BET is gearing up to provide crucial insights into the 2024 presidential election with a series of primetime specials. The first installment, titled “What’s At Stake: 2024 Election Special,” is set to premiere on June 4 at 10 p.m. across BET, BET Her, and VH1. Hosted by veteran correspondent Ed Gordon, the special promises an in-depth look at issues that are vital to the Black electorate, featuring a roundtable discussion with influential members of the Congressional Black Caucus.
A Star-Studded Roundtable
The roundtable will include esteemed guests such as Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH), and Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX). These prominent figures will delve into the significant topics affecting Black voters, including the state of the economy, gun violence, and the overall political climate as the nation approaches the crucial 2024 election.
Key Issues for Black Voters
The Economy
One of the central themes of the special is the economic challenges facing the Black community. Ed Gordon highlighted the importance of addressing these issues, referencing Democratic strategist James Carville’s famous adage, “It’s the economy, stupid.” He pointed out that African Americans often find themselves at the bottom rung economically, making this a pivotal topic for discussion.
Gun Violence
Another critical issue is the rampant gun violence that disproportionately affects urban areas and Black communities. The special will examine the impact of gun violence and explore potential solutions to this persistent problem.
Political Representation and Skepticism
The Biden administration’s efforts to support the African American community will also be scrutinized. Despite the administration’s claims of significant achievements, there remains a level of skepticism among Black voters. The special will address these concerns and discuss the tangible benefits delivered to the community.
Candid Conversations
Ed Gordon emphasized that the roundtable discussion would be refreshingly candid. Having known and covered two of the three representatives for many years, Gordon expects the dialogue to be upfront and less guarded. This openness aims to provide viewers with an authentic and unfiltered perspective on the pressing issues at hand.
Inclusivity and Political Balance
Despite the featured representatives being Democrats, Gordon expressed a willingness to include Republican voices in future discussions. He acknowledged the difficulty in getting Republicans to participate in African American media outlets but reiterated the commitment to providing a balanced platform for all political perspectives.
The Importance of the 2024 Election
Shaping the Nation’s Future
Gordon, a seasoned journalist with extensive experience across major news networks, underscored the significance of the upcoming election. He believes that the outcome will profoundly shape the country for generations. The special will explore the potential consequences of a second Trump presidency, including the implications for the Supreme Court and the normalization of controversial tactics.
A Call for Accountability
The special will also serve as a call to action for Democrats, urging them to move beyond symbolic gestures and address the substantial needs of the Black community. As Gordon noted, Black voters are demanding more than just appearances and rhetoric; they seek meaningful change and effective policies that will uplift their communities.
