**“It’s Not a Sprint, It’s a Marathon”: The Long Road to Change**
Kevin Alexander Gray, a seasoned political strategist and author, has long been a voice for progressive change. His experience spans decades, from managing Jesse Jackson’s South Carolina campaign in 1988 to coordinating Tom Harkin’s Southern campaign in 1992. Gray’s insights into the political landscape, particularly in South Carolina, offer a sobering reminder that meaningful change is a marathon, not a sprint.
**Election Day Reflections**
On the day after the November 3 election, Gray shared his observations in a live interview on WORT-FM, a community radio station in Madison, Wisconsin. He recounted his efforts in South Carolina, where he and an Indian American friend focused on encouraging voter turnout in neighborhoods served by Indian American and Arab American businesses. They distributed signs and window stickers with messages like “Vote, our lives depend on it” and “Vote, we’re in this together.”
Despite these efforts, the results were mixed. Jaime Harrison, the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, garnered significant support but ultimately fell short. Gray noted that while Harrison achieved impressive turnout numbers, the surge in votes for incumbent Lindsey Graham was insurmountable. Graham’s voter base had doubled since his last election, highlighting the deep-seated divisions within the state.
**Lessons from the Ground Game**
Gray emphasized the importance of a robust ground game, which he felt was lacking in the Democratic campaign. The pandemic had curtailed traditional door-to-door canvassing and large rallies, which Republicans continued to utilize. This, coupled with the Democrats’ focus on opposing Trump rather than promoting specific issues, may have contributed to their losses in local elections.
The results underscored the need for continuous, issue-based organizing. Gray pointed out that many Democratic cities and counties fail to engage with their constituents effectively, leading to disillusionment and low voter turnout. He stressed that elected officials must address everyday concerns like infrastructure, minority-owned business support, and community resources to build lasting trust and engagement.
**The Organizing Message**
Gray’s message to organizers is clear: rebuild communities from the ground up and engage people where they are. This involves finding common ground and having meaningful conversations, even with those who may not initially agree. He acknowledged the pervasive racism in the country but argued that vilifying opponents is not a productive strategy. Instead, organizers must focus on shared goals and values to change perspectives and build coalitions.
**The Next Battle: Redistricting**
With the election over, Gray highlighted the importance of focusing on down-ballot races and state legislatures. The upcoming battle over redistricting will be crucial, as Republicans in many state legislatures will likely attempt to redraw districts to maintain their power. This fight will determine the future of equal rights, police accountability, and fair resource distribution.
**The Role of Young People**
Gray expressed hope in the younger generation, who turned out in record numbers for the election. He encouraged young people to continue their activism and to engage with their parents and communities to foster broader change. He reiterated that organizing is a continuous process that must extend beyond election cycles.
**A Marathon, Not a Sprint**
Gray’s reflections serve as a reminder that political and social change is a long-term endeavor. He criticized the complacency that set in during the Obama years, when Democrats failed to maintain their organizing efforts. He argued that campaigns must stand for something beyond opposing a particular candidate or party. They must address the needs and aspirations of the people they seek to represent.
**Building a Nationwide Infrastructure**
Gray called for a fifty-state campaign strategy, emphasizing that every state and every vote matters. He urged the Democratic Party to build a comprehensive infrastructure across the country, focusing on a pro-people and pro-rights message. This approach, he believes, is essential for creating lasting change and overcoming the deep divisions in the country.
**Conclusion**
Kevin Alexander Gray’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing progressive movements. His emphasis on continuous organizing, issue-based campaigning, and community engagement underscores the long-term nature of the struggle for justice and equality. As he aptly put it, “It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon,” and the work of building a better future requires patience, persistence, and unwavering commitment.
Source: The Progressive, WORT-FM
