Prosecuting a Public Official: The Tracy Bernett Case

In this episode of Left in the Attic, hosts Ana and Deep dive into the critical themes of law, justice, and accountability in the Trump era. They welcome Michael Dougherty, three-time elected district attorney in Boulder County and candidate for Colorado Attorney General. The discussion kicks off with Michael and the hosts sharing their new year themes. The conversation then shifts to pressing issues, including the prosecution of Tina Peters for election fraud, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law. They also discuss holding Democrats accountable, citing the case of Tracy Bernett, a Democratic representative prosecuted for falsifying residency documents. The episode tackles the complexities of ICE operations, particularly the tragic incident involving Renee Good in Minnesota, and the challenges local jurisdictions face against federal overreach. Michael highlights the importance of Senate Bill 276 for immigrant protections in Colorado and stresses the necessity of maintaining public trust in the justice system.

00:00 Introduction and New Year's Resolutions

04:46 Michael Dougherty's Background and Career

08:37 Role and Responsibilities of the Attorney General

17:13 Tina Peters Case and Election Integrity

24:15 Challenges and Corruption in Law Enforcement

30:08 Filing Charges Against a Public Official Tracey Bernett

31:01 Political Pushback and Ethical Decisions

32:51 Law Enforcement Accountability

33:41 ICE Operations and Federal Overreach

36:31 State vs. Federal Rights and Legal Conflicts

43:55 Immigrant Protection and Senate Bill 276

50:21 Community Outreach and Know Your Rights Training

54:08 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Ana mentioned CIRC’s (Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition) Know Your Rights workshops found here: https://coloradoimmigrant.org/our-work/know-your-rights/. 

For whistle kits and training for bars, restaurants, and others in hospitality, email escuelitasessions@gmail.com. You can also donate to support this work.

Michael mentioned that folks can email him directly at michaeldoughertyco@gmail.com to set up Know Your Rights trainings as well.

Meet Your Hosts

Ana Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. According to Deep, Ana has a dating life that could probably be its own podcast segment.

Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  

Links:

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