Let’s Find Common Ground
The Bully Pulpit has merged with the Let’s Find Common Ground podcast. As the tone of public discourse becomes increasingly angry and divisive, Let’s Find Common Ground offers a healing path to reaching agreement and moving forward. At the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, we bring together top Republicans and Democrats to transcend partisan divisions and explore solutions to our most pressing national and global challenges. Join veteran strategists Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy along with other Center staff and major voices for fun conversations that advance civil dialogue and practical politics. The conversations go behind the...
Mon, April 14, 2025
Climate Policy and the Two Parties: The Search for Common Ground
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins former U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and former U.S. Representative Garret Graves (R-LA) for a discussion on the state of climate policy under the Trump administration and how Democrats and Republicans can cooperate to tackle climate change issues. This conversation is part of the Climate Forward conference in partnership with the USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability.
Mon, March 17, 2025
Are Cable News and Legacy Media All But Dead?
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins media experts, Martin Gurri, Adam Nagourney, and Gordon Stables, for a discussion on how the changing media landscape has contributed to global populist trends. They discuss the transformation of the media landscape, the role of the elites in the media and politics, and media's impact on the state of democracy globally. Featuring: Martin Gurri: Former CIA Analyst; Author of "The Revolt of the Public and the Crisis of Authority in the New Millennium" Adam Nagourney: National Political Reporter for The New York Times; Author of "The Times: How the Newspaper of Record Survived Scandal, Scorn and the Transformation of Journalism" and "Out for Good: The Struggle to Build a Gay Rights Movement in America"; Fall 2019 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Gordon Stables: Director, USC Annenberg School of Journalism Bob Shrum: Director, USC Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, March 13, 2025
Immigration: Is There a Way Forward? - Sue and Jeff White Dialogues
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins immigration experts, Andrew Arthur, Steven Davis, Deisy del Real, Ed Goeas, and Ehsan Zaffar, for a discussion on the future of immigration policy. They discuss the current immigration system and policies, amnesty, immigrant's contribution to the U.S. economy, and immigration reforms possible in today’s political climate. We are immensely grateful to Sue and Jeff White for launching this nonpartisan dialogue series at USC. Featuring: Andrew Arthur: Resident Fellow in Law and Policy at Center for Immigration Studies Steven Davis: Senior Fellow and Director of Research at the Hoover Institution, Senior Fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR) Deisy del Real: International Migration Scholar; USC Assistant Professor of Sociology Ed Goeas: Republican Pollster and Strategist, Spring 2025 Fellow; USC Center for the Political Future Ehsan Zaffar: Professor at ASU’s College of Law; Executive Director, The Difference Engine; Civil Rights Attorney Bob Shrum: Director, USC Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Fri, February 28, 2025
Let's Find Common Ground with Anthony Scaramucci
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins former White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci for a discussion on current events and the first month of the second Trump administration. They discuss the state of the Republican and Democratic parties, the impact of Trump's domestic and international actions, and even touch on Bitcoin. Featuring: · Anthony Scaramucci: Former White House Communications Director; Founder & Managing Partner of SkyBridge Capital; Founder of SALT; Author of four books · Bob Shrum: Director, USC Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Sat, February 22, 2025
“The Pardon: The Politics of Presidential Mercy” - Book Talk with CNN Chief Legal Analyst Jeffrey Toobin
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins bestselling author and CNN Chief Legal Analyst Jeffrey Toobin for a discussion on presidential pardons and Toobin's new book "The Pardon: The Politics of Presidential Mercy." They discuss famous pardons throughout history and the latest pardons from Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Featuring: Jeffrey Toobin: CNN Chief Legal Analyst; Bestselling author of "True Crimes and Misdemeanors," "The Oath," "The Nine," "Too Close to Call," "The Run of His Life" (made into the FX series The People v. O.J. Simpson), and "A Vast Conspiracy" Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Wed, February 12, 2025
"The Future Lies Ahead": The Second Trump Presidency
Author Sasha Issenberg joins political and media experts, Jane Coaston, Reince Priebus, Simon Rosenberg, and Chuck Todd, for a conversation on what to expect during Donald Trump's second term as president. They discuss Trump's first actions as president, his influence on politics, how the Democratic Party has changed over time, and how politics is always shifting. This discussion is part of the Warschaw Conference on Practical Politics “The Trumping of America: Why and What's Next?” in partnership with POLITICO, PBS’ "Firing Line with Margaret Hoover," and C-SPAN. Featuring: Sasha Issenberg (Moderator): Groundbreaking Author on Modern Campaigns & Marriage Equality Jane Coaston: Journalist; CNN Contributor; Host of Crooked Media’s “What A Day" Reince Priebus: Former Chairman of the Republican National Committee Simon Rosenberg: Political Strategist; Author/Creator of Hopium Chronicles Chuck Todd: Chief Political Analyst, NBC News
Tue, February 11, 2025
How Democrats Lost the Plot
Democratic Strategist Tad Devine joins political and polling experts, Dale Butland, John Della Volpe, Mike Madrid, Carissa Smith, and Stephanie Young, for a conversation exploring how Kamala Harris and Democrats performed during the 2024 general election. They discuss the Democratic Party's messaging, how candidates connected—or didn't—with key voting demographics, and what polling revealed about voters. This discussion is part of the Warschaw Conference on Practical Politics “The Trumping of America: Why and What's Next?” in partnership with POLITICO, PBS’ "Firing Line with Margaret Hoover," and C-SPAN. Featuring: Tad Devine (Moderator): Chief Strategist, Bernie Sanders' 2016 Presidential Campaign Dale Butland: Democratic Strategist; Former Press Secretary and Ohio Chief of Staff for US Senator John Glenn John Della Volpe: Author; Director of Polling at the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics Mike Madrid: Latino Pollster and Voting Expert; Author of “The Latino Century” Carissa Smith: Former Senior Public Engagement Advisor in the White House Office of Public Engagement Stephanie Young: Former Deputy Assistant to President Biden; Senior Advisor to Vice President Kamala Harris
Tue, February 11, 2025
Trump's Historic Comeback
FOX 11 News Anchor Elex Michaelson leads a panel of political and media experts to examine why and how Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election. They discuss Trump's and Kamala Harris' campaign strategies and messaging, and how the Democratic and Republican parties reached voters. This discussion is part of the Warschaw Conference on Practical Politics “The Trumping of America: Why and What's Next?” in partnership with POLITICO, PBS’ "Firing Line with Margaret Hoover," and C-SPAN. Featuring: Elex Michaelson (Moderator): FOX 11 News Anchor; Host of California’s Statewide Political Talk Show "The Issue Is" Chris Cadelago: POLITICO's California Bureau Chief; Former White House Correspondent Ed Goeas: Republican Pollster and Strategist Betsy Fischer Martin: Executive Director of the Women & Politics Institute at American University; Former "Meet the Press" Executive Producer Jessica Millan Patterson: Chairwoman of the California Republican Party
Tue, February 11, 2025
Bully Pulpit Podcast and "Let’s Find Common Ground" Podcast Merge Into One Super Podcast
CPF is proud to announce that our "The Bully Pulpit" podcast and the Common Ground Commtitee’s "Let’s Find Common Ground" podcast are now merged into one powerhouse program. The new “Let’s Find Common Ground” podcast brings together America’s leading politicians, strategists, journalists, and academics from across the political spectrum for in-depth discussions where we respect each other, and we respect the truth. CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Common Ground Committee Co-Founder and former CEO Erik Olsen to discuss the merger and what to expect from future podcast episodes. Featuring: Erik Olsen: Co-Founder and Former CEO, Common Ground Committee Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
S2 E88 · Fri, January 17, 2025
Inaugurating A New Future?
Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy welcome the Spring 2025 CPF Fellows to USC for a virtual discussion of Donald Trump’s inauguration and what a second Trump term may look like. The conversation features: Bob Shrum (moderator) - Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future Ed Goeas – Republican Pollster and Strategist Betsy Fischer Martin – Executive Director, Women & Politics Institute at American University; Former "Meet the Press" Executive Producer Jonathan Martin - Senior Political Columnist and Politics Bureau Chief at POLITICO Anthony Rendon – Former Speaker of the California State Assembly Cameron Trimble – Former White House Director of Digital Engagement; Founder of Hip-Politics
S2 E87 · Tue, November 26, 2024
Election 2024: What Mattered Most?
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Tad Devine (Chief Strategist, Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign) and Steve Grand (Republican political consultant) to discuss the 2024 presidential election results and which issues mattered the most for Democrats and Republicans and third party voters. In partnership with the USC Capital Campus and USC Price Center for Inclusive Democracy. Featuring: · Tad Devine: President, Devine Mulvey Longabaugh Media; Chief Strategist, Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign · Steve Grand: Republican political consultant; Cofounder and President of Wilson Grand Communications · Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
S2 E86 · Mon, November 04, 2024
Election 2024: The Last Lap
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Todd Purdum (author; former New York Times Washington Correspondent), David Simas (former CEO of the Obama Foundation), and Carissa Smith (former Senior Public Engagement Advisor in the White House Office of Public Engagement) for a discussion on the 2024 election campaign strategies and what to expect on Election Night. They discuss the candidates' closing messages, how the race looks according to the polling data, and how each candidate will likely close their campaign. Featuring: - Todd Purdum: Author; Former New York Times Washington Correspondent; Former National Editor for Vanity Fair; Spring 2022 CPF Fellow - David Simas: Former CEO of the Obama Foundation; Former Director of the Office of Political Strategy & Outreach under the Obama Administration - Carissa Smith: Former Senior Public Engagement Advisor in the White House Office of Public Engagement; Fall 2024 CPF Fellow - Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
S2 E85 · Mon, October 28, 2024
Democracy in the Middle East: A Conversation with His Royal Highness Reza Pahlavi, The Crown Prince of Iran
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins His Royal Highness Reza Pahlavi, Exiled Crown Prince of Iran, for a discussion on democracy, peace, and prosperity in the Middle East at a critical moment in the region’s history. Featuring: - Reza Pahlavi: Crown Prince of Iran; USC Alum (‘85) - Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife - Moh El-Naggar: USC Dornsife Interim Dean
S2 E84 · Fri, October 25, 2024
Election 2024: Where Are We Now?
Election 2024: Where Are We Now? CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Jane Coaston, journalist and CNN contributor, and David Simas, former CEO of the Obama Foundation, for a discussion on how the 2024 election looks with less than two weeks to go. They discuss how each candidate is performing in the polls, the importance of the presidential debate, and each campaign's strategy and messaging. Featuring: - Jane Coaston: Journalist; CNN Contributor; Lead Host of Crooked Media's Daily News Show “What A Day"; Fall 2024 CPF Fellow - David Simas: Former CEO of the Obama Foundation; Former Director of the Office of Political Strategy & Outreach under the Obama Administration - Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
S2 E83 · Thu, October 17, 2024
Experiencing Hatred: True Stories to End Hate and Educate
CPF hosts a panel discussion on "Experiencing Hatred: True Stories to End Hate and Educate" as part of our "Combating Antisemitism and Hatred Series." The series explores the struggle against antisemitism in the context of countering hate, reducing violence, promoting empathy, and nurturing civil dialogue. Featuring: Jeff Blattner: US Department of Justice Deputy Assistant Attorney General; Former Judiciary Committee Chief Counsel for Sen. Edward Kennedy; Fall 2024 CPF Fellow Rob Eshman: Contributing Editor of The Forward; Former Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Journal Ron Galperin: Former Controller and CFO for the City of Los Angeles; Former CPF Fellow Aziza Hasan: Executive Director, Muslim Jewish New Ground; Former member of President Obama’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Todd Levinson: Host of “Healing Race” podcast; Producer at MainStream Nation Aaron Nir: CEO of Sanei International; CPF Board of Councilors Member Pedro Noguera: Dean of the USC Rossier School of Education Marylouise Oates: Novelist, Activist, Former LA Times Journalist Dov Wagner: Rabbi and Director of the USC Chabad Jewish Center Kamy Akhavan: Managing Director, Center for the Political Future
S2 E82 · Fri, October 11, 2024
Inside the East Wing: The Role of the First Lady
CPF Director Bob Shrum and Marylouise Oates, former activist and LA Times journalist, join former First Lady staffers Anita McBride, Noelia Rodriguez, and Tina Tchen for a discussion on the influence of presidential First Ladies on politics, policy, and American society. Featuring: Anita McBride: Former Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush Noelia Rodriguez: Former Press Secretary and Director of Communications for First Lady Laura Bush; Former CPF Fellow Tina Tchen: Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy and Impact Officer for the Obama Foundation; Former Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama Marylouise Oates: Former Activist and LA Times Journalist who covered First Ladies Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Fri, September 13, 2024
Presidential Debate: What Just Happened?
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy share their reactions on the historic presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris and the implications for the 2024 presidential election. They discuss who won, how their debate performance helps or hurts their campaigns, and voters' reactions to their messaging. Featuring: Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Fri, September 13, 2024
Trials, Debates, and the Strange 2024 Election
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join Fall 2024 CPF Fellows, Jeff Blattner, Mike Bonin, Jane Coaston, Lea Endres, and Carissa Smith, for a discussion on recent political trials, the historic presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, and how the 2024 presidential race is shaping up. Featuring: Jeff Blattner: Former Deputy Assistant Attorney General for U.S. DOJ Mike Bonin: Former LA City Councilmember Jane Coaston: Journalist and CNN Contributor<
Thu, July 11, 2024
Finding Common Ground in a Divided Congress: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R) and Abigail Spanberger (D)
This episode makes a powerful case for compromise and pragmatism as crucial ingredients in passing laws and getting things done. Our guests are Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Republican Brian Fitzpatrick, who are both members of the Problem Solvers Caucus: 62 Members of Congress, evenly split between Republicans and Democrats. Although you wouldn’t know it from national media coverage, The Problem Solvers meet frequently when Congress is in session to discuss bipartisan legislation. They’re often successful in moving bills forward. We hear a substantive, compelling, personal conversation with two lawmakers who work together and put country before party. We first recorded our conversation nearly four years ago. Despite their party labels they agree with each other much more than you might think.
Thu, June 20, 2024
Public Schools: Talking Across the Divide. Becky Pringle and Gisele Huff
Almost everyone has an opinion about public education, especially in the years since the COVID pandemic when the physical closure of schools and online schooling became highly controversial. The vast majority of American students attend public school, but the numbers are falling, partially because of growing financial support for school choice and the changing views of many parents. According to a Gallup poll last year, nearly two-thirds of Americans were dissatisfied with the quality of education students receive in kindergarten through 12th grade. In this podcast episode, we bring together two respected education leaders with different views about public schooling. Becky Pringle was a middle school science teacher for three decades, and is now President of the NEA - The National Education Association, the nation’s largest teachers union. Gisele Huff is a philanthropist, expert on education reform, and a longtime supporter of school choice and charter schools.
Thu, June 06, 2024
Pro-Life and Pro-Choice Leaders Together in the Same Room: Reverend Anne Fowler and Francis Hogan
Abortion is one of the most passionate, divisive, and emotional issues in the 2024 election campaign. The debate is often dominated by extremes on both sides. But what if passionate pro-life and pro-choice movement leaders could get together in the same room and learn how to disagree better? That is exactly what happened in Massachusetts, beginning in the mid 1990's. Leaders on both sides held secret discussions over the course of several years . These wrenching conversations began in the mid 1990’s at a very difficult time— after two women were murdered by an anti-abortion extremist in Brookline, Massachusetts. We hear from The Reverend Anne Fowler, an Episcopal Priest who served on the board of directors for the Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts, and lawyer Fran Hogan, who's been President of Women Affirming Life. They’re among the six women profiled in the 2023 documentary, " The Abortion Talks ". This interview was first published last year.
Thu, May 23, 2024
How The Media Rage Machine Divides America: Chris Stirewalt
From cars to entertainment, technology to retailing, most large industries have faced huge changes in the past thirty years. But none more so than the news business. Since 2000, countless numbers of local and regional newspapers went bust. Those that did survive fired a big percentage of their reporters and slimmed down. The past two decades also saw the rise of social media and highly opinionated online journalism, slanted well to the left or right of the political spectrum. Local reporting of how our towns, cities and states are run has died out in many parts of the country. Political journalist Chris Stirewalt is our guest in this episode. He is a contributing editor and regular columnist at the conservative news site, The Dispatch. Chris wrote the book, " Broken News: Why The Media Rage Machine Divides America and How to Fight Back ." Find more episodes of "Let's Find Common Ground" here . Learn more about The Common Ground Scorecard here .
Thu, May 09, 2024
Why Trump is Popular in Small-Town America: Salena Zito
Unlike the vast majority of journalists who cover American politics, Salena Zito lives far away from the centers of power and wealth. She writes about small-town America and the parts of the country that much of the media doesn’t cover. Zito's commitment to understanding the heartland of America is evident in her frequent trips along the nation’s back roads. She drives thousands of miles, avoiding interstates and major cities, to grasp the pulse of rural and small-town America Her insights about American voters are especially valuable in this election year. In this podcast, we learn why so many people who live in rural and small-town America support Donald Trump and the populist coalition that reshaped the Republican Party. Salena Zito writes columns and reports on politics for the Washington Examiner, the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, and the New York Post. She is coauthor of "The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics.”
Thu, April 25, 2024
Bipartisan Trust and Common Ground in Congress: Reps. Dusty Johnson (R) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D)
More than 50 Members of Congress have announced that they’re not running for reelection in 2024. Many cite political dysfunction and angry divisive rhetoric as reasons behind their decision to quit. Retiring Democratic Senator Joe Manchin recently told CNN: “Every one of us should be ashamed of what we’re living through now in the 118th Congress.” But there are constructive examples of cooperation. On the next episode of "Let's Find Common Ground", we host a lively conversation with Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Illinois) and Dusty Johnson (R-South Dakota). Both argue that finding common ground is a crucial ingredient in governing and making progress on solving the biggest challenges facing the nation. Johnson and Krishamoorthi also speak of their work together as Members of the bipartisan House Select Committee on China.
Thu, April 25, 2024
Bipartisan Trust and Common Ground in Congress: Reps. Rusty Johnson (R) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D)
More than 50 Members of Congress have announced that they’re not running for reelection in 2024. Many cite political dysfunction and angry divisive rhetoric as reasons behind their decision to quit. Retiring Democratic Senator Joe Manchin recently told CNN: “Every one of us should be ashamed of what we’re living through now in the 118th Congress.” But there are constructive examples of cooperation. On the next episode of "Let's Find Common Ground", we host a lively conversation with Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Illinois) and Rusty Johnson (R-South Dakota). Both argue that finding common ground is a crucial ingredient in governing and making progress on solving the biggest challenges facing the nation. Johnson and Krishamoorthi also speak of their work together as Members of the bipartisan House Select Committee on China.
S2 E79 · Mon, April 15, 2024
The Politics of Electric Vehicles: Why Have EV’s Become a Partisan Issue?
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy joins Albert Gore, Zero Emissions Transportation Association Executive Director, and David Schwietert, Alliance for Automotive Innovation Chief Policy Officer, for a conversation on the polarized politics of electric-powered vehicles and what polling around this big divide reveals about the future of transportation. Featuring: Albert Gore: Executive Director, Zero Emissions Transportation Association David Schwietert: Chief Policy Officer, Alliance for Automotive Innovation Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
S2 E78 · Thu, April 11, 2024
Climate on the Ballot: 2024
Debra Kahn, POLITICO California Policy Editor, joins former California Senator Fran Pavley, Pulse Fund Managing Partner Tenzin Seldon, and lawyer and environmentalist Joanne Witty for a conversation on the impact of climate change on the 2024 election and beyond. This discussion is part of the "Climate Forward 2024: Climate at the Crossroads" conference, sponsored by USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability and CPF, in collaboration with POLITICO. Featuring: Fran Pavley: Environmental Policy Director, USC Schwarzenegger Institute; Former California State Senator Tenzin Seldon: Founding and Managing Partner, Pulse Fund Joanne Witty: Lawyer; Environmentalist; Co-Chair, Political Committee of the Environmental Defense Action Fund Debra Kahn: California Policy Editor, POLITICO
Thu, April 11, 2024
Curiosity, Not Compliance: Bridge Building In The Workplace: Simon Greer
Many Americans are exhausted by polarization and hyper-partisanship. Bitter divides are not just a problem for election campaigns and public institutions; they’re also damaging the workplace. Employee morale at many businesses and nonprofits has plunged— impacted by tribalism, culture wars, and political divides. CEOs are often in a tough spot. Some have banned talking politics at the office. Or they’ve taken a public stand on an issue of the day in an effort to ‘do the right thing.’ But that can end up pleasing some employees while alienating others. In this episode of 'Let's Find Common Ground,' we have the privilege of hearing from Simon Greer, the visionary founder of Bridging the Gap. This organization is dedicated to equipping college students with the skills to communicate effectively across differences. Simon's work extends beyond the campus, as he also consults with numerous organizations grappling with these same challenges within their workforces. His efforts offer a beacon of hope in the face of workplace polarization.
S2 E77 · Fri, April 05, 2024
A Lot Done; A Lot More To Do
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Neera Tanden, Chief Domestic Policy Advisor to President Biden, for a conversation on climate policy in the Biden-Harris Administration, the ClimateCorps, and practical solutions to climate change. This discussion is part of the "Climate Forward 2024: Climate at the Crossroads" conference, sponsored by USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability and CPF, in collaboration with POLITICO. Featuring: Neera Tanden: Chief Domestic Policy Advisor to President Biden Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, March 28, 2024
2024 Election Politics: How Divided Are We Really? Kate Carney and John Geer
Partisan divides are as deep as ever. Most Americans are exhausted by the dysfunction and divisions in American politics. Some scholars claim the country is on the brink of civil war. But several recent polls suggest that clear majorities of voters agree on many issues. We dive into the data from two different groups that study American attitudes and beliefs. Kate Carney is chief of staff for the nonpartisan research organization, More in Common. Her work aims to help build strong communities for a strong country. John Geer is a professor of political science and leads the Vanderbilt Project on Unity & American Democracy. He discusses findings from Vanderbilt’s which tracks trust in institutions and democracy. Hear some of their surprising findings on this episode of "Let's Find Common Ground".
