MD Dems Podcast: Recent Episodes
MD Dems Podcast
The Maryland Democratic Party hosts a weekly deep dive into Maryland politics, national news, and the political strategies it will take to win back the White House and the Governor's Mansion in Maryland.
In this podcast, we are here with not one, but two Eastern Shore trailblazers! Join us this episode with our special guests, Mayor Todd Nock and Mayor Megan Cook as we discuss their monumental elections, barrier-breaking milestones, and the legacy they plan to leave for the future leaders
From Rocky Mount, NC to Princeton and Harvard, to Prince George’s County, Maryland’s newest Congressman is helping lead his family and his state while advocating for an all-hands-on-deck approach to stem the tide of gun violence.
Maryland has made tremendous strides in making this state truly one for all. These feats wouldn't have been made without the help of our special guests: Delegates Joe Vogel, Ashanti Martinez, and Maggie McIntosh. Join us as we discuss some of their roles in passing groundbreaking legislation, their wins in the Maryland General Assembly, and what advice they have for LGBTQ+ youth who consider a career in public service.
Everyone has a Steny Hoyer story, and we were thrilled to hear some of those as he joined our podcast this week. You won't want to miss this one as the Maryland legend himself gave us his Mount Rushmore of Maryland politicians, his favorite election stories, and which world leaders made him feel starstruck.
Join us for our season two premiere with our special guest, Congressman Jamie Raskin as we discuss the parallels of his 2026 election, his accomplishments in his role and what it takes to win even the toughest battles in and out the political arena.
Join us with our guest, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott as we discuss his city’s victories, his journey from Park Heights to City Hall and what it’s like to be among the youngest mayors in Baltimore’s history.
Join us with our special guest, Jessica Fitzwater as we discuss her passion for music teaching and serving her home as the Frederick County Executive.
Join us and our special guest Eric Luedtke as he breaks down some key legislation and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how the Governor's office has worked so well with the State's House on unified legislation.
The Baltimore City Delegation joins us to talk best food spots in the city, who has the upper hand in the Poly-City Tech rivalry, and what drives Baltimoreans to succeed in the State House.
It's a Gorgeous Prince George's takeover! Delegates Jazz Lewis, Karen Toles, and Nick Charles stop by to discuss the fantastic work done to lift Prince George's to new heights!
Tune in with Prince George's very own County Executive, Angela Alsobrooks as we 'break down' her aspirations, take on politics and her remarkable background.
State Senator Dawn Gile stops by the podcast to talk about her historic election where she flipped a seat that had been Republican for 50 years, and dishes on her favorite karaoke songs.
Senator Chris Van Hollen stops by to talk Inauguration Day, lessons from Pelosi and Hoyer, election night stories, and more.
Tune in to hear how Del. Lierman is at work shattering ceilings & knocking doors to become the first woman elected Comptroller in Maryland. 🙌🗳🌊
Join Chair Yvette Lewis as she sits down with Senator Ben Cardin to chat about the importance of voting this year.
Join Chair Yvette Lewis as she sits down with Senator Mary Washington and Councilmember Evan Glass to talk about Pride Month.
Join Chair Yvette Lewis as she sits down with State Senate President Bill Ferguson and Speaker Adrienne A. Jones to recap the 2021 Legislative Session!
Chair Yvette Lewis sits down with U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and discusses the newly passed American Rescue Plan, his role as Chair of the U.S. Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, and more. You won't want to miss this episode!
Chair Yvette Lewis hosts conversations with Congressmen Anthony Brown and Kweisi Mfume.
Together, they discuss their careers, the hard work they’ve been doing in Congress, and how we can fight systemic inequalities. You can also expect to hear them discuss how the Biden-Harris administration is building our country back better.
Chair Yvette Lewis talks with Hagerstown Mayor Emily Keller about her historic election as the first woman mayor of Hagerstown, COVID response, and local matters in Hagerstown.
The 2020 Maryland Democratic Party Year in Review with State Senator Cory McCray, Party Chair Yvette Lewis, and Executive Director Eva Lewis!
ft. Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and former NFL player Torrey Smith, moderated by Chair Yvette Lewis. This episode discusses why we vote and the importance of voting. Leader Hoyer and Smith talk about what is different about this election and what is on the line. The podcast starts with Leader Hoyer talking to undecided voters, telling them the Vice President Biden he knows. (2:45) Chair Lewis follows up by asking Leader Hoyer about how the political landscape has shifted after the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and why winning not only the presidency, but also the House and Senate majority is vitally important.(6:54) The conversation then goes to Smith, who speaks about policies from Joe Biden that stick out to him.(11:45) Smith talks about the importance of criminal justice reform and voting for candidates that will implement change. Smith and Leader Hoyer proceed to talk about health care and the implications of removing the Affordable Care Act during a global pandemic. Chair Lewis asks why voting is important and how can we make access easier.(15:55) Smith and Leader Hoyer discuss how this election is different from 2016, and how we can capitalize on energy from youth activism.(20:51) Smith discusses why it is important for everyone to be involved and vote, regardless of age and race.(26:34) Smith and Leader Hoyer discuss keeping your elected officials accountable after they have been elected to office. Chair Lewis asks how to navigate voting during the global pandemic, whether it is by mail or in person.(37:46) Smith and Leader Hoyer close it out with final words.(43:04)
The New York Times and the Washington Post published damaging exposes of Trump's inaction in January 2020. Consumed with impeachment and trade negotiatons with China, President Trump missed a crucial window to prepare for the novel coronavirus that has thus far claimed more than 22,000 lives and toppled our economy. On this episode Arinze dives into those stories and delivers a heartfelt message about the need for party unity in the aftermath of Senator Sanders' exit from the primary and subsequent endorsement of Vice President Joe Biden. Be sure to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. If you have any feedback you can email us at info@mddems.org!
