Opinion: Uniting and Overcoming: A Better Approach to Politics.

The rise of negative campaigning in politics has become increasingly prevalent over the years, but it doesn't have to be this way, writes Deke Copenhaver in an op-ed for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Copenhaver, a former mayor and advisory board member for the Forward Party, argues that instead of using a "divide and conquer" strategy, politicians should opt for a more positive and inclusive approach.

Copenhaver shares his own experience of running local campaigns that focused on unity and bringing citizens together, which resulted in successful outcomes. He believes that finding points of agreement is more difficult but ultimately more rewarding than exploiting points of division.

For Copenhaver, the Forward Party offers a viable alternative to the toxic and divisive status quo of hyperpartisan politics.

Trump's Desperate Attempt to Strip Kamala Harris of her Black Identity

In this article, the author argues that Donald Trump is attempting to strip Kamala Harris of her Black identity. Trump has both questioned Harris' Blackness and accused her of exploiting her race, creating a predicament that many Black Americans face—having their authenticity questioned based on stereotypes and perceptions of what it means to be Black.

The author points out that Trump is not subjected to the same racial scrutiny as Harris due to his whiteness, and his failings are not seen as representative of his entire race. The author concludes that the demand for Harris to prove her Blackness is an example of white America's refusal to let Black individuals define their own identity.

Taylor Swift's Massive Fan Base Could Swing the Election in Favor of Kamala Harris

In the upcoming election, Taylor Swift's influence and popularity may play a significant role. Swift has a massive base of fans, known as "Swifties," who are dedicated and enthusiastic.

Her profile has skyrocketed in recent years, with increased Google searches and rising favorability ratings. The stereotype that her fan base is primarily made up of young teenage girls is outdated, as many of her fans are now of voting age.

Swift's endorsement, or even just her encouragement, could have a non-trivial effect on voter turnout, particularly among young Americans who have shown greater favorability towards Vice President Kamala Harris. In 2020, Swift's call to register to vote on Instagram resulted in tens of thousands of people doing so.

While not everyone may be influenced by Swift's endorsement, a Suffolk University poll found that 9% of respondents stated it might influence their vote choice, especially among women, Americans under 35, and independents. With a potentially close race in swing states, getting even a small portion of Swift's fan base to vote could make a difference.

Former Detroit Mayor Now Supports Trump: Kwame Kilpatrick to Speak at GOP Dinner

Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, a former prominent Democrat who now supports former Republican President Donald Trump, will be speaking at the Oakland County GOP Lincoln Day dinner in Novi next week. Kilpatrick, who served as mayor from 2002 to 2008, had his 28-year federal prison sentence commuted by Trump in 2021 after being convicted of corruption crimes.

Since then, he has become a vocal supporter of Trump and has attended rallies and events in support of the former president. Vance Patrick, chairman of the Oakland County Republican Party, acknowledged Kilpatrick's past convictions but said he believes he is a "changed man" and "the real deal.

" Kilpatrick's appearance at the GOP dinner is expected to draw attention given his political history and newfound support for the Republican Party.

Trump's Favorability with Black Voters Hits Rock Bottom at Just 5% in Swing States

Former President Donald Trump's favorability among Black voters in swing states has dropped to 5%, according to a New York Times/Siena College poll. In contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris has a favorability rating of 43% among Black voters.

Trump's running mate, JD Vance, fares even worse with a 3% favorability rating, while Harris's vice-presidential pick, Tim Walz, has a 21% favorability rating. These results highlight a strong preference among Black voters for Democratic candidates over the Republican ticket.

The low favorability for Trump among Black voters is attributed to his rhetoric, policies, and actions that are perceived as harmful to Black communities. Issues such as his handling of police brutality, response to the Charlottesville incident, racially charged language in speeches and on social media, and policies on immigration, criminal justice, and the economy have all contributed to this low level of favorability.

Jason Moran & The Big Bandwagon Celebrate the Legacy of James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hellfighters

Get ready to experience the extraordinary and thought-provoking music of Jason Moran and The Big Bandwagon as they pay tribute to the iconic Black composer James Reese Europe. In their program, "James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hellfighters: From the Dancehall to the Battlefield," they delve into the legacy of this often-overlooked hero of Black music.

Europe and his military ensemble, the Harlem Hellfighters, played a crucial role in popularizing jazz during World War I in a war-torn France fascinated with Black culture.

Moran, known as "the most provocative thinker in current jazz," brings together his Bandwagon bandmates, a seven-piece horn section, and visual contributions from acclaimed cinematographer Bradford Young to create a powerful and visually stunning performance.

This exploration of music and history promises to be an unforgettable experience, shedding light on the profound impact that James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hellfighters had on African American music and culture. Don't miss your chance to witness the stark, sublime beauty of this tribute.

Surprising Support: Young Black Men Explain Why They're Voting for Trump

In this article, titled "Here's Why Young Black Men Like Me Are Voting for Trump," the author, Paul James, Jr., shares his perspective on why he and many of his Black male friends are choosing to support former President Donald Trump.

James discusses his upbringing in a multi-generational home in the U.S.

