San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones is no stranger to debate, but this time she’s taking it national. The outspoken politician will be one of eight panelists on acclaimed PBS series Breaking the Deadlock, airing on KLRN on Tuesday, October 27 at 8 pm.
In each episode, moderator and UC Davis law professor Aaron Tang attempts to bridge political divides through a series of debates. Although the scenarios presented are hypothetical, they are rooted in the reality of some of the nation’s most pressing issues. The approach earned Boston public broadcasting group GBH an Emmy nomination.
“Breaking the Deadlock brings together people from across the political spectrum in a way that requires them to go beyond the usual talking points and speak to our core values as Americans,” explained Tang when the series premiered. “By using hypothetical scenarios that rhyme with reality, we create space for honest introspection and conversation — and even some surprising breakthroughs.”
Ortiz Jones will be joined by famous names like former U.S. Senator Joe Manchin III and ex-CNN anchor Campbell Brown to take on artificial intelligence. During the episode, “AI: Who’s in Control?,” the panel will grapple with the impact of data centers, AI surveillance from Flock cameras, and other prickly topics that are raging online and IRL.
Ortiz Jones will bring a local perspective to the discussion as San Antonio considers its own approach to the technology. In late September, three environmental groups sued data center developer Vantage and energy supplier VoltaGrid, alleging that two West Side facilities had been built without required permits, pollution-control measures, and public input.
The City Council is expected to vote on proposed data center amendments to the Unified Development Code on Thursday, October 29, including one drafted by Ortiz Jones. The proposals address growing community concerns such as noise and water usage.
Those who don’t catch the live broadcast will have the chance to hear more of Ortiz Jones’ thoughts by streaming on KLRN’s website or through the PBS App. You can watch a preview below: