Which Way, L.A.?
Merging Airlines, Reforming Politics and Managing Public Lands
Would taking the parties out of primary elections take "the jackass quotient" out of state politics? We hear about Proposition 14 on next month's ballot. Also, why are Olvera Street merchants getting a rent increase while a billionaire may get city property for a dollar a year? On our rebroadcast of To the Point, the merger of United and Continental will leave the US with just four major airlines.
By Warren Olney • • 53m ListenProposition 14 would take the parties out of primary elections and let voters pick any candidate they chose. Would they go for moderates instead of extremists? We hear a debate. We also hear about the latest rent dispute on LA's Olvera Street and the possibility of giving billionaire Eli Broad 82,000 square of public land for a dollar a year. On our rebroadcast of today's To the Point, the merger of United and Continental will leave the US with just four major airlines. Will the combined carriers finally start making money? Will that mean fewer flights and higher fares?
Banner image of Olvera Street market: David Moore
In this episode
3 storiesWill the United-Continental Merger Mean Friendlier Skies?
Two years ago, Continental Airlines backed away from merging with United. Last month, United began a flirtation with US Airways. Suddenly, Continental had a change of heart, and over the weekend completed what some airline experts are calling a shotgun wedding. United and Continental now plan to become the world's largest airline .
Read the story28 minProp 14: Getting Political Parties out of the Primaries
Supporters of Proposition 14 in next month's election, say it would decrease "the jackass quotient" in the legislature and Congress. The measure itself would open primary elections so that instead of choosing only a Democrat, a Republican a Green or a Libertarian, voters could pick anybody they wanted.
Read the story14 minFrom Olvera Street to Grand Avenue
Olvera Street in downtown LA is part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles historical monument, designed to preserve the city’s earliest lifestyle and culture. But 40 Olvera Street merchants are refusing to pay their full rent , and that could lead to evictions. The controversy involves a total of $72,000.
Read the story12 min
