Stay Tuned with Preet: Elections, Now & Then (with Joanne Freeman)
Sep 2, 2024
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Join renowned historian Joanne Freeman, a Yale professor specializing in U.S. political history, as she dives into the tumultuous 33 days that shook America. She discusses the shocking assassination attempt on a former president and President Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race. The conversation also highlights themes of political violence, the rise of Kamala Harris, and the impact of technology on democracy. Freeman offers a compelling analysis of historical contexts, making sense of today's chaotic political landscape.
The intense 33-day period in American politics included significant events like an assassination attempt on Trump and Biden's race withdrawal.
Proposed Supreme Court reforms by Biden highlight the need for political consensus amidst existing constitutional challenges and partisan divides.
Joanne Freeman emphasizes the evolving role of technology and social media in shaping political engagement and increasing misinformation.
Deep dives
Political Historical Context
The episode discusses a pivotal moment in modern American political history marked by intense and rapid changes. The conversation highlights significant events, including an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and President Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race, which collectively represent one of the most chaotic 33 days in recent memory. Political historian Joanne Freeman underscores the unique nature of this period, suggesting that the speed and volume of these events could reshape current political narratives. The analysis reflects on how the historical context informs public perception and political outcomes, indicating that these moments are likely to be cited in future historical discourse.
Supreme Court Reform Challenges
Proposed reforms to the Supreme Court, initiated by President Biden, are examined, emphasizing the need for political consensus to enact such changes. Three key reforms are discussed: ending immunity for former presidents regarding in-office crimes, establishing 18-year term limits for justices, and implementing a binding code of conduct. The feasibility of passing these reforms is highlighted, noting the constitutional hurdles and the current partisan divide in Congress. The episode concludes that while these reforms are theoretically justifiable, the existing political climate makes their implementation highly unlikely in the near future.
Impact of Technology on Political Discourse
Joanne Freeman discusses the evolving role of technology in shaping political discourse and public perception. Drawing historical parallels, she compares the influence of the telegraph and television in past eras to the current impact of social media, suggesting that platforms like Zoom are transforming political engagement. The rapid distribution of information through social media has led to both a heightened awareness of political issues and an increase in the spread of misinformation. This shift raises questions about the future of democratic engagement and the mechanisms through which the public interacts with political power.
Normalization of Political Violence
A significant focus is placed on the normalization of political violence in contemporary political rhetoric. Freeman elaborates on how threats and acts of violence, while not new to American politics, have become increasingly visible and accepted in recent years. The episode explores the implications of this shift and how political leaders can inadvertently contribute to a climate that fosters violence. By analyzing historical incidents of political violence, Freeman suggests that the perception of threat in politics often leads to self-censorship and increases the likelihood of actual violence occurring.
The Future of Kamala Harris's Campaign
The conversation shifts to the implications of Kamala Harris's presidential campaign amid the backdrop of recent political upheaval. Freeman notes the surprising momentum and unity behind Harris's candidacy, especially following Biden's withdrawal, which stands in stark contrast to past scenarios of disunity at Democratic conventions. The episode highlights the excitement surrounding her campaign and examines how her unique position as a woman of color can influence both voter engagement and the upcoming election. The potential for a renewed Democratic platform under Harris's leadership is discussed, emphasizing the significance of her candidacy in a transforming political landscape.
On with Kara Swisher is off for the Labor Day holiday, and we’re sharing an episode of friend-of-the-pod Preet Bharara's podcast Stay Tuned with Preet.
In the episode you’re about to hear, Preet interviews leading U.S. political historian Joanne Freeman. Their conversation covers what may turn out to be the craziest 33 days in modern American history – from the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, to President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the presidential race – and the momentum behind Democratic nominee Kamala Harris.
On will be back with a fresh episode on Thursday September 5th. Listen toStay Tuned with Preet every Monday and Thursday.
