LITA 6: Money in Politics & Challenging the Establishment with Melat Kiros

In this episode of Left in the Attic, hosts Ana and Deep discuss the critical issues of money in politics, corruption in D.C., and the affordability crisis. They are joined by special guest Melat Kiros, who is challenging long-time incumbent Diana DeGette for Colorado's Congressional District 1. Melat shares her motivation for running, focusing on the urgent need to eliminate corporate money from politics and restore integrity and effectiveness to government. The conversation delves into Citizen’s United, the importance of community involvement, and how small donations can make a significant impact in political campaigns. The episode wraps up with a strong call to action, encouraging listeners to support local candidates and engage in community-building efforts.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:26 Haircut Mishap and Weekend Volunteering

01:09 Deep's Speech and Debate Experience

01:57 Denver Urban Debate League

02:45 Student Advocacy at the Capitol

03:22 Introducing Melat Kiros

03:49 Campaign Motivations and Challenges

09:37 Money in Politics and Citizens United

14:02 Corporate Influence and Wealth Disparity

19:21 Trump's Middle East Golf Course and Political Corruption

19:48 Voter Disillusionment and the Need for Impact

21:08 Community Engagement Beyond Voting

22:54 Capitalism's Relentless Pursuit of Profit

24:52 The Power of Voting and Political Accountability

31:09 Unionization and Worker Rights

32:46 Corporate Greed and Social Safety Nets

38:08 The Importance of Small Donations in Politics

40:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

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:

Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.com

Instagram: @leftintheatticpod

TikTok: @left.in.the.attic

Email: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.com

Voicemail: (303) 416-2846