EPISODE · Apr 5, 2023 · 51 MIN
E25: Switzerland’s Version of the U.S. Constitution—But Smarter
from El Podcast · host Sacha Pictet, Jesse Wright, El Podcast, El Podcast Media
Swiss political leader and asset manager Sasha Pictet joins the show to explain how Switzerland’s unique system of direct democracy works—and what the U.S. might learn from it.Guest Bio: Sasha Pictet is a Swiss national, asset manager, and co-founder of Leo Ventures and Salva, a company focused on regenerative tourism. He is a member of the Green Liberal Party of Switzerland and currently resides in the United States.Topics Discussed:Why Swiss women only gained full voting rights in 1991Switzerland’s adoption and evolution of a U.S.-inspired constitutionHow direct democracy works in Switzerland (referenda, constitutional changes, voting logistics)Political party structure in Switzerland and the role of the Green Liberal PartyPublic education, healthcare, and taxation in Switzerland vs. the U.S.The flaws in U.S. presidential and electoral systemsSocial cohesion, representation, and trust in government institutionsThe limits of inclusivity politics and DEIWhat Americans misunderstand about European "socialism"If Sasha could import one feature of Swiss governance into the U.S. Best Quotes:“Only the Swiss would vote against giving themselves more vacation.”“In Switzerland, if you want to change the constitution, you don’t amend it—you rewrite it.”“The damage one person can do is far greater than what seven people can.”“We don’t talk about race like Americans do. We talk about people—humans.”“You don’t change the rules for 99.99% of people to accommodate 0.01%.”“If you could fix one thing in the U.S., I’d start with the right to petition Congress directly.”📺Watch the full podcast on YouTube➡️https://youtu.be/5ozbBsZfhvc?si=NdeG-4H-XYaWqStQ 🎙 The Pod is hosted by Jesse Wright💬 For guest suggestions, questions, or media inquiries, reach out at https://elpodcast.media/📬 Never miss an episode – subscribe and follow wherever you get your podcasts.⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show. It helps others find us. Thanks for listening!
What this episode covers
Swiss political leader Sasha Pictet explains how Switzerland adapted and improved upon the U.S. Constitution through direct democracy, where citizens can vote on nearly every policy and even change the constitution. He compares Swiss and American systems on education, taxation, representation, and civic participation—offering insight into how decentralized, citizen-led governance can create a more stable and inclusive society.
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E25: Switzerland’s Version of the U.S. Constitution—But Smarter
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