In this episode of This Old Democracy, host Micah Sifry talks with the co-chairs of United Wisconsin, a fledgling political party that is seeking to bridge the political divides in the Badger State. The bipartisan pair – Dale Schultz, a former Republican Majority Leader in the State Senate, and David Mahoney, the former Democratic sheriff of Dane County explain what motivated them to form United Wisconsin, the reaction to their initiative and why fusion voting can bring people together for common purpose. The conversation highlights the historical context of fusion voting, the legal challenges they face, and the grassroots efforts to build a new political party that empowers citizens' voices. The episode concludes with reflections on hope and engagement in the democratic process.

TAKEAWAYS:

• United Wisconsin aims to revitalize democracy and provide more competition.

• Many citizens feel their voices are not being heard in the current political system.

• Bipartisan collaboration can lead to more effective solutions for common issues.

• Fusion voting allows candidates to appear on multiple ballots, increasing voter choice.

• The organization is focused on grassroots education and engagement.

• Legal challenges are being pursued to restore fusion voting in Wisconsin.

• Political parties currently hold a monopoly on power, stifling diverse voices.

• Engagement with the community is crucial for building a new political party.

• Hope lies in empowering citizens to participate in the democratic process.

• Listening to diverse perspectives can lead to mutual understanding and collaboration.

Learn more about United Wisconsin at www.unitedwisconsin.org

In this episode of 'This Old Democracy,' host Micah Sifry speaks with Ian Bassin, co-founder and executive director of Protect Democracy. They discuss the organization's mission to safeguard democracy in the U.S. against rising authoritarianism, the importance of civic engagement, and the need for political reform. Bassin emphasizes the multi-faceted approach required to combat authoritarianism, including legal strategies, grassroots activism, and legislative reforms. The conversation also touches on the current political landscape, signs of hope amidst challenges, and the moral obligation to uphold democratic values.

Special bonus moment: Bassin compares “Lord of the Rings” movement people to “Star Wars” movement people.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Protect Democracy was founded to prevent authoritarianism in the U.S.

• The organization focuses on protecting electoral integrity and the public square.

• Engaging the public is crucial for a healthy democracy.

• Legal strategies are essential in combating misinformation and protecting election officials.

• Bipartisan efforts are necessary for effective democracy reforms.

• The rise of authoritarianism is a global issue, not just an American one.

• Civic engagement can empower individuals to support democracy.

• The current political climate shows signs of both danger and hope.

• Reforming the electoral system is vital for better representation.

• Finding dignity in doing the right thing is essential for activists.

Read Ian Bassin’s recent Substack post, “The hard-won hope of the long defeat,” on Protect Democracy’s Substack: https://www.ifyoucankeepit.org/

And learn more about Protect Democracy’s work at https://protectdemocracy.org

In this episode of This Old Democracy, host Micah Sifry engages with author, documentary filmmaker and activist Astra Taylor to discuss the complexities of democracy in America. They explore the paradox of democracy, the historical context of its evolution, and the challenges posed by authoritarianism and the two-party system. Taylor emphasizes the importance of organizing and building institutional power to combat rising fascism and advocates for a more inclusive and transformative vision of democracy. The conversation also touches on the role of money in politics, the significance of youth perspectives, and the current political landscape, including redistricting strategies.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Democracy is a process, not a destination.

• We must recognize the fragility of democratic progress.

• Youth perspectives on democracy are shaped by disillusionment.

• Organizing is essential to build institutional power.

• The Democratic Party can be a vehicle for transformation.

• Money in politics is a critical issue that unites many Americans.

• Redistricting strategies are becoming increasingly aggressive.

• A vision for democracy must be forward-looking and inclusive.

• Solidarity is essential for effective organizing.

• Good ideas must be revisited and re-energized over time.

Read Astra Taylor’s work, including:

Democracy May Not Exist, But We’ll Miss It When It’s Gone, MacMillan, 2020: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250231284/democracymaynotexistbutwellmissitwhenitsgone/

The Rise of End Times Fascism, The Guardian, April 13, 2025:

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2025/apr/13/end-times-fascism-far-right-trump-musk

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