Congressman Emanuel Cleaver and The Black Caucus: Backing President Obama For A Second Term

Missouri Congressman Emanuel Cleaver is Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.  He and his colleagues are busy preparing for the National Democratic Convention and this year’s election.  The Chairman talked with TheVillageCelebration’s Asueleni Deloney about the importance of every vote in November.

TVC: What are some issues you are looking to tackle and address at the convention?

Congressman Cleaver: If I am asked to speak by the President, I will focus on several issues. Keeping the economy on the right track is of critical importance to all of the constituents of Missouri’s Fifth District and, of course, people throughout the country. Sustaining and creating jobs remains my primary focus so we can strengthen the middle class, level the playing field, and help hard-working families do the best they can. I will also speak about the importance of civility in Congress. There are too many angry words and not enough cooperation. This is not in the best interest of the people we are trusted to serve.

TVC: In terms of this year’s presidential election do you think Democrats are on track to win the White House for another term?

Congressman Cleaver: Yes. I believe President Obama deserves another term. We have seen improvement in the economy, albeit not to the level we would like to see, but steady improvement nevertheless. We need him to return to the White House so he can continue the initiatives he has started that are moving our country in a solid direction when it comes to turning the economy around and making sure families can pay their mortgages, their bills, and put food on their tables.

TVC: Do you think President Obama’s support of gay marriage hurt him or helped him in the campaign?

Congressman Cleaver: Polls indicate that only a few people believe the President’s support of gay marriage will be something that will change their vote. Constituents do tell us all of the time, though, that they want their elected officials to continue focusing on jobs, the economy, and making sure our children and our children’s children have a safe, thriving and healthy country in which to raise a family and pursue the American dream for all.

TVC: How important is the African American vote this time around in the election? Do you feel it is just as important or more important than in 2008?

Congressman Cleaver: The African American vote is critically important in this election and even more so than it was in 2008. The second time around is not as glamorous as the first. As the first African American mayor in Kansas City, I know first-hand, I was more nervous during the second election than the first one. If you are defeated in the second election it means voters are expressing doubt and/or regret for having electing you in the first place. In many states, these votes will be necessary to secure a win. In all states, I encourage African Americans, and every other eligible voter, to exercise their right to express their opinions through the ballot box.