What Happens After a Blue Wave
Summary
Host Mary Harris interviews Jonathan Last, editor of The Bulwark, to temper expectations for the upcoming midterm elections. While Last predicts a likely Democratic House win and a competitive Senate race, he argues that victory will not solve fundamental political issues, drawing parallels to Brazil and France where right-wing movements persist despite electoral setbacks. The discussion highlights the limited power of new congressional leaders to reverse chaos and the strategic risks of a "blue wave," concluding that long-term stability depends on cultural shifts rather than just electoral…
Topics discussed
Slate's 30th anniversary and Slate Plus pledge drive
Introduction: Calling Jonathan Last for a reality check
Midterm predictions: House and Senate odds
The downside of a Democratic win: 2028 implications
Brazil comparison: Bolsonaro's family and dynastic politics
Global nationalism trends and demographic parallels
France example: The cost of repeated electoral defeats
Democratic leadership and the 'fringe' vs. mainstream
Impeaching Pete Hegseth and military politicization
Slate Plus sponsorship break
Healthcare policy and the Republican coalition shift
Limited power to stop chaos and accountability hearings
Trump's 2028 prospects and the frozen GOP race
Hope from grassroots candidates and constituent services
Candidate selection strategies and regional fit
Long-term sustainability and cultural change
Closing remarks and credits
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