Democracy Nerd

In this episode of "Democracy Nerd", host Jefferson Smith interviews Steven L. Herman--the Chief National Correspondent for Voice of America and the author of "Behind the White House Curtain: A Senior Journalist's Story of Covering the President--and Why It Matters"--about the importance of unbiased information to ensure a healthy and peaceful democracy. Jefferson and Steven discuss the history and importance of Voice of America, a government-funded international broadcast platform, whose mission is to provide news and accurate information about the United States to global audiences, with an overall goal to promote understanding and goodwill between the U.S. and other countries. To ensure Voice of America accomplishes its mission, a firewall is created to ensure political interference by presidential administrations on VOA's independent content doesn't occur. However, during the Trump presidency, attempts were made to politicize VOA's content. Steven emphasizes the importance of VOA to maintain independence from political influence and take the necessary steps to ensure its reporting remains objective and free from partisan bias. Steven also discusses the difficulties faced by journalists who rely on social media to collect facts in an era of widespread disinformation and misinformation. Fact-checking and verifying info is an essential duty performed by journalists that fall by the wayside in a rush for breaking news or to spin events in support of a political agenda. Steven shared his experiences live Tweeting from Fukushima after the disastrous 2011 earthquake, and continued to regularly use Twitter for the next 15 years before receiving a lifetime ban in 2022. Overall, this episode sheds light on the challenges journalists face in maintaining journalistic integrity, navigating social media, and ensuring accurate information reaches the public.

In this episode of "Democracy Nerd," Jefferson is joined by Andrea Grimes, an independent journalist whose writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Texas Observer, and DAME Magazine. The episode includes an in-depth discussion about the current state of American media and its role in safeguarding democracy, sparked by a recent statement from New York Times' Executive Editor Joe Kahn, who asserted that threats to democracy are "one" of the issues the Times will cover, though "not the only one." Jefferson and Andrea critically examine whether the media is adequately fulfilling its democratic duty. They explore how the content of broadcast media often fails to reflect the true realities across the United States, highlighting the disconnect between what is reported and what is actually happening on the ground. This leads to a broader conversation about alternative media models that could better serve the public interest beyond the prevailing capitalist framework. Andrea also provides an update of her home state of Texas, sharing stories of numerous engaged activists determined to drive change, embodying the spirit of "messing with Texas." Jefferson and Andrea's discussion provides a thought-provoking dialogue on the intersection of media, politics, and grassroots activism, emphasizing the critical role that an informed and engaged citizenry plays in maintaining democratic principles.

In this episode of "Democracy Nerd," host Jefferson Smith is joined by David Gilbert, a senior reporter for WIRED magazine specializing in disinformation and online extremism. As the 2024 presidential election looms, their conversation delves into the profound implications of disinformation and misinformation on democratic processes worldwide. Gilbert explains the core differences between disinformation (deliberately false information spread to deceive) and misinformation (false information spread without harmful intent), and how both differ from propaganda. The discussion highlights the alarming inaction of social media platforms in addressing disinformation and misinformation campaigns. Despite the evident threat these campaigns pose, platforms are criticized for their lackluster response and insufficient guardrails. Gilbert contrasts the capabilities of different state actors in executing misinformation campaigns, noting that Russia has been particularly adept compared to others like China. He discusses how these foreign influences further complicate the information landscape. The conversation underscores the potential consequences of unchecked disinformation and misinformation, including the erosion of public trust in elections. Gilbert and Smith stress that the continuous onslaught of lies could lead to a scenario where the public loses its ability to discern truth from falsehood, threatening the very foundation of democracy, bringing to mind the line from the TV miniseries 'Chernobyl': "What is the cost of lies? It's not that we'll mistake them for the truth. The real danger is that if we hear enough lies, then we no longer recognize the truth at all." This episode provides a thorough examination of the current state of disinformation and misinformation, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 election, serving as a wake-up call about the urgent need for robust measures to safeguard the integrity of democratic processes against the backdrop of rampant online falsehoods.

