Welcome to episode 7 of season 4!

This week’s episode of Clock the Tea with Dr. Long opens with the heartbreaking killing of 38‑year‑old Corey Ruiz, whose death at the hands of Madison police has shaken the community and reignited conversations about policing, racism, and accountability. As Ruiz’s mother said through tears, “They took my baby from me… He did not deserve to be taken out like that.” Dr. Long centers Ruiz’s humanity, reminding listeners that mental health struggles or substance use do not justify a death sentence — and that Black lives must be protected, not policed into extinction.

Dr. Long then breaks down the multiple investigations now underway — from the Independent Police Monitor to the DOJ’s Division of Criminal Investigation — and why the process itself exposes long‑standing inequities. He highlights concerns raised by legal experts about officers receiving delayed interviews and the absence of body cameras, noting that “someone was murdered by someone who reacted off impulse,” and that better training and accountability are overdue. The episode stresses that community vigilance, allyship, and sustained pressure are essential as the case moves forward.

From there, the episode shifts to the Democratic primary debate, where candidates were pressed on policing, public safety, and the recent shooting. Dr. Long recaps the standout performances, praising Francesca Hong’s clarity and conviction, David Crowley’s grounded responses, and Kelda Roys’ sharp policy framing. He also breaks down fresh polling from the Marquette Law School survey showing Hong leading at 26 percent, with Barnes trailing at 15 percent, and explains how Rodriguez’s exit reshapes the race. The debate’s affordability segment becomes a focal point, with candidates clashing over tax relief, deficits, and long‑term investment.

Dr. Long expands the conversation on affordability by connecting statewide concerns to national trends: rising fuel costs, grocery inflation, transportation expenses, and the ripple effects of energy instability. He argues that Wisconsinites are feeling the squeeze more than ever and need leadership that speaks directly to their lived reality. The episode emphasizes that affordability — not slogans, not culture wars — will decide the election and urges listeners to vote for candidates who prioritize working families over wealthy donors or political gimmicks.

To close, Dr. Long spotlights Francesca Hong’s newly released “Tax the Rich” plan, which proposes shifting tax burdens away from low‑income households and toward millionaires and large corporations. He quotes Hong’s core message, “Working families keep Wisconsin running,” and breaks down her proposals to close loopholes, invest in infrastructure, and redirect billions from AI data center tax breaks to schools, housing, and clean energy. The episode ends with a call to action — to vote, to stay informed, and to keep saying Corey Ruiz’s name — because change only happens when communities refuse to look away.

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