How Minority Rule Threatens Democracy

This podcast episode explores the historical tensions between majority rule and minority rights in American democracy. It discusses how the founding fathers attempted to address this tension by creating institutions like the Electoral College and the Senate, but also highlights that they primarily protected the rights of a privileged white male minority. The episode examines how minority rule is still present in contemporary politics, particularly in the Supreme Court where conservative justices have been appointed by presidents who lost the popular vote and confirmed by senators representing a minority of Americans. It also delves into how minority rule has been used in states like Wisconsin to undermine democracy. The episode concludes by discussing the influence of figures like Pat Buchanan on the Republican Party and the growing anti-democratic forces within it. It raises concerns about the potential for an authoritarian takeover in the 2024 election and emphasizes the importance of state-level efforts to protect democracy.