EP458

·1 hr 41 min·5 clips

Data scientist Brandon Jessup reveals 22 million people stayed home in the last presidential election, arguing black folks lack a political home.

The episode begins with hosts Jay Johnson and Dame delivering their signature, high-energy introductions filled with self-proclaimed titles. They note this is episode 458, reflecting on the longevity of their podcast. Dame shares that the week was somber as it marked the 12th anniversary of his mother's passing; while dealing with this, he found an old shoebox of photos showing his parents in their youth. The hosts transition to discussing the week's bitterly cold weather, with Dame recounting a furnace scare and an honest HVAC technician who advised him to wait out the cold snap. This leads to a reflection on people experiencing homelessness during such weather. Guest Brandon Jessup is introduced. Jessup shares his own furnace story and high utility bills. The conversation shifts to the Detroit Lions' playoff loss and MLK Day events. Jessup introduces himself as a data scientist working in the nonprofit sector on voting rights. He argues that black communities lack a true political home within the Democratic Party, citing that 22 million people skipped the top of the ticket in the last election. He traces current fights over DEI back to affirmative action battles like Grutter v. Bollinger and the 2006 Michigan Civil Rights Initiative. Jessup explains his campaign for chair of the Michigan Democratic Black Caucus against the current chair, Keith Williams, advocating for a transition to new leadership. The hosts and Jessup discuss how black contractors are often shut out of state bids, with Jessup explaining how out-of-state companies can undercut local bids. The talk touches on the younger generation's reluctance towards skilled trades. Jessup warns about data privacy, AI, and deepfakes, noting tech has outpaced policy. The dialogue explores how to engage everyday people in politics, with Jessup recommending groups like Black Men Build. They discuss the age and character of political leaders, the structure of party caucuses, and the Second Amendment's historical context for black communities, referencing the Tulsa Race Massacre. The episode concludes with Jessup sharing how to find him online and his background as a lifelong Detroiter originally from Louisiana.

As heard by us

A loose, funny political conversation where Black belonging, Michigan power, and a Detroit caucus collide.

Episode 458 uses a Shop Talk conversation on birthright citizenship as the doorway into a broader discussion of Black belonging, diaspora, reparations, and state power.

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Why you'd press play

You want birthright citizenship, Black diaspora, and Michigan civic stakes talked through with jokes still in the room.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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