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What does the debate over school segregation reveal about the Democratic primary field?

Students disembark from a school bus outside The Ivy Apartments, where a man diagnosed with the Ebola virus was staying in Dallas, Texas October 1, 2014. As many as 80 people were in contact with the Dallas Ebola patient at some point, Texas health officials told NBC, marking a significant jump from the 18 people authorities had said may have been exposed to the deadly virus. Additionally, four members of the patient's family have been ordered to stay home as a precaution even though they are not showing symptoms, the Texas Department of State Health Services said in a statement. Picture taken October 1, 2014. REUTERS/Mike Stone

In this episode, Jon Valant explains how the sharp exchange between Sen. Kamala Harris and former Vice President Joe Biden during the Democratic primary debate showcased the generational, racial, and ideological divisions within the Democratic Party. He also explores federal policy options to improve school integration that don’t involve forced busing, from housing policies to promoting voluntary school choice programs.

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Thanks to audio producer Gaston Reboredo, Chris McKenna, Fred Dews, and Camilo Ramirez for their support.

The Current is part of the Brookings Podcast Network.