Armstrong & Getty On Demand: Episode Summary – "I Would Like Katie To Be President..."

Release Date: November 19, 2024

In this engaging episode of "Armstrong & Getty On Demand", hosts Armstrong and Getty delve deep into the intricacies of the American electoral system, focusing primarily on ranked choice voting (RCV). The discussion navigates through the benefits, challenges, and broader implications of implementing RCV in the United States, intertwined with critical insights on voter engagement and the current political landscape.

1. Introduction to Ranked Choice Voting

The episode kicks off with an intriguing statement from one of the speakers:

Unknown Speaker [01:30]: "I would like Katie to be president, but if she is not popular enough I would settle for Michelangelo. It's one more thing."

This leads into a broader discussion on alternative voting systems, particularly ranked choice voting. The hosts set the stage by questioning the efficacy of the current first-past-the-post system and exploring whether RCV could offer a more representative outcome.

2. Understanding Ranked Choice Voting

The conversation provides a comprehensive overview of how RCV operates:

Unknown Speaker [05:39]: "So I remember when well the first time and then subsequently I was had ranked choice voting described to me, I thought it sounded like a really good idea. The idea being in a primary especially, you got like, six people running and you've got a certain... you got, like, the same, the conservative vote spread over several people. And then there's one wackadoo."

The hosts explain that RCV allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, reducing the likelihood of vote splitting and ensuring that the elected candidate secures a broader base of support.

3. Implementation Challenges of RCV

Despite its theoretical advantages, the hosts discuss the practical hurdles in adopting RCV:

Unknown Speaker [07:37]: "Because your description of it there was longer than most people want to spend thinking about it. Right, okay."

They highlight issues such as public misunderstanding, logistical complexities, and resistance from entrenched political interests that hinder the widespread adoption of RCV.

4. Voter Engagement and Knowledge

A significant portion of the episode addresses voter apathy and the general populace's lack of political knowledge:

Anthony [09:07]: "Why is half the country not vote."

Unknown Speaker [09:20]: "I think it's the... What JoJo said that people don't pay attention. I had a friend on election day realize it was election day. She had no clue what was going on at all."

The hosts lament the low voter turnout and attribute it to factors such as disinterest, lack of education on political matters, and feelings of inefficacy among voters.

5. Critique of Current Political Strategies

The dialogue takes a critical turn towards current political strategies, especially identity politics:

Unknown Speaker [03:47]: "They still think identity politics is on the rise. It's not."

The hosts argue that overemphasis on identity markers can alienate voters who prioritize policy and governance over personal attributes of candidates.

6. Proposals for Enhancing the Voting System

In an attempt to bridge the gap between voters and the electoral process, the hosts propose several ideas:

Anthony [10:03]: "But I wonder what I... My sense from her was she doesn't feel like she's smart enough or something to be involved in that, which is a terrible way to end up as an adult."

Unknown Speaker [11:00]: "But the so, but so... We ought to send out that message just culturally."

One notable suggestion is the implementation of a "poll test", which would require voters to answer basic questions about the government before being eligible to vote:

Anthony [11:59]: "That's why I want a poll test. Who's the current president, vice president, name three branches of government. Who's the governor of your state? Those."

This proposal aims to ensure that voters possess a fundamental understanding of their government, thereby fostering a more informed electorate.

7. Concluding Thoughts on Voter Responsibility

The episode concludes with a strong emphasis on the importance of civic duty:

Unknown Speaker [11:24]: "We ought to send out that message just culturally. But if you don't want to, don't. I don't want to rock the vote."

The hosts advocate for a cultural shift towards valuing participation in the electoral process, encouraging listeners to take active roles in shaping their governance.

Notable Quotes

• Unknown Speaker [05:39]: "They tried it in Alaska, right? Yeah. They've tried it in a handful of different places."

• Anthony [07:42]: "Because most people don't care."

• Unknown Speaker [10:36]: "They want children to vote. Please. Could there be a more, you know, open and unvarnished attempt to do exactly what we're talking about?"

• Anthony [13:03]: "What percentage of Americans would you guess can name their governor?"

Conclusion

In "I Would Like Katie To Be President...", Armstrong & Getty provide a thought-provoking examination of ranked choice voting and its potential to revolutionize American elections. Through candid discussions, critical analysis, and innovative proposals, the hosts challenge listeners to reconsider the mechanics of their voting system and the role of individual responsibility in a functioning democracy. This episode serves as a compelling resource for anyone interested in electoral reform and the future of American politics.