S2 E76 · Fri, March 22, 2024
New Frontiers for Education Reform?
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins education experts, Pedro Noguera, Macke Raymond, and Dr. Darline Robles, for a conversation on education reform and policy. They discuss the politics of public education, the role of parental rights, why some public schools are failing, what makes some charter schools successful when others struggle, whether or not taxpayer funds should be used to provide vouchers to parents who send students to private schools or home school, and which educational reforms should be supported, studied, or rejected. In partnership with USC Rossier School of Education, USC Price Center for Inclusive Democracy, USC Political Union (a Bridge USA chapter), and USC Political Student Assembly. Featuring: Pedro Noguera: Dean, USC Rossier School of Education Margaret “Macke” Raymond: Director, Center for Research on Education Outcomes (CREDO) at Stanford University Dr. Darline P. Robles: Professor of Clinical Education, USC Rossier School of Education; USC Associate Dean for Equity and Community Engagement; Former Superintendent, Los Angeles County Office of Education Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, March 14, 2024
Depolarizing America: Ending Toxic Polarization. Peter Coleman
Soon after Joe Biden became president he said in his inaugural address that wanted to bring Americans together, to forge unity. But maybe unity isn’t what we should aim for. Our guest this week says instead of focusing on that elusive goal, Americans need to concentrate on what’s damaging all of us: toxic polarization. In this episode we look at what toxic polarization is, how it got worse in recent decades, and how to end it, person-by-person. We learn about the role played by Common Ground Committee and other groups— local and national— in the bridging community. Peter Coleman has advised the Biden administration on how to detoxify America. He is a well-known mediator and psychologist who specializes in conflict resolution. A professor of psychology and education at Columbia University, he is the author of the book, The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization .
Thu, February 29, 2024
Racism Renounced: A Black Man Talks With White Supremacists. Daryl Davis
Acclaimed musician and recording artist Daryl Davis has interviewed hundreds of KKK members and other White supremacists and influenced many of them to renounce their racist ideology. We hear his brave and remarkable story. Daryl's personal quest began many years ago, after a concert when he was in a country music band. A card-carrying member of the Ku Klux Klan praised his piano playing. Daryl recognized that he had an opportunity to ask an important question about racism: “How can you hate me when you don’t even know me?” Daryl Davis is the author of "Klan-Destine Relationships"— the first book written about the Ku Klux Klan by a Black writer. His work in race relations has been highlighted in speaker series across the country. His documentary film, "Accidental Courtesy", features his process of conversation and understanding to bridge differences and promote racial reconciliation.
Thu, February 15, 2024
Is Everything We're Told About Independent Voters Wrong? Jackie Salit and John Opdycke
Independent voters make up well over 40 percent of the voting public. But you wouldn’t know that from media coverage, which focuses almost exclusively on red versus blue. Independents are often overlooked or seen as wishy-washy, bending in the wind. Our guests on this episode say that’s a big misconception. In this show, we look at a huge group of voters, including many young people, who make up a growing slice of the US population. Significantly, the number of American voters identifying as independent is at a record high. Our guests are both political experts. Jackie Salit is the author of Independents Rising and president of Independent Voting, an organization dedicated to bringing respect, recognition, and reform to independent voters. John Opdycke is president of Open Primaries, which campaigns for primary elections in which every American can participate, not just registered Republicans or Democrats.
S2 E75 · Tue, February 06, 2024
Ranking Reforms "The Cure for the Ills of Democracy is More Democracy"
Jonathan Martin, POLITICO senior political reporter, joins political experts, Nick Troiano and Kimberly Wyman, for a conversation on the state of democracy, election reforms, and the structural challenges of American politics. Featuring: Nick Troiano: Founding Executive Director, Unite America Kimberly Wyman: Former Secretary of State, Washington State; Election Security Expert CISA Jonathan Martin: Senior Political Reporter, POLITICO
S2 E74 · Mon, February 05, 2024
Truth Decay
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy joins Sasha Issenberg and Michael Rich for a conversation on the growing prevalence and impact of misinformation and disinformation in our politics. Featuring: · Sasha Issenberg: Award-winning Author on Modern Campaigns & Marriage Equality · Michael Rich: President and CEO, RAND Corporation (2011-2022) · Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
S2 E73 · Sat, February 03, 2024
November Showdown
FOX 11 News Co-Anchor Elex Michaelson joins political experts, John Anzalone, Stephanie Cutter, and Jessica Millan Patterson, for a conversation on the 2024 general election, including the key voting issues this election, Donald Trump's appeal to voters, and the role of third parties. Featuring: John Anzalone: Founder, Impact Research; Biden Pollster Stephanie Cutter: Co-Founder, Precision Strategies; Obama 2012 Deputy Campaign Manager Jessica Millan Patterson: Chairwoman, California Republican Party Elex Michaelson: Host "The Issue Is"; Co-Anchor, FOX 11 News
S2 E72 · Sat, February 03, 2024
Primary Colors
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins political and media experts, Chris Cadelago, Jane Coaston, John McConnell, and Carissa Joy Smith, for a conversation on the 2024 primary elections and its impact on the upcoming general election. Featuring: Chris Cadelago: POLITICO's California Bureau Chief; Former White House Correspondent Jane Coaston: “The Argument” Podcast Host, The New York Times; Spring 2024 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future John McConnell: Senior Speechwriter for President George W. Bush & Vice President Dick Cheney; Former Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Carissa Joy Smith: Vice President of FOX Corporation for Government Relations Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, February 01, 2024
How Curiosity Can Bridge Dangerous Divides: Mónica Guzmán
In this presidential election year, partisan divides cause political gridlock and distrust. We're encouraged to believe that we're right and those on the other side are ignorant, stupid, or evil. But avoiding awkward conversations with those we disagree with is a big reason why America is so bitterly divided. Journalist, bridge builder, and author Mónica Guzmán is the loving liberal daughter of conservative Mexican immigrant parents. We hear the personal story told with humor and passion of how Mónica set out to understand what divides America. In this episode of " Let's Find Common Ground ", we discuss practical ways to use our own sense of curiosity to have cross-partisan conversations with colleagues, friends, and family. Mónica is the author of the book " I Never Thought Of It That Way ". She serves as Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels, and hosts the podcast series, " A Braver Way ".
S2 E71 · Sat, January 20, 2024
Election 2024 Breakdown with CPF Fellows
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join Spring 2024 CPF Fellows, Douglas Brinkley, Jane Coaston, Ron Galperin, and Tim Miller for a lively discussion on the 2024 primary elections, presidential race, and campaigns. Featuring: Douglas Brinkley: Katherine Tsanoff Brown Chair in Humanities & Professor of History, Rice University; Spring 2024 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Jane Coaston: “The Argument” Podcast Host, The New York Times; Spring 2024 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Ron Galperin: Former Controller and CFO, City of Los Angeles; Spring 2024 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Tim Miller: Political Consultant; Jeb Bush 2016 Campaign Director; Spring 2024 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, January 18, 2024
What Americans Want from Politicians— And What They're Not Getting: Sean Westwood
American politics are often dominated by the loudest voices on the left and right. In this episode, we learn the crucial difference between what Americans get from their elected representatives and what they really want to hear. Professor Sean Westwood of Dartmouth College is our guest. As Director of The Polarization Research Lab, he studies American political behavior and public opinion, examining how partisanship and information from political elites affect the behavior of citizens. "There is an absolute need for common ground," Sean Westwood tells us. The research shows that most Democrats and Republicans "know very little about the other side and have significant misperceptions." We learn why elites, including political leaders and celebrities, have a powerful impact on public behavior. "When we humanize the opposition and bring politicians together and demonstrate how they can have civil disagreement, you set norms that the public will follow," he says.
Thu, January 04, 2024
The Third Founding
With our political system mired in problems, there’s plenty of talk about ‘fixing politics.’ But our guest Mark Sappenfield, Editor of the Christian Science Monitor, says that idea is too simplistic. What needs to change, he says “is upstream from politics. It’s how we relate to each other as human beings in our society. And until that changes, politics isn’t going to change.” In a deeply thoughtful conversation, Mark shares his personal take on where the U.S. is and where it needs to go. Americans’ expectations have changed a lot in recent years with mass internet access and the instant gratification brought about by digital life. We want something? We expect to get it within hours. But Mark argues this culture of convenience and focus on the self has seeped into the rest of our lives, altering our expectations for what politicians can do for us and absolving us of personal responsibility. From his current home in Germany Mark discusses the upside of a less convenient daily life, the difference between compromise and curiosity, and how a societal re-set he calls 'a third founding’ may be needed to get America back on track.
Thu, December 21, 2023
Year-End Show: Conflict, Patriotism and Creative Ways to Find Common Ground
Our final podcast for 2023 is the one-hundredth episode of “Let’s Find Common Ground”. We look back and include special moments from six shows during the year. Americans disagree on many things, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Journalist and author Amanda Ripley explains why, all too often, we see conflicts that are more about scoring points than seeking resolution. Rachel Kleinfeld of the Carnegie Endowment, who studies democracy and conflict, discusses whether America’s divides could be spinning out of control. Author and Washington Post columnist Ted Johnson examines race and patriotism in creative, thoughtful ways. In this episode, we also share several extraordinary moments in our conversation with two women on opposite sides of the abortion debate, and how they gained respect and understanding for each other without compromising their views on one of the most contentious issues of our time. Two faith leaders joined us to discuss religion's role in finding common ground. And acclaimed television journalist Judy Woodruff of the PBS NewsHour gives us a vivid example of how Washington DC is much more divided than it once was.
Thu, December 07, 2023
Disagree Better: Politics Across Divides. Utah Governor Spencer Cox
Recently, during a public event at Utah's State Capitol, Governor Spencer Cox issued a stark warning: "Either we, the people, collectively decide we're going to stop hating our fellow Americans, or we'll start shooting each other." In our podcast, we hear why Governor Cox passionately believes that the country is heading in a dangerous direction with hyperpartisanship and political dysfunction and what he's doing about it with his Disagree Better Initiative. Spencer Cox, a Republican, is the 2023 Chair of the bipartisan National Governors Association. He selected "Disagree Better" to be the Association's current campaign. Through public debates, service projects, meetings, and public service announcements, Disagree Better brings together red and blue governors, looking at the problems of polarization and how to elevate solutions that Common Ground Committee and other groups in the bridging community are implementing.
Tue, November 21, 2023
The Soul of Civility
The state of public discourse is often dire and includes insults and threats. We assume the worst of the other side and are not afraid to call them out publicly, especially online. Our guest on today’s show says this behavior isn’t just rude. It’s uncivil. And that civility - not politeness - makes a real difference in how we think about ourselves and treat each other. Our guest, Alexandra Hudson, is the author of the new book The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves. She grew up in a family where manners mattered. When she went to work for Education Secretary Betsy DeVos in the Trump administration, she thought good manners would help her navigate a hostile work environment. But she failed to thrive, despite putting politeness and friendliness into overdrive. She left politics deflated. Still, her experience got her thinking about true civility and how it can help us find common ground. As the holiday season begins, we explore the difference between civility and politeness, how loneliness and isolation contribute to an uncivil society, and the important part hospitality plays in being genuinely civil.
S2 E70 · Mon, November 13, 2023
Book Talk with Adam Nagourney
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins New York Times reporter Adam Nagourney for a conversation on his new book, “The Times: How the Newspaper of Record Survived Scandal, Scorn, and the Transformation of Journalism,” and the role journalism plays in politics. In partnership with USC Annenberg Center on Communication Leadership and Policy. Featuring: Adam Nagourney: National Political Reporter, The New York Times; Former Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, November 09, 2023
Finding Common Ground In-person— Not Over Zoom: State Reps. Mark Klicker and Alex Ramel
When conservative Republican Mark Klicker and liberal Democrat Alex Ramel met in person for the first time, their opinions about each other rapidly changed. A frosty online exchange of policy differences over Zoom quickly turned into a constructive example of close bipartisan cooperation. After Washington State eased COVID restrictions and resumed in-person legislative sessions last year, Representatives Ramel and Klicker worked together on a renewable energy tax bill. The state legislation has just become law. Much of tax revenues from wind and solar will now go to the communities where renewable energy is produced. The bill was designed to answer some potential local objections to renewable energy projects and to make progress on combating climate change. In this episode, both legislators tell us that online legislative sessions were a barrier to bridging differences and finding common ground. What had been missing during months of online meetings were moments of eye contact and the opportunity to establish informal, in-person contact. We hear more about their legislation, finding common ground on the environment, and their friendship across partisan divides.
S2 E69 · Fri, November 03, 2023
Presidential Race 2024
CPF Executive Director Kamy Akhavan joins Democratic campaign strategist Addisu Demissie and former Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus for a conversation on the 2024 presidential race. With Election Day on November 7, the discussion explores the election’s potential impact on control of Congress, state legislatures, governorships, and the 2024 presidential race. Featuring: Addisu Demissie: Principal and Founder of 50+1 Strategies; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Reince Priebus: Former White House Chief of Staff and Chairman of the Republican National Committee; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Kamy Akhavan: Executive Director, Center for the Political Future
Thu, October 26, 2023
Polarization and political violence: Rachel Kleinfeld
Violent threats against members of Congress are up, and hate crimes have increased to the highest levels ever recorded. Fear is being used as a tool by both Republicans and Democrats to win votes. In this episode, we speak with Rachel Kleinfeld, a fellow in the Democracy, Conflict, and Governance Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Rachel says people talking across differences isn’t enough to end polarization, even if it can create goodwill and lower the temperature in the short term: there needs to be institutional change and politicians who come together to defend democratic norms. A recent podcast guest in the UK told us it sometimes seems like the US is on the verge of civil war. Rachel says this is unlikely. As someone who grew up in Alaska among neighbors firing the occasional warning shot from their yards, Rachel knows firsthand that ‘threats and justification for violence are not the same as attacks.’
S2 E67 · Sat, October 21, 2023
Combating Antisemitism and Hatred featuring Bob Shrum, Bret Stephens, and Zev Yaroslavsky
CPF's inaugural discussion of our Combating Antisemitism and Hatred Series features CPF Director Bob Shrum, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens, and former Los Angeles elected official Zev Yaroslavksy. The series explores the struggle against antisemitism in the context of countering hate, reducing violence, promoting empathy, and nurturing civil dialogue. Featuring: William Deverell: Divisional Dean for the Social Sciences, USC Dornsife Bret Stephens: Opinion Columnist for The New York Times; Editor-in-Chief of Sapir Zev Yaroslavsky: Former Los Angeles County Supervisor, District 3 Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, October 12, 2023
Populism, Polarization, and Threats to Western Democracy: Rory Stewart
Rory Stewart walked across Afghanistan, was an elected politician, served as a senior British government minister, and was a visiting fellow at Yale University. Today he is the host of a highly successful podcast— "The Rest Is Politics"— and outgoing president and advisor of the global anti-poverty charity, GiveDirectly. By any measure, he is a man of many parts. In our podcast, Stewart raises the alarm about threats to democracy in Europe and the U.S., explains his detailed understanding of common ground, and discusses the stark difference between skills needed to win political office and what's needed to govern well. We ask him about the parallels between U.S. and U.K. politics, the threats to democracy from populism, and how other elected politicians overseas view America's current political division and dysfunction. "The U.S. public square really looks incredibly divided," Rory Stewart tells us. We also discuss his outspoken new memoir about his years in the U.K. Parliament and government, "How Not To Be a Politician."
S2 E66 · Mon, October 09, 2023
Trojan Family Weekend: How's Biden Doing? What about the GOP?
For the 2023 USC Trojan Family Weekend, CPF Co-Directors and veteran political strategists Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy participate in an insightful and entertaining discussion on the latest political news. Featuring: Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
S2 E65 · Mon, October 09, 2023
Post Covid: The Unequal State of Health in America
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins a panel of public health experts for a discussion on post-pandemic health inequities in America. Featuring: Sofia Gruskin: Director, USC Institute on Inequalities in Global Health Sujeet Rao: Former Senior Policy Advisor, White House COVID-19 Response Team; Director, USC Dornsife Public Exchange Health and Wellbeing Practice Dr. Bradley Stoner: Head of the Department of Public Health Sciences, Queens University; Former President of the American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, September 28, 2023
The Challenge of Fixing Congress
What a time to try and fix Congress. But that’s what our guests on this episode are determined to do. This show features two politicians from the newly launched Fix Congress caucus. Reps Derek Kilmer (D-Wa) and William Timmons (R-SC), first appeared on our show last year as members of the House Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress. The stakes were high when we recorded this latest interview: the budget deficit had once more taken center stage, and the countdown to a possible government shutdown was underway. These members of Congress are frustrated but also hopeful. They discuss dealing with the vast amount of federal government debt, the support congressional leaders have shown for their efforts, and how technology can play a part in fostering bipartisanship.
S2 E64 · Tue, September 26, 2023
Does Polling Still Work?
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join Fall 2023 CPF Fellows Arnon Mishkin and Reince Priebus for a conversation on polling and its ability or inability to predict voting outcomes as the 2024 presidential race approaches. Featuring: Arnon Mishkin: Political Analyst and Director of the Fox News Election Decision Team; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Reince Priebus: Former White House Chief of Staff and Chairman of the Republican National Committee; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, September 14, 2023
A New Definition of Citizenship: Rights and Obligations. Richard Haass
When we consider the meaning of citizenship, most Americans usually think about individual rights. In this episode, we hear a bold call for change. Our guest, Richard Haass, says that if democracy is to survive, we must re-envision citizenship and consider our obligations to one another. He argues that the greatest threat the country faces comes not from foreign adversaries but from none other than ourselves. Finding common ground and healing bitter divides, he says, requires placing obligations on the same footing as rights. "We get the government and the country we deserve. Getting the one we need is up to us." A highly experienced diplomat and policymaker, Dr. Haass served in the Pentagon, State Department, and White House under four Presidents, Democrat and Republican alike. His new book is " The Bill of Obligations. The Ten Habits of Good Citizens ". For 20 years Richard Haass was president of the nonpartisan Council on Foreign Relations. Today he serves as CFR's president emeritus.
Thu, August 31, 2023
How States Hold Fair Elections. Secretaries of State Michael Adams and Steve Hobbs
Until recently most of us outside of state government didn’t know much about the role of Secretary of State, the state’s top election official. We simply didn’t think about it. But since 2020, election laws and procedures have been in the spotlight – and election officials have come under attack. In this episode of Let’s Find Common Ground, we meet Democrat Steve Hobbs, Secretary of State for Washington, and Republican Michael Adams, Secretary of State for Kentucky. Kentucky is a vote-in-person state, while Washington has voting by mail and at the dropbox. But no matter how people vote, suspicion of the entire process is rife. In recent years both men have encountered election deniers and faced threats to themselves and their staff. “These abuses, even if they’re not full-fledged threats of violence - it adds up,” says Michael Adams, “and it begins to really lay some strain on our election process. Hear what each of our guests is doing to protect democracy in his state, why being part of the Electronic Registration Information System (ERIC) is important to them, and how volunteers play a vital role in free and fair elections.
S2 E63 · Mon, August 28, 2023
Fellows Discussion: Trump Indictments and the Politics of 2024
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join Fall 2023 CPF Fellows, Addisu Demissie, Arnon Mishkin, Mike Schmuhl, and Betty Yee, for a lively discussion on former President Trump’s indictments, what this means for President Biden, and how the 2024 presidential race is shaping up. The conversation also explores their USC study groups and impressive careers in politics. Featuring: Addisu Demissie: Principal and Founder of 50+1 Strategies; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Arnon Mishkin: Political Analyst and Director of the Fox News Election Decision Team; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Mike Schmuhl: Chairman of the Indiana Democratic Party; Former Campaign Manager for Pete Buttigieg 2020; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Betty Yee: Former California State Controller and Board of Equalization member; Fall 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, August 17, 2023
Broken Media? Restoring Trust in News Coverage. Mark Sappenfield, Story Hinckley
The United States has one of the highest news avoidance rates in the world. Tens of millions of Americans don’t read, watch or listen to the news each day. The media is generally held in low regard. So, is there a better way to report and analyze current events that will satisfy readers’ interests? In this repeat episode, we hear from Mark Sappenfield, Editor of The Christian Science Monitor, and Story Hinckley, the paper's National Political Correspondent. We’re re-releasing this podcast as the 2024 campaign begins to gather pace — a time when many news outlets have amped up their coverage speculated about winners and losers, and put additional emphasis on the nation’s deep partisan divides. We discuss evolving news values with the Monitor and how reporters and editors are striving to highlight constructive solutions that unite rather than divide. We also hear about election coverage and why the media need to challenge readers, build trust, and report the news truthfully.
Thu, August 03, 2023
Two Friends— a Democrat and a Republican— Search Together for Common Ground. Jordan Blashek, Chris Haugh
Are Americans really as divided as we think we are? One liberal and one conservative jumped in an old Volvo and drove along nearly 20,000 miles of roads and highways in a series of journeys to find the answer. They went through 44 states and met an extraordinary range of people along the way. At a time of political gridlock and hyper-partisanship, Republican Jordan Blashek and Democrat Chris Haugh formed an unlikely friendship that blossomed, not in spite of, but because of their political differences. The result of their remarkable road trips is their book Union: A Democrat, A Republican and a Search for Common Ground." In this podcast episode, we hear a mixture of wisdom and humor and discover what Chris and Jordan learned about American politics, culture, civics, and our potential to find common ground.
