My History Can Beat Up Your Politics WHAT I SAID BACK IN 2016 ABOUT THAT ELECTION: SEEMS SUPRISINGLY RELEVANT?
Nov 10, 2024
A reflective re-listen to Bruce’s 2016 take on that presidential result and why it still matters. He digs into overlooked 2008 details and the history of popular-vote losers. State-by-state geography, Maine’s split vote, and Lichtman’s prediction model get clear breakdowns. He also discusses polling framing, immediate presidential actions, and strategic dilemmas for the opposing party.
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Springsteen's Post-Election Response
- Bruce recounts Bruce Springsteen's frightened reaction to Reagan's 1980 election and the dark album Nebraska he produced afterward.
- Springsteen recorded Nebraska lo-fi as a solo demo that struggled to be processed into a studio record, creating its bleak sound.
Popular Vote Undercuts A Mandate
- Bruce argues Hillary Clinton's large popular-vote margin weakens claims of a governing mandate for Trump.
- He predicts a low initial presidential approval rating tied to lacking a popular-vote mandate.
Electoral College Vs. Popular Geography
- Bruce lists four elections where the popular vote winner lost the Electoral College and notes Clinton's was the largest popular-vote loss without the presidency.
- He emphasizes the unique distribution of Clinton's votes across populous blue states versus narrow losses in key swing states.