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All Politics Is Local: Why Progressives Must Fight for the States
Why Democrats have largely ceded control of local and state governments to the GOP--and why that is turning out to be a huge problem for democracy
After the 2016 election, the Republican Party seized control not just of the White House and Congress but of many state governments. To be precise, the GOP seized control of both legislative chambers in 32 states and governor offices in 33 states-a majority the party hadn't held since 1928. What happened?
In In the Red, journalist Meaghan Winter argues that over the last couple decades, the Democratic Party has made a very risky strategic choice to abandon state and local races in order to win federal races, while the GOP poured money into winning state governor seats and state congresses. For Republicans, it paid off.
For Democrats--and the American public--the fallout has been catastrophic. Abortion access is more restricted than it has been in decades; gun control legislation has become even harder to pass; and ID laws are undermining voting rights. In states across the country, activists on the ground are fighting massive Republican power alone, liberal and progressive candidates are running campaigns with no support, and American citizens are suffering.
If the Democratic Party establishment changes its strategy--and soon--there is hope. Meaghan Winter's book reminds us of the importance of robust local politics and the role that states can play in checking presidential power.
After the 2016 election, the Republican Party seized control not just of the White House and Congress but of many state governments. To be precise, the GOP seized control of both legislative chambers in 32 states and governor offices in 33 states-a majority the party hadn't held since 1928. What happened?
In In the Red, journalist Meaghan Winter argues that over the last couple decades, the Democratic Party has made a very risky strategic choice to abandon state and local races in order to win federal races, while the GOP poured money into winning state governor seats and state congresses. For Republicans, it paid off.
For Democrats--and the American public--the fallout has been catastrophic. Abortion access is more restricted than it has been in decades; gun control legislation has become even harder to pass; and ID laws are undermining voting rights. In states across the country, activists on the ground are fighting massive Republican power alone, liberal and progressive candidates are running campaigns with no support, and American citizens are suffering.
If the Democratic Party establishment changes its strategy--and soon--there is hope. Meaghan Winter's book reminds us of the importance of robust local politics and the role that states can play in checking presidential power.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published October 1, 2019
18 people are currently reading
1148 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 12, 2019
This book has a lot of good pieces to it. There are many examples presented that illustrate why as progressives, we need to renew our focus on state and local politics. The descriptions of each phenomenon are well-researched and, individually, they are interesting.
However, I couldn't help but get the sense that the pieces were written first, and the author sought to create an argument to unify them later on. As a whole, this book lacks cohesiveness. Topics often change rapidly, with little to no warning. The sections of text that are meant to tie different threads together, like the introductory chapter and transition paragraphs, are disjointed and confusing. Sometimes, necessary transitions are missing altogether.
Rather than appearing to be a single text, this reads like a collection of long-form essays or profiles. Perhaps it would be better to re-imagine this text as exactly that? Right now, trying to force this into presenting a single, connected argument doesn't quite work, but the individual pieces *are* well-written.
This text outlines many problems with progressive politics, but its epilogue addresses their solutions as an afterthought. I'd love to see this section expanded considerably so that it outlines a specific plan of action.
Because this seems like a work in progress, I'd rate it at 2.5 stars and round up to 3. (If this does get significantly reworked before publication, I'd love to revisit the text.)
Thanks to Perseus Books and NetGalley for providing me with a DRC of this book, which will be available for purchase on October 1st.
However, I couldn't help but get the sense that the pieces were written first, and the author sought to create an argument to unify them later on. As a whole, this book lacks cohesiveness. Topics often change rapidly, with little to no warning. The sections of text that are meant to tie different threads together, like the introductory chapter and transition paragraphs, are disjointed and confusing. Sometimes, necessary transitions are missing altogether.
Rather than appearing to be a single text, this reads like a collection of long-form essays or profiles. Perhaps it would be better to re-imagine this text as exactly that? Right now, trying to force this into presenting a single, connected argument doesn't quite work, but the individual pieces *are* well-written.
