At Our Table Podcast (@atourtable.bsky.social)

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. -- Timestamps -- 00:00 - From East Texas to Politics: Chuck Rocha's Unique Path 05:17 - Albert Morales on Early Campaign Challenges and Invaluable Political Advice 10:55 - Empowering Black Men: Khalil Thompson's Civic Engagement Work 15:08 - The Need for Black and Latino-Owned Consulting Firms 23:16 - Navigating Identity Politics with Cultural Competency 26:41 - Identifying the Core Issues in Democratic Campaign Strategy 29:37 - How Polling and Consultants Shape Campaign Messaging 43:12 - Challenging the Consultant Cabal: Opening Doors for Diverse Firms 50:59 - Why Constituent Service is the Game Changer in Politics 01:05:29 - A Powerful Example of Constituent Service in Action 01:11:48 - Analyzing 2024 Voter Shifts and Democratic Challenges 01:19:11 - Addressing Disinformation and the Need for New Leadership 01:23:33 - SYAD 01:28:55 - Looking Ahead: Key Races and Candidates for 2026 01:31:55 - Thank You and Episode Credits https://youtu.be/fkBdXFonDR0?si=TzOSyxVrBAt0DYEh&t=5014