Here's Where It Gets Interesting – Episode Summary: "America’s Deadliest Election with Dana Bash"

Release Date: October 14, 2024
Host: Sharon McMahon
Guest: Dana Bash, CNN Chief Political Correspondent and Author of "America’s Deadliest Election"

Introduction to Dana Bash and Her New Book

In this compelling episode, Sharon McMahon welcomes Dana Bash to discuss her latest book, "America’s Deadliest Election". Dana Bash, a prominent figure in political journalism, delves into a lesser-known yet pivotal election in American history that has profound implications for today’s political landscape.

Notable Quote:
Sharon McMahon introduces Dana Bash:

[01:07] Sharon McMahon: "You probably recognize her face and her name from CNN and she has a new book out on a topic that I think you are going to have some mind blown emojis appear above your head when you hear about."

The Current Election Climate vs. Historical Elections

Dana Bash draws parallels between the tumultuous 2024 election season and historical elections, emphasizing the unpredictability and intense partisan conflicts that characterize both eras.

Notable Quote:

[02:02] Dana Bash: "This is why we do what we do because we expect the unexpected and we certainly got it this summer."

The Unexpected Shift in the Democratic Ticket

A significant surprise discussed is President Joe Biden’s decision to step aside from the Democratic ticket, a move that caught many off guard, including Dana Bash.

Notable Quote:

[02:44] Dana Bash: "I would have said absolutely surprised in the day, two days, three days, maybe even a week afterwards."

The Influence of Nancy Pelosi

Sharon probes into the role Nancy Pelosi played in Biden’s exit from the race. Dana attributes substantial influence to Pelosi, highlighting her strategic maneuvers to safeguard the Democratic Party’s interests.

Notable Quote:

[04:47] Dana Bash: "Yes, because Nancy Pelosi... I believe that that moment, even though she did many interviews... I think we could be in a different place right now."

Trump's Strategic Adjustments

With Kamala Harris gaining unexpected momentum, Dana discusses how Donald Trump’s campaign is struggling to effectively counteract this shift, relying more on personal attacks than policy-based strategies.

Notable Quote:

[07:17] Dana Bash: "He is trying to find the right tactic in order to go after her. And he doesn't really fully know what to do with her."

Messaging vs. Policies in Voter Perception

The conversation underscores the importance of not just policy articulation but also the ability of candidates to connect emotionally with voters, making them care about the proposals being presented.

Notable Quote:

[09:09] Dana Bash: "It's the messenger as much as the message and the connection and the authenticity... that really matters."

The Impact of Social Media Algorithms

Dana expresses concern over how modern algorithms create echo chambers, limiting individuals’ exposure to objective information and reinforcing partisan viewpoints, thereby exacerbating divisions.

Notable Quote:

[12:00] Dana Bash: "They have created a feedback loop for every individual who is not making a point to seek out facts... unless you stop and say, let me go look at the objective truth."

Overview of "America’s Deadliest Election" and the 1872 Louisiana Election

Dana provides an in-depth look into her book, which explores the 1872 gubernatorial election in Louisiana. This election was marred by violence, voter suppression, and political corruption, leading to the Colfax Massacre and the eventual establishment of Jim Crow laws.

Notable Quote:

[21:19] Dana Bash: "The Colfax Massacre... 150 black voters were slaughtered by white voters in this parish."

The Colfax Massacre and Its Consequences

The discussion highlights the Colfax Massacre as a turning point that led to prolonged disenfranchisement and systemic racism, fundamentally altering the course of American civil rights.

Notable Quote:

[26:05] Dana Bash: "Reconstruction effectively ended, and that was really the final straw for any notion of equality for black Americans in the south for 100 years."

Collaboration and Research Process

Dana shares insights into her collaborative process with co-author David Fisher, detailing the extensive research conducted through historical newspapers and archival materials to accurately portray the election’s events and their lasting impact.

Notable Quote:

[33:27] Dana Bash: "All of the newspapers from back then, they're all online on newspapers.com... it allowed us to see the reporting and the point of view of the time."

Lessons from History for Modern Elections

Concluding the conversation, Dana emphasizes the critical importance of safeguarding electoral institutions and fostering trust in the democratic process to prevent history from repeating itself. She warns against the dangers of undermining election integrity, drawing lessons from the 1872 election’s legacy.

Notable Quote:

[39:34] Dana Bash: "We cannot take for granted the institutions that allow us to be a free and fair democracy."

Closing Thoughts

Sharon and Dana reflect on the enduring relevance of historical events in understanding and navigating today’s political challenges. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the constant vigilance required to maintain them.

Notable Quote:

[43:20] Dana Bash: "We have come a long way... it's so true what you said. To have the perspective of history, the context of what came before us to learn from."

Conclusion

This episode of "Here's Where It Gets Interesting" offers a profound exploration of a pivotal yet overlooked election in American history, drawing enlightening connections to contemporary political dynamics. Dana Bash’s expertise and engaging storytelling provide listeners with a deeper understanding of electoral integrity and the enduring struggle for civil rights.

Get the Book:
America’s Deadliest Election: The Cautionary Tale of the Most Violent Election in American History is available now wherever books are sold. Support local bookstores or purchase directly through bookshop.org.

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