Thu, July 20, 2023
Anti-Racism: Fighting Bigotry With Love. Chloé Valdary
Love is a central force in mitigating conflict, says writer and entrepreneur Chloé Valdary. She founded the diversity and inclusion training company, The Theory of Enchantment, and has a unique take on how we can heal racial division and hatred inside organizations and across American society. Chloé developed a program for "compassionate anti-racism" that combines social-emotional learning (SEL), character development and interpersonal growth as tools for leadership development in businesses and the workplace. She calls her method "an anti-racism program that actually fights bigotry instead of spreading it." Her three principles of enchantment are: "Treat people like human beings not political extractions", "Criticize to lift up and empower, never to tear down and destroy," and "Root everything you do in love and compassion." This episode is an edited version of a conversation first recorded for Village SquareCast, produced by The Village Square. Both Let's Find Common Ground and Village SquareCast are members of The Democracy Group podcast network.
Thu, July 06, 2023
A Pragmatic Republican Makes His Case: Will Hurd
Moderate Republican Will Hurd insists that across the country "there is more that unites us than divides us." The former GOP Congressman threw his hat into the ring in June with a video announcement that he's running for President of the United States. Our latest episode of "Let's Find Common Ground" re-visits our interview with Will Hurd, recorded one year ago. Hurd stresses the need for both pragmatism and nuance when tackling guns, immigration, and other hot-button issues. But don't call him a squishy moderate. “In the media in Washington DC…moderate means middle of the road,” he says. “But in reality, moderates are the ones that do the hard work and get things done because they’re the ones that are having to take a philosophy to people that may not identify with it.” Will Hurd served as a CIA agent overseas and conducted briefings for members of Congress. This experience inspired him to run for Texas 23rd Congressional district, which he won in 2014. Congress. He was elected three times in a swing district where Democrats often win. Hurd says in our podcast interview that he succeeded by engaging with voters from both sides, not just voters who shared all his beliefs.
Thu, June 22, 2023
The Big Challenge of Common Ground Politics: Tulsa, Oklahoma Mayor G.T. Bynum
Working across party divides is the best way to bring people together and make progress, says our guest, Tulsa Mayor, G.T. Bynum. But he also points out that common ground is “the least valued political real estate in America today”. Overwhelmingly reelected to office as a nonpartisan in a deep-red state, Mayor Bynum calls himself a moderate and tells us that his administration is a test case for “the belief that people of diverse beliefs can still work together to solve great challenges.” Two years ago, Mayor Bynum issued a statement apologizing on behalf of the city for the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, exactly 100 years after the racist attack. We discuss his support for long-delayed excavations of victims, and Tulsa's need for diversity, and how new immigrants add to prosperity and community building. Mayor Bynum acknowledges that in our divided times “the easy sugar high for candidates and elected officials is to hate ‘them’ and get one of the extremes on your side.” Our discussion looks at the need for common ground politics and respect for different communities.
Thu, June 08, 2023
America at a Crossroads, with Judy Woodruff
Veteran journalist Judy Woodruff has been covering US politics for more than 50 years. She moved to Washington DC in 1977 and has been there ever since, reporting for NBC, CNN, and PBS, most recently spending 11 years as anchor of the PBS News Hour. During her career, she has gotten to know a lot of politicians socially as well as professionally. In this episode, we speak with Ms. Woodruff about her two-year reporting project to get to know America better, America at a Crossroads . This new series for the PBS News Hour will culminate with the 2024 presidential election. Woodruff explores our current divisions as she travels the country interviewing scholars, public figures, and ordinary people. She delves into how and why these divisions came about, and what we can do to find common ground. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, May 25, 2023
Patriotism: Pride, Race and Reckoning. Theodore Johnson
Memorial Day honors the men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. In our next podcast episode, we discuss different ways to look at patriotism. Our guest, retired US naval officer and Washington Post newspaper columnist Theodore Johnson ponders the question, “How can we take pride in a nation with a history of injustice and inequality?” At a high school football game, Johnson, who is African-American, stood at attention when the national anthem was played. His teenage son, who was about to play in the game, took a knee in a protest against police brutality. Johnson argues that both acts were expressions of patriotism and is proud of his son's decision. "For me, being a patriot is not about uncritical celebration and talking only about how exceptional we are and how great the country is," Johnson tells us. "Being a true patriot requires that you both love the nation and critique it." On this insightful episode of "Let's Find Common Ground", Theodore Johnson also discusses his thoughts for how America can have more productive and uplifting discussions about race. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed, we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, May 11, 2023
The Abortion Talks: They Found Respect, but not Common Ground. Frances Hogan, The Rev. Anne Fowler
We speak with two women from opposing sides of the bitter and often toxic debate over abortion. Frances Hogan and The Rev. Anne Fowler were involved in a series of years-long intensive, secret talks. Their candid conversations began after a gunman opened fire at two Massachusetts abortion clinics nearly thirty years ago. The attack left two women dead and five people injured. In this episode, we learn the extraordinary story of how Anne and Frances gained a much deeper understanding and respect for one another. They didn’t change their views about the abortion issue, but they did become friends. We share moments of compassion, kindness, and humor. Both Frances and Anne were among those profiled in the new documentary, "Abortion Talks", about what happened after the deadly attacks. On "Let's Find Common Ground", both of them explain how incredibly difficult it was to be part of many hours of exhausting conversations. We hear how they learned to overcome fear, stereotyping, misunderstandings, and anger. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed, we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
S2 E62 · Thu, April 27, 2023
The Politics of Globalization with Gordon Brown
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Gordon Brown, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, for a discussion on the politics of globalization. They discuss the war in Ukraine, challenges from China, the 2008 global financial crisis, and America’s role in globalization. Featuring: Gordon Brown: Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; United Nations Special Envoy for Global Education; World Health Organization (WHO) Ambassador for Global Health Financing Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, April 27, 2023
Divided We Stand? What Americans Really Think About Politics
It’s often said that America is as politically divided as it has ever been. In this week’s show we dive into the data from two different groups that study American attitudes. What they discovered challenges some of our assumptions about the current state of US politics, and offers us a sense of context missing from noisy ‘us versus them’ type arguments. John Geer of Vanderbilt University discusses the latest findings from Vanderbilt’s Unity Index, which tracks Americans’ trust in institutions and democracy. Kate Carney, chief of staff at More in Common in Washington DC, talks about the group’s ‘Speaking to the Exhausted Majority’ report. Both reports are examples of deep research into the state of American public opinion and where common ground may lie. We discuss the extent to which US democracy is under threat, who really makes up the ‘exhausted majority’ of American voters, and what liberals and conservatives get wrong about the other side. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, April 13, 2023
High Conflict vs. Good Conflict: The Vital Difference. Amanda Ripley
Every day we are bombarded with negative news and polarizing opinions from politicians, pundits, and others who seek attention, power, and money by escalating division. Our guest, Amanda Ripley, calls them "conflict entrepreneurs." In this podcast, Amanda explains why she believes the problem we face in America isn't too much conflict. Instead, it’s the type of disagreement we are having. We hear about the crucial differences between constructive conflict, where different sides seek to find common ground, and destructive conflict where discord distills into a good-versus-evil kind of feud, with an " us" and a " them" . Amanda Ripley is a journalist and columnist for The Washington Post. Her recent book is "High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out." Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed, we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
S2 E61 · Tue, April 11, 2023
Finding Common Ground in Climate Conversations
USC Wrigley Director Joe Árvai joins former White House Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy and New York Times Opinion Columnist Bret Stephens for a conversation on finding common ground in climate conversations. They discuss how climate science leads to action, COVID-19's impact on climate change, the economic impact on climate action, and messaging around climate change. Featuring: Gina McCarthy: First Ever White House Climate Advisor; Former EPA Administrator Bret Stephens: Opinion Columnist for The New York Times; Editor-in-Chief of Sapir Joe Árvai: Director, USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies Bruce Bond: Co-Founder, CEO, & Board Chair of Common Ground Committee
S2 E60 · Fri, April 07, 2023
Finding Common Ground on the Politics of Climate
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins former U.S. Representatives Val Demings and Adam Kinzinger for a conversation on the politics of climate with the goal of finding common ground. They discuss political barriers to enacting climate action, climate legislation passed by Congress, and how environmental legislation can help achieve climate justice. Featuring: Val Demings: Former U.S. Representative (D-FL) Adam Kinzinger: Former U.S. Representative (R-IL) Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Bruce Bond: Co-Founder, CEO, & Board Chair of Common Ground Committee
S2 E59 · Mon, April 03, 2023
Women in Politics: Martha Escutia with Fran Pavley
In honor of Women’s History Month, CPF hosts a discussion with former California State Senators Martha Escutia and Fran Pavley on the role of women in politics and the challenges they face as leaders. They discuss how they got involved in politics, Sen. Pavley's landmark work on environmental and climate change legislation, and how they overcame challenges they faced as women legislators in the California Assembly and State Senate. Featuring: Fran Pavley: Former California Senator (2008-2016); Environmental Policy Director, USC Schwarzenegger Institute Martha Escutia: Former California Senator (1992-2006); Vice President, USC State Government Relations and Special Counsel; Spring 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Kamy Akhavan: Executive Director, Center for the Political Future
Thu, March 30, 2023
Break Out of Your Bubble to Build Friendship and Empathy
Our last show focused on finding common ground when talking to strangers. In this show we explore friendship and empathy with two guests who are friends themselves, a Catholic priest and a Protestant pastor. Father Tim Holeda leads Saint Thomas More Co-Cathedral, and Latricia Scriven is pastor of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church, both in Tallahassee, Florida. As religious leaders, our guests offer a perspective many people don’t have these days. They grapple with moral questions in their work that we often don’t consider, and draw on the wisdom of ancient texts to help them navigate our complicated modern world. Tune in to hear more on this latest episode of Let’s Find Common Ground. Thank you to The Village Square and The Village Square's God Squad , a politically diverse group of faith leaders, for making this show possible. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed, we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
S2 E58 · Mon, March 27, 2023
Conversation with Stavros Lambrinidis, European Union Ambassador to the U.S.
CPF Executive Director Kamy Akhavan joins Stavros Lambrinidis, European Union Ambassador to the U.S., for a conversation on the history and current status of the European Union and United States relationship. They discuss EU support for Ukraine, the latest on the post-Brexit Windsor Framework, important human rights issues, and advice for young people who want to get involved in public service. Stavros Lambrinidis: European Union Ambassador to the United States Kamy Akhavan: Executive Director, Center for the Political Future Alison Dundes Renteln: USC Professor of Political Science, Anthropology, Public Policy and Law
Thu, March 16, 2023
Break Out of Your Bubble: Talk to a Stranger
Most of us live comfortably in our bubbles, interacting with people who think and often look like us. We may sift out others who don’t fit our mold. A long pandemic hasn’t helped: Covid has made many people wary of being around strangers, let alone talking to them. If you live in a city you operate by invisible rules where you pay just enough attention to a stranger, allowing each of you the space to carry on politely…and distantly. But our guest on this episode says taking the time to talk to people you don’t know can bring unexpected pleasures, and lead to more openness and tolerance. Kio Stark is a qualitative researcher and the author of the book When Strangers Meet. She says when you engage with another person in a store, on a park bench, in line at the DMV, you are getting a peek into someone else’s world and entering into a shared humanity. You’re forging a connection that may help you see the world from another person’s perspective. As Kio says, “a conversation with a stranger can open up your idea of who you think of as part of the society in which you live.” Hear more on the latest episode of Let’s Find Common Ground. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed, we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, March 02, 2023
Mass Shootings and Guns: Seeking Common Ground: Patrik Jonsson and Ryan Busse
In the first eight weeks of this year, America’s epidemic of mass shootings and gun crimes showed no signs of reprieve. In fact, the crisis may be getting much worse. According to the Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit group that tracks firearms violence in the U.S., there have been at least 90 mass shootings since January 1. We take a close look at gun violence and the search for common ground. We learn why so many Americans love guns and say they need them for self-defense. We also hear about differences in regional attitudes to guns, and what happens to communities that witness mass shootings. Our guests are journalist Patrick Jonsson and gun safety advocate Ryan Busse, author of “Gunfight: My Battle Against the Industry That Radicalized America”. Patrik Jonsson is the Atlanta-based correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor. He writes about The South, gun rights, race, extremist groups, natural disasters, and hockey. Ryan Busse grew up around guns — hunting and shooting with his father and had a long and successful executive career in the gun industry. Despite being a strong critic of the NRA, he's still a proud gun owner, hunter, and outdoorsman who lives in Montana. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed, we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
S2 E57 · Mon, February 27, 2023
Stephanie Young in Conversation with Angela Rye and Brittany Packnett Cunningham
In honor of Black History Month, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future (CPF) hosted an all-star panel discussion with Spring 2023 CPF Fellow Stephanie Young and activists Angela Rye and Brittany Packnett Cunningham on their careers, political impact, and challenges. On Tuesday, February 21, these women discussed the importance of Black History Month, how race and identity impact politics, and the current political roadblocks affecting our democracy. This event was in partnership with VoteSC, USC Political Student Assembly, Trojan Democrats, and USC College Republicans. Featuring: Angela Rye: Attorney, Activist, CEO of IMPACT Strategies Brittany Packnett Cunningham: Speaker, Political Analyst, Social Justice Champion Stephanie Young: Executive Director, When We All Vote; Spring 2023 Barbara Boxer Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future
S2 E56 · Fri, February 17, 2023
Conversation with Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom, for a discussion on how the United Kingdom Parliament operates and the special relationship between the United States and the UK. They discuss the powers of the Speaker of the House of Commons, how elections and political parties work in the UK, and advice to students who want to get involved in politics. Featuring: Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP: Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, February 16, 2023
Why Republicans are Losing Gen Z
Almost 70 percent of Generation Z voted for Democrats in November’s midterm elections. As the years go by, Republicans are getting an ever smaller slice of the youth vote. In the last episode, we looked at why Democrats are failing with rural voters. This time we ask why the GOP does so badly with young ones. Generation Z is often described as overwhelmingly liberal. But our guests on this show - two young Republicans - say it’s not that simple, and that if the GOP engaged in better marketing and outreach, it could win over many of the young electorates. Joe Mitchell is a former state congressman from Iowa, elected to the Iowa House of Representatives at the age of 21. He is also the president and founder of Run Gen Z , a nonprofit dedicated to recruiting and mentoring the next generation of conservative leaders as they prepare to run for office. Karoline Leavitt ran for Congress in New Hampshire last year, securing the nomination in the state’s 1st Congressional District at the age of 25. Previously she worked in the White House as assistant press secretary to President Trump. Joe and Karoline say Republicans don’t need to change their conservative message to win over young voters. Rather they argue that the GOP should appeal to Gen Z where they are, particularly on social media, and support the young candidates trying to reach them. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
S2 E55 · Fri, February 03, 2023
Politics 2023 with CPF Fellows
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join Spring 2023 CPF Fellows, Bill Carrick, John McConnell, Hank Plante, Ira Reiner, and Stephanie Young, for a lively discussion on current events, their careers, and their USC study groups. Featuring: Bill Carrick: Political Strategist for Bill Clinton, Eric Garcetti, & Dianne Feinstein; Spring 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future John McConnell: Senior Speechwriter for President George W. Bush & Vice President Dick Cheney; Spring 2023 Parikh Family Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Hank Plante: Emmy & Peabody Award-Winning TV Reporter & Anchor; Spring 2023 Bohnett Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Ira Reiner: Former District Attorney for Los Angeles County; Spring 2023 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Stephanie Young: Executive Director, When We All Vote; Spring 2023 Barbara Boxer Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, February 02, 2023
Why Democrats Fail With Rural Voters: Chloe Maxmin
Why do the two main political parties do so poorly with some large groups of voters? In this episode, we look at how in recent decades Democrats have been losing rural America by growing margins. In 1996, Bill Clinton carried nearly half of all rural counties. But in 2020 Joe Biden won majorities in fewer than 7% of these counties. Our guest, Chloe Maxmin, a progressive Democrat from rural Maine, was the youngest woman ever to serve in Maine's Senate. She was elected in a conservative district in 2020 after unseating a two-term Republican incumbent in a region that twice voted for Donald Trump by large majorities. She argues that her party has ignored voters in rural America and that their road to winning begins with respect, empathy, seeking common ground, and listening carefully to rural voters' concerns. On the doorstep candidates and volunteers, Maxmin argues, should "take the time to listen to why somebody believes the things they do and why they think the way they do." Our next show will focus on Republicans and their struggles with Gen-Z voters. Our previous episode was about why independent voters are ignored and misunderstood by both main parties. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, January 19, 2023
Why We Misunderstand Independent Voters
Independent voters make up more than 40 percent of the voting public. But you wouldn’t know that from media coverage, which focuses almost exclusively on red versus blue. Independents are often overlooked or seen as wishy-washy. Our guests on this episode say that’s a big misconception. In this show we look at a group of voters, including many young people, that is making up a growing slice of the US population. Our guests are Jackie Salit and John Opdycke. Jackie is the author of Independents Rising and president of Independent Voting, an organization dedicated to bringing respect, recognition and reform to independent voters. John Opdycke is president of Open Primaries, which campaigns for primary elections in which every American can vote, not just Republicans or Democrats. John and Jackie say that independents are not moderates: They envision a much less divisive political system than the current one, and they want to play a bigger role in American democracy. Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, January 05, 2023
Local Common Ground: Dinner and a Fight. Simon Miontlake, Ted Wetzel, Tom Hach
Want to know one of the most exciting and innovative ways to find common ground? Get people out of their political bunkers and move them beyond rigid polarization in our divided nation. Consider local grassroots efforts, such as the one we profile in this podcast episode. Journalist Simon Montlake of The Christian Science Monitor tells us about his reporting on a lively grassroots effort in northeast Ohio to help people of all political stripes disagree constructively. Participants meet first over dinner at a community center and then debate a hot topic. The audience is invited to discuss a controversial proposition, listening to different points of view. It’s called Dinner and a Fight with the word "fight" crossed out and replaced by "dialog". Event organizers Ted Wetzel and Tom Hach explain how the evenings work and why they can be part of a broader effort to rebuild civic bonds. Ted is the founder and executive director of Fighting-To-Understand, a nonprofit group that encourages people to be more skilled at healthy disagreement. Former IT program manager and retired Navy Reservist Tom Hach is the Director of Ohio Freedom Action Network (OhioFAN). Please tell us what you think! Share your feedback in this short survey. For every survey completed we’ll plant 5 trees. Common Ground Podcast Feedback Survey (qualtrics.com)
Thu, December 22, 2022
The Search for Common Ground: 2022 Year-End Show
2022 was a year of surprises in politics and the world beyond. In our year-end special, "Let's Find Common Ground" podcast puts the spotlight on six interviews that we published during the past twelve months. We hear former Congressman Will Hurd discuss moderation and extremes in American politics. Author and market researcher Diane Hessan tells us what pollsters often overlook when they speak with voters. Former gun industry executive Ryan Busse reveals the key differences between responsible gun ownership and the reckless use of firearms. Co-hosts Richard Davies and Ashley-Milne Tyte also feature their conversation with a prison reformer and a corrections industry executive. Two members of Congress— one Republican, one Democrat— explain their efforts to improve how Congress works. And a leading newspaper editor and reporter discuss how they face up honestly and creatively to bias and misinformation in the news media. Learn more at commongroundcommittee.org/podcasts
S2 E54 · Sat, December 10, 2022
Winter Is Coming: Campaign 2024
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy joins political insiders and strategists for a discussion on the 2024 presidential election. The panelists also talk about how candidates and campaigns are shaping up for the upcoming election, the possibility of a Joe Biden 2024 campaign, and Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. Featuring: Tad Devine: President, Devine Mulvey Longabaugh Media; Chief Strategist, Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign Jon Favreau: Co-Founder of Crooked Media; Former Head Speechwriter for President Barack Obama Shaniqua McClendon: Vice President of Politics, Crooked Media; Former Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Corrin Rankin: California Republican Party's Central Valley Vice Chair John Thomas: Republican Strategist, President of Thomas Partners Strategies Mike Murphy: Co-Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
S2 E53 · Fri, December 09, 2022
The Golden State: Blue LA and the Purple Congressional Battlegrounds
FOX 11 News Co-Anchor Elex Michaelson joins political insiders, strategists, and education experts for a discussion on how California and Los Angeles were impacted by the elections. They also talk about the Los Angeles mayoral election, the future of Gavin Newsom’s political career, control of the Senate, and the future of the Democratic and Republican parties in California. Featuring: Barbara Boxer: Former U.S. Senator (D-CA); Former Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Addisu Demissie: Principal and Co-Founder, 50+1 Strategies; Political Strategist, Gavin Newsom's 2018 gubernatorial campaign and Cory Booker's 2020 presidential campaign Christian Grose: Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, USC Dornsife; Academic Director, USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy Ira Reiner: 39th Los Angeles County District Attorney; Former Los Angeles City Attorney and Controller, Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Tom Ross: President and CEO, Swing Strategies political consulting firm Elex Michaelson: Host, "The Issue Is"; Co-Anchor, FOX 11 News; Winner of multiple Emmy and Golden Mic awards
Thu, December 08, 2022
Common Ground at Work: From Disaster to Success
Collaboration is seen as a given in working life. Being part of a team means cooperating with others on all kinds of projects. But the reality is few of us learn how to collaborate. And when a collaboration fails it can leave such bad scars that the people involved never want to work together again. In this episode, we speak with professor and collaboration expert Dr. Deb Mashek, author of the forthcoming book Collabor(hate): how to build incredible collaborative relationships at work (even if you’d rather work alone) . Deb found that three-quarters of people have been in at least one collaboration they loathed. But she says if more of us learn some simple skills, these kinds of disasters can be avoided. She also reveals how her own journey from trailer park to Ph.D. helped her become an expert in human relationships.