Arinze delivers a scathing assessment of Trump's propaganda press conferences. The task force briefings are purposefully timed to preempt local and national news coverage. These "briefings" regularly feed lies and disinformation to the American public that are designed to boost Trump's approval ratings as his administration bungles its response to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Tune in for a brand new podcast format as the Maryland Democratic Party shifts its operation to digital organizing in this new social distancing era. Be sure to share your feedback or share your comments on air via voicenote by emailing info@mddems.org. Thanks for listening! Stay safe, wash your hands, and TRUST SCIENCE.
ft. Del. Pam Queen (D-14). The podcast opens with a candid discussion about Del. Queen’s educational background (a bachelors, two masters, and a PHD) in the STEM field and the challenges she faced early on in her career. Her personal story dovetails into the ongoing fight for greater funding for Maryland’s HBCUs. Del. Queen goes on to talk about her work with Black Girls Vote at Morgan State University (8:50) and how she is getting students involved in grassroots efforts to support the Maryland HBCU lawsuit. Next Del. Queen discusses her “Equal Pay - Equal Work” bill (10:50), her bill to screen for the presence of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) in schools (12:30), her work on the Economic Stability workgroup (17:20), and a bill to bring more childcare subsidies (23:00) to Maryland families. Arinze asks Del. Queen about the social and philanthropic organizations that she is apart of, and how they’ve helped her run for public office (24:26). The conversation wraps with a discussion focused on how Del. Queen got her start in politics (26:22) and her outlook on the future of the Maryland General Assembly (28:25).
ft. Speaker Pro Tem, Del. Sheree Sample Hughes (D-37A). On this episode Del. Sample Hughes discusses what it means to be the only Democrat representing Maryland’s Eastern Shore (2:52) and addresses some of the challenges the Shore is facing— including access to broadband internet (5:34) and physician shortages (10:14). Later we discuss her role as a mentor to new legislators (18:21) and her responsibilities as Speaker Pro Tem. Del. Sample Hughes opens up about the challenges she faced as a woman aspiring to hold elected office (24:15) and the importance of relying on her loved ones to help make serving in the legislature a reality (29:09). The podcast closes with her thoughts on the amount of bills the MDGA hears on an annual basis (32:20), the new direction of the House of Delegates (37:52), and the need for Maryland’s HBCUs to be rightfully compensated after years of underfunding (41:12).
On this episode Arinze sits with Prince George’s State Central Committee Member Chris Stevenson and Democratic activist Julio Murillo to discuss the new dynamics of the 2020 Presidential Primary. The pod opens with Chris— a Black and Latinx voter— and Julio— a Latinx voter— assessing how we’ve arrived to our final two candidates (3:20 - 10:26). Arinze asks what the outlook is for the Party post-convention (10:35) and Julio says the Vice Presidential pick this cycle could be especially critical to winning in November (13:00). Arinze takes issue the pejorative usage of the term establishment, and argues that the “establishment” delivered America’s first black president, healthcare reform, and more (15:15). The group debates whether Progressives can count on signature issues like Medicare for All and Student Loan Relief could actually be enacted (19:44) by a Democratic president and if working class whites, moderate Republicans, and independents can be trusted to vote for the Democratic nominee in November (26:30). The conversation then turns to a discussion about what Biden has to do to connect with Latinx voters and what Bernie has to do to connect with black voters through the remainder of the Primary contest (34:07). The episode wraps with a discussion about turnout (42:50) and early predictions about which policies could conceivably be enacted by Sanders or Biden prior to the 2022 midterms (53:50). Wash your hands.
ft. Caryn York, CEO of JOTF (Job Opportunities Task Force). On this episode Arinze sits down with Caryn to discuss the work of JOTF— whose mission is to help transition low wage workers to high wage jobs. Caryn explains what the “criminalization of poverty” is and why JOTF is working to eradicate it from our public policies (3:22). Part of that work includes reforming Maryland’s overwhelmingly punitive child support system and understanding how to put in place policies that actually benefit chilren and co-parents (7:40). Caryn talks about the solutions JOTF is supporting to help create more equitable child support guidelines (16:40) and explains how economic justice is inextricably linked to our criminal justice system (20:40). Next Arinze asks Caryn about the changes she’s seen in the General Assembly under new leadership (21:40) and their willingness to take a different approach to longstanding issues such as criminal record expungement (22:50)— particularly the elimination of the “unit rule” which is preventing tens of thousands of Marylanders accessing expungement. Caryn explains why these Marylanders cannot get dropped charges off of their criminal records— the reason will blow your mind (24:40). Arinze asks Caryn how this year’s “tough on crime” rhetoric is impacting JOTF’s work to reform the criminal justice system and decriminalize poverty (31:20). The conversation wraps with this question: “What should politicians seeking election or re-election in Baltimore pursue to help turn the City around?” (36:30).
ft. Senator Mary Washington (D-Baltimore City). The podcast opens with a recap of the historic 6-hour, 4-committee, hearing on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future (2:25) and the democratic on full public display (6:45). Senator Washington discusses some of the outcomes from the hearing (10:20) and then shares some of her own legislative priorities for Session 2020 (13:00). The conversation turns to Baltimore City. Arinze asks, “What will it take to fix Baltimore’s issues?” which opens the door to a lengthy discussion about crime and and the cynicism that has taken root in the City (25:30). The episode closes with an exchange about “hope” and the impact an effort to expand access to opportunity would have on Baltimore (42:20).
ft. Del. Michele Guyton (D-42b). On this episode Arinze and Del. Guyton discuss the challenges of representing a purple district in Maryland. The show opens with an update on the Built to Learn Act and the Blueprint for Maryland’s future, the measures are designed to improve Maryland’s school buildings and education quality respectively (2:40). Next Del. Guyton talks about two of her bills: 1) cracking down on elder abuse and 2) a bill facilitating the creation of a master plan within the Department of Disability for adults with autism (14:30). Arinze turns the conversation to Baltimore County politics. Del. Guyton discusses the Speakership coming to the County and turnover within the delegation (17:50) and the dynamics of running in a split district (21:40). The conversation closes with a discussion about what it will take to motivate turnout among Democrats in 2020 (38:00).
ft. Del. Marc Korman, Del. Brooke Lierman, & Beth Osborne, Director of Transportation for America. On this episode two members of the MDGA’s Transportation Caucus and a national transportation policy expert join the podcast to talk about the transit issues and projects up for debate during Session 2020. The episode opens with an overview from Beth Osborne on what jursidictions are doing around the country to improve transportation (3:30). Del. Lierman talks about transit disparities in Baltimore and central Maryland (6:10). Del. Korman talks about Maryland’s “multi-modal” approach to transit throughout the State and the current slate of projects in Montgomery County (9:30). The conversation turns to transportation equity and how transit policy impacts urban and suburban residents differently (17:15). Del. Korman describes how his constituents rely heavily on high quality mass-transit options to live their lives (21:00). Del. Lierman talks about the needs of Western Maryland and the Shore for viable mass transit options (27:45) and the positive economic benefits that could be realized through the pursuit of solid transit choices. Arinze asks the group about commercial scooters and bikes to help with the “last mile” of a pedestrian commute (32:50). Del. Lierman says that land use decisions will play a major factor in alleviating transportation challenges in Maryland (36:10). The podcast wraps with an extended discussion on the importance of MARC train service and investment (38:40).
Volume III of the Trump impeachment trilogy doesn't disappoint. This episode features Arinze, Michael, and Eva Lewis-- MDP's new Executive Director. Strap in folks, this is a fast paced episode recapping the madness of Trump's impeachment. The MD Dems end the episode by throwing down the gauntlet... Donald Trump WILL NOT WIN IN NOVEMBER. Mark your calendars, it's on!
ft. the Maryland State Education Association. MSEA Legislative Director Sean Johnson and MSEA President Cheryl Bost join the MD Dems Podcast to talk about the Kirwan Commission’s Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The podcast kicks off with a basic question, “What is Kirwan?” (5:24). This explanation leads to the topic of community schools— an education model that has enjoyed significant publicity since LeBron James in Akron, Ohio in 2018. Cheryl breaks down the impact the model has on school children and the broader community (17:20). The Blueprint calls for— on average— up to $2M in additional funding per school in Maryland over the next 10 years. Cheryl and Sean talk about how customized resources for every school in Maryland would create lasting and transformational change to our educational outcomes (21:50). Arinze asks how the Blueprint recommendations will impact Maryland families across the state (28:00). Then Arinze asks Cheryl and Sean “what’s in it” for Marylanders that do not currently have school aged children. Sean addresses the fictional “Kirwan Tax Hike Commission” and other misleading talking points put forward by Governor Hogan (34:00). Arinze presses Sean about the perception that the legislature is preparing to throw good money after bad to fix underperforming schools in Maryland. Sean and Cheryl push back by talking about concentrated poverty in jurisdictions around the state and the strict accountability measures incorporated in the Blueprint’s proposals (43:00). Studies show that Americans are falling behind in education in comparison to the rest of the developed world— even when adjusted for income. Arinze asks “what are we missing out on” that other nation’s schoolchildren are enjoying when given an equivalent amount of resources (50:00). The conversation wraps with information about how residents can participate in the legislative push to pass the Blueprint during this year’s legislative session (56:00).