In this episode of "Democracy Nerd," host Jefferson Smith discuses the intersection of insurance, entrepreneurship, and the American founding with guest Hannah Farber, a history professor at Columbia University and author of the book "Underwriters of the United States: How Insurance Shaped the American Founding." Farber discusses how early American entrepreneurs, armed with a keen understanding of risk and opportunity, played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's trajectory. Farber's research unveils the risks undertaken by visionary insurance underwriters, who bet on the fledgling United States despite its uncertain future. Through their investments, these individuals not only navigated the precarious waters of uncertainty but also amassed immense wealth, laying the groundwork for American prosperity. Central to Farber's narrative is the examination of how the burgeoning insurance industry intertwined with the nascent American economy, particularly in the realm of international trade. With the birth of a new nation came unprecedented challenges and opportunities in importing and exporting goods. Farber's book illuminates the complexities and realities faced by merchants as they grappled with the intricacies of transatlantic commerce, shedding light on the indispensable role of insurance in mitigating risks and fostering economic growth. The conversation further explores the symbiotic relationship between American insurance companies and merchant vessels during the tumultuous early decades of the 19th century. Against the backdrop of global conflicts, Farber explains how insurance underwriters thrived amidst chaos, capitalizing on the lucrative opportunities presented by wartime trade. As the world grappled with geopolitical turmoil, American insurers and merchants emerged as key beneficiaries, solidifying their status as indispensable pillars of the nation's economic landscape. With Farber's insightful analysis, listeners are transported back in time to witness the dynamic interplay between risk-taking entrepreneurship, insurance innovation, and the forging of American identity. "Democracy Nerd" offers an exploration of the intricate tapestry of forces that shaped the foundation of American prosperity, inviting audiences to reconsider the often-overlooked role of insurance in the nation's historical narrative.

In this episode of "Democracy Nerd," host Jefferson Smith engages in a crucial discussion with Paul Smith, the Senior Vice President at the Campaign Legal Center, shedding light on the mounting legal challenges surrounding ballot access heading into the 2024 election year. The conversation begins with the recent federal court action in North Dakota, where a judge dismissed a challenge regarding the validity of counting absentee ballots postmarked by Election Day. Smith provides insightful analysis on the significance of this ruling and its implications for preserving the integrity of the electoral process. Other topics discussed include the alarming trend of voter purges, prompting Smith to offer guidance to listeners on what steps to take if they suspect they've been incorrectly removed from voter rolls, ensuring their ability to participate in the electoral process. This episode also addresses the disturbing escalation in threats of violence targeting election workers. Smith addresses the implications of such threats and underscores the urgent need to ensure the safety and security of those tasked with administering elections. Overall, Paul Smith from the Campaign Legal Center underscores the critical importance of upholding voter rights, combating voter suppression tactics, and fortifying the foundations of democracy in the face of mounting challenges.

In the latest episode of the Democracy Nerd podcast, host Jefferson Smith engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Eliza Jane Schneider, a renowned dialect coach and operator of the Internet Dialect Database. The focal point of their discussion revolves around the intricate concept of freedom of speech and its implications in contemporary American society. Drawing from her extensive experience in the field of dialect coaching, Eliza sheds light on how Americans grapple with effective communication. She emphasizes the crucial role of listening as a fundamental component of freedom of speech, highlighting the challenges people face in truly understanding each other. Eliza challenges the prevailing notion of "cancel culture" and positions freedom of speech as its antithesis. Drawing on her unique perspective gained from working with Matt Stone and Trey Parker as a voice actress on "South Park," she offers insights into how creative expression can thrive when free speech is embraced. One fascinating aspect of the conversation is Eliza's one-person play, "Freedom of Speech," inspired by her extensive experience conducting over 7000 interviews spanning 30 years. Through this lens, she explores the nuances and complexities of free speech, providing a unique and compelling perspective on the subject. Overall, the episode delves into the multifaceted nature of freedom of speech, examining its connection to effective communication, the challenges posed by cancel culture, and the influence of creative endeavors like "South Park" on shaping our understanding of this essential democratic principle. Learn more about Eliza's play "Freedom of Speech" here  If you are in the Portland, Oregon area on Saturday, January 4th, come and see Eliza perform at the Alberta Abbey

In this episode, Jefferson is joined with Oscar Pocasangre, Senior Data Analyst for New America, to discuss the outsized impact of undecided voters on elections. Besides distinguishing undecided voters from swing or independent voters, Oscar explores the shared perspectives (if any) that might connect undecided voters as a cohesive group. The discussion highlights the significant impact undecided voters play every two to four years, depending on the election cycle. Oscar points out how the outsized influence undecided voters have maybe an overall detriment to democracy, as the issues that matter the most to this small slice of the electorate (whatever they may be) are magnified at the expense of the issues of importance to decided--or partisan--voters.