This text outlines many problems with progressive politics, but its epilogue addresses their solutions as an afterthought. I'd love to see this section expanded considerably so that it outlines a specific plan of action.
Because this seems like a work in progress, I'd rate it at 2.5 stars and round up to 3. (If this does get significantly reworked before publication, I'd love to revisit the text.)
Thanks to Perseus Books and NetGalley for providing me with a DRC of this book, which will be available for purchase on October 1st.
September 24, 2019
The author is a talented writer, consistently putting forth persuasive arguments to back up her points. Unfortunately, many times only the information that will support her points is included, and many well-known and easily found facts that contradict her words are omitted. While the author presents many interesting thoughts that make sense, it is discouraging to read what could be considered as falsehoods by omission. This reduces many sections to everyday political slant, mostly from the Progressive viewpoint.
Even as she describes the danger of state governments becoming Red states, most others acknowledge the country is moving more to the left. The author attempts to paint some people and organizations as Republicans centrists, although I would consider most of those she names as Democrats (and not Progressives). If you are not sure of this shift, consider George W. Bush and John F. Kennedy. Carefully examine their policies and stances on different issues, and then decide which president stands more to the left of the other.
The author also argues that this shift in state government is hurting the Democratic Party, and to some degree I agree with her. On a more simplistic look at the issue, about a third of the country identifies with the Democrats and a third identify with the Republicans. Winning the hearts and minds of those in the middle – Independents – can be viewed as how to win elections. If this is true (and I am not totally discounting the weight of having a state legislature and Governor in your corner), then perhaps it is the policies (or how they are presented) that are not appealing to these swing voters. Just a thought.
Personally, I feel it is more persuasive to present both sides of the argument, fairly balanced, and then make your pitch. This gives readers a chance to make up their own mind as opposed to being led to the trough of water an author wishes for us to drink. This book presents points to consider, but loses weight when one does a little research and realizes what has been left out. As with the majority of political books nowadays, Progressives will love it and those on the Right will ignore it. I give this book five stars for the writing and how the book is set up, but reduce it to three stars for the doesn’t-fit-my-argument omissions. Three stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Perseus Books, Public Affairs for a complimentary advance ebook of this title.
Even as she describes the danger of state governments becoming Red states, most others acknowledge the country is moving more to the left. The author attempts to paint some people and organizations as Republicans centrists, although I would consider most of those she names as Democrats (and not Progressives). If you are not sure of this shift, consider George W. Bush and John F. Kennedy. Carefully examine their policies and stances on different issues, and then decide which president stands more to the left of the other.
The author also argues that this shift in state government is hurting the Democratic Party, and to some degree I agree with her. On a more simplistic look at the issue, about a third of the country identifies with the Democrats and a third identify with the Republicans. Winning the hearts and minds of those in the middle – Independents – can be viewed as how to win elections. If this is true (and I am not totally discounting the weight of having a state legislature and Governor in your corner), then perhaps it is the policies (or how they are presented) that are not appealing to these swing voters. Just a thought.
Personally, I feel it is more persuasive to present both sides of the argument, fairly balanced, and then make your pitch. This gives readers a chance to make up their own mind as opposed to being led to the trough of water an author wishes for us to drink. This book presents points to consider, but loses weight when one does a little research and realizes what has been left out. As with the majority of political books nowadays, Progressives will love it and those on the Right will ignore it. I give this book five stars for the writing and how the book is set up, but reduce it to three stars for the doesn’t-fit-my-argument omissions. Three stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Perseus Books, Public Affairs for a complimentary advance ebook of this title.
October 7, 2019
Like many liberals, I was upset and confused by the 2016 election. How did we go from Obama to…this? What did the Democratic Party do—or not do—that led to Republicans having the largest majority since 1928, and how can we correct for 2020 and beyond?