S2 E52 · Tue, December 06, 2022
What the Heck Just Happened?
Award-winning journalist Hank Plante joins political insiders, journalists, and education experts for a discussion on the 2022 midterm election results. Panelists also talk about Nancy Pelosi stepping down as House Democratic leader, the reliability of polling, and messaging strategies of both political parties. Featuring: Elan Carr: Former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism; Former Deputy District Attorney of Los Angeles; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bill Carrick: Political Strategist, President Bill Clinton, Robert Luna, Eric Garcetti, Dick Riordan, Dianne Feinstein, and more Seema Mehta: Staff Writer for the Los Angeles Times covering the 2022 midterm elections Symone Sanders: Former Senior Advisor and Chief Spokesperson to Vice President Kamala Harris; Former Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Lynn Vavreck: Marvin Hoffenberg Professor of American Politics and Public Policy, UCLA; Contributing Columnist to The Upshot at The New York Times Hank Plante: Emmy and Peabody-winning political journalist
S2 E51 · Fri, December 02, 2022
Finding Common Ground: The State of Our Democracy
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Democratic political icon James Carville and former White House Chief of Staff and Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus for a Common Ground Committee discussion on the 2022 midterm election results and the state of our democracy. They discuss the biggest takeaways from the midterm election, Carville's take on a Biden second run, and Priebus' experiences in the Oval Office. Featuring: James Carville: Political Icon Reince Priebus: White House Chief of Staff (2017), Chairman of the RNC (2011-2017) Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Tue, November 22, 2022
Talking with people you love, whose views you don’t. Holiday Special: Brian and Clare Ashcraft & Tania Israel
The holiday season is here but many people across the country may be dreading sitting down with their nearest and dearest— all because of politics. In the first half of this episode, we discuss political differences with a father and daughter who have different ways of seeing the world. Clare Ashcraft and her dad Brian live in Ohio. He’s an engineer and a conservative. She is a liberal-leaning college student. In the second half, we hear from an expert— well-known psychologist Tania Israel, author of “Beyond Your Bubble: How to Connect Across the Political Divide: Skills and Strategies for Conversations That Work." We share a series of smart tips that aim to minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with parents, family and friends. "Let's Find Common Ground" is hosted by Ashley Milne-Tyte and Richard Davies.
Tue, November 15, 2022
Special Episode: Lessons From the 2022 Midterm Elections
Democrats feared and Republicans expected a "red wave" election, but it didn’t happen. Why was the outcome such a surprise? Who gets the credit and blame? How do results impact the near-term future? What are the prospects for finding common ground in Congress where both the Senate and House will have razor-thin majorities? We discuss these questions with two of America’s most experienced political thinkers: Democratic consultant Bob Shrum and Republican strategist Mike Murphy. Both men serve as co-directors of The Center for the Political Future at the University of Southern California. Mike Murphy is one of the Republican Party’s most successful political media consultants, having handled strategy and advertising for more than two dozen successful gubernatorial and senatorial campaigns. Bob Shrum was once described as "the most sought-after consultant in the Democratic Party," by The Atlantic Monthly. He was the strategist in over 25 winning U.S. Senate campaigns, eight successful races for governor, and numerous campaigns for Congress and statewide offices.
Thu, November 10, 2022
Broken Media: The Roots of Today's News Crisis. With Chris Stirewalt
While many American consumers have given up their daily news habit, millions of others are now addicted to rage media— cable news and social media that push sensationalism, groupthink, and tribalism. This trend of "news bubbles" is relatively recent. Over the past 30 years, the decline of many regional newspapers has given way to a new form of slick, easy, and profitable national opinion journalism that caters to narrow segments of the population. In this episode, we look at the current state of the news industry and ask why the media and news consumers should insist on better journalism. Our guest is Chris Stirewalt, a columnist for The Dispatch, author, and former political editor for Fox News. Chris's new book is "Broken News: Why the Media Rage Machine Divides America and How to Fight Back."
S2 E50 · Wed, November 09, 2022
The Obama Presidency: The Hope and The Legacy
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins authors Patricia Turner and Gabriel Debenedetti for a discussion on their books about the Obama presidency. Turner’s book, “Trash Talk: Anti-Obama Lore and Race in the Twenty-First Century,” focuses on the cultural and racial reaction to Barack Obama’s election. Debenedetti’s book, “The Long Alliance: The Imperfect Union of Joe Biden and Barack Obama,” focuses on the relationship between Barack Obama and Joe Biden over the years. They discuss Obama’s influence on Biden’s 2016 presidential run, misinformation and conspiracy theories on Barack and Michelle, and Trump’s influence on Obama’s public opinion. Featuring: Gabriel Debenedetti: New York Magazine National Correspondent; Author Patricia Turner: UCLA Professor of World Arts, Culture/Dance, & African American Studies; Arthur Ashe Legacy Project Director, UCLA; Author Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Alison Dundes Renteln: Professor of Political Science, Anthropology, Law, and Public Policy
S2 E49 · Fri, October 28, 2022
Abortion and the Supreme Court: Politics Over Law? Or Law Over Politics?
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins an all-star panel discussion on the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and the politics of Supreme Court decisions. They discuss the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision, the impact of Roe v. Wade on voters and the midterm election, the upcoming Supreme Court cases, and if Roe can be restored. Featuring: Lee Epstein: Hilliard Distinguished Professor of Law, USC Gould School of Law Jessica Lall: President and CEO, Central City Association of Los Angeles; Fall 2022 Barbara Boxer Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Mark Schoofs: Pulitzer prize-winning Professor of Journalism, USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, October 27, 2022
Broken Media: Restoring Trust in News Coverage. Mark Sappenfield and Story Hinckley
The United States has one of the highest news avoidance rates in the world. Tens of millions of Americans don't read, watch or listen to the news each day. The media are held in low regard by the public. So, is there a better way to report and analyze current events that satisfies readers' interests? We hear from Mark Sappenfield, Editor of The Christian Science Monitor, and Story Hinckley, the paper's National Political Correspondent. We're releasing this podcast less than two weeks before the midterm elections— a time when many news outlets have amped up their coverage, speculated about winners and losers, and put additional emphasis on the nation's deep partisan divides. To date, this episode of Let's Find Common Ground is our most downloaded episode. We discuss evolving news values with The Monitor and how reporters and editors are striving to highlight constructive solutions that unite rather than divide. We also hear about election coverage and why the media need to challenge readers, build trust, and report the news truthfully. In this episode, we mention Common Ground Scorecard— a tool that helps voters learn which elected officials and candidates are seeking common ground on vital issues. The President, Vice President and every Senator, Member of Congress, and governor has a personal rating. Learn more: commongroundscorecard.org .
Thu, October 13, 2022
Bridging Divides on College Campuses: Clare Ashcraft and Jackson Richter
Rigid polarization and political division are among the biggest challenges facing our country. Young people often feel that tribalism is better than unity and that conversations across political and cultural divides are impossible. College students Clare Ashcraft, who comes from a conservative background, and Jackson Spencer Richter, who calls himself a committed liberal, are active members of BridgeUSA, a national movement of students working to emphasize the importance of empathy, understanding, and ideological diversity. In this episode we hear about students' personal experience of cancel culture, the impact of social media on Generation Z, and why many young people actually feel that free speech can harm or threaten their safety. We also learn about efforts to find common ground, equip students with skills to find solutions across divides, and build bridges with others of different backgrounds and points of view.
S2 E48 · Sat, October 08, 2022
How’s Biden Doing? What about the GOP?
For the 2022 Trojan Family Weekend, CPF Co-Directors and veteran political strategists Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy have a balanced and witty conversation about the latest political headlines. They discuss Joe Biden's administration, the state of the Democratic and Republican parties, and the midterm election and what it means for the 2024 general election.
S2 E47 · Fri, September 30, 2022
Congressman Ro Khanna: “Dignity in the Digital Age: Making Tech Work for All of Us”
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA) to discuss his new book “Dignity in the Digital Age: Making Tech Work for All of Us,” which is a roadmap to facing America’s digital divide and offering greater economic prosperity to all. They also discuss the digital economy, technological innovation, progressive capitalism, and the future of American democracy. Featuring: Ro Khanna - U.S. Representative (D-CA) for California’s 17th Congressional District Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife
Thu, September 29, 2022
Bridging Divides at Work
Polarization is not just a problem for Congress and our political system, it’s also taking a toll in the workplace. Employees are falling out with each other over politics and fiery issues in the culture wars. Organizations are trying to stem the discord. Some have banned political talk at the office. Others have taken a public stand on an issue of the day in an effort to ‘do the right thing’. Simon Greer, our guest on this show, says edicts like this won’t help, though more thoughtful approaches can. Simon is the founder of Bridging the Gap, a group that helps college students develop the skills to communicate well across differences. He also consults with organizations who face these same challenges among their workforces. He explains how he went from ‘bomb thrower’ to bridge builder over the course of his career, tells stories from his work with employers and employees, and outlines the very personal reason for his belief in the humanity of the other person.
S2 E46 · Sat, September 24, 2022
Hispanics in the White House: From the Secret Service to the First Lady’s Office
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, CPF hosts an all-star panel discussion with Fall 2022 CPF Fellow Noelia Rodriguez, Hector Hernandez, and Maria Romero-Morales as they discuss their experiences working in the White House and their careers, including the challenges and discrimination they faced, as trailblazing Mexican Americans. Featuring: Hector Hernandez: Former Special Agent, U.S. Secret Service Noelia Rodriguez: Former Press Secretary and Communications Director to Laura Bush; Chief of Staff, Metrolink; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Maria Romero-Morales: Assistant Chief Diversity Officer for Communication, Community and Student Engagement, USC
Thu, September 15, 2022
Two Young Southerners Speak Up on Guns
Our guests on today’s show are part of the school shooting generation. Each grew up with active shooter drills and concerns that their school could be next, concepts that were unthinkable when most of today’s politicians were in the classroom. Sophie Holtzman and Jackson Hoppe are sophomores at George Washington University. They are also joint vice presidents of their college’s chapter of BridgeUSA, a group that brings students of different ideologies together to have open discussions on political issues. Sophie, a liberal, and Jackson, a conservative, share stories of being raised in the South, their experiences with guns, and how listening to others’ opinions on the topic is a vital first step to finding common ground.
S2 E45 · Sat, September 03, 2022
Politics 2022 with CPF Fellows
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join our Fall 2022 CPF Fellows, Elan Carr, Jessica Lall, Ira Reiner, Noelia Rodriguez, and Maria Salinas for a lively discussion. They talk about the midterm elections (many predictions were made!), Los Angeles mayoral and sheriff elections, bridging the partisan divide, and their upcoming USC study groups. Featuring: Jessica Lall: President and CEO, Central City Association of Los Angeles; Fall 2022 Barbara Boxer Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Elan Carr: Former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism; Fall 2022 Polak Foundation Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Ira Reiner: Former District Attorney for Los Angeles County; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Noelia Rodriguez: Former Press Secretary and Communications Director to Laura Bush; Chief of Staff, Metrolink; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Maria S. Salinas: President and CEO, Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum: Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy: Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, September 01, 2022
Primaries and Polarization: Is The Whole System Broken?
The primary election season in this midterm election year is now over in most states. Turnout was often very low— less than 20% of registered voters showed up in many places— while the partisan divide was as wide as ever. In this episode, we hear from leading political strategists, scholars, authors, and journalists about the American system for choosing candidates who will face each other in November's election. We hear criticisms of closed party primaries and look at other ways to pick candidates for public office. Proposals aimed at reducing polarization include the introduction of ranked-choice voting and open primaries, where independent voters, and those who are neither registered Republicans nor Democrats, can participate. Guests include Former Democratic Party Chair Donna Brazille, ex-Congressmen Will Hurd, David Jolly, and Barney Frank, Domestic Policy Council Director Susan Rice, constitutional law scholar Rick Pildes, author Tony Woodlief, and journalists Salena Zito, Christa Case Bryant, and Story Hinckley.
Thu, August 18, 2022
Millennial Politicians on Finding Common Ground: Jillian Gilchrest and Devin Carney
In US politics bipartisanship is now the exception, not the rule. But the Millennial Action Project is pushing back: it trains young leaders to bridge the partisan divide and work together to solve America’s problems. In this episode, we meet two members of the Millennial Action Project from opposite sides of the aisle. They are state representatives from Connecticut, Republican Devin Carney and Democrat Jillian Gilchrest. They discuss the joys and challenges of being a local politician at a time when national politics is so divisive. ‘Get to know me’ is something they often say to constituents who judge them solely on the ‘R’ or ‘D’ after their name. Carney and Gilchrest talk about listening and responding to their constituents, having their own prejudices upended, and how they find ways to agree for the good of their state.
Thu, August 04, 2022
Companies: Crisis and Common Ground: Davia Temin
American business can be a force for finding common ground, but large corporations must now answer to a growing array of stakeholders, who often have opposing views on hot-button issues. In recent years, social media has also forced companies to respond immediately to a variety of conflicting demands. We discuss these challenges with Davia Temin, a highly respected marketing and reputation strategist, crisis manager and communications coach. We also learn the ways that business can help contribute to improving public discourse at a time of polarization and political conflict. "I think the landscape is almost unrecognizable for businesses these days, versus ten years ago," Davia tells us. In this episode, we hear about the daily hazards and opportunities for corporate leaders, and get practical lessons on how they can respond to today's changing political, cultural and social landscape. in a clear, caring and authentic voice.
S2 E44 · Fri, July 29, 2022
Shrum and Murphy Talk with CPF Fellows Jessica Lall and Elan Carr
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join two of our five Fall 2022 CPF Fellows, Jessica Lall and Elan Carr, to discuss current events, their careers, and their upcoming USC study groups. They discussed the Los Angeles mayoral race, California's COVID response, diplomacy, and how to move away from polarization. Featuring: Jessica Lall : President and CEO, Central City Association of Los Angeles; Fall 2022 Barbara Boxer Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Elan Carr : Former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism; Fall 2022 Polak Foundation Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum : Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy : Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, July 21, 2022
Energy, Climate, and National Security: The New Map. Daniel Yergin
The world is being shaken by a collision of energy needs, climate change, and clashes between nations in a time of global crisis— made much worse by Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine. Roaring inflation has shocked consumers, the Biden Administration, and other governments around the world. In this episode we discuss the rapidly growing challenges of national security as well as opportunities for common ground with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Daniel Yergin, one of the world's foremost experts on energy, international politics and economics. We examine the reasons behind President Biden's latest visit to Saudi Arabia, Europe's rapidly growing dependence on U.S. oil and natural gas, and the changing threats to the West from Russia and China. Daniel Yergin's book, "The New Map: Energy, Climate and the Clash of Nations," led to his selection as Energy Writer of the Year by the American Energy Society
S2 E43 · Mon, July 11, 2022
Politics Today with Fall 2022 CPF Fellows Ira Reiner and Noelia Rodriguez
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join two of our Fall 2022 CPF Fellows, Ira Reiner and Noelia Rodriguez, to discuss current events, their careers, and their upcoming USC study groups. Featuring: Ira Reiner : Former District Attorney for Los Angeles County; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Noelia Rodriguez : Former Press Secretary and Communications Director to Laura Bush; Chief of Staff, Metrolink; Fall 2022 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum : Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy : Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, July 07, 2022
Climate Action: A Progressive and a Conservative Find Common Ground. Bill McKibben and Bob Inglis
Environmental activist and author Bill McKibben warned the public about the perils of climate change and the damage human activity is causing more than forty years ago. Former South Carolina Republican Congressman Bob Inglis became a climate activist much later, but he is no less passionate. Both differ on politics and who to vote for, but they agree on the goal of sharply reducing carbon emissions as soon as possible. Inglis and McKibben join us for this episode of "Let's Find Common Ground". They sound the alarm about the need for urgent action. Bob Inglis is a conservative Republican and a committed believer in free enterprise capitalism and limited government. He’s executive director of RepublicEN.org, a conservative group that advocates for solutions to climate change. Bill McKibben is a writer and teacher who has dedicated his life to confronting the climate crisis. He has written a dozen books about the environment, is a distinguished scholar at Middlebury College, and leads the climate campaign group 350.org . Last year Bill launched Third Act, a new campaign aimed at engaging activists over the age of 60
Thu, June 23, 2022
The Crucial Role of Centrists: Will Hurd
We live in a world of political extremes, with the far right and far left denigrating each other on a regular basis. But could the future lie with politicians who appeal to everyone else? Our guest on this show says yes. Former CIA agent and Republican congressman Will Hurd of San Antonio won three terms representing Texas’s 23rd district. He was told he could never it because it was bright blue, while he was red. Hurd says he succeeded by engaging with everyone, not just voters who shared all his beliefs. “In the media in Washington DC…moderate means middle of the road,” he says. “But in reality, moderates are the ones that do the hard work and get things done because they're the ones that are having to take a philosophy to people that may not identify with it.” Hurd grew up bi-racial in Texas, which gave him the early experience of finding common ground. In his book American Reboot he outlines how to "get big things done" by focusing on policy, not politics. He also shares his thoughts on what Americans should be worrying about, including losing control of the technology which we use to run our lives.
Thu, June 09, 2022
Our Common Ground: What Polling Doesn't Reveal About Americans. Diane Hessan
All too often people in public life talk past each other and assume that all Americans are rigid Republicans or determined Democrats. So what happens when we actually listen and give voters the respect and space they need to explain how their true opinions? On guns, abortion, government spending and even partisan politics, most people may not be nearly as far apart as polling suggests. For more than four years, our guest, entrepreneur and market researcher, Diane Hessan, conducted a remarkable series of conversations with hundreds of voters from all across the country. She checked in with them every week. What Diane found may surprise you, give you hope, and change the way you feel about your fellow Americans. Diane also has some fascinating insights into the role of business, and how corporations could bridge divides among their workforce and the public at large. Note: Please take our brand new listener survey at commongroundcommittee.org/podcasts . We value your feedback.
S2 E42 · Fri, June 03, 2022
"Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America's Future" with Jonathan Martin and Alexander Burns
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join journalists Jonathan Martin and Alexander Burns to discuss their latest book and the degree to which the two-party system has been strained to the point of disintegration. Featuring: Jonathan Martin - Co-Author, "This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America's Future"; National Political Correspondent, New York Times Alexander Burns - Co Author, "This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America's Future"; National Correspondent, New York Times; Political Analyst, CNN Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, May 26, 2022
We're Less Divided Than We Think: Tony Woodlief
Every day on social media and cable TV, in newspapers and magazines, we're told that we live in a red-versus-blue world of rigid divides. Our podcast guest, Tony Woodlief, begs to differ. "In reality, most people fall somewhere in the middle, or else have a complex blend of views from both sides of the aisle, Tony tells us. His new book "I, Citizen" uses polling data, political history, and on-the-ground reporting to make the case that party activists and partisans are attempting to undermine the freedom of Americans to govern themselves and make decisions that have a direct impact on their lives. Many people have fallen for a false narrative promoted by leaders of political parties, academia, media, and government, that we're all team red or team blue, he argues. In this episode, we learn a different perspective and discuss how all of us can find common ground in our local neighborhoods and national discourse.
Thu, May 12, 2022
Depolarizing America: Building Consensus Step-by-Step. Kelly Johnston and Rob Fersh
Kelly Johnston and Rob Fersh disagree strongly on many issues, and voted differently in the 2020 presidential election. But they are friends and “agree on major steps that must be taken for the nation to heed President-elect Biden’s welcome call for us to come together.” Both believe that constructive steps must be taken to help build trust among Democrats and Republicans, despite deep polarization and a firm resistance to bipartisanship from both ends of the political spectrum. They encourage open dialogue between sectors and interest groups whose views diverge in an effort to deal with divisive political discourse. Rob Fersh founded Convergence Center for Policy Resolution, and previously worked for Democrats on the staffs of three congressional committees. Kelly Johnston, also a founding board member of Convergence, is a committed Republican and former Secretary of the U.S. Senate. In this episode of Let’s Find Common Ground , produced in partnership with Convergence, we talk with both Fersh and Johnston about bridge building and why this work is so urgently needed in an era of political gridlock.
Thu, April 28, 2022
How Our Accents Can Divide and Unite Us
We all judge others on how they sound: their accent, their pronunciation, their use of slang. Some of us have been criticized for these things ourselves, mocked because we sound different from those around us. The way we speak can be a source of division. But it doesn’t have to be. In this episode we speak with Jessica Mendoza and Jingnan Peng of the Christian Science Monitor. They host the Monitor’s new podcast Say That Again? , which explores how we sound, how we listen, and how we can come to better understand each other. Both hosts and guests on this show were once newcomers to the US. We hear some personal stories of how their own voices have affected their experience, and how listening differently can help us all find common ground.
