Grace takes a deep dive into political strategist, Lee Atwater, who rewrote the rules of South Carolina politics, as well as the nation. Atwater's unconventional strategies capitalized on racial bigotry, divisive false narratives and religious fundamentalism, to alter the narrative of the Republican party and ultimately led to the current ethos of the party.

00:00 Understanding the Political Success of Lee Atwater

00:39 The Grand Bargain and the Shift of Power

02:00 Lee Atwater's Early Life and Political Beginnings

02:51 Atwater's Game-Changing Political Strategies

04:16 Atwater's Five Rules of Politics

05:52 The Impact of Atwater's Tactics on the Republican Party

06:23 Atwater's Influence on the Reagan Campaign

06:52 The Power of Racial Division in Atwater's Strategy

09:30 Atwater's Use of Grievance Politics

10:35 Atwater's Relationship with the Press and Strategic Misrepresentation

12:05 Atwater's Legacy and Apology

12:22 Reflections on Atwater's Life and Impact

Copyright 2025 Grace Cowan

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