Colorado Governor Jared Polis talks about innovative strategies to bolster state institutions amidst political upheaval. He joins former Ukrainian Defense Minister Andriy Zagorodnyuk, who offers a candid look at the dire military needs facing Ukraine in its struggle against Russia. Award-winning chef Bryant Terry explores the deep cultural ties of African American cuisine, touching on its historical significance and advocacy for food justice. Together, they discuss resilience, challenges, and the powerful role of community in shaping futures.
Governor Jared Polis is leading a nonpartisan initiative, Governors Safeguarding Democracy, to protect state interests from federal overreach by President Trump.
Polis raises concerns about Trump's proposed tariffs, highlighting how they could inflate consumer costs and disrupt vital supply chains for American manufacturing.
Emphasizing collaboration, Polis advocates for federal initiatives that enhance community safety without compromising the rights of productive immigrant families.
Deep dives
Governors Safeguarding Democracy
A group of Democratic governors, led by Colorado's Jared Polis, is forming a nonpartisan organization called Governors Safeguarding Democracy to protect state interests against potential federal overreach by President Trump. This initiative aims to uphold the integrity of democratic institutions, such as election laws and the independence of the judiciary, in light of Trump's unpredictable policy direction. Polis emphasizes the importance of maintaining state autonomy within the federalist system, particularly concerning issues like immigration and trade, where state governments often have less control. By fostering cooperation among states, the governors hope to create a united front that safeguards democracy at the state level.
Economic Impacts of Tariffs
Governor Polis expressed concerns regarding Trump's proposed tariffs, especially the potential 25% tax on imports from Canada and Mexico. He argues that such premiums would not only inflate costs for American consumers but also negatively impact domestic manufacturing, as many essential manufacturing components are sourced from abroad. The governor highlights the interconnectivity of trade, noting how tariffs can severely disrupt supply chains, ultimately harming the American economy. His administration aims to engage in trade relationships that mitigate these risks, although he acknowledges the limited power states have over federal tariff decisions.
Rising Tensions Over Immigration Policies
Tensions are escalating over immigration policies, with Trump’s appointed officials threatening Colorado's local officials, including the mayor of Denver, for not enforcing federal immigration laws. Polis refrains from involving himself directly in the conflict but appreciates the need for collaboration to improve community safety. The governor believes that efforts should aim to separate criminal immigrants from the broader immigrant community that contributes positively to society. He stresses that any federal initiatives should enhance safety without compromising the rights and lives of productive immigrant families.
Cost of Living Challenges
Polis discusses Colorado's approach to addressing the rising cost of living, emphasizing the need for practical solutions such as tax reductions and support for essential services like kindergarten and preschool. His administration has successfully reduced the income tax and eliminated sales tax on critical household items, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on families. By focusing on fiscal policies that directly impact citizens' quality of life, Polis highlights a proactive approach to government that prioritizes economic relief. This effort has played a role in keeping Colorado a consistently Democratic state, contrasting with the challenges faced by the national party.
Navigating Federal-State Relations
The conversation shifts to the complex dynamics between state governance and federal authority, particularly under Trump's administration. Polis acknowledges the historical tension between state and federal powers, stressing that each state retains constitutional rights to self-governance. The governor hopes for a constructive relationship with the incoming Trump administration, advocating for collaboration on mutual concerns like public safety and healthcare. Despite the anticipated challenges, Polis remains optimistic about finding common ground and promoting a positive working relationship that benefits the residents of Colorado.
Some governors, led by J-B Pritzker of Illinois and Jared Polis in Colorado, are trying to strengthen their own state-level institutions to protect against the promised retribution of President Trump. Colorado Governor Jared Polis joins Christiane from Boulder.
Also on today's show: former Ukrainian Defense Minister Andriy Zagorodnyuk; James Beard Award-winning Chef Bryant Terry, author of "Black Food"