Source: Alkent Pozhegu/Armend Nimani/AFP / Getty
NewsOne is back with The Black Ballot: 2024 Election One Week Later, an exclusive episode unpacking the recent election results and their potential impact on Black America.
This post-election episode examines voter turnout, new leadership, Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, and what it all means for Black America going forward. As Democratic analyst Reecie Colbert puts it, “The only story we should be talking about is turnout. Why did over 10 million people who previously voted stay home?”
Voter Turnout and Trump’s Core Support
In a historic twist, Donald Trump has become only the second president in U.S. history to win a non-consecutive second term. While his comeback was significant, Reecie Colbert points out that Trump’s support remained relatively stable, reflecting his loyal base rather than an expanded following. “Donald Trump got Donald Trump voters,” she notes, highlighting how his numbers stayed consistent or slightly lower than previous elections.
Republican analyst Lenny McAllister notes the importance of voter engagement for Black communities. “Make sure each voice is heard, regardless of who is president,” he urges, reminding viewers that participation at all levels is critical to ensuring community needs are addressed.
New Black Women Leaders Emerge
Election night also marked a milestone for Black female leadership. Alongside Kamala Harris’s poise and resilience, celebrated figures like Angela Alsobrooks and Jasmine Crockett and so many other Black woman won races. Sparking a new era for Black women in politics. McAllister and Colbert discuss the significance of these victories, with McAllister affirming that “Now is not the time to stop.” Harris’s own words at her alma mater, Howard University, reinforce this message as she encourages her audience to “be stars in the darkness,” a powerful call for resilience and leadership amid uncertain times.
These victories reflect a broader movement, as Black women continue to make strides and redefine leadership across all levels of government. Colbert and McAllister agree that the success of Alsobrooks, Crockett, and others will pave the way for policies that better represent Black communities, illustrating the importance of sustained support and turnout.
Trump’s New Agenda
This episode also examines Trump’s new campaign slogan, “Make America Healthy Again,” which many see as an attempt to pivot toward health initiatives. Yet, Colbert expresses skepticism, noting that people who thought Trump was bluffing on his promises “are in for a rude awakening.” Colbert also raises concerns about Trump’s alliance with figures like Elon Musk, as both wield influence that could shape key policies in health, technology, and the economy. However, as McAllister notes, “Only time will tell,” indicating that the effects of Trump’s term will depend on his administration’s follow-through.
Shifts in Immigration Policy
A key policy under Trump’s return is his vow to use local police to assist with deporting immigrants, as highlighted in a card featured in the episode: “Trump vows to use local police to deport immigrants.” This approach has sparked debate, with Colbert and McAllister discussing its potential to strain relationships between law enforcement and communities of color. As local authorities become involved in federal immigration enforcement, both analysts raise concerns about how this policy could deepen divides and impact Black and immigrant communities alike.
Through archival footage, expert analysis, and firsthand commentary, The Black Ballot offers an in-depth view of the challenges and shifts ahead, capturing how these new policies may influence the lives of Black Americans nationwide. As McAllister stresses, “There will be a lot of changes once Trump takes office again.”
Only time will tell.
SEE ALSO:
Americans Voted To Save Anti-Blackness And White Supremacy
Trusting White Women Is A Delusional Lost Cause—And History Proves It
