unity and shared purpose.
Looking towards November 2024, I remain hopeful. Despite the 2020 census showing a loss of voters, cities like Columbus have grown by 10.6%, adding over 145,000 “key” Voters of Color. This demographic was pivotal in Joyce Beatty’s historic win as the first African American Congressperson from central Ohio. Her success in the 3rd Congressional District showcased the strength of the “Lunch Pail Coalition,” as she mobilized VOC precincts, winning all but one of the twenty highest-turnout precincts.
So, as we root for our underdogs and fill out our brackets, let’s remember that the real victory lies in electing leaders who listen to the people and work for a better future. It’s time to embrace the spirit of the underdog and vote for those who break the mold and make a difference. #BeThe1st
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
As the election season heats up, the southern states, including Tennessee and North Carolina, have captured our attention. Yet, my focus shifts toward Georgia—not merely for its pivotal role in politics but for what it symbolizes as a “Promised Land” for Voters of Color (VOC). Despite modest population growth in Atlanta, as per the 2020 census, neighboring Athens-Clark County has seen a significant 15% increase. This growth, echoing changes from a decade ago, has granted Georgia additional political influence through an extra congressional seat and an Electoral College vote a decade ago—a reminder of the importance of demographic shifts, similar to those witnessed in North Carolina in 2020.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Freedom Summer, a monumental effort by civil rights groups like CORE, SNCC, and NAACP to dismantle the barriers that African Americans faced in voting, particularly in the Deep South. Fannie Lou Hamer, a valiant Mississippi native, emerged as a national voice for voting rights during this period, notably with her impactful testimony at the 1964 Democratic National Convention.
Reflecting on my initial visit to Atlanta, I recall being invited by Reverend Joseph Lowery to help lead a bus tour through the Deep South—a defining moment of my early organizing career. Despite a delayed arrival due to weather, the warmth of the welcome I received, and the urgency of our mission to reach the Mississippi Delta by sunrise, underscored the relentless spirit of the civil rights movement—a commitment to leaving no one behind.
This ethos of inclusivity and responsibility is something I wish were more prevalent in today’s Congress, especially as they engage in partisan skirmishes over issues like the debt ceiling. Their actions often seem more focused on obstruction than on cooperation, neglecting the urgent needs of our economy and the well-being of our communities.
In places like Georgia, however, Voters of Color are increasingly mobilized, echoing the politically charged atmosphere of past elections, like that of November 3, 1998. That year, VOC represented 30% of the vote share, a figure that helped progressive candidates achieve significant victories. Today, with VOC comprising a substantial portion of Georgia’s electorate, their potential to influence the 2024 elections is immense, particularly in key areas like Atlanta and Athens-Clark County.
From my first journey to Atlanta to the current moment, the lesson remains clear: our strength lies in unity. As we approach 2024, we must continue to foster an environment where every voice is heard and valued, ensuring our democracy truly represents all its people. This is about more than just electoral politics; it’s about reaffirming our commitment to a diverse and vibrant democratic process. This is how we drive forward. #BeThe1st
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
Every Thursday, I have the joy of taking my son to his baseball practice. There, I watch him master the essentials: fielding, throwing, and hitting, repeating his drills relentlessly to prepare for that crucial moment on the field. As both a father and a coach, I often reflect on Reggie “Mr. October” Jackson’s words: “I’ll tell you what makes a great manager: A great manager has a knack for letting you know they believe in you. They make you get more out of yourself. And once you learn how good you really are, you never settle for playing anything less than your best.” This belief in potential and excellence is fundamental, not just in sports but in every endeavor—including our political engagement.
Recently, I’ve been pondering the GOP’s wavering commitment to civil and human rights. Despite attempts to appeal to Women of Color, recent moves like the Arizona abortion ban make me question whether they risk losing that hard-earned support. The rhetoric around “choice” used by some candidates and their endorsement of restrictive laws have ignited a profound debate. Their silence during crucial Supreme Court decisions speaks volumes about their stance on issues that affect the rights of women and People of Color.
This approach seems to ignore the significant influence that Voters of Color in Arizona hold, relying instead on historical victories like those of McCain and Bush. Yet, the political landscape is shifting—states like Arizona are turning into battlegrounds, reflecting not only demographic changes but evolving sentiments among Voters of Color and women. Remember, Bush attracted over forty percent of the Latino vote in 2004; a retreat from choice issues now could be a gamble with high stakes.
As we look towards 2024, it’s crucial to recognize the power of the voter of color. In Arizona, People of Color constitute a substantial portion of the electorate, with impressive turnout rates in past elections. The demographic growth in key cities like Phoenix, which has seen significant increases in Voters of Color, underscores the potential for shifts in voting patterns. These voters have already demonstrated their impact, electing progressive leaders locally.
