Exclusive: Angie Nixon Responds to Abolishing Policing Criticism
In an exclusive interview, Florida Democratic Senate candidate Angie Nixon outlined her platform on policing, economic inequality, and policy issues directly impacting Black communities. Addressing recent campaign criticism regarding public safety, Nixon clarified her stance, stating she does not advocate for abolishing police departments or correctional facilities. Watch the full interview here.
“I don’t believe in abolishing prisons or defunding police,” Nixon told The Root’s CEO and publisher Ashley Allison during a recent interview. “I believe in abolishing for-profit prisons and defunding Flock cameras, defunding the militarization of police.”
The Florida state representative, who is challenging Republican Sen. Ashley Moody, explained that her vision for public safety focuses on preventing crime before it happens, reducing overpolicing and addressing the economic conditions that leave communities struggling.
“People commit crimes because of a need, a lack of something,” she said, emphasizing the importance of housing, food security and employment opportunities. But public safety wasn’t the only issue on the table. When Allison asked what Nixon hoped to accomplish for Black Floridians, the candidate pointed to the racial wealth gap, healthcare disparities and the challenges Black entrepreneurs face when trying to build sustainable businesses.
“I want to create a pathway for us to close this wealth gap,” Nixon said, adding that access to capital, homeownership and quality healthcare are among her priorities. She also raised concerns about Black maternal mortality, diabetes and heart disease, calling for greater investment in medical research and healthcare access in underserved neighborhoods.
For Nixon, these issues aren’t simply campaign talking points. She spoke candidly about experiencing trauma at a young age, living as a single mother and navigating the realities of small business ownership alongside her husband.
“I don’t want people to go through what I’m going through now as far as the incessant attacks and lies and the hate being thrown my way.” she shared. “I am running for US Senate because we’re boldly being attacked. Our elected officials aren’t doing their jobs. I’m running so that I can put people first and make sure the government works for people and not against them.”
As Nixon travels across Florida, she said she’s hearing similar frustrations from residents struggling to afford groceries, gas and prescription medications. Those conversations, she explained, have reinforced her decision to seek federal office. “Folks are frustrated. It’s become a very tough situation for people.” Nixon said.
Before wrapping the conversation, Allison asked Nixon what she would tell her younger self. Her response brought a little humor to an otherwise serious discussion. “You’re going to do great things, but I really need you to stretch more,” she joked, before reminding her younger self to prioritize her health and keep putting people first.
