State Legislatures and ALEC: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

Summary

The video script critiques the midterm elections, emphasizing the significant yet often overlooked role of state legislatures. It highlights the lack of productivity in Congress while state lawmakers pass thousands of laws, including controversial and absurd measures. Through humor and pointed commentary, it underscores the chaotic nature of state politics, spotlighting examples of legislative misconduct and the influence of organizations like ALEC. Ultimately, it calls attention to the importance of local elections, revealing how many candidates run unopposed, reflecting a troubling disengagement from the democratic process.

Takeaways

• 🗳️ The midterm elections are crucial, with the control of the Senate at stake.
• 🏛️ Congress is on track to be the least productive in history, despite significant attention on it.
• 📉 State legislatures are where most legislation is actually occurring, with over 24,000 laws passed compared to Congress's 185.
• 🎭 Many state legislative races draw attention due to bizarre and outrageous candidate behaviors.
• 📜 Some state laws have profound impacts, like raising the minimum wage and addressing abortion rights.
• 📉 State legislators often lack oversight, leading to conflicts of interest and questionable practices.
• ⚖️ Ethics commissions exist in many states, but their effectiveness is often rated poorly.
• 🏛️ Organizations like ALEC (American Legislative Exchange Council) significantly influence state legislation with model bills.
• 🏆 Many state legislators are unopposed in elections, winning simply by existing.
• 📊 Despite low public awareness, state legislatures play a vital role in shaping local and national policies.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the midterm elections discussed in the script?

The main focus is whether the Democrats will retain control of the Senate or if the Republicans will take over.

How does the script characterize the current Congress?

The current Congress is described as the least productive in history, with significant inaction expected regardless of which party controls the Senate.

Why does the script emphasize state legislative elections?

State legislative elections are emphasized because they are where most significant legislation is actually being passed, unlike the gridlock seen at the federal level.

What absurdities in state election campaigns are highlighted in the script?

Absurdities include bizarre political ads, such as one featuring a candidate with a bird on his hand and another with a violent imagery linked to the Constitution.

What does the script suggest about public perception of state legislators?

The script suggests that state legislators are often viewed as comedic or absurd figures due to their outrageous statements and behaviors, contributing to a perception of them as a circus.

What is noted about the number of laws passed by state legislatures compared to Congress?

State legislatures have passed over 24,000 laws in a session, compared to Congress, which has only passed 185, highlighting the significant legislative activity at the state level.

What are the concerns regarding ethics in state legislatures mentioned in the script?

There is a lack of oversight and accountability, with many ethics commissions receiving poor grades and instances of legislators failing to disclose conflicts of interest.

What role does the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) play in state legislation?

ALEC is described as a conservative organization that facilitates the development of model legislation, effectively acting as a 'bill mill' for state lawmakers.

How does the script illustrate the connection between state legislators and corporate interests?

The script indicates that many state legislators are influenced by corporate interests, particularly through ALEC, which provides ready-made legislation that aligns with corporate agendas.

What is the significance of the final comment about candidates running unopposed?

The comment underscores the alarming reality that many candidates are likely to win simply by existing, raising concerns about voter engagement and the democratic process.