Stacey Abrams: A Multifaceted Approach to Change
Stacey Abrams, the political strategist known for her advocacy work in voting rights, is not currently pursuing a political office but is keeping her options open for the future. While she has been a prominent figure in Georgia’s political scene, Abrams is now focusing on other avenues to enact change.
“Politics is a tool and it’s a very important one for getting good done, but it’s not the only one,” Abrams states. She emphasizes her current commitment to “sharing information” and utilizing other tools available to her.
As a former minority leader in the Georgia House of Representatives, Abrams gained national recognition following her gubernatorial campaigns in 2018 and 2022. Despite her losses, she spotlighted voter suppression issues, particularly during the tightly contested 2018 election.
Post-election, Abrams established Fair Fight, an organization instrumental in increasing voter participation in Georgia, significantly impacting the 2020 presidential and Senate elections. She warns that voter suppression persists, albeit in modern, subtler forms such as restrictions on mail-in ballots and early voting.
“Many of us grew up with the stories of the civil rights movement and voter suppression of the ’60s, guns and dogs and hoses,” Abrams notes. “The voter suppression in the 21st century is administrative.”
In addition to her political work, Abrams hosts a podcast named Assembly Required, where she discusses her views on democracy and current political affairs. Abrams is also a novelist, with her latest book, Coded Justice, exploring the ethical implications of AI technology in the healthcare system for veterans.
Abrams’ inspiration to explore AI in her writing came from observing its use by her niece. “I wanted to write a book where the lines are blurred, because sometimes there’s good intention, just problematic execution,” she explains. Her narrative examines how technology intended for good can be misapplied, leading to unintended consequences.
Interview Highlights
On Deciding to Write About AI in Coded Justice
Abrams shares that her interest in AI was sparked by her niece’s use of the technology. “And that really became part of the spark for Coded Justice.”
On Writing Books as a Kid
Abrams recounts her early interest in writing, with her first novel attempt at age 12. Her passion for storytelling was nurtured by her parents, who valued education and literature despite financial constraints.
On How Her Faith Guides Her
Abrams’ approach to life and work is deeply influenced by her faith. “I cannot call myself a Christian and not believe that it is my responsibility to help the stranger, to help immigrants, to help the dispossessed,” she asserts.
On Her Fear That America Is Moving Toward Autocracy Under Trump
Abrams expresses concern over recent political actions, citing the deployment of Marines in Los Angeles and the arrest of Newark’s mayor as alarming. She emphasizes the importance of upholding democratic principles.
On Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s Dissents
Abrams praises Justice Jackson for her commitment to democracy and justice. “She is telling us how we will end up where we are,” Abrams observes, highlighting Jackson’s insightful judicial contributions.
On Whether She’ll Run for Office Again in 2026
While Abrams has not made decisions regarding a future run for office, she stresses the importance of preparing for the 2026 elections, focusing on ensuring they are free and fair.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
