Alabama Politics This Week

In this episode, Josh Moon and David Person discuss various pressing issues, the alarming rates of missing Black children, and the societal implications of socioeconomic status on these cases. Then, the recent developments surrounding Wind Creek Entertainment with Arthur Mothershed. They explore the significance of the Birmingham Racecourse acquisition, the economic impact of Wind Creek on Alabama...

Josh Moon and David Person delve into the complexities of current political dynamics, focusing on the interactions between Trump and Biden, the challenges faced by Democrats, and the impact of messaging and the economy on elections. Rep. Barbara Drummond discusses the current political landscape in Alabama, the challenges and opportunities facing the Democratic Party, and the impact of diversity,...

This week, Josh and David discuss the aftermath of a consequential election, focusing on the unexpected outcomes and the implications for the Democratic Party. They analyze the role of messaging in political campaigns, the challenges faced by Democrats in countering Republican narratives, and the importance of a centralized messaging strategy. Sheila McNeil, chair of the Madison County Democratic...

This week, Josh and David discuss Biden's recent gaffe and the implications of political rhetoric, comparing it to Trump's consistent controversial statements. Representative Sam Jones discusses the recent pro-growth conference held by the Democrats in Alabama, focusing on key issues such as education, healthcare, and gaming legislation. Elizabeth Anderson, the Democratic candidate for Alabama's 6...

In this episode of Alabama Politics This Week, hosts Josh Moon and David Person discuss the current political climate in Alabama and the upcoming elections. They delve into the implications of the MAGA movement, its connection to historical racism, and the evolving nature of American cultural identity. Then, Josh and David interview Shamari Figures, a candidate in the competitive congressional rac...

Josh Moon and David Person discuss comments made by Donald Trump about Sen. Katie Britt, Mark Cuban's insights on Trump's leadership, and an analysis of Kamala Harris's recent interview. They also reflect on the legacy of Lilly Ledbetter and her impact on women's rights and pay equity. Dr. Joe Reed, the chair of the Alabama Democratic Conference, discusses the upcoming meetings of the Alabama Demo...

This week, Josh Moon and David Person talk insights from an environmental justice meeting, the political campaign of Caroleene Dobson, and the implications of historical family legacies on current race relations. State Rep. Chris England joins the show to discuss key legislative issues in Alabama, focusing on online sales tax, education funding, criminal justice oversight, and the bail bonds syste...

This week, Josh and David discuss the ongoing challenges of voter suppression in the state, which always seems to come from Republicans. They delve into the implications of photo ID laws and the broader political landscape surrounding voting rights. Nicholas Perkins discusses the tragic death of his brother, Steve Perkins, at the hands of Decatur police, and the subsequent community response. He h...

This week, Josh Moon and David Person discuss the pressing issue of gun violence in Alabama, reflecting on societal attitudes towards firearms and the lack of respect for life. Sheriff Derek Cunningham discusses the challenges faced by law enforcement in Alabama, particularly regarding the rise of Glock switches that convert firearms into automatic weapons. Finally, Josh and David discuss the hist...

In this episode of Alabama Politics This Week, Josh Moon and David Person delve into the toxic political rhetoric surrounding Donald Trump and its implications for American politics, particularly within the Republican Party. Celsa Stallworth from the SPLC's Alabama Office and Carlos Javier Torres from the Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama join the show to talk about the importance of vo...

Josh and David discuss the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. They also talk about the impact of endorsements from celebrities like Taylor Swift and the potential outcome of the election. Was the debate a turning point in the election? State Rep. Phillip Ensler zooms in to discuss his thoughts on the first presidential debate, and he also talks about the importance o...

This week, Josh and David discuss various topics including the turnaround of Alabama State University under Quentin Ross, the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and the impact of name, image, and likeness (NIL) payments on college athletics. Then, the SPLC's Brandon Jones discusses the recent polling in Alabama's CD2 race. He highlights the increase in enthusiasm a...

