Saying Yes to Change: Basic Income, Voting Reform, Nuclear Energy, Housing & More

Exploring Innovations in Income Security, Democratic Reforms, Sustainable Solutions, and Global Alliances

Hello Political Reading Recap readers,

Here’s a brief look at what’s covered in each section of this week’s newsletter:

Basic Income: We examine a controversial U.S. basic income experiment, the potential of basic income to solve global poverty and environmental issues, LA County’s expansion of guaranteed stipends, and more.

Democracy: This section delves into the governance of the House with multiple parties, the restoration of the Voting Rights Act, the impact of unregulated money in U.S. politics, and other significant democratic reforms.

Sustainability: We explore the support for nuclear power in the U.S., innovations in water efficiency, the role of generative AI in sustainable food systems, and more.

Other News: Topics include U.S. military alliances, housing affordability, the benefits of paternity leave, and the debate over Medicare Advantage.

Additionally, we have an interesting question from a fan:

I think in 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris will win the election and become President, but it will be even closer than 2020. If the election were held today I believe her path to victory would be similar to what Joe Biden achieved in 2020, however, due to electoral college vote changes from the 2020 census and my prediction that she’d lose Nevada this would lead to a result of 297-241. Kamala Harris has sizeable momentum in her favor but presently this election is still a coin flip. This prediction should be taken with a massive grain of salt as there is still a lot of time between now and that is why I added the caveat about my specific prediction being based on if the election were held today. Between now and November there is still the Democratic National Convention and September debates that in my opinion likely give Kamala Harris some additional upside to assemble the same coalition Joe Biden rallied in 2020 if not even larger (North Carolina). Thank you for the question, Nnamdi, please let me know what you think.

My Current Electoral Map:

Readers, I’d love to hear from you too! If you have any news you’d like included or questions of your own that you’d like answered in future newsletters, please comment them below or look out for my posts on my social media pages asking for your input.

Basic Income

Experiments

San Diego’s First Guaranteed Income Program Successfully Aided 2800 People: San Diego’s guaranteed income program has provided significant support to low-income families, demonstrating the effectiveness of direct cash payments.

LA County to Consider Expanding Guaranteed Stipends to 2000 Foster Dependents: LA County’s Board of Supervisors is considering expanding its “Breathe” guaranteed-income program to include more foster dependents. This move could provide essential financial stability to vulnerable youth.

A US Basic Income Experiment That Wasn’t: This article critiques a recent income-transfer project in Illinois and Texas, arguing it was not a true test of basic income. It’s a must-read for understanding the nuances of basic income experiments.

Guaranteed Basic Income: This article provides an overview of various guaranteed basic income programs across the U.S., with a special focus on Baltimore, highlighting their successes and challenges. It’s a comprehensive look at the growing movement for guaranteed income.

Perspectives

Basic Income Could Solve Global Poverty and Stop Environmental Destruction: A study finds that providing a basic income could significantly boost global GDP and curb environmental degradation. This article highlights the transformative potential of basic income on a global scale.

What Would Happen If Everyone Received Unconditional Money With No Strings Attached: This piece explores the potential impacts of universal basic income, including improved quality of life and economic stability. It’s a thought-provoking read & listen on the broader implications of UBI.

A Better World is Possible: What is Basic Income and How Does it Support Well-being?: This article discusses how basic income can enhance well-being by reducing poverty and financial inequality. It’s an inspiring look at the potential benefits of UBI.

Democracy

Voting Rights & Electoral Reforms

Restoring the Voting Rights Act: This piece underscores the urgent need to restore the Voting Rights Act to protect the freedom to vote, especially for people of color. It’s a compelling argument for voting rights reforms.

Ranked-Choice Voting: This article examines the push for ranked-choice voting and its potential to improve electoral outcomes. It’s an insightful read on electoral reforms.

Biden and Ranked-Choice Voting: This piece explores President Biden’s stance on ranked-choice voting and its implications for future elections. It’s a timely analysis of a significant electoral reform.

Governing the House with Multiple Parties: This report explores how multiple parties in Congress could improve governance and policy delivery. It’s a crucial read for anyone interested in structural political reforms.

