Slate News cover image

Slate News

Amicus: Why Ron DeSantis Hates Direct Democracy

Sep 14, 2024
Jessica Valenti, author of 'Abortion: Our Bodies, Their Lies', and Lauren Brenzel, campaign director for a key abortion rights initiative in Florida, delve into the alarming trend of states undermining direct democracy post-Dobbs. They discuss the tactics used to stifle abortion ballot measures, including voter intimidation and misinformation campaigns. The duo highlights the emotional toll of disenfranchisement while showcasing the resilience of grassroots movements committed to protecting reproductive rights.
52:32

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The use of intimidation and misinformation reflects a systematic effort to undermine direct democracy and repress voter engagement in abortion-related initiatives.
  • Activists emphasize that ballot initiatives not only demonstrate public support for abortion rights but also significantly influence turnout in other elections.

Deep dives

The Democratic Misdirection of Abortion Rights

The belief that returning abortion governance to the states is a democratic solution is scrutinized. This perspective overlooks the constitutional implications of overturning a long-standing precedent decided by a conservative supermajority. Critics argue that this framing ignores the reality that many voters wish to express their opinions on abortion through state ballots, yet face obstacles erected by elected officials. The juxtaposition of a so-called democratic process with the undemocratic removal of rights raises significant concerns about actual voter agency in abortion matters.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode