Access To Democracy

Senator Jim Carlson and Access to Democracy host Steve Francisco discuss the accomplishments of last year’s legislative session and look ahead to the 2024 session of the Legislature.

As Chair of the Senate Elections Committee, Senator Carlson offers insights about the integrity of our election process and addresses some of the threats to our democracy, from election denial to personal threats directed at elected officials. Sen. Carlson reminds us that democracy cannot survive in an environment of threats and intimidation.

Jim is serving his fifth term in the Minnesota Senate representing the residents of Eagan, Burnsville, Mendota, and Mendota Heights.

Access to Democracy guest, Mara Humphrey, is the President & CEO of Minnesota Credit Union Network.

Ms. Humphrey explains how credit unions are uniquely organized and operated to serve the financial needs of consumers, organizations and businesses. She highlights the similarities and the differences between credit unions and banks.

Mara talks about the history and evolution of Minnesota’s member-owned financial cooperatives (credit unions). She describes the state and federal agencies that charter, regulate, and insure credit unions.

The important functions of the state and national credit union trade associations are also explained. Learn why and how credit unions advocate for the financial well-being of consumers.

Today’s guest is Jill Weidemann-West, CEO of People Inc., Minnesota’s largest non-profit mental health care provider, who interviews with former Justice Paul Anderson. Ms. Wiedemann-West discusses the current status of mental health care in Minnesota, the broad range of services provided by People, Incorporated and how those in need of its services can access these services. She also discusses some of the current trends in mental health care, especially with respect to young people.

Our guest, Deepinder Singh Mayell, is the Executive Director of the Minnesota Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Mr. Mayell, in this interview with former Justice Paul Anderson, first provides us with some background on the origins and goals of the ACLU and its long-standing objective of protecting civil liberties and the rule of law in America’s civil democracy.

He then updates us on the current activities of the ACLU and specifically addresses the issues of immigration, protecting the right to vote and the role of courts in preserving the rights of individual citizens.

As a public service, Access to Democracy and Eagan TV host a one-hour special program featuring a forum of BIANCA VIRNIG, DFL; CYNTHIA LONNQUIST, Republican; and CHARLES KUCHLENZ, Libertarian – the candidates running in the December 5, 2023 Special Election for MN House District 52B.

Opening remarks from moderator Bill Raker provide background and context for the program. Following the candidates’ introductory statements, moderator Raker asks a series of questions designed to highlight candidates’ positions on important issues Minnesota’s elected officials may be addressing in future legislative sessions.

Forum held on 11-17-2023