As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the role of Black voters is emerging as a pivotal factor in determining the outcome. Dr. Carlo Brayley, from Texas Southern University, shared insights on the significance of this demographic in the upcoming election.
“Black voters will play a key role in the outcome of the 2024 presidential election this November,” Brayley emphasized.
The historical significance of Vice President Kamala Harris potentially becoming the first Black female presidential nominee cannot be overstated.
“I really believe she will be the Democratic nominee, and I’m hoping to be successful in that,” Brayley said, commending President Joe Biden for his decision to stand down. “He told us a long time ago that he would keep his promises.”
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Brayley highlighted the strong track record of Black women in the Democratic Party, noting their consistent turnout and organizational efforts.
“Black women have been the heart of the Democratic Party. They’ve had a pattern for not only showing up but organizing to be ready,” Brayley stated.
“The beauty of Vice President Kamala Harris is she would be ready on day one,” she added, pointing to Harris’s extensive experience and readiness for the presidency.
Discussing voter turnout, Brayley noted the impact of well-organized groups like the Divine Nine. She shared an example of a recent fundraising call where over 40,000 Black women raised more than $1 million in just a few hours.
“We’re talking about the invigoration that we needed right to be inspired,” she said.
Despite the positive outlook, Brayley acknowledged concerns about democracy and voter engagement.
“We are in a very treacherous period of America. Democracy is at stake,” she warned.
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Ensuring high voter turnout, particularly among young Black voters, remains a priority.
“Social media blasts are already addressing some of those concerns. The campaign will have to be very intentional about its engagement,” Brayley explained.
The Republican Party has been making efforts to win over young Black male voters, but Brayley believes the Democratic Party can still secure this group with strategic engagement.
“With Kamala Harris being the official nominee, some of those trends we’ve seen will be even more reduced,” she said.
The key, according to Brayley, is being intentional and unapologetic in the campaign’s approach.
Reflecting on the historical context of recent events, Brayley shared a personal anecdote about her teenage daughter informing her of President Biden’s decision not to seek another term.
“I believe that this is the time. This is our time to show up and show what America is all about,” she concluded.
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