The series applies intentional race-conscious casting and character changes for the Detroit setting, including altering Carolyn from her depiction in the source novel. These choices elevate thematic elements around race that go beyond incidental background details. Recurring dialogue and subplots place explicit focus on white privilege, systemic racism in policing, and Black characters' distrust of law enforcement.

Multiple scenes feature Black characters lecturing Raylan on his ability to break rules without consequences due to his race, the rigged system, and the Marshals Service's historical role in catching runaway slaves. Additional plots involve a white detective being elevated over Black peers, making these themes central to several storylines rather than peripheral. Creator statements highlight deliberate self-awareness of modern policing critiques and an effort to avoid 'copaganda.' Audience reviews frequently cite the overt racial messaging and the emasculation of the white protagonist as detracting from the entertainment value, confirming the ideological framing as a notable intrusion into the narrative.