The Lincoln Project Restoring Democracy’s Edge with Steven Fish
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May 14, 2024 Political Science Professor Steven Fish discusses the importance of Democrats reestablishing themselves as fearless leaders to restore democracy's edge and defeat Republicans. They talk about reclaiming patriotism, the emotional aspect of politics, winning strategies, American values in messaging, and the urgency of restoring democracy.
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Standard Explanation For Trump Falls Short
- Steven Fish found the usual explanation for Trump (economic decline + rising bigotry) lacks evidence in surveys and perceptions.
- He concludes the Democrats' inferred prescriptions from that story have largely failed to move voters.
Emotion, Not Policy, Drives Voting
- Fish argues politics is decided by emotion and who makes people feel good about their country rather than kitchen-table policy calculations.
- He warns Democrats have ceded patriotism to Republicans by being squeamish about national pride.
A Door Knock Win In East Las Vegas
- Reed Galen recounts knocking on a door in East Las Vegas where a man dismissed all politicians as crooks but agreed to look at his ballot.
- That small change of mindlet became a meaningful win in persuasion on the ground.