Ari Berman discusses how Wisconsin showcases one party's ability to maintain power without majority votes, gerrymandering impact on state politics, and the Supreme Court dynamics. The podcast delves into election process security, AI in supply chain logistics, and Republican strategies in swing states like Wisconsin.
Gerrymandering in Wisconsin led to undemocratic outcomes favoring one party despite popular vote percentages.
Recent developments, including progressive victories and court rulings, suggest a potential shift towards competitive elections in Wisconsin.
Deep dives
Challenges in Election Administration
Despite the efforts of election officials in Wisconsin to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, challenges persist. The podcast highlights the concerns raised by officials such as the Dane County District Attorney regarding election deniers targeting purple counties like Dane. The episode underscores the essential role of election workers and the dedicated measures taken to secure elections, including preparation for potential threats like active shooters.
Impact of Gerrymandering in Wisconsin
The podcast discusses the influence of gerrymandering on Wisconsin's political landscape, particularly after the Republican majority's redrawing of district maps post-2010. The strategic precision employed in gerrymandering is exemplified in cases like Racine, where districts were manipulated for partisan advantage. The effects of gerrymandering led to a lack of competitive elections, skewing representation in favor of Republicans despite popular vote percentages.
Shifts in Wisconsin's Political Environment
With recent developments like the election of a progressive justice and rulings by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, there are signs of change in the state's political dynamics. The emergence of competitive electoral districts after years of non-competitive races reflects a potential shift. Additionally, the court's decisions on voting practices, such as allowing drop boxes, mark a departure from restrictive measures, indicating a changing landscape for future elections in Wisconsin.
A perennial presidential battleground state, Wisconsin became a warning—or blueprint—for how one party can subvert democracy and keep power without winning more votes.
Does the Badger State hold any lessons about how to walk back a gerrymandered, minority rule?
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Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.