The shifting demographics and the potential for increased voter mobilization could redefine the electoral map. If progressives, philanthropists, and political strategists invest wisely in energizing Voters of Color, states like Arizona could solidify their status as pivotal battlegrounds, or even states like Tennessee might shift from red to blue.
In these times of change, the call for a political game-changer is clear. It’s time for leaders who see the potential in every voter and strive to inspire the best in all of us. Just as a good manager in baseball brings out the best in their players, good political leaders must foster confidence and empowerment among voters, driving them to engage and vote at their full potential. The road to 2024 offers an opportunity for such leadership to emerge, capable of transforming not just electoral outcomes but the fabric of our national discourse. Let’s step up to the plate and ensure our political strategies reflect the best of what we can achieve together. #BeThe1st
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
In Toledo, where I grew up, the rallying cry of a local sports team advancing to the state tournament was a beacon of collective pride and unity. It was more than a game; it was a community coming together, celebrating shared achievements and fostering a united spirit. This sense of community vitality stands in stark contrast to the divisive debates surrounding our nation’s economic recovery today. At the heart of these debates is the question: how does America reclaim its role on the global stage and maintain its favored nation status, especially in the face of adversity?
As we contemplate the path forward, it’s clear that it requires dedication, difficult decisions, and, yes, a measure of hard work. However, some voices dissent, critiquing measures like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act as divisive. Yet, from my earliest memories in Toledo to my formative years, one truth has always held: we must support each other to foster community spirit, as my father would often say, with a ball in play for emphasis, “You have to help a friend to be a friend.”
Decades later, this philosophy came to life in Memphis, Tennessee, at the Marquita Bradshaw Democracy Sneaker Ball. The event was a vibrant testament to the collective efforts of diverse communities—Whites, Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans—all united to support the historic candidacy of the first Person of Color to the U.S. Senate from Tennessee. Walking from the Lorraine Hotel to Beale Street, the air was electric with unity, reminiscent of the spirited gatherings during Freedom Summer, yet with a modern twist.
This unity is not confined to one location or event. Reflecting on a campaign in the 90s in Colorado, I remember mobilizing with partners to overturn a regressive ballot initiative. We were initially behind, yet through an inclusive and vigorous public education campaign, we secured a decisive victory. This effort drew on the strategic inclusiveness of the New Freedom Summer volunteers—youthful, passionate, and diverse, their work drew national attention and galvanized support.
Years later, revisiting Denver’s historic Five Points community, I spoke with residents whose spirits were as robust as those of any visiting politicians. They saw every economic advancement as a collective victory, a sentiment backed by Denver’s rich progressive history—from the Buffalo soldiers to early Hispanic settlers, to the activists fighting for women’s rights.
As Colorado’s electorate has evolved, so has its political landscape. The 2010 Census unveiled a transformation, significantly influenced by an increase in People of Color’s voter participation. This shift was evident when, during a wave year for the Tea Party, Colorado’s diverse electorate helped turn the tide towards progressive candidates.
Today, the 2020 Census says Denver’s population includes over 130,000 key voters of color, a testament to the tireless efforts of progressive leaders who continue to invest in these communities. Their optimism fosters opportunities for these leaders to showcase their talents and contributions, affirming my father’s wisdom: supporting a diverse team of leaders paves the way for collective success.
As we strive for higher voter registration rates and increased civic participation among People of Color, and as we push for fair enforcement of civil rights laws, we bolster the very foundations of our democracy. Progressive leaders understand that a victory for one is indeed a victory for all of America. This is how we move forward, this is how we bring freedom summer to democracy. #BeThe1st
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
Finally, it’s becoming clear: the influence of just one state in shaping our national dialogue simply cannot be understated. As we witness the conclusion of the presidential nomination process, it’s quite something to see a GOP candidate, embroiled in legal challenges across multiple states, solidify his position with just a 40% core support and a pivotal victory in South Carolina. Remarkably, this candidate chose to bypass debates and campaigning in critical areas such as Jacksonville, FL, where issues like reproductive rights are front and center. His refusal to reconsider his stance on the “dream act” might well stem from a lack of vision. Furthermore, considering that Hispanics make up only 12% of the Republican Party in Florida, it’s likely influencing his approach and rhetoric.
As we delve deeper into this election season, it’s evident that communities of color might very well determine the outcomes of both primaries and general elections. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer, and it feels like we’re at the brink of a similar transformative period. Think back to 2006 in Tennessee, where Harold Ford Jr. not only garnered 51% of the women’s vote but also made significant inroads with young voters and communities of color. His Senate run energized voters nationwide, contributing to a Democratic surge that reclaimed the House and made gains in the Senate and gubernatorial races. Additionally, several states took the bold step of raising the minimum wage during this period.
