If You Want to Understand the Country, Pay Attention to These Local Races

By Daniel Nichanian and Lauren Dominguez Chan

Mr. Nichanian is the editor in chief of Bolts, a magazine that covers local politics. Ms. Dominguez Chan is a researcher in Times Opinion.

National politics dominate people’s attention, but local politics often play a greater role in shaping their lives. Daniel Nichanian reports on local politics as the founder and editor in chief of Bolts, which publishes an annual election guide. In a written conversation with Lauren Dominguez Chan, the lead researcher for the Times editorial board, they discuss the down-ballot races with the........

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