The identity of black leaders is wrapped in the issue of race. It’s defined their politics, their populist appeal. Alienated white voters, won over black voters. It’s been the tipping point of political successes. For a generation of black leaders who grew up during the Civil Rights movement, race mattered. But does it still?

A new generation of black leaders are appealing to their black constitutents — and a growing majority of white voters. They’re running against each other: Black candidate against black candidate. But as black candidates go mainstream do their risk losing their political edge?

In this hour, the politics of race. What is the place of race identity in the political ring? And the place of black leadership in America? Are more black candidates “selling out,” or finally achieving the political success that they deserve?

Guests:

Ron Walters, Director of the African American Leadership Institute at the University of Maryland

James Traub, Reporter for The New York Times Magazine

Bakari Kitwana, Author of “The Hip-Hop Generation: Young Blacks and The Crisis in African American Culture”