Remember when we had two civil presidential candidates without major personal blemishes to their names, in Barack Obama and John McCain? Or even four years later, when Obama went against Mormon family-man Mitt Romney?
Those times seem so far away now. Donald Trump has, by so many standards, been a horrible president. He has badly botched handling the COVID-19 pandemic, and is weighed down by numerous sexual assault allegations. His challenger for the 2020 general election, Joe Biden, is saddled with a sexual assault allegation of his own. As the debate rages over the credibility of this claim, it is certain that the allegation deserves a thorough investigation. And while Biden has maintained his innocence, some are calling him to step aside as the Democratic nominee.
Who would take his place in such an event, however, is less clear. Would it be Bernie Sanders, whose idealistic views are not always backed up by practical plans? Or Elizabeth Warren, who lost ground as the Democratic primaries went on, and would be unlikely to unseat Trump?
The answer to this question is that we’d be looking in the wrong place. You don’t send a capo to the commission meeting. And although senators have made great presidents before – cap tip, Mr. Obama – what America needs right now is a king.
That’s right, I’m talking about Clifford “T.I.” Harris.
I’ll give you a minute to wipe the coffee you just spit out off your screen. Then, I need you to kindly hear me out.
T.I. has a combination of real-world experience, steadfast principles and an uncommon ability to lead which makes him a future great candidate. His recent years have found him deep-diving into social activism more consistently than not only every other rapper, but most other celebrities and even politicians.
T.I. Demands Answers For Ahmaud Arbery Shooting: 'We Are Being HUNTED!'
Even in the most outlandish of scenarios, Tip will not be president in 2021. Aside from the fact that he has no political experience – and we’ve seen how electing someone with no background in politics has turned out over the last 3 ½ years – it’s unlikely Biden is unseated, let alone by a 39-year-old rapper with no campaign who has said he is “no politician.”
That, and there’s the pesky little fact that Tip is a felon, and thus can’t run for president.
Imagine that wasn’t the case, and that Tip reconsidered his position on politics. It’d be a welcome change, for sure. Think about it: what makes a president great? There are eight facets that come to mind: the ability to lead, how one responds to adversity, diplomacy, standing firm in one’s principles, the ability to connect to people, a healthy cynicism combined with cautious optimism, knowledge of worldwide issues, and putting plans for change into action.
Tip and Reginae Carter (Lil Wayne’s daughter) attend the Tip “T.I.” Harris and Harris Community Works Voter Registration Drive and Community Cookout on October 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Throughout his life, T.I. has embodied each and every one of those characteristics. He has demonstrated his ability to lead time and time again, first as the CEO of his successful Grand Hustle Records imprint, and later as the leader of marches and protests against racial injustice.
Every time Tip has been knocked down, or has made a mistake, he has bounced back. After his debut album, the underrated I’m Serious, flopped, he parted ways with Arista Records. But he didn’t go back to selling drugs; he instead peddled mixtapes and toured the south while creating Grand Hustle and recording the classic Trap Muzik. Following each prison stint (more on that later), he has come out swinging. His mindset is made clear on “No Matter What”: “Even when winning’s impossible, losing’s still far from optional.” And, elsewhere on the song, “All you can do is handle it, worst thing you can do is panic.” That’s exactly the kind of mentality we need from a leader during a crisis.
Once upon a time, presidents were diplomatic. They didn’t impulsively tweet whatever nasty thought popped into their head at that moment. Tip has displayed moments of calming diplomacy. When Kanye West proudly proclaimed his allegiance to Trump, most of the Hip Hop community scorned him. T.I. was one of the few who reached across the aisle to have a dialogue with Kanye. The resulting track, “Ye vs. The People,” should be taught in political science college courses on civil discourse. And yet, T.I. also has a way of letting his thoughts fly on social media, such as when he blasted Kanye for his display in the Oval Office, or when he had a few choice words for Trump’s remarks about Snoop Dogg. Being a celebrity, and not a politician, affords T.I. a sense of freedom in what he posts, and he would likely be able to show restraint with his Instagram account if he were to hold office.
Mr. Harris has always stood firm in his principles. He values loyalty, and has shown it to the friends he made before he became famous. He also values his family, his faith, and justice. He is constantly outspoken on issues such as racial inequality and police brutality. And, he won’t be bought or give his friends a pass. When Lil Wayne said he didn’t connect to the Black Lives Matter movement, Tip strongly rebuked him. It didn’t matter that they were friends or had a history of working together. Right was right.
