UIN Staff, 6-18-24, info@uintv.net
WDIV (channel 4) and the Detroit News held a debate recently at Wayne State University for the candidates vying for the job as Mayor.
Despite having 9 candidates who had qualified available, they chose only 4 out of the 9 to participate. It seemed the picks were popular however, most had ties to Detroit political class for years. Consequently the answers they provided were those you would expect from seasoned politicians. Despite this, many talked as if they were spectators in Detroit politics for the last 12 years.
Given this scenario, it is a huge disservice to the community for these arrogant media owners to exclude candidates that may offer innovative solutions to the cities problems. The polling and criteria has been questioned. This is a more complete list:
- Jonathan Barlow, businessman (party affiliation: Democratic)
- James Craig, former chief of the Detroit Police Department (2013–2021) and candidate for governor in 2022 and U.S. Senate in 2024 (party affiliation: Republican)
- Fred Durhal III, city councilor from the 7th district (2021–present) (party affiliation: Democratic)[5]
- Joel Haashiim, businessman (party affiliation: Democratic)
- Saunteel Jenkins, former president of the Detroit City Council from the at-large district (2010–14) (party affiliation: Democratic)
- Solomon Kinloch, pastor of Triumph Church (party affiliation: Democratic)
- Todd Perkins, attorney (party affiliation: Democratic)
- Mary Sheffield, president of the Detroit City Council (2022–present) from the 5th district (2014–present) (party affiliation: Democratic)
- DaNetta Simpson, retired cosmetologist, niece of Elijah Muhammad, and perennial candidate[
Here is the potential harm:
The exclusion of certain candidates, especially those with diverse backgrounds and experiences, from a debate can significantly impact citizens in several ways:
- When only a handful of candidates—especially those tied to established political or corporate interests—are allowed to participate, it can lead to a lack of representation for the broader community. Candidates who may have unique perspectives or solutions that resonate with everyday citizens are not given a platform.to established political or corporate interests—are allowed to participate, it can lead to a lack of representation for the broader community. Candidates who may have unique perspectives or solutions that resonate with everyday citizens are not given a platform. The criteria and polling has been questioned. Here is a more complete list:
- Limited Reduced Representation: When only a handful of candidates—especially those tied Choices: Citizens benefit from having a variety of candidates to choose from, as this enables them to select someone who aligns closely with their values and needs. By excluding qualified candidates, voters may end up with fewer options, which can stifle meaningful electoral competition.
- Missed Opportunities for Innovation: Candidates with backgrounds in international trade, technology, or affordable housing may bring innovative solutions to the table that current or former politicians might not consider. Their exclusion can mean that crucial issues affecting the community, like hTrust in the Democratic Process: When debates and elections appear to favor certain candidates over others, it can diminish citizens’ trust in the electoral process. If people feel that their representatives are selected based on corporate backing rather than merit, they might become disengaged from civic activity.
- Dynamic Public Discourse: A diverse candidate slate fosters a richer public discourse, where different ideas and perspectives are discussed. When only established politicians are present, the debate may lack vigor and miss out on addressing critical community issues in innovative ways.
In summary, excluding a broader range of candidates from debates can undermine democracy, minimize public participation, and prevent the introduction of novel ideas that could benefit the citizens of Detroit. It’s essential for the electoral process to be inclusive so that all voices can be heard and represented. Other voices who have not weighed in on this issue are other media platforms and city leaders
This behavior is likely an influential factor in Detroit’s low voter turnout. The fact that the Detroit Regional Chamber used the same criteria for their debate makes it worse.
The truth is, if Detroit does better, the entire state will do better. The things that African Americans have fought and died for has made America a better place for everyone.