Amanda Frost, a professor at the University of Virginia School of Law and author of "You Are Not American: Citizenship Stripping from Dred Scott to the Dreamers" joins Democracy Nerd to discuss with Jefferson the history of citizenship stripping in the United States. The discussion delves into the intricate history of citizenship stripping, unraveling key legislative acts and Supreme Court cases that have shaped this complex narrative. Along with the landmark Dred Scott decision by the Supreme Court--which stripped citizenship of all Black people in the United States--and the Expatriation Act of 1907, Amanda provides insight on the various legal precedents that have influenced the concept of citizenship, including Wong Kim Ark's pivotal Supreme Court case that solidified the notion of "birthright citizenship" in the United States, a foundational principle that has played a crucial role in shaping the nation's identity. Amanda also discusses the story of Ethel Coope Mackenzie, a California suffragist who saw her citizenship stripped after marrying a native-born Scotsman, ultimately failing in an appeal to the Supreme Court which unanimously decided to not restore her American citizenship. Throughout the conversation, Amanda highlights the interconnected relationship between the promise of citizenship and waves of immigration, underscoring how this promise has historically fueled the influx of diverse populations, contributing to the transformation of the United States into an economic powerhouse. The episode weaves together legal history, individual stories, and broader socio-economic trends to offer a comprehensive understanding of the intricate tapestry of citizenship in the United States.

David Smith, D.C. Bureau Chief of The Guardian newspaper, joins Democracy Nerd to discuss recent events in Washington D.C. Topics covered include the historic ouster of Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker, an event that sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Smith reflects on the steps that led to the first-ever motion to vacate a sitting House Speaker by members of his own party. The move to vacate Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker has highlighted the deep divisions within the Republican party and raised questions about the future direction of the GOP. Also discussed is the passing of the esteemed 90-year-old Senator Dianne Feinstein, and whether California Governor Gavin Newsome successfully navigated politically tricky waters in the announcement of long-time California political Laphonza Butler as Feinstein's replacement. Also discussed are legal challenges faced by Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey, who is under scrutiny due to federal indictments filed by the Justice Department, and whether Menendez's political career can survive demands by other Senate Democrats to step down from office. Finally, the New York court hearing of Donald Trump is also discussed, in which the former President has been found guilty of over-valuing property to secure favorable loans. Smith discusses the high likelihood that a convicted criminal will be the Republican nominee in the 2024 presidential election. David Smith provides invaluable insights into the various political challenges facing the United States. From internal party struggles to legal battles with far-reaching consequences, the nation stands at a pivotal moment in its history.

Sara Gifford, the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of ActiVote, joins Democracy Nerd to discuss how the app offers a new way to engage people with the democratic process. ActiVote's mission is to make voting not just a civic duty but also an enjoyable and accessible experience, ultimately resulting in more engaged and informed voters. ActiVote was born out of the persistent challenge of low voter turnout and the disconnect many citizens feel from the political process. As a result, ActiVote relies on gamification to make voting fun and increase participation. ActiVote allows users to earn points, badges, and rewards for their civic engagement. This approach not only incentivizes people to vote but also encourages them to stay informed about political issues. The conversation also touches on the concerns surrounding the role of technology in elections and democracy. Gifford acknowledges these concerns but emphasizes that ActiVote is designed to be transparent, secure, and non-partisan. The platform is committed to safeguarding user data and ensuring the integrity of the voting process. While there are valid concerns about the role of technology in elections and democracy, ActiVote serves as a promising example of how technology can be harnessed to have a positive impact and strengthen the foundations of democracy.

