These are some of the stories from the “inside pages” that caught my eye the week ending May 20:
This NYT headline may well elicit a reaction from some. However, as the New York Times articulates, numbers do not lie. Over the past decade:
Every Australian of age had to go to the polls on Saturday, May 21 as voting is compulsory. The result – Aussies have elected Anthony Albanese, Labour over the incumbent, Scott Morrison, Liberal. Liberals in Australia equal Conservatives in Canada and the UK. So, a move to the left!
This is not what I found interesting. Friday’s Monocle Daily reminded me that every Australian voter must cast his or her ballot. While neither Morrison or Albanese inspire, voter turnout is assured. Monocle puts forward the argument that Australia’s political placidity results from the compulsory vote. Not only does this rule force turnout, it ensures that voting rights and poll access are as broad as possible. Geez! The makings of a real democracy?
“Australian politicians cannot win by winding up a partisan minority base and must pitch their case more broadly”. Andrew Mueller, The Monocle Daily, May 20, 2021
The economist features an interesting article on the drop of public transit trips in London. Some selected statistics:
Much of the commuter decline relates to changing work habits and not fear of public transit. While the statistics will be different from metropolitan area to metropolitan area. However, the trends will likely be similar.
So what to do? It seems to me that the surge in gasoline prices should drive more people onto public transit. So, lower and simplify fares to make the choice between car and bus more self-evident? Also, continue to encourage active transportation – more pedestrian streets and cycling lanes? And maybe, better coordination all forms of public transit including bicycle-share programs. Ease and convenience of use will drive ridership.
“The House GOP leadership has enabled white nationalism, white supremacy, and anti-semitism. History has taught us that what begins with words ends in far worse. @GOP leaders must renounce and reject these views and those who hold them.”
Liz Cheney, Representative, Republican, Wyoming
That’s it for the week ending May 20.
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