Campaign Finance & Judicial Reforms

Unregulated Money in US Politics- Reforms Needed: This article discusses the corrosive effects of unregulated money in U.S. politics and the necessary reforms to address this issue. It’s an eye-opening look at the influence of big money in politics.

Supreme Court Not Imperial: Congress Can Set Term Limits: This article argues that Congress has the authority to set term limits for Supreme Court justices. It’s a thought-provoking read on judicial reforms.

Joe Biden’s Supreme Court Reform: This piece discusses recent polling on Supreme Court reform and the public’s support for changes. It’s an important read on the future of the judiciary.

International Democratic Movements

Will the Resignation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Usher in a New Wave of Democracy?: This article explores the resignation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after weeks of protests, and the potential for democratic reforms under interim leadership. It’s a crucial read for understanding the political shifts and future democratic prospects in Bangladesh.

Sustainability

Clean Energy

Majority of Americans Support More Nuclear Power: This article highlights the growing support for nuclear power in the U.S. as a clean energy source. It’s a significant read on the future of energy.

China’s Nuclear Energy Breakthrough: This piece covers China’s recent advancements in nuclear energy technology. It’s an important read on global energy developments.

Breakthrough in Solar Energy Could Reduce Need for Solar Farms: Scientists at Oxford University have developed a revolutionary thin-film perovskite material that can be applied to everyday objects, generating solar electricity without the need for traditional silicon-based solar panels. This innovation promises to increase energy efficiency and reduce the reliance on large solar farms, making solar power more accessible and versatile.

Water, Food & Packaging Efficiency

Innovations in Water Efficiency: This piece explores how public-private partnerships can drive innovations in water efficiency and sustainability. It’s an inspiring look at collaborative efforts to address water challenges.

Generative AI for Sustainable Food Systems: This article discusses the potential of generative AI to revolutionize sustainable food systems. It’s a fascinating read on the intersection of technology and sustainability.

The Future of Sustainable Packaging- Innovations and Trends: This article reviews recent advancements in sustainable packaging, including biodegradable materials, edible packaging, and reusable solutions. It’s a must-read for understanding how innovative packaging can reduce environmental impact.

Public Transportation

Los Angeles Will Urge Public Transit for 2028 Olympic Games: This article discusses LA’s plans to promote public transit during the 2028 Olympics. It’s a timely read on urban sustainability.

Why is it so Hard for the U.S. to Build Quality Transit?: This piece explores why the U.S. struggles to develop high-quality transit systems compared to other countries. It highlights the benefits of investing in modern transit infrastructure and the challenges faced by the U.S. It’s an insightful read on the future of American transportation.

Other News

Housing YIMBY

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz: The First YIMBY Ticket in History?: This article discusses the potential impact of a Harris-Walz ticket on housing policies. It’s an intriguing read on political strategies.

YIMBYism is the Ultimate Localism: This piece argues that YIMBYism (Yes In My Backyard) is a powerful localism movement. It’s a compelling read on urban development.

Health & Family Policies

American Athletes and Free Healthcare at the Olympic Village: This article highlights how American athletes are benefiting from free healthcare at the Olympic Village in France. It’s an interesting read on health policies.

Government Support for Early Childcare: This piece explores the varying levels of government support for early childcare across different countries. It’s an insightful read on family policies.

Paternity Leave for Dads is a Major Win for Moms: This article discusses the benefits of paternity leave for both fathers and mothers. It’s a heartwarming read on family dynamics.

Foreign Policy

U.S. Officials Worried About Wider War in the Middle East: This piece discusses the increasing concerns among U.S. officials about a potential wider conflict in the Middle East. It’s a critical read on international relations.

U.S. and Allies Prepare to Defend Israel: This article covers the preparations by the U.S. and its allies to defend Israel amid rising tensions. It’s an important read on military alliances.

Rebuilding Trust in U.S. Foreign Policy: This piece explores the challenges and opportunities in rebuilding trust in U.S. foreign policy. It’s a thoughtful read on diplomatic relations.

Community Safety

York GVI Crime Reduction: This article highlights the success of York’s Group Violence Intervention program in reducing violent crime. It’s an encouraging read on effective crime prevention strategies.