Episode 8: 2020
The 2020 election may go down as one of the most contentious elections in U.S. history. We explore how that happened.
Swing State of the Union
In Swing State of the Union, hosts Joy Powers and Sam Woods delve into the pivotal and often overlooked arena of state politics, focusing intently on Wisconsin. This podcast moves beyond the national headlines to examine the forces shaping one of the country's most critical battlegrounds. The conversation centers on the structures of power close to home, particularly the judicial system. Recent bonus episodes serve as a deep investigation into two pressing questions: the mechanisms for holding judges accountable and the varying interpretations of Wisconsin’s constitution by its justices. Listeners will hear nuanced analysis, interviews with key stakeholders, and discussions that connect legal theory to tangible impacts on residents' lives. It’s a timely exploration for anyone seeking to understand how state courts influence democracy, rights, and daily life, offering clarity on complex political and legal landscapes through thoughtful, grounded reporting.
Episodes
Episode 7: Money talks
There’s an old adage in political journalism: “Follow the money.” But with super PACs, lobbyists and nonprofits funding campaigns and court cases, where do you start?
Episode 6: It's party time
Party politics dominates, both in Wisconsin and nationally. But what has that meant for our state, and what happens when the Republican party comes to Milwaukee this summer?
Episode 5: Us vs. Them
Politics in Wisconsin, and in the nation, often boils down to an “us vs. them" mentality. But how did we get here, and what’s keeping politics polarized?
Episode 4: Who gets to vote?
Statewide elections in Wisconsin are regularly close. With it being a presidential election year, the battle over who gets to vote takes center stage.
Episode 3: Labor left and right
Wisconsin has historically led the nation in creating, and limiting, union rights and bargaining power. We explore what that means for the state’s politics and culture.
Episode 2: Milwaukee vs. Wisconsin
Wisconsin, like many states, has a longstanding contentious relationship with its biggest city. Some politicians exploit this, to the detriment of everyone else.
Episode 1: Welcome to Wisconsin
As a swing state, Wisconsin has outsized influence in the 2024 election. What you may not know is Wisconsin has been influencing national policy for over 100 years.
Introducing 'Swing State of the Union'
Why is Wisconsin a swing state? That’s the question at the heart of this podcast, which explores the state’s historical and current political climate.
