Can Dems flip state legislatures?
Summary
This episode examines the critical importance of state legislative control in the 2024 midterms, focusing on Wisconsin’s race for a Democratic trifecta. Host Estee Herndon interviews State Assemblywoman Francesca Hong, who discusses the policy implications of winning the governor’s mansion and both legislative chambers. The conversation covers the challenges of appealing to rural voters, the impact of gerrymandering, and the internal party dynamics following Hong’s narrow primary loss to David Crowley.
Topics discussed
Why state legislatures matter as much as Congress
Current state trifectas and the potential for a blue wave
Policy implications of a Democratic trifecta
Introduction to Wisconsin and guest Francesca Hong
Podcast sponsorships and cross-promotions
Wisconsin's history of gerrymandering and one-party control
Francesca Hong's role in the current campaign
The challenge of winning in rural Wisconsin communities
Interview: The importance of a full Democratic trifecta
Specific policies at stake: minimum wage, marijuana, Act 10
Economic factors driving rural voter sentiment
How gerrymandering blocked Democratic progress for 12 years
Data centers as a local control and democracy issue
David Crowley's stance on data centers vs. a moratorium
Local moratoriums and holding officials accountable
Reflecting on the primary loss and staying grounded
The impact of Governor Evers' endorsement on the race
Debate on electability, labels, and establishment narratives
Reuniting the party and focusing on the trifecta
Why Wisconsin's trifecta matters for national Democrats
Balancing despair with hope for the general election
Transition to Francesca Hong's speech at the brewery
Sponsor: Chime fee-free banking
Sponsor: Unexplainable podcast on music and movement
Sponsor: Gastropod podcast on fiber
Context: The specific seats needed to flip the legislature
Hong's speech: Rallying supporters for down-ballot success
Interviewing attendees at the Menominee campaign event
Attendee perspectives: Why they supported Hong
Transitioning support from Hong to David Crowley
Dealing with disappointment and primary 'family feuds'
What rural voters want: tangible change over centrism
Does the Democratic Party have a brand problem in rural areas?
Critique of Democratic assertiveness and 'spinelessness'
Legislative reality: The blockage of Democratic bills
Defining the standard for success on election night
Key takeaways: Rural voter desires and party unity
The necessity of the progressive wing for a blue wave
Show credits and subscription information
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