11/8/21: Infrastructure Bill, Vax Mandate, Workers, CNN, Astroworld, Carlyle Group, Gas Prices, Elections, and More!
Nov 8, 2021
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Kyle Kondik, managing editor at Sabato's Crystal Ball and author of "The Long Red Thread," joins the conversation to dive into the implications of the recent infrastructure bill. They discuss the court's halt of Biden's vaccine mandate and worker strikes reshaping the labor landscape. The tragic Astroworld incident is dissected, along with the corporate influence on political narratives. Kondik analyzes the shifting electoral results in Virginia and New Jersey, reflecting Republican gains and emerging voter dynamics as the midterms approach.
Thousands of John Deere workers strike for fair pay and end to two-tier system; impacting agri-part supply chain
Over 32,000 healthcare workers at Kaiser set to strike against two-tier pay structure and demand a raise
Debate over media's focus on critical race theory in Virginia election, highlighting need for nuanced analysis
Republican gains in Virginia and New Jersey elections suggest shift in swing voters and potential for midterm gains
Deep dives
Workers at John Deere continue strike, causing delays in parts orders
Thousands of workers at John Deere are on strike, causing delays in parts orders as the farm harvest season is ongoing. The workers are demanding an end to the two-tier pay structure and at least a 4% annual raise. John Deere, which enjoyed record-breaking profits, has offered a contract that maintains the two-tier system and only a 2% raise. The strike is putting pressure on John Deere as they face supply chain challenges and a shortage of workers. The impact of the strike is felt by customers who are experiencing delays in receiving the parts they need for their agricultural equipment.
Kaiser healthcare workers give 10-day notice of strike
Over 32,000 healthcare workers at Kaiser have given a 10-day notice of their intent to strike. The workers, based in California and Oregon, are fighting against a two-tier pay structure that would reduce the wages for new workers. They are demanding at least a 4% annual raise. The strike notice comes as these hospitals are already understaffed, leading to increased burden on the existing workers. Kaiser, which made $10 billion in profits during the pandemic, has not agreed to end the two-tier structure or provide the requested raise. The strike is set to begin on November 15th.
Media's analysis of Virginia election sparks debate on critical race theory
The media's analysis of the Virginia election has sparked a debate on the role of critical race theory (CRT) in voting trends. Critics argue that the media's focus on CRT as a major factor in the election results oversimplifies the complex dynamics at play. They claim that the emphasis on CRT ignores other critical issues, such as the economy and education. Some point out that white working-class voters had concerns about these issues, which were misrepresented as white supremacy. They argue that the media's narrative criminalizes working-class Americans and fails to address their legitimate concerns. The debate highlights the importance of an accurate and nuanced understanding of the factors influencing election outcomes.
CNBC host challenges media's response to Virginia election
A CNBC host challenges the media's response to the Virginia election, arguing that the media's focus on white supremacy and racism overlooks the complex dynamics and concerns of voters. The host highlights how the media's portrayal of Glenn Youngkin's victory as a win for white supremacy ignores the diversity among his supporters, including the first black woman elected lieutenant governor and the significant support he gained among Latino voters. The host suggests that the media's framing of the election results alienates working-class Americans and fails to address their economic and educational concerns. The segment brings attention to the need for a more nuanced and accurate analysis of election outcomes.
Virginia and New Jersey Elections Reflect Republican Momentum
The recent elections in Virginia and New Jersey indicate a significant shift towards the Republican party. In both states, Republicans outperformed expectations, narrowing the Democratic margins from previous elections. The results highlight a Republican enthusiasm and stronger turnout, while also suggesting that swing voters may have moved towards Republican candidates. This Republican momentum could have implications for the upcoming midterm elections, potentially leading to Republican gains in the House and Senate.
Concerns Over Democratic Party's Captivation by Big Money
The Democratic Party's capture by big money and its alignment with business interests pose a growing threat to the party's ability to deliver on its promises and connect with working-class voters. While Republicans have always been linked to big business, the shift of the Democratic Party towards corporate interests has eroded its ability to champion the needs of ordinary Americans. The influence of corporations and industry capture has hindered key progressive policies such as the Pro Act, raising the minimum wage, and lowering prescription drug prices. This corruption and co-opting of the party not only undermines electoral prospects but also fuels disillusionment and distrust in democratic processes.
Biden's Ineffectiveness in Addressing Economic Concerns
The recent increase in gas prices and food prices has highlighted President Biden's ineffectiveness in addressing the economic challenges faced by Americans. While the president may not directly control the price of gas, his lack of action and response to the issue has left many feeling unheard and frustrated. Biden's administration has failed to demonstrate a commitment to alleviate the burden of rising prices, causing discontent among Americans. This failure to address economic concerns, coupled with a lack of engagement from top officials, further erodes confidence in the Biden administration's ability to effectively govern and respond to the needs of the American people.
Krystal and Saagar discuss the passing of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, courts halting Biden's vaccine mandate, worker activity across America, CNN being out of touch, Astroworld tragedy, following the money, where is Joe Biden, going deep in the election results with Kyle Kondik, and more!