ft. Delegate Lorig Charkoudian (D- Montgomery County). Lorig opens the discussion talking about her 2020 legislative agenda. This year she has put in bills supporting economic justice, including: wage theft protection and retaliation protection for workers. She is also working on a medical debt protection bill that supports individuals who fall into serious financial trouble over medical debt (4:20 -13:00). Lorig is also looking to address climate change and energy democracy. She talks in depth about energy democracy and explains how climate and energy policies disproportionately impact low income ‘frontline’ communities (13:30 - 20:30). Arinze asks Lorig wanted to run for office, and Lorig says she wanted to be a champion for equity (21:30 - 31:00). Lorig says that “it is expensive to be poor” which prompts an extended conversation about regressive policies that exacerbate poverty (31:00 - 35:30); the school to prison pipeline (35:50 - 43:30); and the perverse economic incentives built into the prison industrial complex that makes little effort to rehabilitate people while incarcerated (43:30 - 48:00). The conversation wraps with a discussion about what true representation means and how Marylanders benefit from a more gender balanced and diverse legislative body (48:30 - 52:25).
ft. Prince George’s Councilmembers Danny Schaible (Hyattsville) & Scott Cecil (Mt. Rainier). Danny and Scott open with their stories about becoming councilmembers in their communities and the policies on which they are working (3:35-17:00). Scott says that many of the policies we operate under today are designed to criminalize and profit off of Black and Brown bodies and goes on to describe his full-time work helping people with criminal records to register to vote (21:20-25:00). Danny describes how the Latinx population in Hyattsville is impacted by gentrification and how he as a cis-white-male can play a role as a leader and as an ally in the fight against inequitable community development. Scott and Danny discuss what they’re doing within the Gateway Arts District partnership to empower marginalized residents in their communities (27:00-45:00). The conversation turns to national politics and Scott, Danny, and Arinze get into a lively debate about the deterioration of our Democracy because of unlimited campaign contributions, foreign interference, and hyperpartisanship (45:00-1:00:00). Danny shares a story about a relative that identifies with Trump and Scott passionately argues that Demorcrats must double down on identity politics to increase turnout of the Democratic coalition (1:01:00-1:14:00). Scott argues that turnout directly impacts governance and the ability to enact progressive policies— and progressives shouldn’t be afraid to deliver a message that government is worthy of the public’s trust (1:14:00-1:27:00).
ft. Speaker Adrienne Jones (D-10). The podcast opens with a discussion about Baltimore County. Speaker Jones talks about her 38-year career in Baltimore County Government (4:00). The Speaker then breaks down the significance of the Baltimore County African American Cultural Festival (now in its 23rd year) in Towson, and the importance of bringing the people of the County— East, West, and Central— together (8:14). Arinze asks about the role of the Democratic State Central Committee, where Jones held her first public position, and finds out more about her first campaign (11:15). The discussion turns to the changes the Speaker has implemented in her first legislative session and her management style as she steps into the day to day role of managing the House during session (16:30). The conversation wraps with a discussion about the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a signature initiative to reform Maryland’s education system (25:30).
ft. Dr. Robert Chiles, Senior Lecturer at the University of Maryland. The conversation opens with Dr. Chiles providing context to the erosion of trust in American government. Dr. Chiles explains that the far Right has taken to anti-government rhetoric and the far Left has pushed for massive expansions to the social safety net in attempts to appeal to their constituents once they've lost faith in government (10:00). Politicians like George Wallace normalized modern “outsider rhetoric” that is frankly race-baiting (17:15). Dr. Chiles says that it has since morphed into a coded langauge that the public understands and that conservatives have readily embraced. Given Trump’s impeachment, Arinze asks what America has done in hostoric moments of crisis and divisiveness to heal itself in the past (21:00). The conversation then turns to the impact of globalism (28:55) and capitalism (38:00) on American politics. The podcast wraps with an examination of the Supreme Court (43:00), the Senate (50:00), and the House’s ability (or inability) to withstand the corrosive effects of today’s politics.
Here's a bonus episode of the MD Dems Podcast featuring Arinze and Morgan breaking down last night's historic vote to impeach Trump for abusing his power and obstructing Congress! Stay tuned for Vol. 3... sometime in 2020.
ft. Baltimore City Council President Brandon Scott. The conversation opens with Scott talking about the Freddie Gray uprising and his upbringing in Baltimore (2:25). Arinze and Scott discuss the failed strategies of the past, gun violence as a disease and Hogan's "asinine" claims about education funding in Baltimore City (11:25). Scott is asked how changing economics could positively affect one of Baltimore's poorest and most violent neighborhoods (17:00). Scott recommends a mult-agency approach (25:30) and touts an equity based City budgeting process (30:50). The conversation wraps with a discussion on overcoming Baltimore's trust barrier between the public and its officials (41:25) and the steps needed to overcome education challenges in Baltimore (46:30).
