Access To Democracy

Hamline University and University of Minnesota Law School Professor David Schultz, returns once again to our program with host Steve Francisco to discuss the 2024 presidential election race and several landmark rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court.

Professor Schultz discusses his recently-published article in MinnPost [link] in which he argues that both Joe Biden and Donald Trump are too focused on their own political futures and not the future of the country to be effective presidents.

David offers sharp criticism of the Supreme Court decision expanding the scope of presidential immunity from criminal prosecutions and why this decision is a threat to the rule of law.

He also offers his views on decisions maintaining access to the abortion pill, mifepristone, as well as what he calls a “cruel decision” upholding bans on homeless people sleeping in public spaces.

Professor Schultz again offers thought-provoking opinions about American politics and law.

TIM PAWLENTY, was a two-term Minnesota Governor, who went on to the national scene and was considered as a running mate in the late Sen. John McCain quest for the Presidency. Now Tim is retired from politics.

Tim was the first guest on our show 25 years ago. He stopped to record a congratulatory message for Access to Democracy program on achieving 25 years milestone. Alan and Tim reunited, and conducted an in depth interview about the state of our nation and politics today.

Alzheimer’s is a devastating brain disorder affecting more than 6 million Americans. Public awareness and understanding is essential for coping with the disease.

Two guests, Heidi Haley-Franklin, VP of Programs, and Jennifer Hendrickson, Twin Cities Walk to End Alzheimer’s Director, both from the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota, conduct an informative discussion with host Bill Raker.

Heidi talks about the 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900), support groups and other resources (alz.org/mnnd) for people living with dementia, or their caregivers.

Jennifer gives an inside perspective on the Twin Cities Walk, Sept. 24, 2024 at Target Field, and the fun opportunity for public engagement and support it provides.

Michelle Witte, the Executive Director of the Minnesota League of Women Voters, joins host Steve Francisco for her first appearance on Access to Democracy.

Founded in 1920 when women won the right to vote, the League of Women Voters (LOWV) is a non-profit civic and educational organization that works through chapters across Minnesota and other states to strengthen and protect our democracy. As Michelle explains, the League does not endorse candidates for office, but it does work to educate and inform voters about issues.

Michelle offers a strong defense of the integrity of our electoral process and refutes disinformation about illegal voting by explaining the numerous safeguards that have been in place in Minnesota for many years.

The 2024 session of the Minnesota Legislature produced significant legislation that will affect Minnesotans for years to come, from increased aid to education, new protections for patients with medical debt, protecting reproductive freedom, strengthening gun laws, and more.

In this joint interview, Representatives Liz Reyer, District 52A, and Bianca Virnig, District 52B, sit down with host Steve Francisco to discuss what was accomplished this session and what did not pass this year and why, most notably a biennial bonding bill.

Learn more about how these legislators’ work in St. Paul to represent the concerns of their constituents.