Adam O'Neill, Washington correspondent for The Economist, dives into the shifting landscape of campaign finance in America, revealing how big wallets don't always lead to electoral wins. Matt Steinglass shares poignant stories from asylum seekers aboard the MS Galaxy in the Netherlands, highlighting the struggles posed by rising anti-immigrant policies. Dolly Seton analyzes the global skyscraper boom, exploring architectural trends in cities like New York and the Middle East, as well as the challenges of engineering the tallest buildings in the world.
Recent campaign finance trends indicate that although fundraising is essential, public perception often plays a more decisive role in electoral outcomes.
The plight of asylum-seekers on the MS Galaxy exemplifies the challenges posed by strict immigration policies under the current Dutch government.
Deep dives
Challenges Facing Asylum Seekers in the Netherlands
The MS Galaxy, once a passenger ferry, now serves as temporary housing for 1,500 asylum applicants in Amsterdam, reflecting the plight of many seeking refuge. The current Dutch government has implemented strict policies that complicate the asylum application process, leading to lengthy waits for interviews and approvals. For instance, individuals may be stranded on this ship for years, highlighting the severe backlog, as shown by a Chechen man waiting 19 months. With the government's tightening approach, migrants face a future of uncertainty as they navigate a system that is increasingly hostile towards them.
Impact of Political Climate on Campaign Finance
Campaign finance dynamics have shifted significantly, especially since the Citizens United decision facilitated corporate contributions to political campaigns. Despite initial concerns that business interests would predominantly support Republicans, Democrats have effectively drawn in substantial donations, both from large entities and small-dollar contributors. For instance, Vice President Kamala Harris recently raised $190 million, surpassing Donald Trump's $45 million for the same period, illustrating this trend. The complex interplay between fundraising and electoral success suggests that while money is crucial, it does not guarantee victory, as strong public perceptions often hold more sway.
Global Trends in Skyscraper Construction
The rush to build skyscrapers is most prominent in countries like China, which has developed more skyscrapers per capita than the US, where such constructions are much more complicated due to stringent regulations. In China, rising population and urbanization fuel the demand, while local leaders use these ambitious projects to elevate their cities' statuses. Conversely, in Europe, cultural hesitations lead to a general aversion to high-rise buildings, with strict regulations in cities like Paris and Rome curbing such developments. The fascination with urban height raises questions about future limitations, particularly centered around engineering advancements required for further vertical growth.
Kamala Harris has proven to be an enormous draw for campaign donors. But the size of a candidate’s war chest influences the outcome much less than it once did. Our correspondent meets asylum-seekers on a Dutch ship, investigating the new hard-right government’s tactics with migrants (09:39). And a survey of where the very scrapiest skyscrapers are going up (17:42).