Sarah Alvarez, founder of Detroit-based Outlier Media, and Chris Fitzsimon, publisher of States Newsroom, a national consortium of local newsrooms, join Democracy Nerd for a compelling conversation about how local newsrooms serve as community watchdogs, holding those in power accountable while helping make informed citizens. Local newsrooms are more than just news outlets; they are community builders. They celebrate local successes, cover events, and create spaces for community dialogue. However, they also provide essential accountability by investigating local issues and reporting on sensitive matters. Sarah and Chris also discuss the threats faced by local newsrooms, including this summer's raid on the Marion County Recorder in Kansas in which the local police force stormed the paper's office, seizing computers and reporting equipment. Such incidents have a chilling effect on investigative journalism, leading to a lack of transparency and accountability in communities. Sarah and Chris discuss strategies to support local newsrooms. Sarah's Outlier Media uses technology to understand community information needs, making local newsrooms more relevant. National efforts like States Newsroom provide resources, funding, and a network for local newsrooms to collaborate and amplify their impact. They emphasize that supporting local journalism is essential for a strong democracy. A robust democracy relies on well-informed communities, and local newsrooms are the foundation of this knowledge. However, they face unprecedented challenges and threats that require community support and collaboration.

Joshua Douglas, law professor at University of Kentucky and author of the forthcoming "The Voters v. The Court," joins the podcast to shed light on the significant developments and controversies surrounding the Supreme Court's 2023 term, touching on key decisions related to affirmative action, private business discrimination, and democracy. The contentious Students for Fair Admissions decision overturning affirmative action precedent for higher education admissions marks a significant shift in the Court's approach to issues of race and equality. The Court's 303 Creative ruling allows private businesses to discriminate for the first time. Other key decisions include Moore v. Harper and Allen v. Alabama, both of which have potential consequences for the future of democracy in this country. Also discussed the legitimacy crisis faced by the Supreme Court, currently viewed unfavorably by a large majority of Americans. This crisis poses a significant threat to the health of American democracy, as the Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rule of law and protecting individual rights (or at least it should.)

What role should technology play in our political system? Is the Cambridge Analytica data mining scandal from the 2016 the cynical model that immediately comes to mind when tech and politics is discussed? Or should there be efforts to recapture Barack Obama's spirited use of social media in 2008 to unite a large coalition of disparate activists and voters? And with the recent emergence of AI, what sort of guardrails are needed to ensure the sanctity of our electoral process? Matt Krayton, owner and principal of Publitics consulting firm, joins the podcast to address these issues.

Robert Talisse, professor of philosophy at Vanderbilt University and the author of "Sustaining Democracy: What We Owe to the Other Side," joins the podcast to delve into the vital topic of accepting opposing political views as a cornerstone of a strong democracy. Talisse underscores the significance of open dialogue and constructive discourse in a democratic society. A democracy thrives when it fosters an environment where citizens recognize the legitimacy of diverse viewpoints, even those they disagree with vehemently. The recent statements by figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican Congresswoman from Georgia, who suggested the appropriateness of executing political opponents, and Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, who made violent remarks about his hypothetical presidency, have ignited debates about the limits of political rhetoric. Talisse highlights that such extreme statements not only undermine the principles of democracy but also exemplify the pressing need to encourage a more respectful and inclusive discourse. In an era where polarizing opinions can sometimes escalate into hostility, Talisse's insights offer a roadmap for creating a more resilient democratic society. By acknowledging that accepting opposing political views doesn't entail relinquishing one's convictions, but rather enriching the discourse, we can uphold the principles upon which democracies are built.

The 2022 midterm elections was the first after the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision tossed aside protections for reproductive rights under Roe v. Wade. As a result, women voters decidedly rejected Republican candidates, helping turn a long-assumed projected "red wave" into a "red trickle." As we head into the 2024 presidential election, not much has changed. And according to Lauren Leader, co-founder and CEO of All In Together, women voters are still galvanized and looking to continue having an impact electorally. Lauren joins the podcast to explain how women continue to have a political impact--local is best!--and provides a little tea-reading as to how women voters will influence the upcoming election.

The 2022 midterm elections was the first after the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision tossed aside protections for reproductive rights under Roe v. Wade. As a result, women voters decidedly rejected Republican candidates, helping turn a long-assumed projected "red wave" into a "red trickle." As we head into the 2024 presidential election, not much has changed. And according to Lauren Leader, co-founder and CEO of All In Together, women voters are still galvanized and looking to continue having an impact electorally. Lauren joins the podcast to explain how women continue to have a political impact--local is best!--and provides a little tea-reading as to how women voters will influence the upcoming election.

