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
