I’m excited to welcome back my friend and political activist, Darcy McKenzie. Over the years, as our friendship has grown, we’ve witnessed and reflected on some major milestone moments in history. Darcy lives near the very street corner where George Floyd lost his life, and her advocacy began on local school boards before expanding into key roles supporting both local and national Democratic candidates. She’s a key player in the DFL (Democratic Farmer-Labor) Party, working to advance affirmative action, outreach, and inclusion at every level of government.
In this episode, we dive into the political landscape, discussing Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz and the Kamala Harris campaign. Darcy has campaigned for an impressive range of candidates, including Muslim Attorney General Keith Ellison, Representative Ilhan Omar, Jewish Secretary of State Steve Simon, and LGBTQ Representative Angie Craig. She’s also been a strong advocate for women leaders, supporting Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, as well as Representatives Betty McCollum and Kelly Morrison. And while she champions diversity, she’s also backed candidates like Governor Tim Walz, a "straight white guy," and now she’s fully supporting Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, a Native American leader, in her run for the U.S. Senate.
Together, Darcy and I unpack the weaponization of DEI and CRT, and we share where we find hope and encouragement even in today’s political climate. Let’s get into it.
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Ken welcomes Darcy McKenzie back for a follow-up conversation post-DNC (Democratic Convention). When Tim Walz made his acceptance speech on Thursday Night, Darcy contacted her considerable network of political activists in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area to come to her home for a Tim Walz watch party. Local ABC affiliate Eyewitness News (Channel 5) sent a crew to Darcy and Dane’s home to interview her and her guests. Ken and Darcy talk about the enthusiastic celebration in her backyard as the Minnesota Governor accepted the nomination to be Kamala Harris’ Vice President as Gus cheered. They also offer a post-convention review. Ken checks in on Darcy’s reaction to Jill and Joe Biden, Michelle and Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Pete Buttigieg, Gabby Giffords, Mark Kelly, Governor Josh Shapiro, Maya Harris, and finally, Kalama’s acceptance speech. Darcy is a genuine insider - with insights and perspectives that bring clarity, conviction, and contagious excitement. SHOW NOTES
VIDEO - Minnesotans gather at watch parties to watch Walz DNC address
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For Part II in our series, Ken welcomes political activist and friend of the podcast, Darcy McKenzie. Darcy has been actively involved in local politics from her home in Mendota Heights, just south of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Darcy gives us the backroom story of the selection of her Governor, Tim Walz, to be Kamala Harris’ running mate in her pursuit of the Presidency. Like our friend Betsey Newenhuyse, Darcy was actively engaged in the campaign to encourage Harris to choose Sec. of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg. She shares her personal meeting with Sec. Pete at a local round table just after the now infamous debate (Biden v. Trump). She also relates her meetings with Jill Biden and other political notables. While she shares her team’s disappointment over Pete, her enthusiasm for Gov. Tim Walz is not dampened. Around Minnesota, it’s often said, “He’s not the DEI candidate, he’s the REI Candidate.” Darcy gives us a close look at the Governor’s reputation in Minnesota - and celebrates the new Democrat ticket. Darcy is a proud military Mom. Her activism is rooted in a deep love of country, and pride in her sons and her Governor who is now along with the Presidential Nominee bringing joy, hope, and excitement to the nation - and the world. SHOW NOTES
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The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com
Ken welcomes long-time listener, Darcy McKenzie. She lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota, not far from George Floyd Square, where Derek Chauvin pressed his knee on his victim's neck resulting in a death viewed by millions around the world. Darcy shares her experience, which includes a Prayer Tent on the site of the square providing space for people to come together from all walks of life. She also tells the story of the Henry Sibley High School that took a deep dive into the history of the first governor of Minnesota and his relationship with the Dakota Tribe. History nearly forgotten came to life and a community rallied together to recognize the sins of the past, honoring the memory of those who lost their lives near the merging of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. The school became Two Rivers High School. SHOW NOTES.
Become a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you!
The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com
More Pending
