Closer Look with Rose Scott

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump took center stage in their first presidential debate Tuesday night in Philadelphia. Reproductive rights, immigration, the Israel-Hamas war, and the economy were among some of the top issues discussed during the debate. Both sides are claiming victory, but “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott gets debate analysis from Andra Gillespie, a political scientist at Emory University. Then, for more reaction to the debate, we hear from Scott Klug, a former Wisconsin congressman, Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based political strategist and analyst, and GSU politics and policy professor Tammy Greer. They discuss the individual strategies of Trump and Harris during the presidential debate. They also discuss recent political polls and share what they think Democrats and Republicans must do to win the November election. Plus, Tim Franks, an award-winning veteran journalist and host of the BBC News’ flagship radio program, “Newshour” also talks with Scott about the presidential debate and the BBC’s approach to covering U.S. politics. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Roger Tutterow, a professor of economics at Kennesaw State University, joins “Closer Look,” to discuss the latest economic forecast and its impact on the 2024 presidential election. Laura Judge, a volunteer with Moms Demand Action and Monisha Henley, the senior vice president of government affairs at Everytown for Gun Safety, discuss gun violence prevention following shooting at Apalachee High School. Last year, Communities In Schools of Atlanta and Sandy Hook Promise partnered together for a pilot program aimed at helping Atlanta-area students lead an open dialogue about the warning signs before a mass shooting and how to address and prevent school violence. Frank Brown, the CEO of Communities In Schools of Atlanta, Crystal Garrant, the chief program officer of Sandy Hook Promise, and Jhakia, a local high school student who participated in the Atlanta pilot program, discuss the success of the program and ongoing efforts to promote school safety. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made history in June 2022, when she was sworn in as the first Black woman to serve on the nation’s high court. Now, the 116th Supreme Court justice is telling her story in a new memoir, “Lovely One.” Justice Jackson’s book tour recently stopped in Atlanta at the Atlanta Symphony Hall. That’s where “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott and the Justice had a one-on-one conversation in front of a live audience. Justice Jackson reflected on her journey from Miami, Florida to the Supreme Court. She also talked about facing fear head-on, the power of mentorship and why her foundation is rooted in the love and support of her family. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn is being honored by the Fulton County Democratic Party with the Saving Democracy Award. While in Atlanta, he talks with show host Rose Scott about his experience responding to the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, the upcoming election, and the current state of democracy. Plus, for “Closer Look’s,” series focusing on the work of independent and third-party groups amid the 2024 presidential election cycle, Scott talked with members of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, the Green Party and the Working Families Party.The full interviews can be found here and here. Now, we hear from GSU politics and policy professor Tammy Greer for an analysis of each party’s priorities and strategies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Four people are dead—two teachers and two students—and nine others were transported to local hospitals following a mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Georgia on Wednesday. Authorities say the 14-year-old suspect, who is in custody, will be charged with murder as an adult. Rose talks with WABE criminal justice reporter Chamian Cruz about the latest details in the ongoing investigation. Plus, we revisit our series focusing on the work of independent and third-party groups amid the 2024 presidential election cycle. First, Rose talks with Gerald Green of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, Gloria Mattera, the media committee coordinator for the Green Party and Britney Whaley, the southeast regional director for the Working Families Party. The full interviews can be found here and here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michelle Nunn, the president and CEO of CARE USA, returns to “Closer Look” to discuss how CARE teams and its partners are responding to the crises happening in Sudan, Gaza, Haiti, and Ukraine. Nunn also highlights how climate change is impacting their efforts and why it’s important to empower women and local groups in the humanitarian response. Plus, we continue our series that focuses on the work of third parties amid the 2024 election. We now hear from Britney Whaley, the southeast regional director for the Working Families Party. The Working Families Party is backing several Democratic candidates in the Georgia General Assembly, the Fulton County Commission, the Cobb County School Board, and the Cobb County Sheriff’s race. Whaley discusses her party’s history, mission, and top priorities this election cycle. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, we begin a two-day series on third-party candidates in the 2024 presidential race and other local and state elections. First, we hear from Gerald Lee Green II. He joined the Party for Socialism and Liberation in 2022 after he says he was disillusioned with the Democratic Party. Green talks with Rose about PSL’s candidates, Claudia De la Cruz for President and her running mate, Karina Garcia, plus the socialist platform they’re bringing to Georgia voters. Plus, for more than 30 years, the Green Party of the United States has been growing its supporters, while also being accused of being spoilers for the Democratic Party in the 2000 and 2016 presidential races. Gloria Mattera, the Green Party media committee coordinator, discusses the party’s validity and its mission this election cycle. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For a special edition of “Closer Look,” Rose Scott and the team head to downtown Atlanta for #Dragon Con 2024. The annual five-day event kicks off Thursday. It’s one of the largest multi-media gatherings focusing on pop culture, gaming, comics, fantasy and more. Rose speaks with panelists about the ongoing debate: Star Wars vs Star Trek. We hear from fans and creators from both major franchises. We also discuss how comics and film reflect modern society and politics. Plus, Rose gives prizes for the best cosplay/costume! Guests include: Dragon Con spokesperson Jo Garland Steven Taylor, The Arthritis Foundation, the Official Charity Partner of Dragon Con Darrick Hargro, a writer and founder of 20th Place Media Carlton Hargro, a writer and founder of 20th Place Media Gerald L. Coleman, a philosopher, theologian, poet, and science fiction and fantasy author L. M. Davis, an Atlanta-based writer and director of “ The Last Days of Chocolate” Erin Macdonald, a science advisor for the Star Trek franchise Timothy Zahn, a Hugo Award-winning author of more than forty original science fiction novels Afua Richardson, an award-winning comic book Illustrator, musician, and writer best known for her work on “Black Panther World of Wakanda” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Fulton County Jail opened in 1989. Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat says since the facility’s opening it’s been overcrowded, which over time has led to the current poor condition of the building’s infrastructure. For PART 1 of Rose’s conversation with Sheriff Labat, at the county jail, Labat reflects on his career in public safety and talks about why he’s pushing for a new jail to be built instead of renovating the facility. PART 2 of Rose’s conversation with Sheriff Labat continues with a tour of the facility. Labat explains why he believes the building should be condemned and shows Rose the building’s kitchen, a flooded hallway, and both a renovated and a decaying cell unit. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What are the top concerns for Black voters this election cycle? The Black Futures Lab surveyed Black folks across the country for its Black Census Project, which included election-related questions. Alexsis Rodgers, the political director at the Black Futures Lab, and the Black to the Future Action Fund, discusses the findings of the census, which was used to inform the Black Economic Agenda. Plus, podcast creator Jeff Keating and consulting historian GSU Professor Maurice Hobson discuss “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist.” The new Peacock TV streaming series is based on the iHeart true-crime podcast that chronicles an armed robbery on the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Immigration, border security, gun safety, crime, reproductive rights, jobs, and the Israeli-Hamas War were among the top issues addressed during the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Alan Abramowitz, a professor emeritus of political science at Emory University, returns to “Closer Look” for a recap of the convention. Plus, the Georgia State Election Board is facing criticism along with calls for some board members to be removed for changing rules, specifically one rule that involves the certification of election results. This all comes just months ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Janelle King, a member of the Georgia State Election Board, responds to the criticism. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Little 5 Points Alliance is honoring individuals and organizations who have made Little 5 Points unique, including the late Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson, at its third annual “People Make the Place” event this weekend. We hear from Lauren Welsh, the executive director of Little 5 Points Alliance. Dr. Charles Steele Jr., the president and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, is stepping down. He talks with Rose about his decades-long career and what’s next for him and the civil rights organization. Plus, Morgan Shaw Parker, the president and COO of the Atlanta Dream, returns to the program to talk about the team’s basketball season after the 2024 Olympics break. She also praises the continued growth of the league and the Dream’s upcoming Monday matchup against the Indiana Fever at State Farm Arena. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Earlier this year, Terri Lee was named the president and CEO of Atlanta Housing. Lee talks with Rose about the agency’s critical role in helping the City Of Atlanta reach its affordable housing goals. She also talks about her top priorities as the new leader of the agency and provides updates on several major developments, including the Civic Center and Summerhill Hotel. Plus, Grant Wallace, the owner of Peace of Mind Glass Recycling, returns to “Closer Look,” to provide an update on how his business is fairing, reaching 10,000 pounds of recycled glass. He also shares details about a community event on Aug. 24 at Cabbagetown Park to mark his business milestone. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rose talks with Micah Herskind, an Atlanta-based writer and organizer, and Ann Hill Bond, an Atlanta-based journalist and chair of Fulton County Remembrance Coalition. The two were mentioned in a new report from The Brennan Center For Justice. Micah was listed several times in the report for his association with anti-'Cop City' movements. Bond, who was also listed, discusses the work that the Fulton County Remembrance Coalition and shares her reaction to also being monitored by APD. Insert: The “Closer Look” team recently toured the Fulton County Jail to get an inside look at its reported poor conditions. We air a portion of Rose’s interview with Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat, who says the facility should be condemned. Plus, Juan Carlos Ramirez Bibiano, 27, died at Telfair State Prison after guards allegedly placed him in an outdoor concrete-floor cage without any water or shade for five hours. Wingo Smith, an attorney representing the Ramirez family, discusses concerns about the prison system's secrecy in cases like Ramirez’ and the legal actions now being taken on behalf of his family. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Democratic National Convention is underway this week in Chicago. Atlanta-based political strategist Fred Hicks returns to “Closer Look” to provide an analysis of the convention’s opening night and what to expect in the coming days of the event. Plus, Briana B. Franklin, the president and CEO of The Prosp(a)rity Project, talks about how the nonprofit organization is working to close the Black generational wealth gap and educate others about the current $2 trillion predatory lending crisis. Lastly, August is Black Philanthropy Month. We hear from Giving GAP CEO Heather Infantry and Alicia Rivera, the CFO of Feeding Georgia Families, and Mallorye Crowell, the founder and President of The Higher Foundation. They talk about how Giving GAP is helping Black-led nonprofits access funding and the challenges they face. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 1954 Supreme Court ruling was intended to end racial segregation in America’s public education system. Yet 70 years later, public schools remain deeply segregated by race and socioeconomic status. Here’s the question: Are our public schools truly diverse and equitable for all, or have systemic barriers and persistent resistance hindered progress? For “Closer Look’s” first PRX national show, Rose Scott delves into the long-term impact of this historic ruling as it relates to the current state of public education and the nationwide Black teacher shortage. Guests include: Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, president emerita of Spelman College and author of the New York Times bestseller “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? And Other Conversations about Race,” Dr. Kamau Bobb, founding senior director of the Constellations Center for Equity in Computing at Georgia Tech, C. Eileen Welch Watts, former teacher and president and board chair for the Durham Colored Library, Inc., and current teachers Asia Anderson and Alexis Kelly. WABE education reporter Juma Sei is also featured. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

According to the National Institutes of Health, 8% of the U.S. population is living with an autoimmune disease, and out of that percentage, 80% of those people are women. Dr. Howard Chang, a dermatologist, a professor of dermatology and genetics and a Hughes Medical Institute investigator at Stanford University, discusses his latest research which, explores why women are at a greater risk of autoimmune diseases. Plus, the Georgia State Election Board recently approved a rule that could allow for local election boards to refuse certification of results. The board is already facing a lawsuit for allegedly meeting illegally. Marisa Pyle, the senior democracy defense manager at All Voting is Local Georgia, discusses her organization's concerns with the policy proposals, and why they believe the board is moving to disenfranchise Georgians. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2024 presidential election is fast approaching and there are still ongoing concerns about fair elections and voter rights. Lauren Groh-Wargo, the CEO of the national voting rights organization Fair Fight Action, talks with Rose about these issues and her organization’s effort to prevent the fallout Georgia saw after the 2020 Election. Plus, we air WABE education reporter Juma Sei’s feature that explores how Black Atlantans are feeling about the 2024 presidential race. Lastly, Susie King Taylor is noted as the first African American woman to openly teach Black children in the State of Georgia in the Civil War era. Patt "Sistah Patt" Gilliard Gunn is a master storyteller and founder of the Savannah-based Susie King Taylor Center for Jubilee. She talks with Rose about the mission of the center, Taylor’s legacy and the work being done to preserve it, including the renaming of a historic city square in downtown Savannah. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs offers several affordable housing programs, including The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program, which includes two new programs launched within the last six months for first-time homebuyers. Commissioner Christopher Nunn and Deputy Commissioner for Homeownership Wesley Brooks discuss the current housing market in Georgia and their initiatives aimed to help more Georgians purchase homes. Plus, an open records request from The Brennan Center For Justice reportedly reveals widespread surveillance by Atlanta Police of political activity, particularly focused on 'Cop City' opponents. Spencer Reynolds, senior counsel for the Brennan Center, joins “Closer Look” to shares what was found in the many pages of documents, his concerns over this level of monitoring by Atlanta Police, and what guardrails should be placed on the agency's surveillance efforts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Retired Atlanta detectives Vince Velazquez and David Quinn discuss their new TV One true-crime series, “DEADLY CASE FILES.” The show gives viewers an inside look at how homicide investigators work together to solve cases in the Atlanta area. Why Not Kids, a local nonprofit that provides affordable childcare to families in Conyers, GA., closed during the pandemic. Winston Stephens, from Why Not Kids, and Bridget Benito from the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce, discuss the strain of rising childcare costs on parents in Georgia, the programming and trade training that Why Not Kids will offer to kids, and new efforts to open a new Why Not Kids location. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.