Of course, T.I. is open about his own shortcomings. That vulnerability, as well as his charisma, is what makes him so relatable to so many across different walks of life. Still, there’s always room for growth, and Tip would do well to shed some bad habits. He’s a family man nearing 40 years old, and, unless something has changed since his episode on Netflix’s Rapture, he’s still going to strip clubs. It’s a bad look for someone who otherwise is such a beacon of light for his community.
Tip has been around the world. The kid from Bankhead has done a lot and seen a lot, including the underbelly of the American justice system. This has left him cynical, but the fact that he continues to push for change means he at least has some cautious hope that change is possible.
It’s a change he’s already making. He was named to Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms’ 38-member transition team tasked with working on issues such as public safety, affordable housing and education. He is a part of Bottoms’ task force to reform the Atlanta City Detention Center. Tip also initiated a project called Buy Back the Block, which is in the process of redeveloping his childhood neighborhood of Bankhead. For his philanthropic efforts, he was honored in 2019 by the Georgia Senate.
Tip speaks in support of Democratic Senate challenger Jim Martin during a campaign rally at the State Capitol on December 1, 2008 in Atlanta, Georgia. Martin was up against Republican incumbent Sen. Saxby Chambliss in a runoff election for the U.S. Senate seat, where he eventually lost. (Photo by Dave Martin/Getty Images)
But, what about the felonies? Specifically, what about the federal weapons charges? Let’s not pretend this country isn’t infested with dirty politicians. Several who have been accused of or even convicted of crimes have been re-elected to the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.
So yes, T.I. has a criminal past. You know who else had a criminal past? Malcolm X. He was Detroit Red, the hustler, before he became one of the most influential leaders in American history. He didn’t shy away from his past, though. He embraced it. And that’s exactly what Tip does. Someone who has the humility to accept their flaws without using them as limitations is exactly who should be sitting in the Oval Office. T.I. is far from perfect, but it’s clear that the wild-eyed Tip who recklessly broke the law is dead and gone.
T.I. & Killer Mike Suit Up In Masks & Gloves To Contribute To Atlanta Coronavirus Relief Efforts
So, who would be his running mate? I think Kamala Harris would be a suitable match. The senator is experienced, reasonable and able to find the middle ground on hot-button issues such as gun control. Tip probably wouldn’t like her record on crime, but her measured demeanor would be valuable in checking any of his impulses. Though he once made sexist comments about the prospect of a female president, he quickly apologized for those remarks. He also recently hired Grammy Award-winning entertainment executive Thuy-An Julien as his chief business officer/chief of staff, proving he has changed his tune when it comes to women in powerful roles.
T.I.’s voice, life experiences, conviction and outlook would be valuable in American politics, even at the highest level. And while the latest foray of a celebrity-turned-politician has been disastrous, there have been other celebrities who have had credible careers in politics. The natural step – if he wants to – would be to start out locally, and make his way from there.
If you still think this sounds ridiculous, forget about names, reputations, and stigmas for a moment. Close your eyes and ask yourself, who would you rather have in the White House: another crusty, old, out-of-touch racist, or an authentic voice for the people and the common good?
The answer is obvious.
He’s 39 today, give him ‘til he’s 58 and he should be the leader of all that he surveys in the 50 states.
[apple_news_ad type=”standard”]
Who the fuck would vote his dumb ass. This site is done.
You are absolute scum bag. Stfu moron.
This is a false and misleading fictious editorial. While it is not written into the Constitution, various Federal Statutes prevent a Convicted Felon from holding office. Comparing him to Malcolm X is so so disingenuous it’s sad, X was an activist and he didn’t do a year in a Federal Prison on Weapons charges. T.I. has multiple, multiple felonies, multiple incarcerations, not just one single Weapons arrest, he has Drug Convictions dating back to the late 90’s, he’s been arrested with his wife for drugs and he was arrested as recently as 2018. The Electoral College decides who is President not the popular vote, he wouldn’t make it past primaries, this is an ignorant opinion really.
Hahahhahahahahahhahahhaaha.. all the great black folks u endorse Ti lmfaoooo. Black ppl r fucked
Welcome to the Democratic Primary Debate. Our first question is for Mr. TI. What was your motivation to diss Floyd Mayweather and title the track “Fuck Nigga.” The American people want to know.
