Ep 1. Hindsight is 2020: An Unprecedented Election
- January 15, 2021
Hindsight is 2020: An Unprecedented Election is the first episode of season 6 of CBSN Originals, a news program that focuses on in-depth, investigative reporting. This episode takes a look at the 2020 United States presidential election, which was unlike any other in history.
As the COVID-19 pandemic raged across America in 2020, the election was beset by unprecedented challenges. With social distancing measures in place, traditional campaigning methods like rallies and meet-and-greets were not possible, and candidates had to rely on virtual events to connect with voters. Meanwhile, concerns over the safety of in-person voting and the logistical complications of mail-in voting created a host of other issues.
The episode explores how these challenges played out on the ground, with in-depth reporting and expert analysis. It looks at the efforts of both parties to adapt to the new environment, including the Trump campaign's push for in-person rallies and the Biden campaign's emphasis on virtual events.
The episode also delves into the impact of misinformation and disinformation on the election. From baseless allegations of voter fraud to conspiracy theories about the origins of the coronavirus, false information was rampant in the lead-up to the election. The program investigates how this affected the voting public and the role social media platforms played in perpetuating and amplifying false narratives.
In addition, the program examines how the election was affected by the racial justice protests that swept the country in 2020. With many Americans taking to the streets to demand an end to police brutality and systemic racism, the election became a referendum on issues of social justice. The program explores how these events influenced the voting public and how they shaped the outcome of the election.
Throughout the episode, viewers are given a behind-the-scenes look at the mechanics of the election. From the deployment of millions of mail-in ballots to the efforts of poll workers to ensure the safety and security of in-person voting, the program offers a glimpse into the complex machinery that underpins America's democracy.
Finally, the program looks ahead to what the results of the election mean for the future of America. With a divided country and a political landscape characterized by deep partisanship, the episode examines how the president-elect, Joe Biden, plans to navigate this new terrain and what challenges lie ahead.
Hindsight is 2020: An Unprecedented Election offers a comprehensive look at one of the most unique and momentous events in American history. With expert analysis and on-the-ground reporting, the program provides a nuanced and insightful view of the 2020 election and its aftermath.