Should college athletes be paid? ft. Del. Brooke Lierman, UB Law Prof. Dionne L. Koller, and Terps Football Starting Center Ellis McKennie. The pod opens with a quick synopsis of the state of affairs for Division I athletes' ability to be paid. Prof. Koller & Ellis break it down from both a legal and player's perspective (4:00). Del. Lierman talks about her work on a bill to give student athletes the ability to unionize. The legislation was filed in response to the tragic death of Jordan McNair who died during a University of MD football practice, and would give players an independent representative outside of the Athletic Department and give them the ability to bargain for wages (11:30). The conversation then turns to California's controversial decision to pass statewide legislation allowing players to sign endorsement deals and hire agents (20:50). Is Maryland ready to follow? Will Title IX be impacted and would women athletes be compensated fairly (30:30)? The three discuss the risks associated with big time college athletics and the truth about "student athletes" attending four year universities because they do not have viable semi-pro/developmental league options (33:35). Ellis explains what the NCAA's new "cost of attendance" stipend is for Power 5 Conference athletes(40:45). Del. Lierman says she will renew her push to create laws to fix student-athlete compensation in next year's legislative session (45:00). The episode closes with a discussion on the ever-expanding post seasons for D1 athletes (47:20).
ft. Howard County State's Attorney Rich Gibson. (2:00) Rich talks about his work in Baltimore's Major Investigations Unit. (5:00) Rich discusses his path to becoming a prosecutor in Maryland. (8:00) Arinze & Rich talk about Rich's experience prosecuting gun crimes in Baltimore's famed F.I.V.E. Unit and the investigation and prosecution techniques he picked up along the way. (15:00) Arinze asks about Rich's experience transitioning from trial attorney to an executive. (18:45) Rich opens up about the Dorsey case where an intoxicated man mistakenly entered Mr. Doresy's home by force and was shot to death. Rich details why he declined to prosecute Dorsey. (26:00) Rich says they are working to engage the community as a proactive crime prevention measure-- which includes developing partnerships to bring a Boys & Girls Club to Howard County. (32:25) Arinze asks for Rich's take on the importance of prosecutorial discretion. (50:00) The conversation wraps with a discussion on police brutality, and the agreement Rich formalized with Montgomery County ensuring that the counties would investigate one another's police involved death cases.
ft. Del. Vanessa Atterbeary (D-13), Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Committee. The episode opens with a deep dive on the importance of Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) and philanthropic social organizations that the black professionals use to network and advance their careers (2:25). Vanessa reveals ways to find a job working in state politics in Annapolis (15:26). From there the conversation turns to Vanessa career path and her decision to run for office (24:30). Arinze asks about the obstacles women face when they decide to run-- Vanessa doesn't disappoint with her answer about overcoming those obstacles (34:00). The conversation wraps with an examination of the sea change that has taken place in the House Judiciary Committee since Vanessa was tapped as Vice Chair.
ft. Baltimore City Mayor Jack Young and Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. The podcast opens with a first-hand recounting of how the lauded deal to save Baltimore's Pimlico race track and the Preakness Stakes came together (2:00). Discussion of the deal and its benefits to both Baltimore City and Anne Arundel lead to a conversation about the importance of regionalism in government (11:00), as well as Jack and Steuart's outlook on consummating the deal during the 2020 legislative session (13:30). Arinze steers the conversation towards Steuart's organizing background on the West and South sides of Chicago before he decided to run for County Executive (15:00), and Jack talks about the family he's lost to gun violence and how it has shaped his career in public service (19:00). Jack and Steuart then tackle the two facets of American gun violence-- handgun violence in urban centers and mass shootings in suburban areas (25:25). Arinze asks about both men's inclusionary housing policies (32:40) before the discussion turns to the Kirwan Commission recommendations and the future of education in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County (35:20). The conversation wraps with each executive's prescription for enacting change within their jurisdiction (41:30) and Jack closes with an inspirational story about starting out as a sanitation worker and rising to become Mayor (47:00).
