Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams

Is the South the Future of Democratic Politics?

Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams

Show Notes

Is the South the new epicenter of American politics? National Association of Black Journalists President, The 19th Editor-at-Large, and host of Crooked’s new podcast Long Play, Errin Haines sits down with Stacey to unpack why the South is so fundamentally misunderstood and why expanding our imagination of what the region looks like could be key to winning Democratic elections. They also discuss the NABJ “Thumbs-Down Awards,” the Trump administration’s attacks on DEI, and the growing threat of media censorship. Learn & Do More:

BE CURIOUS: If you enjoyed the conversation with Errin, check out her podcast Long Play, a six-part series on how to win power back in the South.

SOLVE PROBLEMS: Many states, including North Carolina, will have new or stricter voter identification laws in 2026. VoteRiders helps people make appointments to get the right kind of ID and covers the costs. Visit Voteriders.orgto get involved by volunteering or donating.

DO GOOD: New Disabled South builds power with disabled people to advance justice, dignity, and collective liberation across the South. Visit NewDisabledSouth.org to find resources, take action, and donate.

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More from Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams

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How could the Supreme Court’s decisions shape the 2026 midterms? What are the current threats posed by ICE? How can we build communities rooted in connection rather than fear? Lawyer and Democracy Forward President and CEO Skye Perryman joins Stacey to discuss the Supreme Court cases to watch ahead of opinion season, whether a ruling could come before the midterms in a case involving ICE and polling places, and her new book, Ordinary People, Extraordinary Times, a practical guide to reclaiming our power and taking action during extraordinary times. Stacey also discusses the freedom of the press or lack thereof, as the White House continues its efforts to reshape the media landscape and what that means for the administration’s broader agenda. Learn & Do More:

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