In a passionate address during a recent government meeting, Portland resident Addie Smith expressed deep frustration over the perceived neglect of Black voters by the Democratic Party. Speaking on behalf of her incarcerated son, Jalen, Smith highlighted a collective decision among her family and extended relatives to reconsider their voting choices in the upcoming election, citing a lack of tangible support for the Black community.

Smith criticized the Democratic Party for what she described as a failure to address critical issues affecting Black Americans, contrasting their treatment with that of other marginalized groups, such as the LGBTQIA+ and Asian communities. She articulated a sentiment of betrayal, stating that despite decades of loyalty to the party, Black voters have seen little in return for their support.

The testimony also included specific grievances regarding the judicial system, as Smith accused certain judges of racial bias and called for accountability from those in positions of power. She expressed particular disappointment in the lack of action taken against judges she deemed unethical, emphasizing the impact of systemic racism on her son's situation.

In closing, Smith declared her intention to vote for candidates who may not align with her values rather than continue supporting those she feels have failed to advocate for the Black community. Her remarks underscore a growing discontent among some voters regarding the effectiveness of political representation and the urgent need for meaningful change.