S2 E41 · Tue, April 26, 2022
The Politics of Energy and Climate Change
Center Director Bob Shrum joins a panel of energy experts and industry leaders to discuss the latest national policies advancing cleaner energy and curbing the effects of climate change, in commemoration of Earth Day. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Ted Bardacke - CEO, Clean Power Alliance Ivan Penn - Energy Correspondent, New York Times Jason Rondou - Director of Resource Planning, Development & Programs at Los Angeles Department of Water and Power Aura Vasquez - Chair of Climate Action Committee, Sierra Club Los Angeles Chapter; Former Commissioner, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
Thu, April 14, 2022
Guns: Ryan Busse Loves Them But Sees the Need for Limits on How They’re Used & Sold
The recent mass shootings in Sacramento, California, and at a subway station in Brooklyn, New York have prompted renewed calls for action on gun control. In this podcast episode, we gain a unique perspective on the raging debate with a former gun industry executive who says the NRA and its supporters have gone too far. Our guest, Ryan Busse grew up around guns— hunting and shooting with his father. He is a proud gun owner, hunter, and an avid outdoorsman, who lives in Montana. But today, Busse says that his industry radicalized large numbers of Americans, and argues it must change before gun violence can be reduced and our nation can heal. After a successful 30-year career, he decided to retire from the gun manufacturer he worked for, and write "Gunfight", a book that tells the inside story of a little-known industry. In this episode, we learn about Busse's lifelong love of guns and discuss his call for sensible rules of conduct.
S2 E40 · Thu, March 31, 2022
A Conversation with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)
CPF Director Bob Shrum joins U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski to discuss her decades-long efforts to bridge partisan divides and promote sustainability efforts, and her thoughts on Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Lisa Murkowski - U.S. Senator (R-AK)
Thu, March 31, 2022
Healing Conversations Across Dangerous Divides: Mónica Guzmán
Mónica Guzmán is the loving liberal daughter of Mexican immigrants who strongly support Donald Trump. We hear her warm personal story of how Mónica set out to understand what divides America and discovered ways to overcome divisions that hurt our relationships and society. In this episode of "Let's Find Common Ground", we discuss ways to use our own sense of curiosity to have rewarding cross-partisan conversations with colleagues, friends, and family. Mónica Guzmán is the author of the new book, "I Never Thought Of It That Way". She serves as an advisor to the depolarization organization, Braver Angels. Our interview shows listeners how to cross boundaries and find common ground with others from different viewpoints and life experiences.
S2 E39 · Mon, March 28, 2022
How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times
CPF Executive Director Kamy Akhavan joins Sangita Shresthova, research director at Civic Paths Group, and Monica Guzman, journalist and author, to discuss her latest book and share insights on how to better understand and connect with those whose opinions and beliefs vastly differ. Featuring: Kamy Akhavan - Executive Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future Mónica Guzmán - Author, "I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times," Digital Director, Braver Angels Sangita Shresthova - Director of Research, Civic Paths Group at USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
Thu, March 17, 2022
Bridge Builders in Congress. Reps. Derek Kilmer (D) and William Timmons (R)
The public’s trust in government is near an all-time low. Now some politicians are recognizing that polarization and division in the United States is a threat to how our democracy functions. In this episode, we hear from two members of Congress: One Republican, one Democrat. Representatives Derek Kilmer and William Timmons both work together on the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress and are leading supporters of the Building Civic Bridges Act — a proposal that would fund federal and local efforts to reduce polarization. We also discuss how bipartisan support for robust measures in response to the invasion of Ukraine may strengthen efforts to improve ties between Members of Congress of both parties. This effort comes at a critical time. Recent polling has found that about four-out-of-five Americans are very or extremely concerned about America's political divisions. "Let's Find Common Ground", produced for Common Ground Committee, is co-hosted by Richard Davies and Ashley Milne-Tyte.
S2 E38 · Fri, March 11, 2022
Former Senator Barbara Boxer and Journalist Masih Alinejad on Lifting Women's Voices
Former U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer joins Iranian journalist and activist Masih Alinejad to discuss women’s rights in the Middle East and her documentary film “Be My Voice,” which chronicles her movement against Iran's policy of mandatory head covering for women. Featuring: Barbara Boxer - Former U.S. Senator (D-CA) and Fall 2020 Fellow, USC Center for the Political Future Masih Alinejad - Journalist, Author, Women's Rights Activist Kamy Akhavan - Executive Director, USC Center for the Political Future
S2 E37 · Fri, March 04, 2022
The Politics of Education at School Boards
Education expert Alan Arkatov joins current and former school officials Lisa Korbatov, Nick Melvoin, Pedro Noguera, and Darline Robles to discuss the mixing of school boards, parental involvement, and appropriate content in today's often hyper-partisan school board environments. Featuring: Alan Arkatov - Katzman/Ernst Chair in Educational Entrepreneurship, Technology and Innovation; Center EDGE Founding Director, USC Rossier School of Education Lisa Korbatov - Former President, Beverly Hills Unified School District Board of Education Nick Melvoin - Vice President, Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education Pedro Noguera - Emery Stoops and Joyce King Stoops Dean of the Rossier School of Education Darline Robles - Former Superintendent of LA County Office of Education
Wed, March 02, 2022
Finding Common Ground on Re-Entry from Prison
America has the highest rates of incarceration in the world. Once people leave prison the hope is that they’ll be law-abiding, productive members of society. But all too often this isn’t the case – four in ten prisoners are back behind bars within three years of release. In this episode, we meet two men who want to fix the US’s flawed re-entry process. And they come from very different backgrounds. Former prison warden and overseer of regional prisons, Daren Swenson, has spent his career in corrections. Georgetown University professor Marc Howard is a reformer who has long campaigned for the rights and humanity of incarcerated people. They were brought together by Convergence Center for Policy Resolution to come up with solutions that take into account both the dignity of people re-entering society and the public safety implications of their release.
S2 E36 · Fri, February 18, 2022
Congressman Jamie Raskin Talks "Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth, and the Trials of American Democracy"
Congressman Jamie Raskin Talks "Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth, and the Trials of American Democracy" CPF Director Bob Shrum joins Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD) to discuss the latest in the House select committee hearings investigating the January 6 attack on Capitol Hill, the importance of bipartisan cooperation, and the legacy of his late son and father. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Jamie Raskin - U.S. Representative (D-MD); Author, "Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth, and the Trials of American Democracy"
Thu, February 17, 2022
Protecting American Democracy— The Military's Role: Retired Brigadier General Steven Anderson
What is the military’s role in protecting democracy? The question took on a new sense of urgency in the months after the riot at the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2020. A deep partisan divide opened up over what actually happened on that day, how to describe the chaotic events, and who should be held responsible. After decades of service in the U.S. military, retired Brigadier General Steven Anderson decided to speak out about the threat of future insurrections and the possibility that a coup might succeed next time. "There is a significant threat being posed to our nation and our democracy," he says. While some of those arrested and charged in the attack were veterans or even active members of the military, General Anderson says America's armed forces can make a constructive contribution in the future. In this podcast, he tells us that The Pentagon should order a civics review for all members— uniformed and civilian— on the U.S. Constitution and electoral integrity. We also discuss how the military can foster diversity and common ground.
S2 E35 · Sat, February 12, 2022
Is California Still A Golden State?
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by John Chiang, former California State Treasurer, and David Crane, former advisor to Gov. Schwarzenegger, to assess California's governance and government services amid rising housing costs and tax rates, and the future of the so-called "golden state." Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst John Chiang - California State Treasurer (ret.); former California State Controller; Fall 2020 Fellow, Center for the Political Future David Crane - President, Govern for California; Lecturer in Public Policy, Stanford University
Thu, February 10, 2022
Black History Month: Achievements, Change, and Justice. Special Episode
Black History Month is a celebration of the remarkable contributions of black Americans to our nation. Some of our guests share their personal thoughts and stories about the lessons of history. We learn about the legacy of the civil rights movement, and recent calls for social change, justice, reform, and respect. This episode includes extracts from past podcasts and a Common Ground Committee public event. Podcast guests featured: Professor Ilyasah Shabazz, the daughter of Malcolm X and the author of the memoir "Growing Up X", Dr. Brian Williams, Associate Professor of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery at the University of Chicago Medical Center, Hawk Newsome, Cofounder, and Chair of Black Lives Matter Greater New York, Errol Toulon, Sheriff of Suffolk County New York, and Caroline Randall Williams, a poet, author, teacher and Writer-in-Residence at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. We also share moving extracts from a conversation between Donna Brazille and Michael Steele for a Common Ground Committee forum in 2018. As the first Black chairs of the Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee, respectively, their views represented different perspectives. But in tackling essential questions of race and governance, they found many points of agreement.
Thu, February 03, 2022
How Problem Solvers Caucus Attacks Gridlock in Congress. Don Bacon & Kurt Schrader
From the outside, Congress appears broken. Bills get bogged down in partisan fights, leaders openly smear each other, and animosity between members is at an all-time high. But our guests show that if you look closer, you’ll find a group of dedicated politicians working together across the aisle to craft workable legislation and get things done. Republican Congressman Don Bacon represents Nebraska’s 2nd District. Democrat Kurt Schrader represents Oregon’s 5th District. Both are members of the congressional Problem Solvers Caucus, a group equally split between Democrats and Republicans who are committed to finding common ground on key issues. In our surprisingly candid conversation, we get a peek behind the curtain at what’s really going on in Congress, how the infrastructure bill was passed into law, and the harmful effect the media has on Americans’ view of politics.
S2 E34 · Tue, January 25, 2022
The Politics of the Supreme Court: From RBG to Amy Coney Barrett
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join the Spring 2022 CPF Fellows to unpack the latest SCOTUS headlines and trends. They discuss everything from the Supreme Court’s denial of President Trump's executive privilege over the January 6 insurrection to their upholding Texas' abortion law to their blocking Biden’s federal vaccine mandate. They also explore what the growing division among the Justices means for the future of the majority conservative court. Ralph Neas - Former Executive Director, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights; Senior Counsel on Voting Rights, The Century Foundation; Spring 2022 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Todd S. Purdum - Journalist, Former National Editor and Political Correspondent for Vanity Fair; Spring 2022 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Amy Turk, LCSW - Social Worker; CEO, Downtown Women’s Center; Spring 2022 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst
Thu, January 20, 2022
How The Budget Mess in Congress Hurts All of Us: Alison Acosta Winters & Emily Holubowich
This year the federal government is expected to collect more than $3.5 trillion in taxes— a vast amount of money by any measure. One of the key functions of Congress is to pass a budget. But often that seems close to impossible. Lack of agreement over federal spending regularly threatens to bring about government shutdowns that have a negative impact on millions of Americans. Yet few of us can even begin to understand the byzantine budget process. Both of our guests in this episode have worked with other policy experts to make the budget process function better, with greater efficiency and transparency. Alison Acosta Winters is a fiscal conservative and was most recently a senior policy fellow at Americans for Prosperity. Emily Holubowich is vice president for federal advocacy at the American Heart Association, and often supports more government spending. Brought together by Convergence Center for Policy Resolution, Alison, Emily and other stakeholders from diverse backgrounds spent months working together to come up with several major proposals for overhauling the budget process. This podcast is one of a series of episodes co-produced in partnership with the Convergence Center for Policy Resolution. Each show highlights the common ground that resulted from one of Convergence’s structured dialogues across differences.
Thu, January 06, 2022
The State of Polarization: 2022. Christa Case Bryant and Story Hinckley
One year after the January 6th assault on the U.S. Capitol, we take a close look at America's political divide with two journalists who covered the calamitous events on that day and the responses to them. Our guests are Christa Case Bryant, Congressional correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor, and Story Hinckley, the Monitor's National political correspondent. We discuss whether America is more polarized than it was one year ago and the prospects for finding common ground in Congress and across the country. A Washington Post - University of Maryland opinion poll published on New Year's Day confirmed that Americans have totally different views of the 2020 election results. While large majorities of Democrats and independent voters say there was no evidence of widespread fraud, more than 60% of Republicans say there was. In their reporting throughout the year, both of our guests sought answers to complex questions about what caused people to storm the Capitol, and why Democrats and Republicans have opposing views about voter access and election laws. In this episode, we also examine the role of the media and individual reporters in covering the state of polarization in America today.
Thu, December 23, 2021
Change Makers: People Making a Difference. Dave Scott
In a world of crises and catastrophes, we look at a handful of extraordinary problem solvers: People who use their passion and personal experience of life to make a difference. Dave Scott, Engagement Editor at The Christian Monitor, tells us about remarkable individuals who use generosity, hope, and innovation to inspire others to uplift their fellow human beings. With origin stories and personal anecdotes, we hear how listening and trust are essential elements in constructive change and finding common ground. This special year-end episode includes excerpts from the Monitor's new podcast, "People Making a Difference". We hear about what a 12-year-old can teach us about empathy and kindness; how the Sewing Machine Project has repaired thousands of lives around the world, and why LavaMaeX is providing hot showers, pop-up care villages, and radical hospitality for homeless people in California. Co-hosts: Richard Davies and Ashley Milne-Tyte.
S2 E33 · Tue, December 14, 2021
Bob Dole Remembered with Mike Pettit, Former Chief of Staff
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy join former Chief of Staff Mike Pettit, to honor the legacy of Senator Bob Dole, who died on Dec. 5, 2021. Dole was one of the longest-serving Republican leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives. He was a Vice Presidential and Presidential candidate, and received the Congressional Gold Medal. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst Mike Pettit - Former Chief of Staff and Presidential Campaign Adviser for Sen. Bob Dole
Thu, December 09, 2021
Climate Action and the Global Need for Energy. Daniel Yergin
At a time of increasingly urgent calls for climate action, the world also faces ever-rising demand for energy. How can these two trends be reconciled as we experience soaring gas prices and supply chain disruptions? Our guest is Pulitzer Prize-winning author and energy expert Daniel Yergin, Vice Chairman of IHS Markit and chairman of CERAWeek, which CNBC has described as “the Super Bowl of world energy.” Dr. Yergin says the energy transition is very complicated, and the degree to which the world still depends on oil and natural gas is not well understood. In this episode, we look at the prospects for common ground among environmentalists and energy industry executives. We examine why a new map of energy and geopolitics is emerging. Daniel Yergin explains how future innovations in green energy could prove to be just as surprising as the "shale revolution” in oil and gas which transformed the American economy and ended an era of energy shortage.
S2 E32 · Fri, December 03, 2021
Ben Rhodes Talks "After the Fall: Being an American in the World We've Made"
Center Director Bob Shrum is joined by Ben Rhodes, former Obama advisor, to discuss his latest book on America's role in rising global authoritarianism, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to today, and the urgency to fight for what he thinks the U.S. should be. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Ben Rhodes - Author; Co-Host of “Pod Save the World;” Former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Speechwriting, Obama Administration; Spring 2020 CPF Fellow
S2 E31 · Tue, November 30, 2021
2021: The Year of Politicking Dangerously - The Midterms and Politics of 2022: Predictions, Hopes, and Fears
Elex Michaelson, FOX News LA anchor, is joined by CA Republican Party Chairwoman Jessica Millan Patterson and media heavyweights David Chalian, Chris Matthews, and Ron Christie to discuss what's at stake for seats in both the House and Senate, advantages for the Republican Party, and needed optimism for the 2022 Midterms. Featuring: Elex Michaelson - Host, "The Issue Is;" Co-Anchor, FOX 11 News LA David Chalian - Vice President of Political Coverage and Political Director, CNN Ron Christie - Political Analyst, BBC World News; Fall '19 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Chris Matthews - Former Political Commentator; Former Host of Hardball With Chris Matthews Jessica Millan Patterson - Chairwoman, California Republican Party
S2 E30 · Mon, November 29, 2021
2021: The Year of Politicking Dangerously - The Many Global Challenges for Biden
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by USC professors Nina Rathbun and David Kang, journalist Markos Kounalakis, and foreign policy expert Kori Schake to assess the historic Afghanistan withdrawal, tensions with China, and compare Biden's success with Trump's. Featuring: Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Analyst David C. Kang - Maria Crutcher Professor in International Relations, Business, and East Asian Languages and Cultures; Director, Korean Studies Institute, USC Dornsife Markos Kounalakis - Foreign Affairs Columnist, Author, and Scholar; Visiting Fellow, Hoover Institution at Stanford University Kori Schake - Director of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies, American Enterprise Institute; Former Foreign Policy Advisor for John McCain's presidential campaign Nina Srinivasan Rathbun - Professor of International Relations, USC Dornsife
Wed, November 24, 2021
Coming Together Across Divides: Holiday Season Special Episode
What happens when people of opposing viewpoints and diverse backgrounds work in teams, have conversations, or even sit across the table from each other at family gatherings? How do they come together and listen to others who see the world very differently? In this special episode, we compile a series of inspiring stories from past shows. Mother and daughter Robbie Lawler and Becca Kearl share deep love and respect but vote for different parties. Psychologist Tania Israel explains practical, proven ways to go beyond your bubble and get out of opinion silos and comfort zones. Race reconciliator Daryl Davis and former white supremacist Ryan Lo'Ree discuss their remarkable work together to deradicalize members of hate groups. Co-authors, Republican Jordan Blashek and Democrat Chris Haugh, recount their unlikely friendship that blossomed not despite, but because of their political differences. Radio and podcast journalist Ashley Ahearn talks about what she learned from her new friends and neighbors after moving from progressive Seattle to a conservative ranching country in rural Washington State. All on “Let’s Find Common Ground.” After deep skepticism, Dr. Gisèle Huff, a longtime proponent of school choice, and Becky Pringle, President of the National Education Association, came together to work on a new vision for the future of education.
S2 E29 · Mon, November 22, 2021
2021: The Year of Politicking Dangerously - Insurrection, Pandemic, and Biden's Big Agenda
Christina Bellantoni, is joined by USC Professor Ange-Marie Hancock Alfaro, strategists Ben Tulchin and Juan Rodriguez, and commentator Charlie Sykes to weigh the Biden Administration's achievements and fumbles, the fallout from November elections, and the need for bipartisan action for real change. Featuring: Christina Bellantoni - Director of USC Annenberg's Media Center; Professor of Professional Practice, USC Annenberg Ange-Marie Hancock Alfaro - Dean's Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science and International Relations; Director, Center for Leadership by Women of Color Juan Rodriguez - Campaign Manager for Gov. Gavin Newsom; Partner, Bearstar Strategies Charles Sykes - Founder and Editor-at-Large, The Bulwark; Host, The Bulwark Podcast Ben Tulchin - President and Founder of Tulchin Research; Pollster, Strategist for Bernie Sanders' 2020 campaign and Eric Adams' 2021 Mayoral Campaign
S1 E28 · Fri, November 19, 2021
2021: The Year of Politicking Dangerously - Lawrence H. Summers One-On-One with Bob Shrum
CPF Director Bob Shrum is joined by Lawrence H. Summers, President Obama's National Economic Council Director, to reflect on the parallels between the current COVID-19 economic fallout and the 2009 recession, and explore solutions for rising inflation. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Lawrence H. Summers - Director of the National Economic Council for President Obama; 71st Secretary of the Treasury for President Clinton; Charles W. Eliot University Professor and President Emeritus, Harvard University
Thu, November 11, 2021
Hidden Progress: A More Hopeful Future
Sometimes the future can seem dark. The pandemic drags on. Climate change is upon us. Political polarization remains toxic. When stories of division fill the headlines it’s easy to feel like the only way is down. But what if that’s not true? What if we gave less airtime to voices of doom and more to voices of hope? Our guests on this episode are Zachary Karabell and Emma Varvaloucas. Zachary is the founder of The Progress Network, Emma is its executive director. The Progress Network focuses on what’s going right with the world and amplifies voices of optimism. Zachary joins us from New York and Emma from her adopted home in Greece, where she’s gained an outsider’s perspective on the US. Emma and Zachary are also the hosts of the podcast ‘What Could Go Right?’
S2 E27 · Fri, November 05, 2021
5 Years After Paris: What Is Happening at the COP26 United Nations Climate Change Conference?
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by USC Professors Monalisa Chatterjee, Shannon Gibson, and Robert O' Brien to discuss the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland and the proposed solutions for a path forward. Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst Monalisa Chatterjee - Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies, USC Dornsife Shannon Gibson - Associate Professor of International Relations and Environmental Studies, USC Dornsife Robert O’ Brien - (Incoming) Fulbright Research Chair of Public Diplomacy, USC Center on Public Diplomacy
S2 E26 · Fri, October 29, 2021
Technology in Politics: What We Don't Know and Should
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by USC Professor Morteza Dehghani, former Facebook executive Katie Harbath, strategist Cheryl Hori, and attorney John Patzakis to discuss the rapid changes in technology and their effects on politics including fundraising, campaigning, voting, free speech, and polarization. Featuring: Robert Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst Morteza Dehghani - Associate Professor of Psychology, USC Dornsife Katie Harbath - Founder and CEO of Anchor Change; Former Public Policy Director for Global Elections at Facebook Cheryl Hori - Founder and Chief Strategist, Pacific Campaign House John Patzakis - Executive Chair and Chief Legal Officer, X1
Thu, October 28, 2021
A Climate Scientist Makes the Case for Hope with Katharine Hayhoe
Climate change is one of the most divisive issues in our country today. But this wasn’t the case 20 years ago. How did we get here? Katharine Hayhoe is a climate scientist and chief scientist for The Nature Conservancy as well as a professor at Texas Tech University. And she’s the author of a new book called Saving Us - a Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World . In this episode, Katharine explains how climate change became so polarizing, and how each of us can play a part in bridging the divide by starting conversations (even if we never use the words ‘climate’ and ‘change’ together.) She gives examples of how she, an evangelical Christian, talks to other Christians who may dispute the reality of climate change. Katherine says altering the status quo is easier than we think: the most important thing we can do to curb climate change is talk about it.
