The NPR Politics Podcast #DemsSoWhite? Kamala Harris' Exit Raises Hard Questions About Race And Power
Dec 5, 2019
The dynamics of race and power in politics take center stage as the Democratic Party faces the reality of a predominantly white candidate lineup. Kamala Harris's exit sparks crucial conversations about the representation of black women voters and the implications for diversity in the primary. Discussions dive into the effects on electoral power and the challenges candidates of color face in establishing viability. Listeners explore how the historical context, shaped by figures like Barack Obama, intertwines with current voter preferences and the party's evolving narrative around race.
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Declining Diversity in the 2020 Field
- Cory Booker expresses frustration over the lack of diversity in the 2020 Democratic presidential field.
- He emphasizes the potential for an all-white debate stage despite the initial diversity of candidates.
Voter Preferences and Race
- The assumption that voters of color primarily support candidates of the same race is inaccurate.
- Polling data reveals that black voters consistently favor Joe Biden, while Latino voters show mixed support between Biden and Bernie Sanders.
Electability Concerns Among Voters of Color
- Neera Tanden suggests some voters of color may view white candidates as safer bets against Trump.
- They worry about whether white voters will broadly support a candidate of color in the general election.