ft. Chestertown Town Councilman-elect Tom Herz. Arinze opens the pod with a shout out to all of the staff and volunteers that helped elect Democrats in Harford County and across the Eastern Shore, then introduces his guest Tom Herz (4:25) who won a seat to the Chestertown Town Council on Nov. 5th, 2019. Tom talks about his motivation to run for office as a way to promote business development in Chestertown by leveraging Kent County’s new 110 mile fiber optic network (8:00). Tom talks about the possibilities for the future in Chestertown and Kent County if the region oriented towards technology (15:00). Tom makes the case for professionals with flexible work schedules and young families to relocate to Chestertown— arguing extremely low crime; affordable housing; proximity to DC, Baltimore, Philly, Wilmington, and the beach; and a comparable commute into the Beltway (24:00). Arinze gets into the weeds on Chestertown politics, and the two discuss the town’s controversial decision to publicly finance the purchase of a Marina that many had hoped would bring much needed economic development to the area (31:00). The conversation then turns to Tom’s run for office and his experience working with the Kent County Central Committee to get elected (41:00). The conversation comes to a close as Tom talks transition (54:00) and another hot-button issue in Kent County— eliminating the Chestertown Police Department and allowing Kent County law enforcement to service the town.
ft. Gary Hodge of the Maryland Transit Opportunities Coalition. On this episode, Arinze sits with Gary to talk traffic and transit in Maryland. Gary opens with a survey of the traffic problems Marylanders experience throughout the State (2:35) including the controversial P3 beltway project, the inexplicably cancelled rapid transit project in Montgomery County, and more. Arinze asks Gary what solutions MTOC are supporting to improve regional transit (18:00) and the two discuss the need for interconnectivity of regional mass transit options such as the MARC train. Arinze then delivers an impassioned monologue in defense of public transit which often times WRONGLY relegates poor people to transportation systems that receive no support (22:22). The two agree that Maryland must invest significant resources in public transit to diversify and increase ridership and increase equity among all residents. Next the two talk about the extreme delays commuters are experiencing crossing the Bay Bridge: including new span locations, the viability of transit systems on the Eastern Shore, and the economic opportunities and environmental risks of an Eastern Shore town on the receiving end of a new crossing (37:00). The episode wraps with MTOC’s vision for improving transit throughout Maryland (52:00).
ft. At-Large Montgomery County Councilman Gabriel Albornoz. Arinze sits down with Gabe to discuss his ongoing fight to stop the vaping industry from targeting Montgomery County school children. Gabe opens up about his experience with the County’s new public financing system for local races (17:00) and its ability to bring equity into the political process. Arinze asks why Gabe he spent time knocking “non-traditional” doors during his campaign and the two delve into the benefits of encouraging new constituencies to participate in civic engagement (21:00). Gabe says that the County is a microcosm of the broader U.S. economy (28:00) and he’s working to bring equity to Montgomery County’s communities through his new equity bill (31:00). Finally, Arinze and Gabe discuss the impact of Trump’s racist rhetoric on local immigrant communities. And they do a deep dive on difficulties Gabe and his colleagues face as they try to maintain their immigrant constituent’s trust in the face of heightened immigration enforcement activities; a recent pro ICE rally; and conflicting messages from the courts, census bureau, and others about immigration status impacts (35:00).
Arinze sits with Dr. Timothy Patrick McCarthy of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Tim opens with a story about how he ended up on a “Short on Patriotism” list after he gave an anti-war speech in New York following the 9/11 attacks (2:30). This leads to a discussion on Trump’s abrupt decision to pull out of Syria (9:40), but more broadly Western imperialism in the region; the costs of perpetual war; and the unlikely alliances formed in Congress and in communities against these conflicts. Arinze asks Tim about the next generation of leadership and its ability to mobilize around a national moment of crisis (22:00), Tim says that he’s seen a surge of enthusiasm that is in part fueled by a new generation of political leadership like “The Squad” (26:00). The discussion then turns to the impact perpetual violence has on our society— including mass shootings, police killings, and the fact that there is a generation of Americans (born after 9/11) that have grown up with the U.S. at war their entire lives (38:00). Tim closes with his assessment of the leadership potential of young Americans, including his former students Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Seth Moulton (48:00).
Arinze opens with a few words about the passing of Rep. Elijah Cummings, before the podcast moves into a discussion about fundraising at the beginning levels of politics. This is Part-1 of a two-part episode. Part-2 will be released on Monday and will recap the debates.
Maryland (as well as the rest of the nation) lost a legend. Our prayers our with Maryland Democratic Party Chair Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings and her family.
This episode of the MD Dems features Delegates Stephanie Smith (D-45) and Jheanelle Wilkins (D-20) who joined Arinze to talk about their work preparing Maryland for the 2020 Census. Del. Wilkins discusses her connection to the census through her lived experience as an immigrant (8:22). Del. Smith then talks about her work overcoming the challenges of connecting her community to the digital resources necessary for a complete count in Baltimore (10:40). She explains that Census 2020 will be the first time residents can complete the survey online. The trio discuss the importance of the nearly $1 million in census funding that had yet to be released by the Hogan administration for education and promotion efforts focused on the census (13:45) [Note: This episode was recorded two days before Hogan was eventually pressured into releasing the funds]. Dels. Smith and Wilkins breakdown the local struggle to push ALL residents to participate in the census, despite the fear-mongering and villainization of immigrants taking place in federal politics (19:00). Arinze segues the conversation into a discussion on Candace Owens’ (a prominent black conservative voice) viral comments during a panel at P. Diddy’s 2019 Revolt Summit. According to Owens, the biggest threat to black America is illegal immigration and cities like Baltimore’s inability to educate its children (23:45). Del. Smith talks shares her experience as a mother of a child attending a Baltimore City public school and talks about the significance of Hogan’s disingenuous engagement in Maryland’s attempts to upgrade its education systems – specifically in the ongoing HBCU lawsuit and the Kirwan Commission’s efforts to dramatically improve K-12 education (32:00). The conversation wraps with an important discussion about “having a seat at the table” as women and women of color who will serve under Speaker Adrienne Jones (D-10) —who is Maryland’s first ever woman, and first ever African-American Speaker of the House of Delegates (42:00). The Delegates discuss the types of bills women legislators bring to the general assembly such as economic justice, women’s rights, and maternal deaths—which is an issue that nearly claimed the lives of Serena Williams and Beyonce (50:25). Finally, the two share the challenges of running for office as a woman and what they did to overcome those obstacles (57:00).
Welcome to the Impeachment episode. It’s been a long time coming hasn’t it? After an impassioned pitch from Ben for recurring donations, Arinze breaks down the Amber Guyger/Botham Jean case (5:00) and its connection to Freddie Gray and Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby. He dives into the precedent set by Mosby and then talks about Mosby’s conviction integrity unit which has freed 4 of the 5 men who wrongfully served time for crimes that they did not commit. The five exonerated men are now seeking compensation from the State for the time they’ve lost, but Governor Hogan refuses to release the funds to pay them. For those of you that need a recap of how this impeachment inquiry all began—Arinze has you covered (8:49). Then Ben and Arinze discuss the 14-day surge in support for Trump’s impeachment, with 46% of voters favoring the inquiry. This is obviously getting to Trump, who melted down during a joint press conference with the President of Finland – listen to the clip at the 19 minute mark (19:34). Arinze then asks Ben whether Democrats should consider election-year politics more carefully before proceeding (22:00) and if the “Never Trump” Republicans will provide enough political cover for the rest of the GOP to turn against Trump. Ben then lays out the three elements for impeachment as defined by Congress (27:42). Arinze reminds Ben that NOTHING has stuck to Trump thus far, so why would we think that Trump’s playbook to deny and downplay would be any less effective (30:00). Ben talks about the “But her Emails” tactics that led to Trump’s victory and wonders if Biden is vulnerable to similar attacks if he becomes the nominee (34:00). Arinze wants to know if impeachment is the right move with an election in full swing—YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS BEN’S ANSWER (40:20).
Baltimore City Councilman Ryan Dorsey discusses transportation policy, bike lanes, complete streets, and smart urban growth policy on this episode of the MD Dems Podcast. The discussion begins with a brief shout out to the striking journalists and musicians at the Baltimore Sun and BSO (3:00) before diving into Dorsey's role in calling out the Healthy Holly Scandal that lead to former Baltimore City Mayor Catherine Pugh's resignation (6:44) and the ethics reform package Dorsey and his colleagues introduced in the wake of the scandal. Arinze asks Dorsey about a clip (19:22) of the Councilman telling Baltimore's Budget Director that the City's budget was a "racist document" because it did not prioritize closing the wealth gap between black and white Baltimore residents as part of its 'outcome based budgeting process'. "If black people had the same economic power per capita as white people in the City would have BILLIONS more in local spending." (22:48) The pair kick off an extended conversation on transportation, equity, and smart growth in urban settings. (26:30) Arinze asks Ryan to break down the "Black Butterfly and the White L" (look it up!) and how it impacts development in Black Baltimore neighborhoods (37:00). The episode ends with a surprise answer to, "Who is your favorite activist?" (55:00) Tune in to find out!
This episode was recorded on day one of the national General Motors Strike. Hear the stories of Rob Dinatele -- a 25 year employee of GM-- and Jackie Parncutt, who is a 35 year GM employee and the First Committee Chair for UAW Local 239. Rob and Jackie met Arinze at the picket line in front of the now shuttered GM assembly facility in White Marsh. The trio discussed the reason for the strike and the $35 billion in profits GM made while closing facilities across America (3:40). Jackie breaks down the impact of the May 2019 layoffs that shut down the Baltimore facility (6:30) and what she and her union have been doing to remedy the situation. The trio also discussed the discuss the culture of unions, its benefits, and the difference between relying on a union representative to settle labor disputes and complaints rather than corporate HR staff (14:40). Wrapping up the conversation Arinze asks about globalization and Jackie explains the significance of vehicle VIN numbers that begin with the number 3 (30:00). Tune in for a heartfelt discussion about working people sticking together and striking for the compensation and opportunities that they deserve.
