The Swing State Power Brokers
Throughline
Deep Dive
Why did William Rehnquist challenge voters at polling places in Arizona in the 1960s?
Rehnquist, a well-known attorney, participated in a Republican program to challenge the eligibility of voters, particularly in Democratic-leaning precincts, to prevent alleged illegal voting.
Why did the 1973 labor strike by Arab Americans in a Michigan factory town spark a political movement?
The strike was a response to the UAW's purchase of Israeli bonds, which Arab workers saw as funding the occupation of their homeland. It led to broader labor and political organizing within the Arab American community.
Why did the Arab American community in Dearborn, Michigan, start running for local offices?
After the successful wildcat strike in 1973, the Arab American community gained political power and began running for city council and school board positions to address the needs of their growing immigrant community.
Why did the UAW sell some of its Israeli bonds after the 1973 strike?
The UAW sold some bonds to address the demands of the Arab American workers who organized the wildcat strike and to avoid further conflict and potential mass firings.
Why did Operation Eagle Eye, launched in 1964, target minority voters?
Operation Eagle Eye aimed to challenge or deter 1.25 million voters, particularly in minority and Democratic-leaning precincts, to suppress their votes and influence the presidential election.
- William Rehnquist, before becoming Chief Justice, was accused of challenging voters' eligibility in Arizona.
- Rehnquist advised Republicans on challenging voter eligibility and sometimes appeared at polling places himself.
- The 'Election Day program' aimed to challenge voters, particularly in Democratic-leaning and minority precincts.
- Eyewitnesses reported Rehnquist and other Republicans using tactics like literacy tests and intimidation.
- Rehnquist denied harassment claims but acknowledged his involvement in advising and being present at polling places.
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