The Daily Lessons from the Demise of a Voting Rights Bill
Jun 23, 2021
Nicholas Fandos, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, dives deep into the collapse of the For the People Act. He explores the significance of the filibuster in blocking crucial voting rights legislation and the partisan divides it exposed. The discussion reveals the internal struggles among Democrats and highlights the urgent need for reform as GOP-led states tighten voting laws. Fandos shares insights into how these events shape the future of democracy and the ongoing fight for voter protections.
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For the People Act's Evolution
- The For the People Act, a sprawling 800-page bill, addressed various electoral issues.
- Initially a messaging bill, it became a serious legislative proposal after Democrats gained control in Washington.
Bill's Scope and Original Intent
- The bill's broad scope, covering voter ID laws, felon voting rights, and campaign finance, made it difficult to adapt to the current political climate.
- It was originally designed as a symbolic statement rather than a practical piece of legislation.
Manchin's Objections and Advocacy Groups' Strategy
- Senator Joe Manchin, initially a co-sponsor, expressed concerns about the bill's partisan nature and specific provisions like eliminating voter ID laws.
- Advocacy groups prioritized keeping all their issues in the bill, despite its flaws, hoping to force a change in the filibuster rules.