At this year’s Netroots Nation in New Orleans, I had the honor of interviewing New York gubernatorial candidate Cynthia Nixon right after she gave her rousing speech during the keynote. I had no idea what to expect, but I was excited for the opportunity to speak with Nixon.
Her campaign definitely started off with a bang: in my sphere, people were very divided about Nixon’s candidacy. I know I had my reservations. In the time of Trump and in the shadow of the talk about Oprah running for president, I was skeptical about another celebrity in politics.
Fortunately, I always aim to keep an open mind. While I am no longer a New York resident and live on the opposite side of the country, I still have many friends who have the option of voting for Nixon in today’s primary. And I’ve been impressed that her campaign’s work has made such big waves beyond her state. I was pleasantly surprised by her video about the racism of anti-marijuana legislation, for example.
During the brief time I got to speak with the Daily Kos-endorsed candidate, she made it clear that she is a candidate who really knows her stuff. She doesn’t shy away from talking about income inequality and racism; she is a great example of how rich white people can be an allies to the most vulnerable. Even if she doesn’t win, it’s indisputable that she has already made a real impact: current New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has moved left on numerous issues in a clear response to Nixon’s positions.
While this is the first time Nixon is running for public office, this isn’t her first foray into politics. She’s been deeply involved in activism in her community for years and is clearly passionate about making lives better for all Americans—not just a wealthy few.
To learn more about Nixon and her vision for a better New York, America, and Democratic Party, watch the full interview below.
Please give $3 to true progressive Cynthia Nixon and help finally turn New York blue!