Access To Democracy

Professor David Schultz, from Hamline University and the University of Minnesota Law School returns to “Access to Democracy” with host Steve Francisco to examine the 2022 mid-term elections and why the predicted “big red wave” failed to materialize and why Democratic candidates fared better than many Republican candidates in key federal and state races.

Professor Schultz explains how the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning the constitutional protection for reproductive rights along with deep angst about the January 6, 2021 insurrection and election denial helped to mobilize voter turnout. The interview also explores the hard right turn by the Supreme Court beyond the Dobbs decision and how other constitutional rights may be at jeopardy. Finally, Professor Schultz discusses his views on education reform and criticizes the over-reliance on standardized tests, such as the ACT, in assessing college admissions. As usual, Professor Schultz provides provocative insights about politics and the law.

Minnesota journalist and award-winning author Lori Sturdevant joined host Paul Anderson on the November 4th edition of “Access to Democracy”. Sturdevant spoke about what motivated her to be a journalist and how her career led to her covering and, in many cases, becoming friends with some of Minnesota’s most prominent leaders. When discussing the books she wrote on Governor Elmer L. Andersen, the Pillsbury family, Rosalie Wahl, Joan Growe and others, she described the traits and characteristics that set them apart. She also comments on the current political scene and her concerns for the future of American democracy. It is a fun interview while at the same time being a good lesson in civics.

Cathy McLeer, State Director AARP MN, and host Bill Raker engage in a lively discussion. Cathy speaks to the history and mission of AARP, highlighting some of the many services and benefits of membership. She explains that AARP is a non-partisan organization that advocates at the state and national levels for policies that improve the health, finances and well-being of people of all ages. Cathy describes the top priority issues AARP advocates for and notes some monumental legislative victories achieved in 2022. Among the key issues are: reining in the costs of prescription medications, preserving and strengthening Social Security and Medicare benefits, securing benefits for care-givers, and exempting Social Security income from taxes. She describes the value, support, and effectiveness of volunteer engagement in advancing AARP’s initiatives and achievements in those advocacy efforts.

In this interview, Access to Democracy founder and author Alan Miller joins host Steve Francisco to discuss his new novel, “Holding Court”. Alan discusses his long career as a writer beginning at age 15 through his time writing for Newsday and winning a New York Press Association Award for Best Column. Alan explains what inspired him to write his novel, “Holding Court,” where the action centers around the kidnapping of an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and the repercussions of this crime on a major pending water rights case in a closely divided court. Alan offers his insights into his creative writing process and discusses the research and editorial advice involved in producing a provocative novel. He also reads from several key sections of his book. “Holding Court” can be purchased on Amazon.

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Eagan City Council Member Gary Hansen joins host Steve Francisco to discuss his work on the City Council and the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority Board. Eagan is home to a range of businesses, from small and mid-sized businesses to the Minnesota Vikings organization, which supports 50,000 jobs and contributes significantly to Eagan’s economy. The city is also home to award-winning schools and a well-developed park system that has landed Eagan near the top of several “best places to live” lists. Gary comments on some of the current and future challenges to Eagan as its population is aging and the need to provide more affordable housing for both retiring seniors and working families. The discussion also touches on reducing aircraft noise, water quality issues, and more. Gary has served on the Eagan City Council since 2008 and has seen the city grow significantly during this period of time. He shares his thoughts on how the City Council tries to work in a non-partisan manner to make a good city even better. Hansen is seeking reelection to the City Council.