Let’s consider Florida, where communities of color constitute over 29% of the Citizen Voting Age Population, with 69% registered to vote. Back in 2008, they represented 28.9% of the overall vote, yet a staggering 37.7% didn’t cast their ballots. Imagine the impact in 2024 if we could mobilize every eligible voter, particularly in places like Jacksonville, which has previously demonstrated the potent influence of these communities by electing an African American mayor in the past.
The stakes are significant, with the reapportionment adding a congressional seat in Florida in 2020. We’re set to see pivotal matchups between seasoned conservative incumbents and vibrant progressive newcomers like Marquita Bradshaw for U.S. Senate in Tennessee. The Democrats are just a few victories shy of reclaiming the House, while the Republicans face a steeper climb in the Senate. The dynamics are further complicated by the potential power sharing agreement and tie-breaking role of the Vice President, underscoring the need to secure an outright majority.
Beyond the numbers, the broader implications of these elections are profound. Often, political analysts downplay the strategic importance of communities of color within our political landscape, failing to connect the dots between voter turnout in these communities and overall election results. This year, organizations like PowerPAC have been trailblazers, investing early in these communities during the primaries, a shift from past campaign strategies that only marginally engaged these voters.
This focus not only underscores the sway of communities of color in elections but also pays homage to the legacy of the civil rights movement’s Freedom Summer. The young politicians of color running for office today are not just continuing this legacy—they are defining it, building coalitions, and advocating for a broad spectrum of interests, including environmentalists, Latinos, African Americans, Asians, LGBTQ communities, the Green Tea Party, and Native Americans.
It’s essential that their campaigns receive the backing they need, not only through our votes but through substantial financial and civic support. By investing in communities of color, we’re not merely championing diverse leadership; we are also likely to witness substantial returns in social and economic progress. That’s what it means to engage and empower voters, transforming political capital into real, impactful influence. Let’s make sure our voices are heard, and our votes count more than ever before.
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
As we set our sights on the 2024 elections, it’s imperative that we draw from the lessons of our history to tackle the complexities of today’s political landscape. Not long ago, in the talking friends that live in Atlanta, I found myself amidst a spirited discussion with them about civil rights strategies concerning redistricting. The topic quickly shifted to the significant demographic changes revealed by the 2020 Census. These changes underscore the tremendous potential for historically marginalized communities, especially African Americans and Latinos, to reshape the electoral maps of critical states such as Tennessee, Arizona, and Georgia.
Yet, let us be clear: the road ahead is steep. The last election cycle laid bare the reality that targeted messaging and mobilization by conservative groups could drown out progressive voices, reminiscent of tactics from a decade ago that put our nation’s financial standing at risk and slowed our recovery. However, amidst these challenges, there shines a beacon of hope rooted in increased civic engagement. Research from organizations like the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies illustrates that surges in voter turnout among communities of color can indeed counteract any downturn in progressive voter engagement. For example, in Illinois, the proportion of African American voters increased from 10 percent in 2006 to 19 percent in 2010, sending a progressive leader to the governor’s mansion with a minority of the white vote.
This year we also commemorate the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer, a defining chapter in 1964 that continues to be a bedrock of our Civil Rights Movement. The courage of heroes like Michael Schwerner, Andrew Goodman, and James Chaney during that summer serves as a poignant reminder of our enduring struggle for fair voting rights. Despite progress, we are confronted with new hurdles, including restrictive laws that threaten to mute many voices in our democratic dialogue, particularly in states like Tennessee.
Our current socio-political environment, marked by threats of presidential impeachment, economic stagnation, and an unresolved immigration system, poses further challenges to our democratic ideals. However, the spirit of the original Freedom Summer drives us to recommit to safeguarding every American’s right to vote, a right enshrined by the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Although setbacks such as the Supreme Court’s weakening of crucial components of this act exist, our determination must not waver. We must guarantee that every citizen can reach the ballot box, despite the obstacles imposed by restrictive voter ID and early voting laws.
Driven by the valor of the past and the urgent need for substantial legislative reforms, our 2024 Freedom Summer campaign is poised to spark a renewed movement for voting rights, focusing on boosting voter registration and participation in communities historically affected by voter suppression.
As we link the lessons of the past with our current endeavors, it is evident that the battle for civil rights and equitable voting rights remains as vital as ever. Let us stand united, raise our voices, and effect real change, honoring the profound sacrifices that have defined our democracy’s narrative. This is our moment to shape a more inclusive future for all. Let’s make our mark—together. #BeThe1st #RealRealty
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer, a seminal moment in 1964 that remains a cornerstone of our Civil Rights Movement. It was a summer defined by the bravery of Michael Schwerner, Andrew Goodman, and James Chaney, who faced down immense danger to secure the fundamental right to vote for African Americans. Their sacrifice illuminated the stark injustices of their time, prompting changes in our laws that continue to echo through the decades. Yet, our journey toward truly equitable voting rights is far from complete, as we face new challenges with restrictive laws that risk silencing many voices in our democratic chorus, particularly in places like Tennessee.