With its 6-3 ruling in Moore v. Harper, the Supreme Court has ruled that the (fringe? debunked?) Independent State Legislature Theory is dead. Eliza Sweren-Becker, Senior Counsel in the Democracy Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, explains how this decision preserves democracy in the United States--at least for now.

Recorded on the day that the Supreme Court issued its Allen v. Milligan decision, Brad Snyder, Professor of Law at Georgetown University, joins the podcast to discuss his book "Democratic Justice: Felix Frankfurter, the Supreme Court, and the Making of the Liberal Establishment" and explains how the Supreme Court has *always* been "small c" conservative, Justice Frankfurter's commitment to judicial restraint, and also explains why J. Edgar Hoover once called Felix Frankfurter "the most dangerous man in America." After decades of hindsight, what is the proper way to view the complicated legacy of Justice Frankfurter--and how does his service compare and contrast to current Supreme Court justices?

Michael Waldman, President of the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University, discusses his new book "The Supermajority: How the Supreme Court Divided America" and explains how the Roberts Supreme Court--instead of serving as a bastion of democracy--has undermined democratic principles through its reactionary and regressive decisions.

Anne Nelson, an award-winning journalist, author, and playwright, joins Democracy Nerd to discuss the Council for National Policy, which she initially featured in her 2019 book "Shadow Network: Media, Money, and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right." You haven't heard of the Council for National Policy, and have no idea how it impacts your life on a daily basis? Anne Nelson thinks you need to know more about this shadowy cabal--and how it's desperately pulling out all the stops to curtail democracy in the U.S.

Have you ever thought "Maybe *I* should run for office?" If so, then Amanda Litman has some advice for you: do it. Amanda co-founded Run For Something on Trump's inauguration day in 2017, with a goal to help progressive candidates get elected into office. Amanda joins the program to discuss the history of the organization and offer key advice to first-time candidates.

Author Paul Street joins the podcast to discuss his tenth book, "This Happened Here: Amerikaners, Neoloberals and the Trumping of America." Although those who warned that Trump would usher in an era of acceptable fascism were met with scorn or ridicule, Paul points out that they were correct. And may require a people-powered movement beyond the ballot box to ensure that Trump-branded fascism doesn't take a stronger hold.

In this excerpt as guest host of the Thom Hartmann Show, Jefferson speaks with Professor Nolan Higdon, author of "The Anatomy of Fake News" and "Let's Agree to Disagree: A Critical Thinking Guide to Communication, Conflict Management, and Critical Media Literacy," about historic examples of fake news, how to take steps to spot and resist fake news, and why four minutes taken out of 41,000 hours of video doesn't prove that January 6th was a peaceful sight-seeing tour instead of a violent insurrection.

Francisco Perez, Associate Professor Economics at the University of Utah, joins the podcast to discuss his essay "How Do We Build Back Black Wealth? Understanding the Limits of Black Capitalism," pointing out that a racially-diverse oligarchy is not the ideal end result for the purposes of economic and racial justice.

In this excerpt as guest host of the Thom Hartmann Show, Jefferson speaks with Professor Nolan Higdon, author of "The Anatomy of Fake News" and "Let's Agree to Disagree: A Critical Thinking Guide to Communication, Conflict Management, and Critical Media Literacy," about historic examples of fake news, how to take steps to spot and resist fake news, and why four minutes taken out of 41,000 hours of video doesn't prove that January 6th was a peaceful sight-seeing tour instead of a violent insurrection.

In this segment filling in as guest host for the Thom Hartmann Program, Jefferson speaks with Adam Berinsky, the director of MIT's Political Experiments Research Lab, who provides a primer on political disinformation & misinformation, including how each term is defined and also what (if anything) can be done to stop the spread of political disinformation & misinformation.

Filling in as guest host for The Thom Hartmann Program, Jefferson speaks with Grace Adcox, Polling Analyst for Data for Progress, who parses the data showing bipartisan support from voters for President Biden's legislative agenda, including the protection--even expansion--of Social Security. Little wonder Ron DeSantis keeps talking about "stopping woke," whatever that means.

