LATRISHA VETAW on why how being on Minneapolis City Council can feel like theater

23/10/2025 1h 1min Temporada 1 Episodio 9

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Episode Synopsis

Minneapolis City Councilwoman Latrisha Vetaw joins me for a candid, unfiltered conversation about the state of City Hall, why the council feels broken, and how politics can sometimes feel more like theater than public service. She opens up about trust issues on the dais, her fight for Northside representation, and yes—her unforgettable Usher cherry story.This episode of One Hour Detours goes deep into what it means to serve a divided city, how national issues clash with local responsibilities, and the personal costs of being in public life.Chapters00:00 – Intro: Who is Latrisha Vetaw?02:00 – Running for office vs. serving05:00 – Mentors, training, and how to start in politics08:00 – Facial expressions, performance, and being “real” on the dais09:20 – Northside representation and standing her ground11:00 – How an idea becomes law at City Hall14:00 – Tobacco policy, coupon bans, and city attorneys18:00 – Is City Council “broken”? Division and dysfunction explained19:30 – Who represents constituents vs. themselves20:45 – The encampment debate: healing camps or public danger?23:00 – Talking openly about homelessness and addiction27:00 – Third-term mayors, incumbents, and political fear31:00 – Political violence, safety, and threats to electeds36:00 – Why some people won’t run for office anymore41:45 – Life in the spotlight: sports games, fans, and recognition42:00 – The Usher cherry story44:30 – Public vs. private life: when you’re always “the councilwoman”47:00 – Drinks, social life, and the human side of City Hall48:00 – Closed sessions and what really happens behind the scenes50:00 – Can council members be friends? Division by voting block52:00 – Dinners with colleagues and broken trust54:00 – Why the council feels like “cosplay”55:00 – Generational divides at City Hall57:00 – Wrapping up

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