S2 E25 · Fri, October 15, 2021
Voting Rights and Voting Wrongs
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by Linda Chavez, Pete Peterson, Theodore Johnson, and Ralph Neas to dive into the pros and cons of voting processes nationwide and explore common sense solutions. Featuring: Robert Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst Linda Chavez - Conservative commentator; Chair, Center for Equal Opportunity Theodore Johnson - Fellows Program Director at Brennan Center for Justice, New York University Ralph Neas - Senior Counsel on Voting Rights, Century Foundation Pete Peterson - Braun Family Dean's Chair, Pepperdine University School of Public Policy; Senior Fellow, Davenport Institute
Thu, October 14, 2021
How Should We Respond to the Vaccine Hesitant? With Dr. Jay Baruch
As an ER doctor, Jay Baruch has been treating Covid patients since the start of the pandemic. He still sees many patients sick with Covid in his ER - the vast majority unvaccinated. It might seem reasonable for him to share the anger and frustration that many vaccinated Americans feel about the unvaxxed. While Jay wants everyone who is eligible to get the shot, he says judgment does nothing to persuade the hesitant to get the vaccine, and that there is a better way to respond. Jay is a Professor of Emergency Medicine at Brown University’s Alpert Medical School. He is also a writer. In this episode he discusses his desire for a more open dialogue about vaccination, one that involves listening to people’s stories, empathizing with their concerns, and recognizing that all human beings are complicated.
S2 E24 · Fri, October 08, 2021
The Rising Impact of the Hispanic Electorate
Center Fellow Gloria Molina is joined by Antonio Villaraigosa, 41st Mayor of Los Angeles, strategist Cesar Martinez, and USC Professor Mindy Romero to discuss the growing impact of Latino voters and assess how political parties are reaching them, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Featuring: Gloria Molina - Fall 2021 Fellow, Center for the Political Future; Former LA County Supervisor and CA Assemblymember Cesar Martinez - Media strategist for Jeb Bush, George W. Bush, John McCain, and Mitt Romney's presidential campaigns Mindy Romero - Founder and Director of the Center for Inclusive Democracy; Research Assistant Professor at USC Price School of Public Policy Antonio Villaraigosa - 41st Mayor of Los Angeles; Partner and Co-Chair, Mercury Public Affairs
S2 E23 · Fri, October 01, 2021
Redistricting: Science, Art, and Skullduggery
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by attorneys and redistricting experts Benjamin Ginsberg and Michael Li, former CA Assemblymember Gloria Molina, and USC Professor Christian Grose to examine the challenges of redistricting across the country and its implications for the 2022 midterm elections. Featuring: Robert Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy- Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; MSNBC Political Analyst Benjamin Ginsberg - Election Lawyer; Former National Counsel for Bush-Cheney Presidential Campaigns Christian Grose - Associate Professor of Political Science and Policy, USC Dornsife & Sol Price School of Public Policy Michael Li - Senior Counsel for Democracy Program, NYU Brennan Center for Justice Gloria Molina - Fall '21 Fellow, Center for the Political Future; Former CA Assemblywoman; LA County Supervisor
Thu, September 30, 2021
Understanding Trump Voters and American Populism. Salena Zito
Unlike the vast majority of journalists who cover U.S. politics, columnist Salena Zito lives far away from the centers of power and wealth. Twice a year she leaves her home in western Pennsylvania and drives thousands of miles across the country on back roads, visiting towns and rural communities that are often ignored by the national media. In this episode, we learn about the perspectives of voters who support Donald Trump and the populist coalition that reshaped the Republican Party. Selena, a columnist for the Washington Examiner and the New York Post is the author of "The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics”. She previously wrote for The Atlantic and Pittsburgh Tribune Review. While on the road, Zito goes to high school football games, attends church services, and eats at local diners. "One of the things that makes my reporting different is that I try to treat each story that I write as though I am from the locality," she tells us. Hear some of the insights and views of those who live in what Salena calls 'the middle of somewhere.'
Thu, September 16, 2021
Depolarizing America: Bridge Builders: Bringing People Together. Nathan Bomey
Common Ground Committee is part of a robust and growing national movement of bridge builders, who are working to reduce incivility and toxic polarization in America today. We look in-depth at this diverse, vital coalition. Who's involved and how are they tackling racial, cultural, and political schisms that threaten American democracy? Our guest, Nathan Bomey, is a reporter for USA Today, and author of the new book, "Bridge Builders: Bringing People Together in a Polarized Age." In this interview, we hear stories about people from many walks of life who are building the structure of a new, more united America. "Despite its transformational qualities, bridge building often attracts considerable resistance," says Bomey. "In many cases, that's because bridges promise to disrupt the status quo for people who previously benefited from or preferred social isolation." This episode looks at a constructive way forward.
S2 E22 · Fri, September 03, 2021
Assessing the Campaign to Recall Gavin Newsom
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by journalists Carla Marinucci and Seema Mehta, strategist Roger Salazar, and USC Professor Jennifer Cryer to assess the campaign to recall California Governor Gavin Newsom. They unpack how the effort gained momentum, weigh criticisms for and against the recall, and discuss potential outcomes of the upcoming election. Featuring: Robert Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy, Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; MSNBC Political Analyst Jennifer Cryer - Assistant Professor of Political Science and International Relations, USC Dornsife Carla Marinucci - Senior Writer, POLITICO California Playbook Seema Mehta - Political Writer, Los Angeles Times Roger Salazar - Political Strategist; Former Campaign Press Secretary for CA Gov. Gray Davis
Thu, September 02, 2021
Monuments and Marriage. The Most Personal Lessons About Race: Errol & Tina Toulon and Caroline Randall Williams
The need to find common ground for improving race relations has rarely been more urgent than it is today. In this episode, we share profound insights from an interracial couple and an African-American scholar and poet. Caroline Randall Williams wrote a widely-read opinion column for the New York Times that added fresh insight to the debate over Confederate monuments and how America remembers its past. As a Black southern woman with white ancestors, she brings an innovative and passionate first-person point of view. We also share the deeply personal story of Errol Toulon, the first African-American Sheriff of Suffolk County, New York, and his wife, Tina MacNicholl Toulon, a business development executive. She’s white. He’s black. Tina tells us what she’s learned since their marriage in 2016 about racism, “driving while Black,” and other indignities that are often part of a Black person’s daily life. This episode includes edited extracts from longer interviews that were first published in 2020.
S2 E21 · Mon, August 23, 2021
The Future of Los Angeles with Gloria Molina, Former LA County Supervisor and CA Assemblymember
Gloria Molina, former LA County Supervisor, CA Assemblymember, and Fall 2021 Fellow at the Center for the Political Future, joins co-directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy to discuss the future of Los Angeles. LA County made history last year with an all-women Board of Supervisors elected to lead the largest local legislative body in the nation. Molina was the first Latina elected to the Board of Supervisors (1991) and the first Chicana elected to the California State Assembly (1982). In 1987, she was elected to the Los Angeles City Council. She shares her experiences from her storied career in politics and looks ahead to the future of LA, from the nearly $35 billion budget, mayoral candidates, homeless crisis, and pandemic fallout. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; MSNBC Political Analyst Gloria Molina - Former LA County Supervisor and CA Assemblymember; Fall 2021 Fellow, Center for the Political Future
Thu, August 19, 2021
American Foreign Policy: Challenges, Threats, Opportunities. Ned Temko and Scott Peterson
The takeover by the Taliban in Afghanistan; a more aggressive China and Russia; a newly-elected hardline President in Iran: All are all major challenges facing President Joe Biden and his Administration. Our podcast guests are Ned Temko, who writes the weekly international affairs column “Patterns” for The Christian Science Monitor, and Scott Peterson, the Monitor's Middle East bureau chief. Both are highly experienced and well-traveled foreign correspondents, who bring depth and expertise to coverage of global affairs. Among the many topics covered in this episode: Similarities and differences to Trump's "America First" approach, the implications of the rapid withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan, why China is the biggest overseas challenge for the Biden Administration, relations with America's allies, and the increased threat to human rights in Asia and Middle East. Join us to gain fresh insight on the rapidly evolving international situation.
Thu, August 05, 2021
Education Reimagined with Becky Pringle and Gisele Huff
Everyone wants the best education for their children. But parents and teachers don't always agree on how to get there. In this episode, we hear from two education leaders whose views clashed when they first met. Gisele Huff is a philanthropist and longtime proponent of school choice, including charter schools. Becky Pringle spent her career in public education. A science teacher for three decades, she is now President of the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union. After some deep initial skepticism, these women and other leaders came together and developed a transformational vision for US education. Along the way, they developed a deep respect for one another, and a friendship that has helped each of them through personal tragedies. This episode is co-produced in partnership with Convergence Center for Policy Resolution — one of a series of podcasts that Common Ground Committee and Convergence are producing together.
Thu, July 22, 2021
The Long-Term Care Crisis: Howard Gleckman, Stuart Butler and Paul Van de Water
America’s long-term care system needs much more than a facelift. Is there a common path to solutions? Most baby boomers who retire today can expect to live years longer than their parents or any previous generation. That’s the good news. But there’s a greatly increased need for long-term care as they age. The current system is in crisis and needs much more than a facelift. In this episode, we hear first from a policy expert, Howard Gleckman, of the Tax Policy Institute, who explains why solutions to this crisis have been so hard to find. We also interview Stuart Butler and Paul Van de Water on their differences over paying for long-term care, and how they came to find common ground. This podcast was co-produced in partnership with Convergence Center for Policy Resolution and is one of a series of podcasts that Common Ground Committee and Convergence are producing together. Convergence brings together key stakeholders of an issue to develop policies that deliver the most value to the greatest number of people. These projects emphasize collaboration and often result in friendships among people with strongly held opposing positions. Convergence recently published Rethinking Care for Older Adults , a report with recommendations to improve care, housing, and services for seniors.
Thu, July 08, 2021
How to Take Direct Action Against Hate: Daryl Davis and Ryan Lo'Ree
What steps are needed to cause people to leave white supremacist and other hate groups of their own volition? In this deeply personal podcast episode, we explore the tactics and commitment needed to be successful in this work. Daryl Davis, an award-winning Black musician, race reconciliator and renowned lecturer, has used the power of human connection to convince hundreds of people to leave white supremacist groups. His fellow guest, Ryan Lo’Ree, a former white supremacist, is now an interventionist working to deradicalize people who have been lured into right and left-wing extremism. These two men, who came from very different backgrounds and belief systems, discuss their life experiences, lessons learned in their work, and what motivates them to convince people to change their convictions. Watch the recording of the Common Ground webinar with Daryl and Ryan: “Turning Racism and Extremism into Hope and Healing.” Listen to our 2020 podcast with Daryl: “KKKrossing the Divide – A Black Man Talks With White Supremacists.” Read Nicholas Kristof’s profile of Daryl in The New York Times— “How Can You Hate Me If You Don’t Even Know Me?”
S2 E20 · Thu, June 24, 2021
Sport, Politics, and Community Engagement with Nichol Whiteman, LA Dodgers Foundation CEO
Nichol Whiteman, CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation and Fall 2021 Fellow at the Center for the Political Future, joins co-directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy to discuss the intersection of sports, politics, and community engagement. Whiteman also highlights the power of diversity in advocating for resources and opportunities for marginalized populations. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; MSNBC Political Analyst Nichol Whiteman - CEO, LA Dodgers Foundation; Fall '21 Fellow, Center for the Political Future This event is part of the National Week of Conversation #ListenFirst.
Thu, June 24, 2021
Depolarizing America: #ListenFirst and America Talks. Kristin Hansen and Mizell Stewart
We learn about two brave and successful attempts to get Americans of differing backgrounds and political convictions to engage in personal face-to-face conversations. America Talks and the National Week of Conversation, both held in mid-June, were part of expanding efforts to push back against deep divides and toxic polarization. In this episode, we discuss lessons learned, insights gained, and the vital difference between talking and listening. Our guests are Kristin Hansen, Executive Director at Civic Health Project and Director at AllSides, and Mizell Stewart, Vice President, News Performance, Talent & Partnerships for Gannett and the USA Today Network. Both were involved in this new initiative.
Thu, June 10, 2021
Guardrails of Democracy: Law and Reform. Rick Pildes
American democracy is being challenged by hyper-polarization, widespread distrust of competing parties, and extremists who seek to weaken democratic values and institutions. In a recent poll , only one-in-six Americans said our democratic system is working very well, while nearly two-in-three voters told a Pew Research Center survey that major reforms are needed. "I certainly feel we are more vulnerable than we have ever been in the modern era," says our podcast guest, constitutional law scholar, Rick Pildes, a professor at New York University’s School of Law, and author of the book, “The Law of Democracy: Legal Structure of the Political Process.” In this episode, we discuss proposed changes aimed at strengthening democracy— from ranked-choice voting and reform of political primaries, to limiting gerrymandering, and campaign finance reform.
Thu, May 27, 2021
Environment and Climate Change: Can Young Americans Bridge the Gap?
Young Americans, aged 18-29, believe that the threat from climate change is real regardless of their ideological leanings, compared to older Americans. Recent polling shows that Republican voters, born after 1980, are much more likely than older Republicans to think that government efforts to reduce climate change have been insufficient (52% vs. 31%). In this episode, we ask: can the youngest generation of voters put aside partisan differences and agree on policies needed to protect climate and the environment as well as address the needs of businesses and the economy? We discuss the role of government, business, and how to find on common ground. Our guests are Danielle Butcher, a conservative political executive and a leader of the American Conservation Coalition, and a liberal, Andrew Brennen, who is a National Geographic Explorer and Education Fellow, who co-founded the Kentucky Student Voice Team.
S2 E19 · Fri, May 21, 2021
A Roadmap to Effective National Security Policy with Former Congresswoman Jane Harman
CPF Director Bob Shrum is joined by Jane Harman, former Congresswoman and author of “Insanity Defense,” to discuss how four presidential administrations have failed to confront some of the toughest national security policy issues. Congresswoman Harman also shares her views on the Democratic Party’s platform and how to make progress in a closely divided Congress. Featuring: Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Jane Harman - Distinguished Fellow and President Emerita, Wilson Center, Stanford University; Former Congresswoman (D-CA); Author, “Insanity Defense: Why Our Failure to Confront Hard National Security Problems Makes Us Less Safe"
S2 E18 · Thu, May 13, 2021
President Joe Biden's First 100 Days - Racing Toward 2022 and 2024
Elex Michaelson, Fox 11 News co-anchor, is joined by journalist Todd Purdum, strategists Rachel Bitcoffer and Mark Mellman, and Shaniqua McClendon, political director at Crooked Media, to discuss whether Democrats will lose seats and legislative control in the midterms and which candidates are shaping the race for the presidency in 2024. Featuring: Elex Michaelson - Co-Anchor, Fox 11 News and Host, "The Issue Is: With Elex Michaelson" Rachel Bitecofer - Elections Analyst and Strategist; Editor, The Cycle; Founder, Strike PAC Shaniqua McClendon - Political Director, Crooked Media; Spring '21 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Mark Mellman - CEO, Mellman Group; Former President of the American Association of Political Consultants Todd Purdum - Former New York Times Reporter and Staff Writer at The Atlantic; Spring '21 Fellow, Center for the Political Future
Thu, May 13, 2021
Environment & Climate – Can Business Bridge the Gap? Stephanie Hanes & Mark Trumbull
Banks & businesses are betting big on sustainable investments. Can they help politicians bridge the gap on climate change? When Joe Biden talks about the challenge of fighting climate change, he mentions jobs: not green jobs or renewable energy jobs, but “millions of good-paying union jobs.” The new administration is working to reframe the conversation about the environment at a time when many of Wall Street’s largest banks and corporations are betting big on sustainable investments — from electric cars and trucks to new kinds of renewable and carbon-free energy. On Let’s Find Common Ground , we interview journalists Stephanie Hanes and Mark Trumbull of The Christian Science Monitor , and learn the latest on the changing landscape in the great debate over the environment and climate. Can business help politicians from both major parties bridge some of their differences? Listen to find out.
S2 E17 · Mon, May 10, 2021
President Joe Biden’s First 100 Days - How Strong is Trump’s Hold on the GOP?
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by former Congresswoman Barbara Comstock, journalists Robert A. George and Jeremy Peters, and President Trump’s former White House Chief of Staff, Mark Meadows, to discuss how the impact of Republican voter support of the former president translates into influence within GOP leadership. Featuring: Mike Murphy - Co-Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst Barbara Comstock - Former U.S. Representative (R-VA) , Spring '21 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Robert A. George - Columnist, Bloomberg Opinion Mark Meadows - Former White House Chief of Staff, President Donald Trump and U.S. Representative (R-NC); Senior Partner, The Conservative Partnership Institute Jeremy W. Peters - National Politics Reporter, New York Times; Contributor to MSNBC; Author, "Insurgency: How Republicans Lost Their Party and Got Everything They Ever Wanted"
S2 E16 · Thu, May 06, 2021
President Joe Biden's First 100 Days - Biden Abroad
Michael Beschloss, presidential historian and best-selling author, is joined by Anne Applebaum, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, Max Boot, national security analyst, USC professor Alison Dundes Renteln, and former Obama administration advisor, Ben Rhodes, to discuss President Biden's foreign policy goals and achievements 100 days into his presidency. Featuring: Michael Beschloss - Historian, Best-Selling Author Anne Applebaum - Pulitzer Prize-Winning Historian; Staff Writer, The Atlantic; Author, "Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism" Max Boot - Author, Columnist, and National Security Analyst Alison Dundes Renteln - Professor of Political Science, Anthropology, Public Policy and Law, USC Dornsife Ben Rhodes - Co-Host of “Pod Save the World,” Former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Speechwriting, Obama Administration; Spring '20 Fellow, Center for the Political Future
S2 E15 · Tue, May 04, 2021
President Joe Biden's First 100 Days - How Are Joe and Mitch Doing?
CPF Director Bob Shrum is joined by former Congressman Joe Kennedy III and strategists Karen Finney, Ron Christie, and Brian Goldsmith to discuss President Joe Biden's domestic performance for reviving the economy and reforming immigration, police, and gun policies. Featuring: Robert M. Shrum - Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future; Carmen H. & Louis Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics Ron Christie - CEO, Christie Strategies; Political Analyst, BBC; Former Special Assistant to President George W. Bush; Former Deputy Assistant to Vice President Cheney for Domestic Policy; Fall 2019 CPF Fellow Karen Finney - Democratic Strategist; Former Senior Advisor and Spokesperson for Hillary Clinton; Former Senior Advisor to Stacey Abrams Brian Goldsmith - Media Consultant; Political Strategist Joe Kennedy III - Former U.S. Representative (D-MA)
Thu, April 29, 2021
Does America Need a Third Political Party? David Jolly
Growing numbers of voters are fed up with politics as usual. In a recent survey, 62% of Americans say a third party is needed — up 5% from September of last year, and the highest it has ever been since Gallup polls first asked the question nearly twenty years ago. Our podcast guest, former two-term Florida Congressman David Jolly , says it's time to reexamine the system that reinforces the entrenched power of both the Republican and Democratic parties. Last year, Jolly was named Executive Chairman of the Serve America Movement (SAM), a growing organization that exists in some states as a third party, and in others as a non-partisan political reform group that backs office holders who work across party lines. SAM calls itself a big tent political movement that brings people together who have different ideologies but shared political principles. In this episode, David Jolly makes the case for his movement's ambitious goal: fixing our broken politics in America. "Multiparty democracies give greater voice to more people," David tells us. "We have allowed the two major parties to protect the duopoly themselves. The one thing that today's Democratic and Republican parties agree on is 'let's create the rules of the game in a way that we are only two major participants.'"
S2 E14 · Mon, April 26, 2021
Legislative Roundtable: Climate Change in L.A.
CPF Director Bob Shrum is joined by California Senators Ben Allen and Sydney Kamlager and Los Angeles Sustainability Officers Gary Gero and Dominique Hargreaves to discuss how Southern California should move forward on climate change issues and the role of institutions in reducing its impact. Robert Shrum - Director, USC Center for the Political Future; USC Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics Ben Allen - California State Senator, District 26 Gary Gero - Chief Sustainability Officer, County of Los Angeles Dominique Hargreaves - Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer, Office of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti Sydney Kamlager - California State Senator, District 30
S2 E13 · Sat, April 24, 2021
Words That Work: Red States and Climate Change
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by Congressman Garret Graves, climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe, journalist Bina Venkataraman, and USC professor Wandi Bruine de Bruin to discuss how to communicate the urgency of environmental legislation and encourage bipartisan support for climate change solutions. Mike Murphy - Co-Director, USC Center for the Political Future; NBC Political Analyst Garret Graves - U.S. Representative (R-LA) Katharine Hayhoe - Climate scientist; Founder and CEO of Atmos Research Bina Venkataraman - Journalist, author, science policy expert Wandi Bruine de Bruin - USC Provost Professor of Public Policy, Psychology, and Behavioral Science
S2 E12 · Tue, April 20, 2021
CPF Fellows Roundtable Series: The Future of Conservative Media
In the third installment of the CPF Fellows Roundtable Series of 2021, Spring 2021 CPF Fellows Barbara Comstock and Todd S. Purdum are joined by former Fellow Ron Christie (Fall 2019) to discuss how new far right outlets are challenging Fox News, the influence of these new far right outlets on conservatism, and why conservatives don't trust "mainstream" outlets. This discussion was moderated by CPF Fellows Manager, Harry Burke. Featuring: Ron Christie: Former Special Assistant to President George W. Bush and CPF Fall 2019 Fellow Barbara Comstock: Former U.S. Representative (R-VA) and CPF Spring 2021 Fellow Todd S. Purdum: Former New York Times Reporter and Staff Writer at The Atlantic; CPF Spring 2021 Fellow
Thu, April 15, 2021
Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide— Ashley Ahearn
She lived in liberal Seattle and covered science, climate change and the environment for NPR for more than a decade. Then in 2018, journalist Ashley Ahearn made a big jump, moving with her husband to one of the most conservative counties in rural Washington State. In this episode of "Let's Find Common Ground," we hear about the profound rural-urban divide in America, and what Ashley discovered about her new neighbors and herself when she switched from the city to the country, now living on a 20-acre property with a horse and a pickup truck. We also discuss how politics and views of the land and climate differ greatly according to where people live. Recently, Ashley Ahearn launched her 8-part podcast series, " Grouse ", which looks at life in rural America through the lens of the most controversial bird in the West— the greater sage-grouse. One of her great passions is storytelling, and helping scientists better communicate their research to the broader public.
