Off to the races: our American-midterms preview
Summary
This episode examines the shifting dynamics of the US midterm elections, featuring a discussion with US editor Charlotte Howard on the potential for a Democratic "blue wave" and the risks of federal interference. The show also explores how rising stock market returns and high interest rates are making property less attractive as a primary path to wealth for young people. Finally, it reflects on the centenary of Harry Houdini’s death, analyzing his legacy as a master of both illusion and self-promotion.
Topics discussed
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Show intro and episode overview
Tina Barden's 2020 election error and threats
Ready for Tuesday tabletop exercises
Trump's threats to subvert midterms
Pinal County simulation: DOJ and FBI scenarios
Legal limits on federal election interference
Risks of contested counts and Trump's influence
Interview: Why this midterm is crucial
Congress as a check on the executive
Trump's unpopularity and economic factors
Blue wave possibilities and polling errors
Alaska election risks and delayed results
How The Economist will cover the results
Promo for Checks and Balance episode
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Sponsor: Superhuman Go AI assistant
Property vs. stocks: Changing wealth dynamics
Stocks surpassing real estate in household wealth
Decline of speculative property investing
Housing as a home vs. financial asset
Houdini's death and ghost stories
Houdini centenary events and exhibitions
Lessons on fame from Houdini's career
Houdini's training and scholarly approach
Houdini's use of mass media for promotion
Protecting the Houdini brand from imitators
Outro and Capital One ad
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