Black and Latino Men on the Democratic Party

In this episode we bring together three of Washington’s top political minds — Chuck Rocha, Albert Morales, and Khalil Thompson — for a candid conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing men of color in Democratic politics. From the lack of Black- and Latino-owned consulting firms to the need for culturally competent messaging and leadership, the panel unpacks how power, access, and authenticity shape campaigns — and what it’ll take to truly diversify the party’s future.  Plus: concrete fixes that turn rhetoric into results.

Glossary: 
Coordinated Campaign 
A joint effort between the political party and candidates to share resources, data, and messaging during elections.
DCCC (Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee) 
The national organization that recruits, funds, and supports Democrats running for the U.S. House of Representatives. 
DGA (Democratic Governors Association) 
The committee that helps elect and support Democratic governors across the country. 
DNC (Democratic National Committee) 
The governing body of the Democratic Party that manages national strategy, sets party rules, and organizes the Democratic National Convention. 
DSCC (Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee) 
The party organization focused on electing and reelecting Democrats to the U.S. Senate. 
IE (Independent Expenditure) 
Money spent by outside groups to support or oppose candidates without coordinating directly with campaigns. 
NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) 
A 1994 trade deal that eliminated tariffs between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, reshaping manufacturing and labor politics. 
Rooney Rule 
A policy requiring at least one candidate from an underrepresented background be interviewed for leadership or coaching positions, adopted from the NFL.