Pod Save America “Problems not solved.”
Aug 26, 2021
California Junior Senator Alex Padilla shares insights on the recent recall election and the pressing importance of voting rights. He discusses challenges facing Democratic unity and the power of grassroots movements, especially in Latino communities. Padilla highlights the significance of mail-in voting during the pandemic and the implications of a potential Republican governor for progressive policies. The conversation also touches on the need for reforms in California's recall system and ongoing efforts for immigration rights, making for an enlightening and engaging dialogue.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Centrist Rebellion
- A group of centrist Democrats, nicknamed the "Mod Squad", threatened to vote against Biden's economic plan.
- They wanted a vote on the bipartisan infrastructure bill first, but ultimately caved.
Problems Unsolved
- The "Mod Squad's" actions were performative and didn't solve any real problems.
- The bipartisan infrastructure bill and the budget reconciliation bill are linked; either both pass or neither does.
Moderate vs. Centrist
- Moderates have principled policy positions near the center of the political spectrum.
- Centrists, however, prioritize an identity of appearing near the center regardless of actual policy.