The Daily 'The Run-Up': The Autopsy
Sep 17, 2022
Astead Herndon, a political correspondent for The New York Times, and veteran reporter Adam Nagourney unpack electoral dynamics and the shifting political landscape. They discuss the Republican Party's self-reflection post-2012 losses and how Trump's unexpected rise defied conventional wisdom. Key insights include the evolving Latino vote in 2020 and the cultural and economic factors that drew new voters to Trump. The conversation highlights the urgency of adapting to changing demographics and defending democracy amid ongoing challenges.
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Flawed Assumptions in the GOP Autopsy
- The Republican autopsy, after two consecutive election losses, identified key flawed assumptions.
- These assumptions centered on shrinking white voters and diverse voters overwhelmingly supporting Democrats.
Democratic Takeaway from 2008
- Democrats, after Obama's 2008 win, believed demographic shifts ensured their long-term dominance, echoing Bill Clinton's 'culture war' victory declaration.
- Adam Nagourney recounts Clinton's speech, highlighting this new analysis of demographic destiny.
The Tea Party Challenge
- The rise of the Tea Party challenged Democratic assumptions, fueled by opposition to Obama's policies and racially charged birtherism.
- Democrats dismissed this as extremism, misunderstanding its cultural significance.