State of the Nation

AMERICA RIGHT NOW

Know What’s Happening. Know Why It Matters.

Straightforward analysis of the stories, decisions, and debates shaping America today.

The First Amendment Starts at the Kitchen Table

Free speech is a habit before it is a right. A plain-language look at what the First Amendment protects – and what it asks of us.

the civil literacy gap nobody is talking about

Only a third of Americans can name the three branches of government. Here is why that number matters more than any poll.

how to run a town hall that doesn’t end in shouting

Seven ground rules our chapter organizers use to keep hard conversations honest, respectful, and productive.

Why Are Americans So Divided?

Walk into almost any political conversation today, and chances are it will not take long before someone brings up Democrats, Republicans, elections, the media, or the latest fight in Washington. Political disagreement is nothing new .....

What Does It Mean to Be an Engaged Citizen?

Being an engaged citizen is about much more than showing up to vote every few years. Voting matters, but citizenship does not begin and end on Election Day. An engaged citizen pays attention, asks questions, .....

America’s Biggest Challenges Aren’t Going Away

Every election brings a new list of promises. Every news cycle brings a new crisis. Every political party has its own explanation for what is wrong with America and what should be done about it. .....