Thu, April 01, 2021
Should We Be Aiming for Unity And Ending Toxic Polarization? A Top Expert on Conflict Resolution Weighs In
When Joe Biden became president he wanted to bring Americans together, to forge unity. But maybe unity isn’t what we should aim for. Our guest this week says instead of focusing on that elusive goal, Americans need to concentrate on what’s damaging all of us: toxic polarization. In this episode we look at what toxic polarization is and how to end it, person by person. Peter Coleman has advised the Biden administration on how to detoxify America. He is a mediator and psychologist who specializes in conflict resolution. A professor of psychology and education at Columbia University, he is the author of the forthcoming book, The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization .
S2 E11 · Mon, March 29, 2021
CPF Fellows Roundtable Series: The Progressive Future
In the second installment of the CPF Fellows Roundtable Series of 2021, Spring 2021 CPF Fellow Shaniqua McClendon is joined by former Fellows Barbara Boxer (Fall 2020) and Dan Schwerin (Fall 2018) to discuss current progressive policies and debates and the future of progressivism in the U.S. This discussion was moderated by CPF Fellows Manager, Harry Burke. Featuring: Barbara Boxer: Former U.S. Senator (D-CA) and CPF Fall 2020 Fellow Shaniqua McClendon: Political Director, Crooked Media and CPF Spring 2021 Fellow Dan Schwerin: Director of Speechwriting, Hillary Clinton and CPF Fall 2018 Fellow
S2 E10 · Thu, March 25, 2021
Apocalypse Then and Now: Millenarian Cults to QAnon
CPF Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by historians Sylvain Piron and Jay Rubenstein, former Congressman Denver Riggleman, and Marley Clements, co-creator of "QAnon: The Search For Q" on Vice, to examine the similarities between the Apocalyptic and Millenarian cults in the Middle ages to modern conspiracies around Y2K and QAnon. Featuring: Mike Murphy - Co-Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future Marley Clements - Documentary filmmaker, political strategist, and co-founder of Bunker Crew Media Sylvain Piron - Director of Studies and Chair of Intellectual History of Medieval Societies at the School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences in Paris, France Denver Riggleman - Former U.S. Congressman (R-VA); CEO of Riggleman Information and Intelligence Group (RIIG); Author, "Bigfoot... It's Complicated" Jay Rubenstein - Director, USC Center for the Pre-Modern World and Professor of History at the University of Southern California
S2 E9 · Tue, March 23, 2021
Conspiracies Then and Now: Templars and the Deep State
CPF Director Bob Shrum is joined by historians Sean L. Field and Julien Théry, filmmaker Kristin Pichaske, and best-selling Author Michael Shermer to discuss the history of the Templars and how similar trends target America’s civic institutions, drawing on events from the Kennedy assassination to 9/11. Featuring: Robert M. Shrum - Director of USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future and Carmen H. and Louis Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics Sean L. Field - Professor of History at the University of Vermont Kristin Pichaske - Award-winning Filmmaker, "Pulling The Thread;" Associate Professor of Cinema and Television Arts at Columbia College Chicago Julien Théry - Professor of History at Université Lyon II Louis Lumière in Lyon, France Michael Shermer - Best-Selling Author and Founding Publisher of Skeptic magazine
S2 E8 · Mon, March 22, 2021
Conspiracies Then and Now: Comparing the Politics and History of Conspiracy Theories from the Middles Ages to the Modern
CPF Executive Director Kamy Akhavan is joined by historians Elizabeth A.R. Brown and Dallas Dennery and psychology experts Sara Gorman and Norbert Schwarz to explore how beliefs in conspiracies shaped the politics and psychology of the medieval world and our current political climate. Featuring: Kamy Akhavan – Executive Director, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future Elizabeth A. R. Brown - Professor Emerita of History at Brooklyn College and The Graduate Center, CUNY Dallas Denery - Author, Professor of History at Bowdoin College Sara Gorman - Mental health expert; Author of " Denying to the Grave: Why We Ignore The Facts That Will Save Us" Norbert Schwarz: Provost Professor, Department of Psychology & Marshall School of Business; Co-Director, USC Dornsife Mind & Society Center
Thu, March 18, 2021
Depolarizing America: Bridging Divides on Campus
With American democracy in crisis, can students save the day? For college students it can be frightening to consider the prospects for a better tomorrow. But addressing the problems in our political system will require the next generation to be more engaged and less polarized. BridgeUSA was formed by college students to tackle the crisis head-on, with campus-based chapters at colleges around the country. This non-profit group hosts discussions and events, champions ideological diversity, teaches constructive engagement, and aims to promote a solution-oriented political culture. BridgeUSA’s chief goal is to develop a new generation of political leaders who value empathy and the common good. Guests for this episode are Manu Meel, a recent graduate of U.C. Berkeley and Chief Executive Officer of BridgeUSA, and Jessica Carpenter, a senior at Arizona State University, who runs brand management and communications at BridgeUSA.
S2 E7 · Fri, March 12, 2021
The Politics of Care
Jennifer Hook, USC Sociology Professor, is joined by U.S. Congressman Jimmy Gomez and policy experts Brencia Berry and Vicki Shabo to discuss the state of national paid leave, policy changes under the Biden Administration and ways to advance the issue. Featuring: Brencia Berry - Political Director, PL+US Paid Leave For the United States Jimmy Gomez - U.S. Representative (D-CA) Vicki Shabo - Senior Fellow, Paid Leave Policy and Strategy, Better Life Lab at New America Moderated by Jennifer Hook - Professor of Sociology, USC
S2 E6 · Mon, March 08, 2021
Women Voters and the Future of the Democratic and Republican Parties
Spring 2021 Center Fellow Shaniqua McClendon is joined by North Carolina Representative Rachel Hunt and Former U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Comstock to discuss the importance of electing more women to national, state, and local offices, and how political parties are addressing issues important to women voters. Featuring: Barbara Comstock - Former U.S. Representative (R-VA) and Spring 2021 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Rachel Hunt - North Carolina Representative (D-Mecklenburg) Shaniqua McClendon (Moderator) - Political Director at Crooked Media and Spring 2021 Fellow, Center for the Political Future
Thu, March 04, 2021
Depolarizing America: Finding Common Ground in Congress. Betsy Wright Hawkings and Tamera Luzzatto
By almost any measure, Congress is much more rigidly divided along partisan lines than it was 30 years ago. Politicians run nationalized campaigns, not local ones, and frequently demonize the other side. We examine ways to find common ground among lawmakers, and those who work on Capitol Hill, with two deeply experienced Washington insiders. Betsy Wright Hawkings served as chief of staff for four Republican members of Congress over 25 years and helped build bipartisan coalitions on a range of vital issues. She is now Managing Partner of Article One Advisors, a consulting firm focused on giving organizations strategic advice on how Congress functions. Tamera Luzzatto served as former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s chief of staff in the U.S. Senate from 2001 to 2009. Before that, she was on the staff of Democratic Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV for 15 years. Today, she is Senior Vice President of government relations at Pew Charitable Trusts.
S2 E5 · Sat, February 27, 2021
The Future of California - Herb Klein Lecture
Former California Republican Party Chairman James Brulte is joined by current and former California Treasurers Fiona Ma and John Chiang to discuss the future of California’s economy post-COVID, homelessness, transportation, climate change, and other major issues affecting California’s future. Featuring: James Brulte (moderator) - Former California Republican Party Chairman; former CA State Senator and Assembly member J ohn Chiang - California State Treasurer (ret.) (D-CA); former California State Controller; Fall 2020 Fellow, Center for the Political Future Fiona Ma - California State Treasurer (D-CA); former CA State Assemblymember and Speaker Pro Tempore of the Assembly
S2 E4 · Mon, February 22, 2021
The 74 Million Voter Question: Are People of Color Becoming Swing Voters?
Center Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by a group of experts to discuss how both parties should reorient their platforms to speak to minority voters as they become the majority in the U.S. and the higher numbers of voters of color who voted for Donald Trump in the 2020 election. Featuring: Musa al-Gharbi - Paul F. Lazarsfeld Fellow in Sociology at Columbia University Robert A. George - Columnist, Bloomberg Opinion Mike Madrid - Republican strategist; Spring 2019 Fellow, Center For the Political Future Shaniqua McClendon - Political Director, Crooked Media and Spring 2021 Fellow, Center for the Political Future
S2 E3 · Sat, February 20, 2021
CPF Fellows Roundtable Series: American Democracy and Its Institutions
In the first installment of the CPF Fellows Roundtable Series of 2021, CPF Fellows Barbara Comstock, Shaniqua McClendon, and Todd S. Purdum discussed the institutional aspects of American democracy from the Senate and the filibuster to gerrymandering and political parties. This discussion was moderated by CPF Fellows Manager, Harry Burke. Featuring: Barbara Comstock: Former U.S. Representative (R-VA) and CPF Spring 2021 Fellow Shaniqua McClendon: Political Director, Crooked Media and CPF Spring 2021 Fellow Todd S. Purdum: Former New York Times Reporter and Staff Writer at The Atlantic; CPF Spring 2021 Fellow
Thu, February 18, 2021
The Case for Black Lives Matter: Hawk Newsome
"All lives will matter when Black lives matter," says our guest, Hawk Newsome, in this passionate, challenging, and fascinating podcast episode. The co-founder and Chair of Black Lives Matter Greater New York answers the skeptics and makes the case for a movement that has grown in scale and significance since widespread protests erupted last summer after the killing of George Floyd while in police custody in Minneapolis. A devout Christian who has spent much of his life campaigning for racial and social justice, Hawk Newsome, discusses his views on love vs. violence, systemic racism, and how he reached out to Trump supporters during a tense rally in Washington in 2017. The conversation transcends the simple designations of left and right and seeks to find meaningful solutions that respond to the realities faced by people and communities. In our podcast, we mentioned this story about what Hawk does during weekends.
S2 E2 · Tue, February 16, 2021
The 74 Million Voter Question: Why Did Trump Get So Many Votes?
Center Director Bob Shrum is joined by authors Thomas Frank and Theodore R. Johnson, Strategist Patrick Griffin, and Former Congresswoman Mimi Walters to discuss how Donald Trump built the second-largest voting bloc in U.S. election history Featuring: Thomas Frank - Political Analyst; Author of "The People, No: A Brief History of Anti-Populism" Patrick Griffin - Founding Partner and CEO, Merrimack Potomac + Charles (MP+C); Fall 2019 Visiting Fellow, Center for the Political Future Theodore R. Johnson - Fellows Program Director at the Brennan Center for Justice; Author of "When the Stars Begin to Fall: Overcoming Racism and Renewing the Promise of America” Mimi Walters - Former U.S. Representative (R-CA) and Fall 2020 Fellow, Center for the Political Future
Thu, February 04, 2021
Depolarizing America: Building Consensus Step-by-Step: Rob Fersh and Kelly Johnston
Kelly Johnston and Rob Fersh disagree strongly on many issues and voted differently in the 2020 election. But they are friends and wrote recently that they "agree on major steps that must be taken for the nation to heed President-elect Biden’s welcome call for us to come together." Both believe that constructive steps must be taken to help build trust among Democrats and Republicans, despite deep polarization and a firm resistance to bipartisanship from both ends of the political spectrum. They encourage open dialogue between sectors and interest groups whose views diverge in an effort to deal with divisive political discourse. Kelly Johnston is a committed Republican and a former Secretary of the U.S. Senate. Rob Fersh founded Convergence Center for Policy Resolution, and previously worked for Democrats on the staffs of three congressional committees. Both are guests on "Let's Find Common Ground". They discuss bridge-building and why this work is so urgently needed now in an era of political gridlock. Click on bonus audio as Rob describes the process at Convergence.
S2 E1 · Tue, January 26, 2021
Biden 2021 and Beyond
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by the Center's Spring 2021 Fellows to recap President Joe Biden's inauguration and share their insights on the country’s future under the Biden Administration. Featuring: Barbara Comstock - Former U.S. Representative (R-VA) and CPF Spring 2021 Fellow Shaniqua McClendon - Political Director, Crooked Media and CPF Spring 2021 Fellow Todd S. Purdum - Former New York Times Reporter and Staff Writer at The Atlantic; CPF Spring 2021 Fellow
Thu, January 21, 2021
Depolarizing America. What Can All of Us Do? Tania Israel
The vital task of finding common ground in American politics became much more difficult in the traumatic days after the violence and mayhem at the U.S. Capitol. While many Americans viewed the pro-Trump crowd as thugs, others thought of them as patriots. This podcast is the first in a new series on dealing with polarization. We speak with professor Tania Israel, author of " Beyond Your Bubble: How to Connect Across the Political Divide, Skills and Strategies for Conversations That Work ." Dr. Israel is a fellow of the American Psychological Association and past-President of the Society of Counseling Psychology. In this episode, we discuss practical, concrete steps listeners can take to have meaningful conversations that reach across deep divisions. In a time of anger, deep divisions, and even political violence, how do we begin to de-polarize America? What is our personal role in finding common ground? Are there practical steps all of us can take? "One of the things I recommend is being curious. Try to find out more about what's behind what somebody says," Tania Israel tells us.
Thu, January 07, 2021
James Baker: The Art of Compromise. Peter Baker and Susan Glasser
James Baker was at the center of American political power for three decades. His resume is exceedingly impressive— Secretary of State, Secretary of the Treasury, and White House Chief of Staff, twice. He ran five presidential campaigns. Baker's accomplishments were far-reaching— he helped end the cold war, reunify Germany, assembled the international coalition to fight the Gulf War, and negotiated the rewriting of the U.S. tax code. Quite simply, he was "The Man Who Ran Washington," which is the name of a highly-praised new book, co-authored by our guests, New York Times chief White House correspondent, Peter Baker (no relation), and his wife, Susan Glasser, staff correspondent for The New Yorker. In this episode, we discuss how Washington has become a more angry, and anxious place. We learn about Baker's track record of successful governance, his steely pragmatism, why the art of compromise is crucial to almost any negotiation between powerful rivals, his deep friendship with the first President Bush, and Baker's opinion of Donald Trump.
Wed, December 23, 2020
2020 Special Moments. Our Search for Common Ground
From tragedy and disruption caused by COVID-19, to impassioned pleas for racial justice heard across the country, and the deep divisions in our politics, 2020 was a year like no other. On " Let's Find Common Ground ", we've shared a remarkable range of thoughtful, personal and surprising conversations about some of the most important topics of our time. We revisit a few of the most memorable and special moments in this year-end episode. Among the highlights: Houston's Chief of Police Art Acevedo and New York City civil rights activist and mayoral candidate, Maya Wiley , discuss ways to find common ground on police reform. Eva Botkin-Kowacki of The Christian Science Monitor reveals how environmental activists and farmers use different language to discuss the threat of a changing climate. Republican Brian Fitzpatrick and Democrat Abigail Spanberger explain how they work together to pass laws and find solutions to controversial issues in a dysfunctional Congress. We also listen to fascinating insights from an inter-racial couple, Errol and Tina Toulon , about how they are viewed by others.
Thu, December 10, 2020
In This Together: Climate Change. Bill Shireman and Trammell Crow
For decades, environmental activists have cast themselves as defenders of the planet against greedy, profit-hungry corporations. At the same time, many conservatives have ridiculed the science of climate change, and warned against the economic costs of the Green New Deal and similar initiatives. In this podcast, we explore a new narrative with two environmental campaigners. Bill Shireman and Trammell Crow are authors of the book, " In This Together : How Republicans, Democrats, Capitalists and Activists Are Uniting to Tackle Climate Change and More." Bill Shireman is President of the non-profit Future 500, which brings together people of all points of view to discuss environmental reform. He teaches leadership and negotiations at UC Berkeley Haas Business School, and is a founding member of BridgeUSA. Business leader and developer Trammell Crow is the President of the Crow Family Foundation. He is a founder of Texas Business for Clean Air and a member of the Clean Capitalist Leadership Council. "We have our conflicts, but we are not at war with each other," says the In This Together website . "Together we will be solution focused, not divisive, as we champion freedom, justice, prosperity, and sustainability for all."
S1 Enull · Thu, December 10, 2020
In This Together: Climate Change. Bill Shireman and Trammel Crow
For decades, environmental activists have cast themselves as defenders of the planet against greedy, profit-hungry corporations. At the same time, many conservatives have ridiculed the science of climate change, and warned against the economic costs of the Green New Deal and similar initiatives. In this podcast, we explore a new narrative with two environmental campaigners. Bill Shireman and Trammell Crow are authors of the book, "In This Together: How Republicans, Democrats, Capitalists and Activists Are Uniting to Tackle Climate Change and More." Bill Shireman is President of the non-profit Future 500, which brings together people of all points of view to discuss environmental reform. He teaches leadership and negotiations at UC Berkeley Haas Business School, and is a founding member of BridgeUSA. Business leader and developer Trammell Crow is the President of the Crow Family Foundation. He is a founder of Texas Business for Clean Air and a member of the Clean Capitalist Leadership Council. "We have our conflicts, but we are not at war with each other," says the In This Together website. "Together we will be solution focused, not divisive, as we champion freedom, justice, prosperity, and sustainability for all."
Wed, November 25, 2020
Same Family. Different Politics: Becca Kearl and Robbie Lawler
In a time of deep and sometimes bitter political division, what are the most effective ways to have conversations with family members who vote for a different party or don't see the world the way that you do? In this episode of "Let's Find Common Ground" podcast, we explore the challenges and opportunities faced by many families, especially as they come together during the holidays. Our guests are Becca Kearl, a Joe Biden supporter, and her mom, Robbie Lawler, who went for Donald Trump. Becca is a Managing Partner at the non-profit group, Living Room Conversations . She is a founding member of the Utah Dialogue Practice Network. Becca is also fully engaged in the non-profit venture of raising five kids with her husband in Provo, Utah. Robbie Lawler is a mother of six and was named National Mother of Young Children in 1996. She has received awards for community projects she worked on, and most recently was events coordinator for the Law School at Brigham Young University. She lives with her husband in Alpine, Utah. We share tips and ideas about how to have difficult or awkward conversations with those you love. Find more constructive suggestions here from Living Room Conversations.
S1 Enull · Wed, November 25, 2020
Same Family. Different Politics: Becca Kearl and Ronnie Lawler
In a time of deep and sometimes bitter political division, what are the most effective ways to have conversations with family members who vote for a different party or don't see the world the way that you do? In this episode of "Let's Find Common Ground" podcast, we explore the challenges and opportunities faced by many families, especially as they come together during the holidays. Our guests are Becca Kearl, a Joe Biden supporter, and her mom, Ronnie Lawler, who went for Donald Trump. Becca is a Managing Partner at the non-profit group, Living Room Conversations. She is a founding member of the Utah Dialogue Practice Network. Becca is also fully engaged in the non-profit venture of raising five kids with her husband in Provo, Utah. Ronnie Lawler is a mother of six and was named National Mother of Young Children in 1996. She has received awards for community projects she worked on, and most recently was events coordinator for the Law School at Brigham Young University. She lives with her husband in Alpine, Utah. We share tips and ideas about how to have difficult or awkward conversations with those you love. Find more constructive suggestions here from Living Room Conversations.
S1 E26 · Thu, November 19, 2020
The Future of the Republican Party
Center Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by top Republican strategists, journalists, and historians to examine the growing divisions within the Republican Party and explore strategies forward. Featuring: Douglas Brinkley - Author; Professor of History at Rice University; Presidential Historian for CNN Jessica Millan Patterson - Chairwoman, California Republican Party Karl Rove - Former White House Deputy Chief of Staff, George W. Bush Administration Anthony Scaramucci - Entrepreneur, Founder of SkyBridge and SALT Conference, Former White House Communications Director, Trump Administration Bret Stephens - Opinion Columnist, New York Times; Author
S1 E25 · Mon, November 16, 2020
Why Biden Won
CPF Director Bob Shrum is joined by strategists Stephanie Cutter and James Carville, Journalist Adam Nagourney, and Cristobal Alex, Senior Advisor for Joe Biden's presidential campaign to examine Biden's winning campaign strategy.
Thu, November 12, 2020
What The Voters Told Us: Christa Case Bryant and Story Hinckley
Voters sent decidedly mixed messages in the 2020 election. This episode looks at what we can learn from then about how divided the country is — or isn’t. Voters in cities, suburbs and rural parts of the country went to the polls in record numbers. We discuss the extraordinary level of interest in the presidential campaign, and reasons why President-elect Biden won five million more votes than President Trump. Our guests are Christa Case Bryant , a national political reporter for The Christian Science Monitor , and Story Hinckley , a National Political Correspondent in Washington on the newspaper’s national news desk in Washington. Both traveled extensively during the 2020 campaign, listening to voters and politicians in battleground states. They share their rich and moving experiences on the frontlines of the campaign, and what they learned from the many people they met along the way.