Ira Shapiro, a longtime Capitol Hill staffer and Senate historian, joins the podcast to provide the current pulse of the U.S. Senate, touching on whether any GOP Senators will challenge Donald Trump in the Republican primary; the role age plays in determining a Senator's effectiveness; and whether the current Senate can continue last session's "comeback."

In the 1980s, noted classicist Maurice Pope wrote a manuscript about how sortition--or lottery-based democracy--should be implemented for a more fair and representative society. This manuscript proceeded to be rejected by each publishing house that had the chance. Decades later, this manuscript, titled "The Keys to Democracy: Sortition as a New Model For Citizen Power," is now seeing the light of day due to the diligent efforts of Maurice's son Hugh, who edited and revised the rediscovered manuscript for posthumous release after his father's passing. Hugh joins the podcast to discuss the experience of editing his late father's work, why there is more receptiveness to lottery-based democracy today than four decades ago, and why he believes that sortition provides the "keys to democracy" to help solve wicked problems.

Can an unhealthy and unequal democracy meet the needs of its people? The COVID pandemic exacerbated inequality in the United States, reaching levels not seen in a century. Not only do high levels of inequality pose a threat to democracy, but an unequal society is also an unhealthy society. Or so argues Dr. Stephen Bezruchka, faculty member of the University of Washington's School of Public Health and author of "Inequality Kills Us All: COVID-19's Health Lessons For Us All."

Dan Bouk, Chair of History at Colgate University, provides insights of the 1940 U.S. census from his book "Democracy's Data: The Hidden Stories in the U.S. Census and How to Read Them" Plus: an emergency NBA trade deadline podcast.

Politicians aren't exactly known to be a paragon of virtue and honesty. Chances are, if they don't lie at least a little bit they don't stand a good chance of getting elected. But does this mean everyone running for office needs to go full-blown George Santos? What if honesty is used to extract negative cost to lying politicians? That is the noble idea proposed by Professors Sarah Croco, Jared McDonald, and Candace Turitto, co-authors of a paper on the topic.

For the first episode of 2023, the podcast is joined by Rick Hasen--operator of the Election Law Blog and one of the top current democracy nerds--who explains why the Supreme Court needs to re-examine its decisions in the need to balance free speech interests with the need to have free & fair elections.

In this excerpt while filling in as guest host of the Thom Hartmann Program, Jefferson speaks with Peter MacLeod, a principal from Toronto-based MASS LBP, who assists the Canadian government with the recruitment and running of citizens' assemblies, allowing members of the public to weigh in on policy decisions. Sometimes the best way to make sure democracy works is to have even more democracy.

Should everything be privatized? What goods or services should be the responsibility of the private sector? What is the proper role of government oversight? In this excerpt from The Thom Hartmann program, Jefferson fills in as host and discusses these issues with Donald Cohen, Founder and Executive Director of In the Public Interest, and author of "The Privatization of Everything: How the Plunder of Public Goods Transformed America and How We Can Fight Back."

In this excerpt while filling in as guest host of The Thom Hartmann Program, Jefferson speaks with Grace Adcox, polling analyst for Data for Progress who helps explain the circumstances and variables that helped turn the expected "Red Wave" in the 2022 midterm elections into a "Red Ripple."

September 15, 2022 was the first-ever "Democracy Day," a collaboration with newsrooms across the country in which journalists and opinion writers focused on the current threats facing American democracy. This effort was spearheaded by the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University in New Jersey. The podcast is joined Joe Amditis, the Center's Assistant Director, who describes the various steps needed to turn Democracy Day from an idea to reality, and what to expect from future Democracy Days.

What role does education play when democracy is under attack? How important is it to teach controversial issues when elected officials would prefer to prohibit such discussion? What steps should educators to consider discussing these issues, both inside the classroom and beyond? A panel of guests including Judy Pace from the University of San Francisco, Eric Soto-Shed from Harvard University, and Elizabeth Yeager Washington from University of Florida join the podcast to provide answers to these questions.

Keith Boykin--regular contributor to CNN and CNBC and the co-founder of the National Black Justice Coalition--joins Democracy Nerd to discuss his recent book "Race Against Time: The Politics of a Darkening America," inspired by the 2020 George Floyd / Black Lives Matter protests, and provides a sneak peek of his upcoming book "Quitting: Why I Left My Job to Live a Life of Freedom"

As the Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, Desmond Meade helped lead the successful passage of Florida's Amendment 4, restoring voting rights to over a million returning citizens who had completed prison sentences yet were unable to participate in society. Desmond joins the podcast to explain how this Amendment received far-reaching bipartisan support, and why it matters so much to democracy to have voting rights restored.

