The independents who will decide Arizona's congressional races
Summary
This episode examines the competitive Arizona congressional race in CD1, where Democrats aim to flip a Republican-held seat by courting independent voters. It also features an interview with Bishara Ababa, who explains why he renamed his group "Arab Americans for Peace" after becoming disillusioned with President Trump’s rhetoric toward the Arab and Muslim communities. Finally, filmmaker Luis Valdez joins the show to remember the late labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, sharing personal anecdotes from their decades-long friendship.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: The Visitors play at Second Stage Theater
Show intro and preview of Arizona election coverage
Preview: Arab Americans for Trump founder and Dolores Huerta
Arizona midterm election context and competitive districts
Volunteers and Rep. Greg Stanton in Phoenix
Democrat Amish Shah's campaign in CD1
Republican Jay Feely's background and motivation
Debate highlights: Inflation and data centers
Political scientist on Arizona independents and polling
Republican Party efforts in Pima County
Door-to-door canvassing with independent voter Emily Schwartz
Promotion of election resources on hereandnow.org
Preview of Bishara Baba interview and sponsor ad
Sponsor: Betterment investing
Trump's rhetoric against Abdul El-Sayed
Introduction of Bishara Baba and his regret
Baba's disappointment with Trump on Gaza
Turning point: Gaza Riviera comments and group rename
Justifying support for Trump over Biden
Dispute over involvement in peace negotiations
Impact of racist rhetoric on Arab-American community
Baba's stance on Michigan Senate race candidates
Closing of Bishara Baba interview
Sponsor: Prolon fasting diet
Introduction of Dolores Huerta and Luis Valdez
Valdez recalls witnessing violence against Huerta
The 1965 grape strike and boycott
Huerta's family life and collective effort
Huerta's recent advice on police detention
Huerta's enduring energy and resilience
Revelations of abuse by Cesar Chavez
Valdez's reaction to the abuse revelations
Valdez's final memory of Huerta with her children
Clip of Huerta leading 'Si Se Puede' chant
Show credits and sign-off
Listen ad-free on Castria