Debating Democracy: Georgia Politics, the 17th Amendment, and Shifting Electoral Winds

In this episode, host David McLaughlin and co-hosts Catherine Smith and Tim Shiflett delve into a wide range of political topics, beginning with national issues like the Oscars and President Carter’s comments on Argo before turning to state politics in Georgia. The primary focus is a growing movement among several Republican state legislators to repeal the 17th Amendment, which mandates the direct election of U.S. senators. The hosts explore the historical context of the amendment, noting that it was created to curb corruption resulting from state-appointed senators. They critique the modern push to reverse it, suggesting it is driven by partisan anxieties, talk-radio-fueled distrust of voters, and efforts by politicians to appease their conservative base despite the proposal having no realistic chance of success.The discussion expands into Georgia’s shifting political landscape. Polling shows Governor Nathan Deal with low approval numbers but maintaining leads over potential Democratic challengers due to Georgia’s Republican leaning and the relatively low statewide name recognition of figures like John Barrow, Kasim Reed, and Jason Carter. However, demographic trends and recent polls (PPP and Harper Polling) indicate stronger-than-expected Democratic performance, including Hillary Clinton leading multiple hypothetical 2016 matchups—even with samples skewed more white than Georgia’s actual electorate.The hosts debate what these numbers mean for future elections, highlighting growing Democratic strength, persistent GOP image problems, and voter concerns such as the absence of women holding statewide office. The episode sets the stage for a follow-up interview with legislator Buzz Brockway, a supporter of the repeal resolution.