The Gist

How Do We Fix Down-Ballot Elections?

Gerrymandering, bathroom bills, and the Koch brothers: Reid Wilson walks us through the state of state and local races.

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A woman votes in the 2008 primary elections in Florida.

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In 2012, Republicans won a solid majority in the House of Representatives, but only 48 percent of the vote. How did it happen? The Hill’s national correspondent, Reid Wilson, talks about the unusual forces influencing down-ballot races this year. There’s more money from outside forces, like the Koch brothers, but also hyperlocal issues that get lost in coverage of the presidential race.

On the Spiel, Mike considers an appropriate response to the bombings in Manhattan and New Jersey.

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ABC’s new series Designated Survivor. Kiefer Sutherland stars as a Cabinet member who is thrust into the presidency after a devastating attack on the government. Designated Survivor premieres on ABC Wednesday, Sept. 21.

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