Reasons for Hope in 2024: John Nichols, plus the Bill Gates Problem | Start Making Sense with Jon Wiener
Jan 3, 2024
auto_awesome
John Nichols discusses reasons for hope in 2024, starting in Wisconsin. Bill Gates, the 6th richest man, and his philanthropy are discussed, examining the problems associated with his wealth. Tim Schwab explains the 'Bill Gates Problem' in detail, addressing the myth of the good billionaire and the controversies surrounding his foundation's actions.
Hope in 2024 is different from optimism or pessimism, embracing uncertainty and recognizing the potential for change.
Organizing efforts in swing states like Wisconsin provide encouraging signs for Democrats in the upcoming 2024 election.
Deep dives
Biden's Polling and Reasons for Hope in 2024
Despite initial concerns about Biden's polling, recent data suggests a competitive 2024 presidential race. John Nichols explains that hope in 2024 is different from optimism or pessimism, as it embraces uncertainty and recognizes the potential for change. He highlights the Wisconsin Democratic Party's hyper-local organizing strategy, which has led to significant victories and flipped control of key offices. Nichols argues that organizing efforts in swing states like Wisconsin provide encouraging signs for Democrats and the upcoming election.
The Outlook for Democrat-Controlled House in 2024
While the Democratic Party narrowly missed majority control in the 2022 midterm elections, there are reasons to be hopeful about the party's chances in 2024. John Nichols points out that the recent expulsion of George Santos and Lauren Bobert's shift to a safe district create competitive opportunities for Democrats. Additionally, redistricting has opened up new democratic districts in Alabama and Louisiana, with the possibility for more in New York and Wisconsin. Nichols suggests that if Biden runs a strong, issue-driven campaign and Democrats effectively communicate the chaos in the House and the need for change, there is a good chance they can regain control of the House of Representatives.
Referenda and Voter Motivation in Swing States
Referenda and popular initiatives are expected to drive voter turnout in some key swing states in the 2024 election. John Nichols highlights efforts in Arizona for an abortion rights referendum and in Ohio for an initiative promoting automatic voter registration and voting rights protections. He explains that these issues, along with others like legalizing marijuana and free and fair elections, can mobilize voters, particularly young voters. Nichols emphasizes that the focus on important causes and issues, beyond just the presidential candidate, can serve as a significant source of hope for progressives in 2024 and beyond.
The Problem with Bill Gates and his Philanthropy
Tim Schwab, investigative journalist and author of 'The Bill Gates Problem,' discusses the criticisms surrounding Bill Gates and his philanthropic efforts. Schwab argues that while the Gates Foundation has made significant contributions to global health, such as eradicating polio, there are concerns about the foundation's influence and the trade-offs made. He questions the Gates Foundation's focus on private sector solutions, its defense of pharmaceutical patent rights, and its impact on public health decisions. Schwab also highlights the foundation's influence on education reform, media outlets, think tanks, and advocacy groups, raising questions about the concentration of power in private hands.
Hope is different from optimism – it’s an embrace of uncertainty, and a basis for action. The polls look bad for Joe Biden, but Democrats’ chances are much brighter in the House, and perhaps the Senate. John Nichols talks about reasons for hope in 2024, starting in the tipping point state of 2020, Wisconsin.
Also: Bill Gates is now the 6th richest man in the world, with 104 billion dollars. He’s spent the last 20 years giving away some of his money--the Gates Foundation gave away $7 billion in 2022. But with the money comes a host of problems. Tim Schwab will explain; his new book has a great title: “The Bill Gates Problem: Reckoning with the Myth of the Good Billionaire.”