This week, the controversial political statements made by Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl and the impact it may have on recruiting. Josh also dislikes social media and its negative effects on communication and society. In the guest segment, Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels discusses the recent city elections in Huntsville. Then, the overtime tax bill, which repeals the tax on over...

This week, Josh and David discuss the contrast between the Republican and Democratic National Conventions — and the speeches by Barack and Michelle Obama, emphasizing their aspirational messages and the need for unity and acceptance. Then, the SPLC's Jerome Dees joins the show to explain the Alabama Voting Rights Act (SB7) and the need for voting rights legislation in the state. The bill aims...

This week, Josh and David dive into an ongoing dispute between the Alabama Democratic Party and national Democratic Party over the selection of delegates for the Democratic National Convention, where Vice President Kamala Harris will be nominated next week. The Alabama Democratic Party chairman claims that the DNC's selection of delegates is racially motivated, going so far as to call former A...

This week, Josh and David are back, and they delve into various political topics, including David's recent health scare, the start of the school year, Vice President Kamala Harris's popularity, and Trump's unusual behavior. They also explore the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, while criticizing the lack of policy proposals from Trump’s camp. Shomari Figures, the Democ...

In this episode, Josh Moon and David Person start with a humorous nod to their dedicated listener, Don, and a conversation about Reggie Jackson's candid remarks on racism in Alabama. They then speak with Montgomery County District Attorney Daryl Bailey, who discusses the persistent violent crime problem in Montgomery and the multifaceted approach needed to address it. Next, Tafeni English-Relf and...

Josh Moon and David Person kick off with a discussion on the significance of Juneteenth, reflecting on its historical context and the importance of education in combating racism. They highlight the efforts of Governor Ivey in recognizing Juneteenth and critique the persistent celebration of Confederate holidays in Alabama. Next, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed joins the conversation to address the ci...

On this week's show: The seemingly never-ending internal conflicts within the Alabama Democratic Party.  The possibility of a special session to address gambling legislation in Alabama. The fines imposed on Marilyn Lands for campaign finance reporting violations may be politically motivated retribution. The secret recordings of Supreme Court Justices Alito and Roberts. The Southern Baptist Convent...

This week, Josh Moon and David Person kick off with light-hearted banter about Ice Cube and the felony convictions of former President Donald Trump. Bill Britt, editor-in-chief of the Alabama Political Reporter, joins the show to discuss his recent columns and the impact of notable LGBTQ+ figures from Alabama. They delve into the political dynamics in Alabama, challenges of progressive leadership,...

In this episode, Josh Moon and David Person discuss Alabama's unspent $100 million in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds, emphasizing the dire need for better financial support in impoverished areas, particularly in the Black Belt. House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels joins the show to share personal updates, including recovering from a house fire. He reflects on his recent cong...

Josh and David open with a discussion of Gov. Kay Ivey's controversial response to a single mother's plea for help, which went viral on TikTok. They explore the miscommunication and the need for more compassionate governance. Debbie Smith, campaign director of Cover Alabama at Alabama Arise, zooms in to discuss the formation and growth of Cover Alabama, now with 130 organizations advocating for Me...

This week, David revisits an inspiring interview with Jerrick Lewis, nephew of the late Congressman John Lewis and leader of the John R. Lewis Legacy Institute. Jerrick discusses the Institute's mission to advance equity, promote community engagement, and preserve his uncle's legacy through various initiatives like literacy programs and health awareness campaigns. He also shares personal reflectio...

This week’s episode kicks off with a spirited discussion on a proposed bill called the ”No Bailouts for Campus Criminals Act.”

Josh and David discuss the ongoing debate and legislative efforts around legalizing gambling in Alabama, including the compromise bill that included a state lottery, electronic casinos in seven locations, and full casinos for the Poarch Creek Indians. They lament Alabama's continued inability to legalize gambling and tap into the associated revenue sources, despite residents already engaging in il...