The cheater that constantly embarrassed his wife publicly, and wont let his daughter go to the doctor without him smh.
This mane ain’t smart he just try to use big words. We would die. And this article does not represent black thought
Aaron Mckrell is definitely a white guy. This what dame be talking bout culture vultures perpetuating thoughts of culture they didn’t create that is black people answer for
There is so much wrong with this article. You could hurt your arms with all the reaching here. Not to mention the hypocrisy. I’d love to hear how Trump has been a “terrible” president. Then say his reaction to the CCP Virus was slow??? Really? You can only react on the information and facts you have. If a certain government that we do business with for whatever reason didn’t want to see the world burn around them. Then maybe we would’ve known when we should’ve. Shutting down travel to and from China was the right first move. No matter what democrat will say different. They are mad that they didn’t get to make the call due to the fact that it would go against their virtue signaling and shameless pandering.
You fell for it buddy, it’s called clickbait.
There’s no discussion or debate about this anymore. Have you gone outside lately? This is what happens under a good President? Have you gone to a movie, a party, restaurant, CHURCH? no you haven’t because you can’t. All this happened under Trumps watch. Shutting down China may have been the right move had he done it when he was FIRST briefed about Covid-19. Instead he ignored it, and continues to ignore it. 15% of Americans are in unemployment. The most since The Great Depression. And you think this is acceptable leadership? You’re psychotic
they dont want to hear the truth as long as it doesnt affect their bubble
It’s not up to the president to open up the states. The constitution prevents that. It’s shitty governors like Gavin Newsom, and the tyrant Lori Lightfoot. I’d rather be psychotic for wanting our freedoms back then to live in this quiet slavery that CNN, MSNBC, and CBS peddle to you. Your talking points are showing what narrative you’re pushing. I don’t blame you though. In a way it is easier to just go with what is fed to you than stepping outside of your comfort zone and looking elsewhere for information.
Please don’t let this guy write anymore editorials..
McKrell is a pricking retard for writing this piece of garbage! Obama has tied to terror groups, has pics of little girls on his lap, is a globalist shill, was he even born in America? His “wife” is a man, and he is a Sal Alinsky commie trying to ruin this country. Did this idiot “journalist” even see what’s happening with the Flynn case!? Obama was behind the coup attempt. As for McCain and Romney…..what a huge joke to mention those two clowns. McCain was named Songbird for a reason, look it up. He was given a traitors funeral, and went to hang with terror groups like if they were old chums. Speaking of Romney, he is one of those corrupt Mormons. This idiot ha never been to Utah, has he? Nobody likes Romney he is a Rhino of the highest order. The only one who likes him is this ignorant idiot named Aaron Mckrell. Oh and Heels Up Harris is a wh0r3 and we all hate that itch-B here in CA. She put a lot of blacks in jail, FYI, and withholds evidence that would set them free.
You big mad bro?
everything you stated actually holds water. These idiots dont know whoever is hating trump is actually cheering on the elite fucks!!! Hiphop needs a nigga like trump, TI aint gon do shit!! He just gonna lick Hillary’s heels like a good ol boy
This reads like a high school essay
The man owns a thesaurus he’s not some great mind that’ll usher in a new wave of conciousness among black folk. No disrespect intended but c’mon man stop writing clickbait articls to get traffic on this otherwise average site.
For real he uses a few big words and people think he’s smart
I’m serious: you’re not intelligent for writing this hot garbage. You made a horrible case for why T.I of all people should be President. This is piss poor journalism at its finest
Just because you’re an Activist doesn’t make you anywhere near qualified to be POTUS. Nor would T.I have the financial support. This is a stupid idea with very little credibility.
Yeah that’s what we need: another unqualified Reality TV star as President. Fuck you for writing this.
I stop reading when the trump bashing starts 3 lines in the article
As soon as the trump bashing starts I’m out Too! it actually has made me respect trump more as he is pubic enemy number 1, the media has unleashed an all out assault on him ever since he confirmed he would be running for POTUS, yet he hasn’t allowed this to detour him, resilience and strength at its finest FR
If you think Trump is bad can you imagine the division it would cause around the country if a Gangsta Rapper, convicted Felon African American man become President ? You think Racism is bad now, fuckin White Supremacists would be trying to burn down the White House.
Im black. Avid rap fan….bump T.I. for days…but this starting to look like Futurama up in here. Just coz he can hold his head for causes. Does not mean he is a polical science major. Trump should be a less9n…now bill gates a health expert…wt America?
