Former Vice President Kamala Harris has written a new book ‘107 Days‘. She states that the American government system is “broken.” She is right, and it could even be argued that America is moving from a democratic to an authoritarian form of government. Under Trump, the media landscape and the judicial system have transformed with the drama of Trump.
If a reporter criticizes the President, they risk being sued. We’ve seen this happen at ABC, CBS, and NBC, leading to program cancellations and threats of lawsuits. The latest case involves The Wall Street Journal, owned by Dow Jones & Company and controlled by the Rupert Murdoch family.
Last week, we observed the consequences of defunding Public Broadcasting, including the shutdown of its corporate office. Where does the media go from here? It’s anyone’s guess. It seems that independents and digital outlets will lead with truth. Trump faces his version of reality. He just fired the Commissioner of Labor Statistics, Erika McEntarfer, because he “did not like her numbers.” Outrageous. Who will stand up?
The Changing Political Guard
Meanwhile, we observe a shift in the political landscape as a new generation of politicians steps forward. Senator Dick Durbin will no longer seek re-election to the Senate. Will a Black woman be the one to replace him? Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky also will not run for a 15th term. The primary election on March 17, 2026, marks a historic day that will influence the future of the United States.
The main focus of the discussion is on who the Democratic presidential nominee will be. Is it Rahm? Is it Pritzker? Kamala announced on late-night TV that she has stepped away from the political scene, including a run for the Governor of California.
Danny Davis Steps Down…
Senior Congressman Danny Davis has announced he will not seek a 16th term. He represents the 7th district, primarily covering the West Side of Chicago, downtown Chicago, the western suburbs (Bellwood, Oak Park, and River Forest), and the South Loop. His term ends in January 2027. He will be missed for his beautiful baritone voice and classic old-boy stories, but most of all, we will miss his steadfast leadership.
Davis has been a leading voice on healthcare. Critics ask, “What has he done?” Chicago has become a world-class medical hub under Danny. Drive west on 12th Street to see all the government buildings. Look at Northwestern Medicine opening soon in Bronzeville, the University of Chicago Medical Center, and Rush University Medical Center. This is the work of Congressman Danny Davis.
During marches and meetings, Davis has been a leader in Black causes. He has been reachable; simply give him a call, and he is happy to help and share his viewpoint. On the Ways and Means Committee, he is a formidable figure.
Davis is an educator and an exceptional communicator with great stories that make a point. I love his story about his dad entering his mule in the Kentucky Derby. The country faces critical issues threatening American democracy—from tariffs to education to migrants to Black erasure—his booming voice will be missed.
Davis was a key figure among the Black politicians and businesspeople who encouraged Harold Washington to run for mayor.
He never missed a meeting in the basement of Inner City Studies, where Professor Bob Starks chaired community discussions. When Harold asked why he should give up his good government job as Congressman of the 1st, Danny said, “Because Chicago needs you.” It was a clear, straightforward answer that helped prompt and convince Harold to move forward with the run.
Danny Davis is a shrewd politician. He has been a great mentor to State Representative LaShawn Ford, whom he has endorsed for his congressional seat. Ford has Danny’s sensibility and, as the 20-year State Representative of the 8th District, he has been a champion of the people with his legislation. He, too, has said he will not run for his representative seat, which leaves yet another political vacancy. Ford’s legislation has focused on social justice issues, second chances for ex-offenders, and he chairs the Committee on Higher Education. He fought for equity in the licensing of cannabis.
To date, nine people have expressed their intention to run for the Davis seat. LaShawn is the most qualified, mainly due to his experience as a legislator. Politics is in a critical state, and we should not send a novice to Congress, a newcomer, or a candidate with a “this is my turn” mindset. We must be deliberate and purposeful because the truth is, our country is at risk, our democracy is under threat, and we need men and women with experience to stand up for what is right for this country. We need people willing to fight Trump. The main question is: “How will you fight Trump?”
Thank you for a job well done, Danny. The community and city need you to mentor and develop new leaders, as you informed Harold.
Amen.
