Beto O'Rourke acknowledges 'privileges' afforded to him because of race and gender

[DonViejo]

On an Iowa presidential campaign swing, O'Rourke praised the diversity of the large Democratic field.

March 17, 2019, 9:41 AM EDT

By Ben Kamisar

WASHINGTON — Former Rep. Beto O’Rourke said that he’s been afforded “privileges” in his life because of his race and gender but insisted that his presidential bid can be used as a way to level the playing field for all Americans.

“As a white man who has had privileges that others could not depend on, or take for granted, I've clearly had advantages over the course of my life,” O’Rourke told "Meet the Press" moderator Chuck Todd during a campaign swing through Iowa on Saturday.

“I think recognizing that and understanding that others have not — doing everything I can to ensure that there is opportunity and the possibility for advancement and advantage for everyone — is a big part of this campaign and a big part of the people who comprise this campaign.”

The Texas Democrat addressed the question in light of some criticism that he has benefited from a double standard in the early days of campaigning, given the large amount of attention his entry into the crowded field has received.

The former congressman went on to praise his fellow Democratic presidential hopefuls as part of the “best field that we've ever seen in the nominating process,” calling the “diversity of background, and experience, expertise” a key asset for Democrats.

more + video:
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/meet-the-press/beto-o-rourke-acknowledges-privileges-afforded-him-because-race-gender-n984141?cid=public-rss_20190317

[TexasProgresive]

1. Me too

I had advantages that my brown, black and female friends could only dream about.