The thing about Obama was, he had rich White people supporting him…..you need lots and lots of financial support to run for President. 10’s of millions, way out of T.I’s league. Unless he gets corporate America backing him (no chance) he wouldn’t even have the campaign donation support to rival a Trump or a major Democratic candidate.
Y’all really think White people care that the Constitution doesn’t say anything against Black convicted felons holding office ? Yeah fuckin right, not in my life time or yours, everyone needs to stop taking this Opinion so serious.
Convicted felons aren’t allowed to hold public office. Or vote. It’s the law. Tons of laws aren’t in the constitution. Dummy
TI is a felon
Donald Trump has done more for this country than the past 2 presidents combined. How about you keep your uneducated articles to yourself. This website has gone so downhill the past 5 years it’s incredible people even still check it. I know I’m done with you idiots.
Dude just don’t come here anymore. I’m sure they’ll be just fine without you
shit the fuck up Al!!
this Guy barely went to school and you think he can run a country? Morons
Nah I don’t want this uneducated felon who knows nothing about politics running the county.
TIP is a convicted felon disqualified from holding any public office seat.. Keep your name clean kids.
Nah
even in this age i’m shocked at the idiocy of just the title of this article and the notion. impressively dumb take.
This headline and article is exactly what is wrong with hip hop. TI is an idiot who tries to speak eloquently and uses big words…he sounds like a moron in the process…but the blind actually think he’s smart. Candace Owens destroyed this uneducated loser in a debate. Trump made the best economy in history. Keep hating, losers.
factz!! people hate just to hate, the nigga trump actually doing great things for the black latino communities! people so wrapped up with the fake news media that they just go along with the BS, whoever wrote this article is AN IDIOT
Made…past tense.
We already have an idiotic reality show star as the president . Now, you want an uneducated felon to take the office of arguably the most powerful position on the planet ?!?
Isn’t he a felon? I don’t think you can run if your a felon
How about Flava Flav or Boosie Badazz!?
I say 6ix9ine for President! If we have him in the oval office we’ll be in a better position to deal with the problems in these streets. He will clean them up real good and create safer communities plus there will be better migration deals for the “No Habla” community.
Fake woke at its finest….this cat really think tips the one to do that. All young educated, been on both sides, progressive, intelligent, and tip is your choice. Lol yeah
TI seems like he has a decent side to him but why do people have fixations with celebs running for the highest office possible? TI for city commissioner and maybe one day mayor maybe. Trump wasn’t a random rich guy/celebrity that got into office. He was involved in politics and pursued by independent parties to be their candidate since 2000.
Please let T .I run for president or Jay-Z.
Not a respectable article or opinion. As an educated black man that is working hard for his family and community – fuck You.
Big t.i fan from 2004
On the mic the he in my top 10
Don’t matter who you vote for. That person has 400 other people that need to agree with him/her to get these issues they have on task to get done. Which is always a losing battle.
T.I. cannot read nor communicate effectively. Two qualifications right there. You people kill me with this crazy talk! T.I is dumb has hell!
NOW HIS FIRST WIFE JANET CAN BE. IN
just because we have the worst possible person in office now doesnt mean ANYBODY would be better. We need to get rid of trump, but also not fall back into corporate politicians like Biden. We need to become a democractic socialist society.
Hillary would have been worse, and I voted for her.
No we need to become a capitalist society without government interfering in commerce like they do now. Socialism is for mediocre and incompetent people who are jealous of those that are more successful.
Have to say no. He has good intentions, but he’s not really about making the world better. Cannot be political one day & hope the next. Cannot talk about world change one day & the next argue about who invented trap music(k) the next. You cannot want to still be known as TIP, the gangsta, but be taken serious in that aspect.
NOW HIS WIFE JANET TIHARRIS CAN BE PRESIDENT
Nah I’m good
He’s a felon. He can’t unfortunately
Eugene Debbs ran for President from a jail cell, so yeah, you can be a felon and run for office. I respect T.I. and his work. He’s not perfect, but he is pretty reflective. I would hear him out for sure.
NAH
Are we talking about this guy? You’re on some stupid shit.
“Last November, the “Live Your Life” rapper admitted to going to his 18-year-old daughter’s gynecologist’s appointments with her to confirm that her hymen was still “intact” to ensure she was a virgin”