Welcome back! On this episode, Arinze interviews Del. Joseline Pena-Melnyk (D-21) who was the lead sponsor of a law to create America's first Drug Affordability Review Board. The two discuss how the law intends to reduce drug prices for Marylanders (2:18) and year long process of engaging Maryland's healthcare sector and the Attorney General's office to craft the legislation (4:00). But Pena-Melnyk points out that Gov. Hogan refused to provide funding for the Affordability Board to do its work (10:00) and Hogan's administration -- including the Health Department-- never participated in any of the discussions regarding this major piece of legislation. Pena-Melnyk then breaks down the difference between the Board being independent versus being operated by Hogan's administration (15:00)and recalls the moment she found out that Hogan was blocking the Board from moving forward after it was established by law. Arinze and Pena-Melnyk later discuss the need for Democrats to communicate to voters the numerous progressive policies passed by Party Members including $15 minimum wage, marijuana decriminalization, Title X funding, Ban the Box, and more (21:00). To wrap up the episode, Pena-Melnyk touches on the election of Speaker Jones; gives predictions on the Kirwan Commission during session 2020; and shares her thoughts on the importance of state action on healthcare in the absence of movement at the federal level (26:00).
On this week's episode we welcome another special guest, Yianni Varonis, a veteran campaign communications strategist who joins Michael (MDP's new Political & Organizing Director) and Arinze to talk about working full-time in politics. The three open the episode with a brief update on the 2020 primary (2:22). Yianni discusses his work in Ohio, Wisconsin, and Iowa for the Hillary Clinton Campaign in 2016 (9:30) and Michael describes why he quit his job as a paralegal to work on Chris Van Hollen's run for senate in 2015 (14:00). Arinze shares how he got his start by quitting Macaroni Grill in Alabama to volunteer on a local congressional race (18:35) to start his career in politics and how he met Yianni on Capitol Hill. Yianni talks about how the Tom Manatos (google it!) list serv landed him an internship that led to a full-time position as a field organizer in 2010 (22:50). Arinze describes the political hiring cycle and the job boards used to find paid political work. Yianni talks about how a wedding (32:40) helped him make the transition from Field Organizing to Communications, and Arinze shares a similar story about meeting Del. Nick Mosby (former Baltimore City Councilman) in 2011 on the Rawlings-Blake for Mayor campaign which eventually led to a job in State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby's communications office. To close out the episode the trio breaks down job titles and responsibilities for campaign positions and departments people rarely hear about (49:45). Take out a pen and paper and take notes! This episode is dedicated to giving you a peek into how people find full time work in politics.
Senator Clarence Lam (D-12) joins the podcast as our very first guest! This episode kicks off with Sen. Lam, Ben, and Arinze discussing the 2020 field (1:55). The trio discuss recent reporting that the State Prosecutor's Office is investigating potential campaign finance violations by the Hogan campaign in 2018 (11:25). Sen. Lam goes in depth about his appointment oversight bill (15:00) that was curiously vetoed by Gov. Hogan-- a former appointment secretary for Bob Ehrlich-- and his plans to push for a veto override in the upcoming legislative session. Episode 8 closes with a new segment: Sen. Lam names his favorite U.S. President and his favorite political figure (30:45).
Arinze, Ben, and Sam sit for a discussion on the shadow campaign for Baltimore Mayor (3:00). Ben and Arinze reflect on Stephanie Rawlings-Blake's tenure as mayor when the City was growing and the O's were winning (5:50)!
Ben and Sam breakdown the municipal races taking place on the Eastern Shore (
On this episode Arinze speaks with Skylar (21), Hannah (21), and Carson (15) about their experience growing up in an era of mass shootings just days after back to back mass shootings in Ohio and Texas.
Skylar shares his experience as an elementary school child going through active shooter drills, "If you talked, they'd give you a red card, which meant your entire class had been killed." (4:32) Carson explains why she chose to join the March for Our Lives Movement after the Parkland Shootings. (17:15) And Hannah takes down cisgendered white male privilege and its connection to white supremacist mass shooters.(45:00)
Listen in on a perspective you probably haven't heard. An entire generation of Americans are growing up with a tangible fear of active shooters in their classrooms and public spaces.
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Ben, Arinze, and Morgan break down Trump's Twitter tirade towards Baltimore and Congressman Elijah Cummings. They also discuss Larry Hogan's reluctance to defend Maryland's largest city.
In the last half hour the trio talks politics, 2020 dynamics, and the path to victory for the eventual Democratic nominee.
Arinze sits with activists from the Sunrise Movement to talk about the need to address climate change, and their desire to have a 2020 presidential debate focused completely on climate issues.
Arinze, Ben, and Maya discuss Trump's "go back to where you came from" tweets aimed at #TheSquad. Maya gives a deep dive on the Epstein scandal. And the group discusses Maryland Congressman Andy Harris's support for Trump's "go back" comments.
Maya, Ben, and Arinze break down the rough week Maryland Governor Larry Hogan had in the press.
Our new podcast series is here! Listen to our first episode reflecting on the Democratic debate with Chairwoman Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, Executive Director Ben Smith, and Communications Director Arinze Ifekauche.