Are Primary Elections Ruining Democracy?
Open to Debate4 Nov 2022

Are Primary Elections Ruining Democracy?

The U.S. Constitution has a lot to say about elections. But nowhere is there any mention of political primaries, the process by which candidates are winnowed down ahead of a general election. Though they may seem integral to the U.S. system, primaries in fact are a relatively new phenomenon, borne of the turn of the 20th century when reformers sought to wrangle power from political party bosses. Of course, quite a lot has changed since the days of Tammany Hall. Gerrymandering has greatly reduced competitive districts, while the urban-rural divide has grown exponentially. Divisions run deep, with social media capable of dramatically shifting the political landscape at unprecedented speed. Many see primary elections as a principal culprit of what they consider an undermined democracy, fueling extremism, hindering compromise, and lending too much power to partisans. Others argue that primaries are an important bulwark against political corruption and a hedge against elitism. In this context, we ask: Are Primary Elections Ruining Democracy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episoder(455)

Could Dating an AI Be Better Than Dating a Human?

Could Dating an AI Be Better Than Dating a Human?

Love in the time of AI? Some people seeking romance or friendship are turning to AI chatbots to fulfill those desires, but could they surpass traditional human relationships? Those who say they can ar...

13 Feb 53min

Is U.S. Control of Limited Territory in Greenland A Strategic Necessity?

Is U.S. Control of Limited Territory in Greenland A Strategic Necessity?

Greenland has become a geopolitical flashpoint. President Trump wants control of it, or at least sovereignty over some areas for military purposes, arguing that the United States gaining some territor...

6 Feb 53min

Legalize Assisted Suicide?

Legalize Assisted Suicide?

In December of 2025, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced that after months of negotiations with the state legislature, she was finally ready to sign into law a new bill allowing some patien...

30 Jan 53min

Innovation or Intrusion: The Big Data Debate

Innovation or Intrusion: The Big Data Debate

Every click, search, and online purchase feeds the data economy, driving AI, global business, and even political campaigns. But with risks growing in the private and public spheres, is Big Data advanc...

23 Jan 53min

Is It OK to Pay for Sex?

Is It OK to Pay for Sex?

Prostitution remains heavily stigmatized and legally complex globally. Those in favor of paying for sex and support decriminalization argue that it’s a profession that deserves as much respect as any ...

16 Jan 53min

Does AA Work?

Does AA Work?

Millions of people have credited Alcoholics Anonymous with helping them stay sober from alcohol, but is it the best path for everyone? Those who say “yes” argue it is easily accessible to all and that...

9 Jan 53min

Has Feminism Hurt Women?

Has Feminism Hurt Women?

From the 19th Amendment to the #MeToo movement, the feminist movement has profoundly reshaped society. But have its good intentions backfired? Those arguing it hasn’t note that it’s allowed women the ...

2 Jan 53min

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

America is suffering from a loneliness epidemic. Some groups have suggested religious communities may be key to solving it. Could it help? Those arguing “yes” say it gives people regular social contac...

26 Des 202553min

Populært innen Politikk og nyheter

giver-og-gjengen-vg
aftenpodden
aftenpodden-usa
popradet
forklart
lydartikler-fra-aftenposten
stopp-verden
dine-penger-pengeradet
rss-gukild-johaug
det-store-bildet
rss-ness
nokon-ma-ga
hanna-de-heldige
fotballpodden-2
aftenbla-bla
rss-penger-polser-og-politikk
rss-dannet-uten-piano
rss-utenrikskomiteen-med-bogen-og-grasvik
e24-podden
bt-dokumentar-2