Virgin Islands and the challenges he faced as a Black man in America, including encountering racist stereotypes and struggling with unemployment. However, he credits Trump's presidency for transforming his life, citing improved job prospects, increased income, and a better standard of living.

James argues that while Black men may not admire Trump's character, they recognize that his policies have benefited their interests. He concludes by stating that Trump gives them the best opportunity to provide for their families and achieve dignity through well-paying jobs, which is why he has earned their vote.

Florida's Republican Party Celebrates 1 Million More Registered Voters, Solidifying Conservative Domination

Florida has officially counted 1 million more registered Republican voters than Democrats, solidifying its reputation as a conservative stronghold. This significant voter registration edge is being hailed as a victory for the Florida Republican Party, with party chair Evan Power declaring it as evidence of the party's success.

The Republican Party in Florida has implemented strategies over the years to suppress voter rights, such as cracking down on third-party voter registration organizations that mobilize minority and college-age voters, who tend to lean Democratic. However, despite these efforts, Florida Democrats have still managed to secure victories, such as winning the Jacksonville Mayor's race and flipping State House District 35.

These wins highlight a growing lack of enthusiasm for the Republican Party and a rising number of independent voters rejecting extremism in Florida.

Political Fashion: How Accessories Send Powerful Messages and Shape Movements

Fashion has always been a political tool, allowing individuals to express their stance on socioeconomic movements. From the suits worn during the Civil Rights Movement to the t-shirts of the Black Lives Matter movement, fashion has been used as a powerful messaging tool.

Accessories, in particular, have played a significant role in political campaigns, protests, and countercultural movements. Think of the hanky code used by the LGBTQ+ community in the '70s and '80s or Beyoncé's homage to the Black Panther Party.

As we approach a key political cycle, fashion will continue to be utilized to bring attention to issues and express political ideologies. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are prime examples of how politicians and their supporters use accessories to spread their message.

From berets to pins, fashion accessories carry an iconography that represents political ideologies. Ultimately, fashion serves as a mirror to our times and can be a powerful tool for political and social change.

Black Panther 2 Defies Controversial Voting Law in Georgia, Director Stands Strong

Despite the controversy surrounding Georgia's new voting law, Marvel superhero film Black Panther 2 will be filmed in the state, according to director Ryan Coogler. The law has faced criticism for disproportionately affecting black voters and has prompted Hollywood figures such as Will Smith and director Antoine Fuqua to boycott filming in Georgia.

However, Coogler explained in an op-ed that he would not be joining the boycott because it would harm the very people affected by the restrictions. He expressed his opposition to any attempts to shrink the electorate and said he would use his voice to draw attention to the consequences of the new law and support organizations fighting against voter suppression in the state.

Black Voters Beware: Unseating Ilhan Omar and the Squad Threatens Progressive Agenda

The article discusses the potential impact of unseating Ilhan Omar and other members of "the Squad" on Black voters. Black voters are being targeted with disinformation on social media, with pro-Israel groups aiming to reshape the Democratic Party's priorities.

The article highlights the case of Don Samuels, who is challenging Ilhan Omar in the Minnesota 5th Congressional District Democratic primary. Samuels has received a $350,000 contribution from the United Democracy Project, a super PAC affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).

AIPAC has promised to spend up to $100 million to defeat every member of the Squad during the 2024 election cycle. Critics argue that AIPAC and its affiliates are deploying misinformation and racist campaign ads to undermine progressive Black and brown candidates fighting for policies supported by Black voters.

The article emphasizes the importance of this primary race for the future of the Democratic Party and the issues that are important to Black Americans.

Awake to the Power of Your Vote: Erie's Black Voters Can Shape History Again

The article discusses the decrease in voter turnout in Erie, particularly among African American voters. The author emphasizes the importance of voting as a right that was not easily gained, but was fought for by our ancestors.

From 1619 to 1870, African Americans were denied the right to vote, and after the ratification of the 15th Amendment, they were given the right, but faced numerous obstacles such as poll taxes and scare tactics which aimed to disenfranchise them. The author argues that power is never given freely to the powerless, and strategies were employed to deny African Americans the right to vote.

The article calls on African American voters to remember the sacrifices of their ancestors and not to be apathetic, as their votes have historically been an agent of change. The author warns against division and stresses the importance of unity in order to regain power and overcome voting restrictions.

The Harris-Walz Ticket: Unleashing Political Imagination for a Better America

In this engaging opinion article, Roxane Gay discusses the potential for political imagination that comes with the Harris-Walz ticket. She acknowledges that while democracy is still at stake and the crisis the country is facing remains existential, there is a glimmer of hope in the opportunity to vote for someone rather than against the opposition.

Gay suggests that the United States was founded on political imagination, but that vision was limited, leaving out many people. She argues that it is time to consider the possibilities that boundless vision can bring.

Gay also critiques the tendency to settle for mediocre political choices and the belief that change is impossible. She calls for an end to self-soothing and a rejection of the idea that a second Trump presidency is inevitable.

With the Harris-Walz ticket, Gay believes there is an opportunity to break free from the status quo and embrace political imagination.