Politicology
Age of Transformation—Red County, Blue County, Orange County (Episode 4)
Aug 25, 2024
Jean Pasco, a seasoned journalist who covered local politics in the ‘80s and ‘90s, shares insights on the transformative era in Orange County. She highlights the economic fallout from military base closures and the loss of defense jobs. The conversation delves into Loretta Sanchez’s historic victory over Bob Dornan, marking a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party in a once-Republican stronghold. The impact of these political shifts on Latino representation and community engagement is thoroughly examined, showcasing the evolving landscape.
48:23
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Quick takeaways
- The closure of military bases in Southern California drastically transformed the local economy, leading to significant job losses and a shift to high-tech industries.
- Loretta Sanchez's 1996 victory over Bob Dornan marked a pivotal moment for Orange County, reflecting the rise of Latino representation and changing political dynamics.
Deep dives
Impact of Military Base Closures
The closure of military bases in Southern California, particularly in Orange County, had a profound economic impact following the end of the Cold War. The Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process led to significant losses in defense contracts and jobs from major employers like McDonnell Douglas, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing. This decrease in military spending not only resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs but also pushed the Southern California economy into a near-depression. The transition away from a reliance on defense manufacturing necessitated a shift toward high-tech industries, reshaping the local workforce and economy amidst unprecedented racial and ethnic transformations.
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