Economist Podcasts Percent of the governed: California’s recall vote
Sep 14, 2021
Alexandra Sewage Bass, a senior correspondent for The Economist, dives into the high-stakes recall election of California's Governor Gavin Newsom. She reveals the political significance of this vote for both state and nation, stressing the importance of voter engagement. The discussion also touches on Russia's military exercises, comparing their implications to historical contexts. Finally, the enduring relevance of Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy is explored, highlighting its lessons of despair and hope that resonate even today.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
California Recall's Significance
- California Governor Gavin Newsom faces a recall vote, a potent political mechanism.
- This high-stakes election could impact the world's fifth-largest economy and Senate control.
Newsom's Reversal
- Newsom, once a rising Democratic star, faces a recall fueled by COVID-19 frustrations.
- His approval dropped after a controversial dinner at the French Laundry restaurant during lockdown.
Recall Ballot Mechanics
- The recall ballot has two questions: Should Newsom be recalled, and who should replace him?
- A candidate with less than 50% of the vote could replace Newsom, raising questions about democratic will.
