The Intelligence from The Economist Into the blue: Democrats win big
33 snips
Nov 5, 2025 
John Priddo, US editor at The Economist, shares insights on recent Democratic victories in the US, dissecting their implications for midterm elections. Piotr Zalewski, the Turkey correspondent, delves into Erdogan's crackdown on opposition leaders and the risks it poses to democracy. Ainsley Johnston, a data journalist, reveals findings from the Gallup World Poll, suggesting a shift toward improved global emotions. Together, they unpack the political landscape and emotional trends that could reshape future narratives.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Meteoric Win In A Deeply Blue City
- Zohram Mamdani's mayoral win is a meteoric rise in a strongly Democratic city rather than a national swing.
- His bold promises risk disappointing voters because many policies exceed a mayor's powers.
State Dynamics Shape National Expectations
- Big Democratic wins in Virginia and New Jersey reflected expected state dynamics more than a nationwide surge.
- Markets raised Democrats' House chances, but structural issues and gerrymandering keep the midterms uncertain.
California's Redistricting Shift
- California's Proposition 50 reverses its independent commission, enabling partisan redistricting.
- That change could offset Democratic gains by enabling more gerrymandering before next year's midterms.