Damages Presents Future Hindsight: Daniel Squadron on Winning Legislative Majorities
Jun 2, 2023
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Daniel Squadron, former New York State senator, discusses the significance of winning legislative majorities in state houses and the power of state legislatures in shaping American politics. Topics include the need for support in pushing forward progressive policies, the Morvi Harper case challenging state legislatures' authority, concerns about election subversion, the success of the American Legislative Exchange Council in building governing power, and optimism for the future of American democracy.
State legislatures are the most important force in this country, as winning legislative majorities allows parties to govern effectively and make change.
Tiny levels of new engagement and relatively small amounts of money can create a seismic difference in state legislative races, leading to historic wins and flipping majorities.
Deep dives
Importance of State Legislatures in Making Change
State legislatures are the most important policy-making engines in the country, yet they have been left to the worst forces for the past 50 years. The State's Project aims to impact governing power in state legislatures across the country, allowing lawmakers who represent their constituents, protect personal freedom, preserve democracy, and improve lives to have the power to enact change.
The Power of State Races
State races have a significant impact on a wide range of issues, far beyond just voting for the president every four years. State legislatures have made substantial progress or caused significant damage on various important issues like healthcare, reproductive rights, climate action, and more. Tiny levels of new engagement and relatively small amounts of money can create a seismic difference in state legislative races, leading to historic wins and flipping majorities.
The Danger of Election Subversion
The case of Morvi Harper highlights the concerning potential for state legislatures to gain the power to determine federal election outcomes, including the presidential election. This could lead to the subversion of democracy if extremist state legislatures are allowed to step in and decide the result. The alarming rise of election deniers in state legislatures poses a threat to the integrity of elections and the will of the voters.
Building Governing Power at the State Level
Everyday people can actively contribute to building governing power at the state level. By strategically making contributions to state legislative campaigns and organizations, individuals can have an enormous impact, making a penny on the dollar a historic new investment. Additionally, starting or joining giving circles allows individuals to pool resources and strategically direct them towards impactful state legislative races, making a tangible difference in creating governing power at the state level.
Daniel Squadron is the co-founder and Executive Director of The States Project and also a former New York State senator. We discuss what it takes to win legislative majorities in state houses and why this is the essential ingredient to making change.
State legislatures are the most important force in this country. When parties win legislative majorities, they can govern effectively. The good news is that tiny levels of new engagement make a seismic difference in state legislative races. Regular folks getting involved and becoming strategic players will create governing power that can deliver for people.