The Daily

A Last-Gasp Push on Voting Rights

Jan 19, 2022

Astead W. Herndon, a national political reporter for The New York Times, dives into the critical state of voting rights legislation. He shares insights on the near impossibility of passing pivotal bills like the Freedom to Vote Act. Herndon discusses the frustrations from activists over the Biden administration's delayed action and the role of the Senate filibuster. Key political ramifications for democracy are explored, emphasizing the urgent need to confront voter suppression as the midterms approach.

31:30

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Episode guests

Astead W. Herndon

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

The Fight for Voting Rights

11min

Biden's Voting Rights Battle

9min

Navigating the Filibuster Fiasco

8min

The Stakes of Voting Rights and Accountability in Democracy

3min

Updates on 5G Network Rollout and COVID Testing Initiative

2min

It’s a big week in the Senate for voting rights. Democrats have two bills that include measures to bolster and protect elections.

But the bills are almost certain to fail.

Why has it proved almost impossible to pass legislation so integral to the agenda of President Biden and the Democrats?

Guest: Astead W. Herndon, a national political reporter for The New York Times.

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Background reading:

Here’s what to know about voting rights and the battle over elections.
Democrats’ bid to force through a bill intended to offset state voting restrictions appeared destined to fall to a Republican filibuster.

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