In the current climate, where headlines often speak of presidential impeachment threats, a stalled economy, and a broken immigration system, the reality we live in is undeniably complex. Despite this, our economy has seen consistent growth, unemployment is at its lowest in years, and there is a broad consensus on the need for practical immigration reforms. However, the shadow of potential economic downturns looms large, and the emergence of jobs that either pay too little or demand specialized skills does little to alleviate the concerns of those most economically vulnerable among us.
The stagnation in achieving comprehensive immigration reform and a political deadlock exacerbate matters, often serving as excuses for inaction on issues from deportations to border security. This deadlock extends to our voting processes, where new regulations threaten the disenfranchisement of seniors, veterans, and minority voters.
Reflecting on the spirit of the original Freedom Summer, we must reaffirm the critical importance of protecting every American’s right to vote, a right sanctified by the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Despite setbacks such as the Supreme Court’s dismantling of vital parts of this legislation, our commitment must be unwavering—we must ensure that every citizen can access the ballot, even as restrictive voter ID and early voting laws pose fresh barriers.
As we confront these layered challenges, our path forward is clear. We must transcend the usual political maneuvers and strive for substantive legislative reforms. Inspired by the courage shown in 1964, our 2024 Freedom Summer campaign is poised to spark a new movement for voting rights, focusing on amplifying voter registration and turnout in communities of color and areas historically affected by voter suppression.
The 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer isn’t just a moment for reflection—it’s a potent call to shape the story of democracy in America. Let’s ensure every voice is heard, every vote is counted, and continue our unwavering commitment to a future where civil rights are truly upheld for all. This is our tribute to the past and the blueprint for a future that honors the profound sacrifices that brought us here. Let’s stand together, make our voices heard, and forge real change.
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
As Alabamians head to the polls this Tuesday for the 2024 primary runoff elections, it’s a pivotal moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and the journey still ahead. This isn’t just about marking ballots; it’s about understanding the profound impact of our actions today on the fabric of our democracy and the legacy we are building for future generations.
The Power of the Voting Rights Act
A recent landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court has mandated the redrawing of Alabama’s congressional map, a move that serves as a testament to the enduring significance of the Voting Rights Act of the 1960s. This action corrects long-standing discrepancies that had undermined the electoral influence of Alabama’s black voters, reaffirming their right to elect representatives who truly represent their voices.
The Challenge of Fair Representation
The creation of Alabama’s new congressional district was no small feat. It emerged from a strenuous struggle with the state legislature, underscored by several rounds of intense negotiations and legal battles. Finally, a special master crafted the boundaries of what is now a nearly majority-black district, stretching across the historic and culturally rich Black Belt of Alabama. This new district addresses a stark inequality: while black voters constitute about 27% of Alabama’s population, they previously had a much lower chance of electing representatives of their choice.
Embracing Change in Alabama
The new map is more than just lines on a page; it is a promise of potential shifts in our state’s political landscape. This change might not only enhance fair representation but could also lead to significant political developments, possibly increasing Democratic representation in a traditionally Republican stronghold. This isn’t about partisan victory; it’s about ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in our democratic dialogue.
The Heartbeat of Our Community
The response from Alabamians, especially within communities of color, has been deeply emotional and overwhelmingly positive. This decision is seen as a critical milestone in the ongoing struggle for voting rights—a saga marked by both advances and setbacks. It reflects a broader narrative of resilience and perseverance, characteristics that are deeply woven into the fabric of our communities, especially in the South.
Looking Forward: The Importance of Engagement
As we approach the runoff elections, it’s crucial to focus not only on the candidates but also on the broader implications of this new district. We are reminded that effective representation requires more than just familiarity; it requires a deep, enduring connection to the community. This election will test whether the redrawn boundaries will translate into increased voter engagement and participation. It’s a call to action for all eligible voters to make their voices heard, to ensure our elected officials truly reflect the diverse tapestry of our state.
A Ripple Effect Across the Nation
The changes in Alabama are likely to have far-reaching effects, potentially influencing redistricting efforts in other states, especially in the South. This case underscores the intricate relationship between race and politics in America and highlights the importance of upholding the principles of justice and equality in our electoral processes.
As we stand at this crossroads, let us choose the path of engagement and empowerment. Let’s continue to build on the progress made, ensuring that every American has the opportunity to shape the future of our nation. This is how we honor our past struggles and move forward together, stronger and more united in our purpose.
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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.
KirkClay.com 