Access To Democracy

Distinguished journalist and author Dane Smith meets with host Steve Francisco to discuss in more detail his recent article series, “Reappraising the Good Life in Minnesota” published in the past year in the online newspaper MinnPost.

The articles look back at how Minnesota has changed since the state was featured in a Time magazine cover story in 1973. Dane provides an in-depth look at significant demographic changes, the state’s penchant for elevating non-traditional politicians such as Jesse Ventura and the late Senator Paul Wellstone, and Minnesota’s impact on the arts and culture, from Bob Dylan to the late Prince.

While the North Star State can be proud of many achievements, there are also many challenges on the horizon in ensuring equal opportunity and protecting our environment.X

Before he was elected to the Eagan City Council in 2020, Mike Supina was an accomplished architect and project manager. Mike returns to “Access to Democracy” with host Steve Francisco to discuss how he has incorporated some of his previous professional experiences into his work representing the residents of Eagan on the City Council.

He is a strong advocate for environmentally sustainable infrastructure projects that incorporate affordable designs. Mike describes Eagan’s $52.3 million 2024 budget, where the money comes from and how it is spent.

With a nod toward Eagan’s strong tradition of citizen volunteerism, Mike also tells viewers how they can become more engaged in their city by participating in several citizen advisory commissions.

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.