There are potential democracy reform models that exist which would be more representative than our current "winner takes all" approach. As the Executive Director for the Center of Election Science, Aaron Hamlin is an advocate for "approval voting." Aaron joins Democracy Nerd to explain approval voting, and how it measures up to compare and contrast against other models of democracy reform.

Congressional party cohesion--on both sides of the aisle--is at its highest level in decades. Does this have any impact Congress's ability to pass legislation, or have no impact at all? Professors James Curry and Frances E. Lee join Democracy Nerd to discuss their book "The Limits of Party: Congress and Lawmaking in a Polarized Era," pointing out that contrary to popular belief, Congress actually operates in a bipartisan fashion.

The Supreme Court ended its term with a series of radical decisions with cataclysmic consequences, including the rolling back of rights enjoyed by previous generations. Law professor Andrew Koppelman discusses the various decisions on abortion rights, guns, and public prayer, explaining how the Roberts Court is the most activist court in the 230+ year history of the Supreme Court.

Longtime Capitol Hill vet and author Ira Shapiro joins the podcast to discuss how Mitch McConnell and the Senate Republicans have thumbed their nose at institutional norms and reneged on their duty as public servants to help create our current bitterly divided United States of America.

With electoral rights and bodily autonomy being degraded, democracy is experiencing a backsliding in the United States. How can organizations push back against this backsliding? After leading a campaign to pass independent redistricting in the state of Michigan, Katie Fahey is the Executive Director of The People, an organization committed to the pursuit of shared American values. Katie joins the podcast to talk about The People, and explain what role her organization will play in the upcoming 2022 elections.

If a country backslides from democracy, is there no future hope for democracy. Lee Drutman from New America believes it's possible for democracy to revive itself in countries that otherwise preferred authoritarianism. Drutman describes what a potential revival of American democracy would look like, and also offers his policy proposal to save American democracy.

Billionaires increasingly control online shopping, access to news, and even "the world's town square" with Elon Musk's recent purchase of Twitter. Is there any other way to push back against this amassed capital--and its influence on our daily lives--then with a countervailing pushback from other capital? Morris Pearl is the chair of Patriotic Millionaires, formed in 2010 to roll back George W. Bush's tax cuts for the wealthy. Morris joins the podcast to discuss Patriotic Millionaires' continued effort to promote economic fairness, underlying their message that increasing taxes on the wealthy would both help fund society and reduce economic inequality.

Episode 54 - Justin Kempf, host of the "Democracy Paradox" podcast joins Democracy Nerd to discuss various theories about democracy, how to make democracy more engaging, and practical efforts to prevent the backsliding of global democracy.

At a time when global democracy is backsliding into authoritarianism, Chile is currently engaged in the process to draft a new constitution, one that is more representative of indigenous people and other marginalized communities. Very rarely do we get to see "democracy operate in real time." Returning to the podcast to provide an update on the drafting of Chile's new Constitution are noted Latin American experts Jennifer Piscopo, Professor at Occidental College, and Peter Siavelis, Professor at Wake Forest University, who provide first-hand insights of the process to draft Chile's constitution.

At a time when global democracy is backsliding into authoritarianism, Chile is currently engaged in the process to draft a new constitution, one that is more representative of indigenous people and other marginalized communities. Very rarely do we get to see "democracy operate in real time." Returning to the podcast to provide an update on the drafting of Chile's new Constitution are noted Latin American experts Jennifer Piscopo, Professor at Occidental College, and Peter Siavelis, Professor at Wake Forest University, who provide first-hand insights of the process to draft Chile's constitution.

Democracy Book Club! Thomas Maine, Professor of Politics at Baruch College, joins Democracy Nerd to discuss his new book "The Rise of Illiberalism." Professor Maine describes the defining characteristics of various illiberal movements, explains how illiberal ideology drives mainstream politics, and shows how when the mask of illiberalism is revealed, actions such as the January 6th insurrection and Putin's invasion of Ukraine occur as a result.