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Up First from NPR

The Sunday Story: Is this what democracy looks like?

Jul 7, 2024
Meribah Knight, a reporter and creator of the podcast series Supermajority, and Mary Joyce, a luxury real estate agent turned activist, dive deep into the struggles of conservative mothers in Tennessee fighting for gun control after a tragic school shooting. They share their emotional journeys from personal grief to political activism, exploring the challenges of confronting lawmakers and navigating a complex legislative landscape. Their stories highlight the fragility of democracy and the power of grassroots movements led by passionate individuals.
48:06

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Three conservative moms in Tennessee navigate Republican-controlled legislature advocating for gun control.
  • Activism for stricter gun laws faces challenges at the state Capitol, revealing resistance and limitations.

Deep dives

Tennessee's Political Landscape and Tragedy at Covenant School

In Tennessee, the Republican Party holds full political power controlling the House, Senate, and the governorship. The series 'Supermajority' focuses on three conservative white mothers from Tennessee pushing back against their own party after a tragic school shooting. Following a deadly shooting at the Covenant School, where three nine-year-olds were killed along with three adults, these mothers, including Sarah Shoop Newman, engaged in activism for gun control legislation. The state's political environment intensified as Democratic lawmakers faced expulsion for advocating gun control.

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