All Politics is Local answers those questions. It’s an urgent and illuminating look at political power and the last several decades of Democratic strategy as well as a fascinating examination of state politics in Missouri, Colorado, and Florida, which continue to be crucial battlegrounds. Thoroughly researched and reported while also totally accessible and readable, it shows why state races not only matter, but determine our future. Instead of leaving me angry (like the news), All Politics is Local left me feeling inspired, optimistic, and ready to fight.
All Politics is Local answers those questions. It’s an urgent and illuminating look at political power and the last several decades of Democratic strategy as well as a fascinating examination of state politics in Missouri, Colorado, and Florida, which continue to be crucial battlegrounds. Thoroughly researched and reported while also totally accessible and readable, it shows why state races not only matter, but determine our future. Instead of leaving me angry (like the news), All Politics is Local left me feeling inspired, optimistic, and ready to fight.
not-interested
August 2, 2019LOL!
I'll pass.
Just from the summary:
1. Abortion after the first trimester should be restricted or banned. After that point, it is murder.
2. The right to bear arms "Shall not be infringed". The second amendment was created by the forefathers after liberating a nation.
3. You need an ID to drive, to buy alcohol, to get a plane ticket, etc. so yes, an ID to vote makes sense. If you are not a citizen of the U.S., you should NOT be able to vote in our elections.
4. Open borders is a terrible idea. For the safety and prosperity of this country, we need to know who and why immigrants are wanting to come here and how they will contribute to our nation, not be a burden on it.
I don't need to read this book to know the Democrats are the ones undermining this nation by wanting to do the opposite of what is in the constitution, not the GOP.
I'll pass.
Just from the summary:
1. Abortion after the first trimester should be restricted or banned. After that point, it is murder.
2. The right to bear arms "Shall not be infringed". The second amendment was created by the forefathers after liberating a nation.
3. You need an ID to drive, to buy alcohol, to get a plane ticket, etc. so yes, an ID to vote makes sense. If you are not a citizen of the U.S., you should NOT be able to vote in our elections.
4. Open borders is a terrible idea. For the safety and prosperity of this country, we need to know who and why immigrants are wanting to come here and how they will contribute to our nation, not be a burden on it.
I don't need to read this book to know the Democrats are the ones undermining this nation by wanting to do the opposite of what is in the constitution, not the GOP.
November 9, 2020
A very good book that describes political organizing's failures and successes through three case studies in Colorado, Missouri, and Florida. Especially important analysis and recommendations post-2020 elections, when Democrats failed to win over many voters in Senate, House, and state legislature races.
January 18, 2021
I thought this book might be a one-note argument for investing in state and local politics, however, it offers so much more. Winter lays out the chronology and evolution of Democratic investments, key players and organizing over the last 20 years, which I found incredibly illuminating.
She also dives into a few key states, which for various reasons serve as a bellwether and reflection of what has worked, what hasn't worked and what is needed in order to sustain longterm positive change in everyday lives of Americans.
She also dives into a few key states, which for various reasons serve as a bellwether and reflection of what has worked, what hasn't worked and what is needed in order to sustain longterm positive change in everyday lives of Americans.
Read
June 22, 2023A look at the landscape and history of politics from the strategies focusing on local vs national and the effects of those strategies on progressive politics. Told from a white woman's perspective, it would be interesting to see this from other perspectives a well incorporated into this book. Very informative if you didn't already have a base of understanding of historical partisan strategy.
January 25, 2020
Meaghan Winter makes a compelling case for why progressives must expand beyond their traditional focus on federal (especially presidential) elections and fight for control of state government as well. "[I]n November 2016... Republicans won control of either the state legislature or the governorship, or both, in forty-four states. In twenty-five of those states, like Florida, Republicans had hit the trifecta—governorship, House, and Senate. Democrats, meanwhile, had a trifecta in six coastal states." Control of state governments potentially means control of state policies that affect people's daily lives (e.g. gun control), utility commissions which can require utilities to generate their energy from zero-carbon sources (or not), gerrymandering of districts, voter rights including voter ID and registration laws, preemption laws that restrict city power, etc. The latter three affect federal and local power.
