Blackvoter.org Issue #9

Thousands of voters in Alabama district drawn to boost Black political power got wrong information

Politics – Baltimore Sun / Mar 5, 2024

Summary. A software glitch in Montgomery County, Alabama led to over 6,000 voters receiving incorrect voting information for the newly formed congressional district aimed at boosting Black representation. Despite the error, voters were still able to cast their ballots correctly. The redrawn district could lead to the election of two Black congressional representatives from the state for the first time. The issue was one of the few reported on Super Tuesday, with only sporadic voting problems surfacing. In Texas, some voters experienced issues checking in to cast their ballots, but the problem was quickly resolved.

Investigating The Origins Of Word ‘Woke’ And What It’s Meant To Black People

NewsOne / Feb 19, 2024

Summary. The article explores the origins of the word "woke" in Black consciousness, tracing its use back to the days of Jim Crow and legal segregation. It highlights how the term has evolved over time, becoming popular again during the Black Lives Matter movement. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has waged a war on "woke ideology," banning African American studies classes and diversity programs. However, the term "woke" remains a symbol of awareness of America's racist past and the need for social and political consciousness. This insight can inform marketing strategies to appeal to socially conscious consumers and address issues of systemic racism.

Who will Trump choose for vice president? These are the candidates in the veepstakes

EL PAÍS in English / Mar 6, 2024

Summary. Key findings from the article on Trump's VP selection process:

- Trump has not yet decided on his running mate for the upcoming election

- Criteria for VP selection include popularity, political interest, loyalty, and ability to complement the presidential candidate

- Potential VP candidates include Tim Scott, Greg Abbott, Elise Stefanik, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Kristi Noem, Tulsi Gabbard, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Katie Britt, Nancy Mace, Byron Donalds, Ben Carson, Wesley Hunt, Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, Mike Pompeo, John Ratcliffe, JD Vance, and Tucker Carlson

- Trump believes the VP choice will not have a significant impact on the election outcome.

UCI Podcast: The role of women in the Black Lives Matter movement

UCI News / Mar 6, 2024

Summary. Key findings from the article on Women's History Month and the Black Lives Matter movement include the significant role of Black women in catalyzing and leading the movement, with a focus on local activism and organizing. Women like Sybrina Fulton, Alicia Garza, and Patrisse Cullors have been key figures. The movement draws on Black feminism and aims to bring marginalized voices to the forefront. The article also highlights the emergence of a growing anti-war movement, with activists advocating for peace and freedom. Additionally, a recent report on building solidarity and sharing power in multiracial coalitions emphasizes the importance of a shared politic and intersectional solidarity in social movements.

2nd Congressional District: Figures, Daniels head to Democratic runoff

Job / Mar 5, 2024

Summary. Former DOJ official Shomari Figures and AL House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels head to runoff for Dem nomination in newly-drawn 2nd Congressional District. Figures leads with 43% of votes. District has 49% Black voting age population, expected to lean Dem in Nov. Candidates focus on healthcare access, job creation. Figures emphasizes experience in Washington, support for higher teacher pay and Medicaid expansion. Daniels highlights track record of passing legislation in superminority. Both stress government experience and ability to prioritize district issues.