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In Absentia

In Absentia

Written by: Connecticut Public
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Why does political dysfunction happen? What are the systems that enable it? This four-part investigation looks for answers in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where corruption charges, allegations of absentee ballot misconduct, and machine politics have left some residents wondering if their vote even matters. Learn more at ctpublic.org/bpt.

In Absentia is produced by Connecticut Public and hosted by Bria Lloyd and Kate Seltzer. The investigative editor is Jim Haddadin. The editors are Meg Dalton and Cassandra Basler.

For more investigative journalism from Connecticut Public, visit ctpublic.org/news/investigative.

 Political Science Politics & Government Social Sciences World
Episodes
  • 4: ‘The Most Confusing Election in the Country’

    4: ‘The Most Confusing Election in the Country’
    May 14 2024

    What systems enable political dysfunction? How can people in power be held accountable? In Bridgeport — and across Connecticut — people are working to change government through grassroots activism and election reforms.

    In Absentia is produced by Connecticut Public. Learn more at ctpublic.org/bpt.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    32 mins
  • 3: The Ballot Box in the Room

    3: The Ballot Box in the Room
    May 7 2024

    Mayor Joe Ganim keeps winning elections with the support of Bridgeport’s Democratic political machine. Machine politics has a rich and controversial history in the United States. Today, critics say it’s thriving in Bridgeport — and that it’s holding the city back.

    In Absentia is produced by Connecticut Public. Learn more at ctpublic.org/bpt.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    39 mins
  • 2: Second Chance City

    2: Second Chance City
    Apr 30 2024

    Once Joe Ganim was released from prison, he returned to the city of Bridgeport, Connecticut, where he staged his political comeback. In 2015, Ganim defeated several candidates to become mayor once again — and he’s been in office ever since.

    In Absentia is produced by Connecticut Public. Learn more at ctpublic.org/bpt.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    28 mins
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