Could the 2024 election normalize political violence?
Oct 30, 2024
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Robert Pape, a University of Chicago political science professor, discusses alarming trends in American attitudes toward political violence as the 2024 election approaches. He warns about the normalization of violent political actions, referencing the January 6th Capitol attack. Meanwhile, Rebecca Ballhaus, a Wall Street Journal reporter, reveals concerns over potential censorship at the National Archives, as critics fear that a new administration may alter the presentation of American history. Together, they explore the intersection of political actions and historical representation.
The normalization of political violence in the U.S. is alarming, with 6% of the population reportedly willing to endorse force to reinstate Trump.
Concerns over censorship in American history have surged, particularly regarding alterations in historical exhibits by the National Archives amid political pressures.
Deep dives
Censorship at the National Archives
Recent moves by the head of the National Archives have raised concerns about censorship in the portrayal of American history. In a controversial decision, notable historical exhibits have been altered or stripped down, such as substituting a patent for the contraceptive pill with a patent for a television. Critics suggest that this reflects a broader trend to de-emphasize negative aspects of U.S. history, driven by pressure from previous Republican criticisms. The situation has led to resignations among senior officials, highlighting internal dissent over these changes.
Political Violence and January 6
A significant portion of the American population appears to support political violence, a trend underscored by recent studies showing that 6% endorse using force to reinstate Donald Trump as president. This statistic equates to a staggering 15 million Americans who might normalize aggressive political conduct. Political analyst Robert Pape suggests that Vice President Kamala Harris's emphasis on unity and her condemnation of Trump as a 'petty tyrant' are critical in reducing the risk of future violence. The January 6 Capitol attack is pivotal, as the potential re-election of Trump might legitimize such violence in the eyes of his supporters.
Challenges of Energy Transmission
The transition to renewable energy sources highlights the urgent need for improved power transmission infrastructure, particularly as solar and wind farms are often located far from urban demand centers. Projects like the Sun Zia Wind Farm aim to connect remote generation sites with metropolitan areas, although constructing the necessary transmission lines is a complex and lengthy process. These projects are essential for achieving future energy and climate goals, yet significant challenges remain, including regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns. The rise in demand from new developments and technology also stresses the importance of expediting such infrastructure upgrades.
On Tuesday, Kamala Harris spoke at a huge rally at the Ellipse in Washington D.C, where the Jan. 6 riot began. University of Chicago political violence expert Robert Pape joins us to talk about what could be ahead for the country. Then, critics of the National Archives and Records Administration say the agency is trying to water down the thorniest parts of American history, according to new reporting from the Wall Street Journal. Reporter Rebecca Ballhaus tells us more. And, a new $11 billion wind farm and transmission line will produce clean energy for cities in the Southwest. As part of our ongoing climate series Reverse Course, Here & Now's Peter O'Dowd traveled to remote parts of New Mexico and Arizona to report on the challenge of adding new transmission lines to the U.S. grid.