If I took one thing away from this book, it was this: if I want to make an impact through electoral politics (influencing who gets elected to political office), I best focus on recreating New Era Colorado in states which are battlegrounds for US Senate seats and/or the presidential race. New Era Colorado is a nonprofit that registers young voters and gets them out to vote, trains people to run for office, and lobbies for and passes policies like pro-voter laws (in Colorado, you can register to vote on the same day as the election!), protections for student loan borrowers and innovative climate policies. They explain their success as the result of trying to make these activities fun and a habitual part of the lives of young communities.
If I took one thing away from this book, it was this: if I want to make an impact through electoral politics (influencing who gets elected to political office), I best focus on recreating New Era Colorado in states which are battlegrounds for US Senate seats and/or the presidential race. New Era Colorado is a nonprofit that registers young voters and gets them out to vote, trains people to run for office, and lobbies for and passes policies like pro-voter laws (in Colorado, you can register to vote on the same day as the election!), protections for student loan borrowers and innovative climate policies. They explain their success as the result of trying to make these activities fun and a habitual part of the lives of young communities.
September 28, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
A good overview of what has happened in politics recently, and its origins thirtyish years ago. Good focus on specific states instead of trying to cover everything, and good use of Cass studies to show what worked and what didn't. I follow politics pretty closely and live in one of the state's discussed so a lot of this wasn't new to me, but it was still a good read. I believe this would provide a lot of good information for someone less into politics who wants to understand why some things have happened.
A good overview of what has happened in politics recently, and its origins thirtyish years ago. Good focus on specific states instead of trying to cover everything, and good use of Cass studies to show what worked and what didn't. I follow politics pretty closely and live in one of the state's discussed so a lot of this wasn't new to me, but it was still a good read. I believe this would provide a lot of good information for someone less into politics who wants to understand why some things have happened.
February 9, 2022
Winter makes a pretty good case for what the Republicans have done well by focusing their energy at the state level while Democrats have focused too much of their efforts at the national level over the last few decades. The book is clearly aimed at Democrats as it both an indictment of what they have been doing as well as a prescription for what they should be doing. It clearly will be a long slog and require a lot of time and effort in the trenches in dreary state capitols across the country to catch up with the Republicans, but that is what Winter says will be necessary. I listened to this on audio in car while driving. Winter was the reader. I learned a lot. I recommend it.
July 12, 2019
Recommend this book if you are following US politics and you want the backstory on Democrats having serious issues. Heavy on information that you don't get watching CNN and MSNBC but it is a quick read.
Read
January 26, 2020Had high hopes for this one based on a Kirkus Review. But just a depressing history of how things went so wrong in four states. If there were tips on how we can change things, they were too hard to find. Gave up soon after starting.
July 4, 2021
I learned so much about corruption in Florida and local politics in different states. It is so important that people pay attention and be activists!! Voting is only one small piece of how we get there.
July 19, 2022
Written as one long train of thought without much organization so if there is any specific information you are looking for it will be hard to find. Otherwise, it has some useful information on the efficacy of state vs national groups
August 3, 2025
Good historical perspective about Democrats giving up on local and state elections to focus most efforts on federal offices.
Looks at how Missouri turned from blue to red in 2001 with GOP focus on abortion and guns "to protect white Christian families."
Looks at how Missouri turned from blue to red in 2001 with GOP focus on abortion and guns "to protect white Christian families."
October 5, 2019
Well presented case studies and important focus.
April 17, 2020
Really good!
Talks about gun control, abortion, youth voting, etc. How money affects politics and political organizations. How organizing for political action can be done strategically.
Talks about gun control, abortion, youth voting, etc. How money affects politics and political organizations. How organizing for political action can be done strategically.
May 23, 2020
An elegantly written and compelling look into local politics and why they matter now more than ever.
January 26, 2021
Some good content. Winter uses Colorado, Florida, and Missouri for her examples.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews