Mandela Barnes to Democrats: ‘Show Up or Stop Complaining’

Former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes urges Democrats to take action if they are currently feeling frustrated with the party. Barnes believes complaints are only valuable when you show up. He doesn’t think criticizing the Democratic Party from the sidelines brings any meaningful change. Barnes joins Earl Ingram, host of The Earl Ingram Show, to discuss the party’s struggles and offer ways you can get involved. 

If you want to influence policy, the door is open. Walk in or shut up.

Former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes on The Earl Ingram Show

“If you’re frustrated with Democrats, you think they aren’t doing enough, show up to a meeting, work to influence the conversation,” Barnes explains. “Participation in the political process is essential. And not just voting, but showing up at events, engaging in policy discussions, and holding elected officials accountable.”

He tells Ingram the cure for alienation in democracy is more democracy, and shares the importance of involvement in order to shape the future of the party. 

“It’s easy to sit back and criticize, but it’s much more effective to get involved directly in the conversation and work toward solutions,” Barnes says.

---

Watch the complete discussion. Barnes joins at 1:07:15 here:

---

Barnes also touches on the topic of corporate donations. He notes that sometimes candidates need to accept these types of donations to remain competitive in elections.

“The system is imperfect,” he says. “But working within the law and the existing political framework is sometimes necessary to secure a victory, especially when facing off against well-funded Republican candidates.”

Barnes reminds everyone the political doors should always be open to those who are willing to engage. 

“There’s no secret handshake,” he explains. “If you want to influence policy, the door is open. Walk in or shut up.”

Barnes and Ingram agree. There is a need for Democrats and progressives to step up and engage in the political process – not to leave the fight for change to those who are already in power.

“The path forward lies in active participation,” Barnes says. “Both within the Democratic Party and in the broader democratic process.”