S1 E24 · Fri, November 06, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: The Post-Election Episode
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by journalist Adam Nagourney, Republican strategist Mike Madrid, and USC Professor Jane Junn to discuss the future of polling, the Republican Party, and the latest election results. Nagourney has been the Los Angeles Bureau Chief of the New York Times since 2010 and Madrid is a co-founder of The Lincoln Project and a longtime Republican political strategist with an expertise in Latino voting trends and analysis. Junn is a USC Professor of Political Science and the Associates Chair in Social Sciences, who has authored five books on political participation and public opinion in the United States.
S1 E23 · Fri, October 30, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: Election Security with Special Guest Cynthia McFadden
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy talk to journalist Cynthia McFadden about the presidential election with a focus on election security and voting mechanisms. McFadden is a broadcast journalist who is the Senior Legal and Investigative Correspondent for NBC News. She was an anchor and correspondent for ABC News, who co-anchored Nightline and occasionally appeared on ABC News special Primetime .
Thu, October 29, 2020
Election Briefing: "Why I'm Voting For...." Philippa Hughes and John Pudner
With just days to go before the 2020 election, we invited a Trump supporter and a Biden backer to join us in the same (virtual) room, and share the personal reasons behind their vote. We have a lively, spontaneous and surprisingly friendly discussion about the President's controversial personality, the final debate, and big policy and leadership differences between the two candidates. John Pudner is voting for Donald Trump. He is Executive Director of Take Back Our Republic, a non-profit group and a member of Bridge Alliance. John spent three decades managing Republican political campaigns, and was the eldest of 9 children growing up in a 3 bedroom house in inner city Richmond, VA where he attended a conservative, Catholic high school whose alumni included Steve Bannon. Now John is the father of 9 children. Philippa P.B. Hughes is voting for Joe Biden. She produces and creates art projects, and is CEO, Chief Creative Strategist and Social Sculptor at CuriosityConnects.us, a non-profit organization that designs pop-up galleries and physical spaces that bring people together who might not normally engage in dialogue and thoughtful interaction. Philippa is the daughter of a conservative Vietnamese mother and a white father who was a lifelong union member. She also grew up in Richmond, but until our podcast conversation had never met John.
S1 E22 · Wed, October 28, 2020
Climate Change and the 2020 Election
This panel examined the impact climate change has had on primary elections and the 2020 presidential election and the issue’s relevance to voters during an economic crisis, the pandemic, and racial justice movements. Featuring: Michelle Lujan Grisham - Governor of New Mexico, former US Representative (D-NM) Bina Venkataraman - Editorial Page Editor, The Boston Globe; Senior Advisor for Climate Change Innovation, Obama Administration Christine Todd Whitman - Former New Jersey Governor and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, Bush Administration
S1 E21 · Fri, October 23, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: Final Presidential Debate Analysis with Special Guest Patrick Griffin, Republican Media Strategist
CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy are joined by Republican media strategist Patrick Griffin to discuss the final Presidential Debate between President Trump and Vice President Joe Biden. Griffin was a Fall 2019 Visiting Fellow at the Center for the Political Future. He is a founding partner and CEO of Merrimack Potomac + Charles ( MP+C), one of New England's leading integrated public affairs and strategic communications firms. He has worked as a Republican media consultant for four U.S. presidential campaigns including Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, Mitt Romney, and U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander.
Thu, October 22, 2020
Seeking Common Ground in Congress: Reps. Abigail Spanberger (D) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R)
With just days to go before a bitterly contested election, we speak with two Members of Congress, one Republican and one Democrat, who are reaching across rigid partisan divides, recognizing the value of compromise and seeking constructive change. Democrat Abigail Spanberger is the U.S. Representative for Virginia's 7th Congressional District, and is serving her first term. In 2018, she defeated a Republican incumbent to win the district, which includes most of the northern suburbs of Richmond. Brian Fitzpatrick is a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional district. His district includes all of Bucks County, a mostly suburban area north of Philadelphia. Reps. Spanberger and Fitzpatrick both score highly on the new Common Ground Scorecard rankings.
S1 E20 · Mon, October 19, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: The Debate That Never Was
Center Director Bob Shrum is joined by political strategist Doug Thornell and journalists Ronald Brownstein and Asma Khalid to discuss President Trump and Joe Biden's dueling Town Halls, following Trump's refusal to participate in a virtual presidential debate originally scheduled for the same day. Brownstein is a Senior Political Analyst at CNN and serves as Atlantic Media's Editorial Director for Strategic Partnerships in charge of long-term editorial strategy. Khalid is a political correspondent for NPR who co-hosts The NPR Politics Podcast. Thornell is Partner and Head of SKDKPolitical, having served as a media strategist to the Democratic National Committee, Congressional Black Caucus, and various House, Senate, and gubernatorial campaigns.
S1 E19 · Fri, October 09, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: Mike Pence vs. Kamala Harris Vice Presidential Debate Analysis
Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy plus special guest Karen Finney discuss the highlights and lowlights of the Vice Presidential debate between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris and what each candidate needs to do to win the general election. Finney worked for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign as Senior Spokesperson and Senior Advisor for Communications and Political Outreach. She was also Communications Director for Senator Tim Kaine. Finney was the first Black spokeswoman for the Democratic National Committee and is currently a CNN political commentator
Thu, October 08, 2020
2020 Election Briefing: U.S. Foreign Policy. Peter Ford and Howard LaFranchi
President Trump's "America First" policy has led to a U.S. withdrawal from many global institutions. For decades after World War II, American leadership in the world was taken for granted. Today, the future of American hegemony is deeply uncertain. In this election briefing, we explore the future of foreign policy with two highly experienced journalists, Peter Ford and Howard LaFranchi. Based in Paris, Peter is global affairs correspondent for The Christian Monitor. Prior to his current job, he spent a decade as Beijing Bureau Chief. Howard has been The Monitor's diplomacy correspondent in Washington D.C. since 2001. We discuss the U.S. pullback from the World Health Organization during the COVID-19 pandemic, America's exit from the Paris climate accord, deteriorating relations with China, and the differences between Joe Biden and Donald Trump on America's role in the world.
S1 E18 · Thu, October 01, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: First Biden vs. Trump Debate Analysis
As the headlines and memes roll in, CPF Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy discuss the highlights and lowlights of the chaotic first presidential debate between President Donald Trump and Joe Biden. They also talk about each candidate’s likely strategies for the next two debates in October and the latest polling and trends in the general election.
S1 E17 · Mon, September 28, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: 40 Days To Go
With Election Day a little more than one month away, Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy discuss the implications of the Supreme Court vacancy following the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the latest polling within the battleground states, what to expect in the first Trump/Biden debate, and the President’s comments on the peaceful transfer of power should Joe Biden win the election.
Thu, September 24, 2020
Reforming politics: Civility, Compromise and Common Ground. Amy Dacey and Pearce Godwin
More than 8 out of 10 Americans think the country is divided, and a large majority says public debate has gotten worse in recent years. A recent survey found most voters agree that significant changes are needed in the fundamental design and structure of American government to make it work for current times. In this episode, we explore the urgent need for common ground with Amy Dacey, Executive Director of the Sine Institute of Policy & Politics at American University, and Pearce Godwin, CEO of Listen First Project, and a leading member of Weaving Community. During the 2016 presidential election, Amy served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Democratic National Committee. She has managed national organizations and advised leading elected officials and candidates, including President Barack Obama and Senator John Kerry. Pearce is from a conservative political background, and formerly worked as an aide in the House and Senate and for Republican Party campaigns. We speak with both of them about the new Common Ground Scorecard , which rates candidates and elected officials on their ability to reach out beyond their base and engage with voters and other elected officials who come from another party or viewpoint.
S1 E16 · Thu, September 17, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: Special Guest Robert Costa
Robert Costa, moderator of PBS's "Washington Week" and political analyst at NBC News and MSNBC, joins USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future co-directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy to share his insights on the 2020 presidential election, including where this race stands.
Thu, September 10, 2020
Election Briefing: Can We Hold a Fair Election?: David Hawkins and Tristiaña Hinton
With only weeks to go before the 2020 election, many challenges remain to holding a free and fair vote in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. From likely surge in mail-in ballots, to changes in polling places for millions of voters and the urgent need for accuracy, we discuss whether the election will be a smooth exercise of democracy or result in a constitutional crisis. David Hawkings, Editor-in-Chief and Tristiana Hinton, Audience Development Editor, of The Fulcrum explain America's many different statewide systems of voting, and why it could take days or weeks for winners to be declared. We look at the disputes between Republicans and Democrats, including the possibility of a disputed result, and explore why many local election officials from both parties share common ground on the need for fair and accurate results. The Fulcrum is a non-profit, non-partisan digital news organization focused exclusively on efforts to reverse the dysfunctions plaguing American democracy. The Fulcrum and Common Ground Committee are members of Bridge Alliance, which acts as a connectivity hub for over 90 civic action organizations.
S1 E15 · Thu, September 03, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: RNC Recap
The Republican National Convention culminated with President Trump delivering his acceptance speech in front of an unprecedented back drop. Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy share their takes on the convention's highs and lows, what to expect in the upcoming presidential debates, and answer live questions.
Thu, August 27, 2020
2020 Election Briefing: Climate Change. Eoin O’Carroll & Eva Botkin-Kowacki
From devastating hurricanes to increasing destruction caused by wildfires, growing numbers of Americans are suffering from the impacts of drought, storms and other extreme weather events. On “Let’s Find Common Ground” we’re looking at some of the most important issues facing voters as they make their choices in the 2020 election. Climate change is a much more important issue for many voters now than it was in 2016. According to a recent poll by Pew Research Center, a record-high 60% of Americans say it is a major threat to the well-being of the United States. We gain a deeper understanding from journalists Eva Botkin-Kowacki and Eoin O’Carroll of The Christian Science Monitor. Both Eva and Eoin are staff reporters, covering science, technology and the environment. They tell us that climate change is no longer a theory. We are living with some of the early results.
S1 E14 · Tue, August 25, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: DNC Recap
Following the most unconventional Democratic political convention in history, Center Director Bob Shrum is joined by special guest Steve Schmidt to share the highlights and forecast the road ahead to November. Featuring: Steve Schmidt, Co-Founder, The Lincoln Project; Republican Political Strategist
Thu, August 13, 2020
Jordan Blashek, Chris Haugh. Two Friends: One Democrat, the Other Republican Search for Common Ground
How far apart are we as a nation? A liberal writer from Berkeley and a conservative military veteran decided to answer that question together during a series of long road trips in an old Volvo. They drove through 44 states and on nearly twenty thousand miles of road and highways, meeting an extraordinary range of people along the way. At a time of political gridlock and hyper-partisanship, Republican Jordan Blashek, and Democrat Chris Haugh formed an unlikely friendship that blossomed not in spite of but because of their political differences. The result of their road trips is the new book, “Union: A Democrat, A Republican, and a Search for Common Ground.” In this podcast episode, we discover what they learned about the American politics, culture, civics, and the condition of our democracy. “Our honest takeaway is that we’re not as far apart as imagined,” Chris tells us. “Underneath a patina of difference and division, there is a common language.”
Thu, July 30, 2020
Caroline Randall Williams: "My Body is a Confederate Monument."
"The black people I come from were owned and raped by the white people I come from," wrote author, poet and academic Caroline Randall Williams in a widely-read opinion column for The New York Times. As a Black southern woman with white ancestors, her view of the debate over how America remembers its past is deeply personal. This episode is the latest in our podcast series on racism and its painful legacy. Recent protests across the country have sparked renewed controversy over confederate statues, and the naming of military bases and public buildings that celebrate men who fought in the Civil War against the government of the United States. Should the monuments be repurposed or removed? We discuss ways to find common ground and better our understanding of the American history. Caroline Randall Williams is a writer in residence at Vanderbilt University. She is a resident and native of Tennessee. Some of her ancestors were enslaved. Others included a prominent poet and novelist, and a civil rights leader . She is the great-great grand-daughter of Edmund Pettus , who was a grand dragon of the Ku Klux Klan and U.S. Senator from Alabama.
S1 E13 · Fri, July 24, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: Special Guest John Chiang
John Chiang , former California State Treasurer and Fall 2020 Fellow at the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, joins co-directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy to discuss his career in politics, the pandemic’s lasting economic impact on California, and its implications for the November election and beyond. Chiang served as California’s 33rd State Treasurer until 2019. As the state’s banker, he oversaw trillions of dollars in annual transactions, managed a $75 billion investment portfolio, and was the nation’s largest issuer of municipal bonds. As State Controller during the Great Recession, his cash management decisions were instrumental in keeping California’s credit rating from plunging into junk status, and his actions saved taxpayers millions of dollars. Chiang aggressively used his audit programs to identify more than $9.5 billion of fraud, waste and abuse in government programs, the most by any Controller in California’s history. He serves on several boards and will be teaching a course in the fall titled, “From Financial Crisis to COVID-19: California Policy Responses to the Financial Fallout” with the USC Center for the Political Future.
Thu, July 16, 2020
Errol and Tina Toulon: Lessons From an Interracial Couple.
What can we discover about personal pain caused by racism? In this episode, we speak with an inter-racial couple to find out what a well-educated white professional woman learned from her African American husband, a senior law enforcement official. Our guests are Errol Toulon , elected as first African American Sheriff of Suffolk County , New York, and Tina MacNicholl Toulon, a physician liaison and business development executive. She tells us what she's learned since their marriage in 2016, about racism, "driving while black", and other indignities that are all too often part of a black person's daily life. The need to find common ground and improve race relations has taken on new urgency with recent anti-racist protests and demands for profound change in America. Both Tina and Errol believe that education is a crucial ingredient in reaching a much better understanding about widespread racism. By speaking out publicly about their own experiences, they believe they're contributing to a vital discussion aimed at improving public understanding of a divisive and disturbing part of American life.
Thu, July 02, 2020
Art Acevedo and Maya Wiley. Reforming The Police.
Outrage, grief, and despair over cases of police brutality and racism erupted nationwide, with growing demands for major reforms. The protests appeared to sway public opinion. A Washington Post poll in June found that 69% of Americans agreed that the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis suggests a broader problem within law enforcement. This episode brings together a police chief and a critic of law enforcement. Both discuss their hopes for better policing in the future, and find some areas of agreement on proposed changes, including greater diversity, better training, and firmer action against officers who step over the line. Art Acevedo is Chief of Police for the Houston Police Department. He now serves as President of the Major Cities Chiefs Association. MSNBC legal analyst Maya Wiley is a civil rights activist, former board chair of New York City's Civilian Complaint Review Board, and senior vice president for Social Justice at The New School.
S1 E12 · Tue, June 30, 2020
Election R&D Dialogues: Special Guest Mimi Walters
Mimi Walters , former Congresswoman (R-CA) and Fall 2020 Fellow at the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, joins co-directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy to share some thoughts on the 2020 election and her decades-long career in public office. From investment executive to elected official, Walters most recently served as U.S. Representative for District 45 in Orange County, until 2018. She also served in both the California State Senate and Assembly and got her start in politics as a city Councilmember and Mayor of Laguna Niguel. In Congress, Walters sponsored legislation for wildfire disaster tax relief and the Survivor’s Bill of Rights that established key protections for survivors of sexual assault. She served on the influential House Energy and Commerce Committee where she was a member of the Communications and Technology, Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection, and Oversight and Investigations subcommittees. She is the co-founder of the California Women’s Leadership Association, sits on several boards, and will be teaching a course in the Fall titled “So You Want to Run For Office?” with the USC Center for the Political Future.
S1 E11 · Mon, June 22, 2020
Social Media and the Post-COVID-19 Landscape
As the pandemic has unfolded, social media has once again demonstrated how it can inform – or mislead – by encouraging the spread of literally deadly information. Center Co-Directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy moderate a discussion on the implications of misinformation from political, social and engineering perspectives – and how it could alter the course of social media. In partnership with the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences' Dornsife Dialogues series. The panelists include: Kristina Lerman, Research associate professor of computer science and principal scientist at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering Information Sciences Institute Jon-Patrick Allem, Assistant professor of research preventive medicine and director of the Social Media Analytics Lab at Keck School of Medicine of USC.
S1 E10 · Fri, June 19, 2020
The George Floyd Tragedy: Is There a Path To Positive Change?
Still reeling from a global pandemic, protests across America erupted in cities across all 50 states, sparking a worldwide movement in over 20 countries. Violence against black men and women, like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many others, perpetrated by police has plagued this country for decades. The demand for systemic change for how cities are policed and how racism penetrates so much of American life has become a national, multicultural discussion. This panel explores how we got here and what actions are needed to move forward. The panelists include: Art Acevedo - Chief of Police, Houston Police Department; President, Major Cities Chiefs Association Donna Brazile - Former Chair, Democratic National Committee (DNC); FOX News Contributor Sydney Kamlager-Dove - California State Assembly member, District 54 (D-Los Angeles) Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future; Warschaw Chair in Practical Politics, USC Dornsife Erroll Southers - Professor of the Practice in National & Homeland Security; Director, Safe Communities Institute; Director of Homegrown Violent Extremist Studies, USC Price Moderated by: Ron Christie, BBC News Analyst; Fall ‘19 Fellow, USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future.
Thu, June 18, 2020
Professor Ilyasa Shabazz, Dr. Brian Williams: What Racism Means to Me
Nationwide protests against racism, police violence, and racial inequality have shaken the nation to its core. Support for Black Lives Matter and anger over police treatment of African-Americans grew dramatically in recent weeks. Outrage over the disturbingly graphic deaths of George Floyd and other black men and women have changed the debate over racism. In this podcast, we look for potential areas of common ground, and consider the prospects for lasting change. Our guests are Ilyasah Shabazz , and Brian Williams, MD . Professor Shabazz often speaks about the remarkable legacy of her father, Malcolm X . She promotes higher education for at-risk youth and interfaith dialogue to build bridges between cultures for young leaders of the world. Doctor Williams led the trauma team that treated police officers ambushed by a sniper in Dallas in 2016 - the largest loss of life for US law enforcement since 9/11. "Education and discussion is a start, but not enough," Dr. Williams tells us. "A lot of us have been educating and talking and waiting for a long long time. Now is the time for action." If we're taught hate we're never going to solve any problems. It looks like that's what the young people are saying and it's great, says Professor Shabazz. "We need our young people to have their voices, to speak up and help us make change." In this podcast, we discuss the findings of two studies related to racism: Research on children's perceptions of black and white dolls , and the 40-year U.S. Public Health Service study of syphilis in Macon County, Alabama.
Thu, June 04, 2020
Daryl Davis: KKKrossing the divide: A Black man talks with white supremacists
Communities of color face visible threats. The recent murder of Ahmaud Arbery, a young Black jogger in Georgia, and the killing of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis, reverberated across the country, sparking an outpouring a pain and rage. These cases of racial violence and bias were only the latest on a very long list of attacks and murders of African-American men and women. At this profoundly painful time, we speak with musician and bandleader, Daryl Davis , a Black man who has spent the past 35 years on a remarkable quest: speaking with, and at times befriending, members of white supremacist groups. He has helped more than 200 KKK members to renounce their racist ideology. "We have to ask ourselves the question: do I want to sit back and see what my country becomes, or do I want to stand up and make my country become what I want to see," Daryl tells us. "I've chosen the latter. And so you have to get into the thick of it."
S1 E9 · Tue, June 02, 2020
Special Guest Barbara Boxer
Barbara Boxer , former U.S. Senator (D-CA) and Fall 2020 Fellow at the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, joins co-directors Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy to reflect on her career and look ahead to the November election. Boxer was elected to the United States Senate in 1992 during the “Year of the Woman." She served four terms and retired in 2017, having also served five terms as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and six years on the Marin County Board of Supervisors. Known as a “liberal firebrand,” Boxer has advocated for families and the environment for decades. She has consistently addressed the threat of climate change and attacks on women’s health and the right to privacy. She also authored landmark legislation for federally funded after-school programs. Boxer is chairwoman for a global strategy firm, runs a political action committee, and in the Fall, she will be teaching a course called "Demystifying Governance and Politics" at the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future.
Thu, May 21, 2020
Admiral James Stavridis: Pulling Out of the Pandemic. Creative Strategies
The coronavirus emergency is the world's biggest crisis of the 21st century--worse than the tragic losses on 9/11, and the economic damage of the great recession. Using lessons from history, we look at positive ways for all of us to emerge from the pandemic. Retired Admiral James Stavridis spent 37 years in the US navy and served in both Democratic and Republican administrations. He led US Southern Command in Miami and served as the 16th Supreme Allied Commander at NATO. His latest book is "Sailing True North". Admiral Stavridis calls himself "a very serious cook” and is spending time during the lockdown learning a new language: Portuguese.
Thu, May 07, 2020
Paul Light. Shared National Sacrifice: Are We Ready?
The times ahead may be radically different than what most of us have experienced so far in our lives. This episode considers what kind of sacrifices will have to be made now and in the future. How can volunteers make a difference? What needs to be done to prevent a further fraying of the fabric of our national life? Guest: Professor Paul Light of New York University, who often writes about public service, and has testified before Congress.
Thu, May 07, 2020
Wesley Clark. The Leadership We Need at a Time of Crisis.
What does it take to be an effective leader at a time of unprecedented crisis? We look at the vital skills great leaders share in common. Guest: Retired four-star general, former Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and 2004 Democratic Presidential candidate, Wesley Clark. He shares his unique experience in the military, business, politics, and as the leader of the non-profit group, Renew America Together.
Thu, May 07, 2020
Jared Bernstein & Maya MacGuineas. Saving Lives and the Economy
The world is struggling with a devastating global health emergency, but pressure is building to end lockdowns and ease other restrictions. What are the best ways to restart the U.S. economy without risking public health? We discuss how to find common ground while navigating this challenge. Guests: Jared Bernstein , former economic advisor to Vice President Biden in the Obama Administration and Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget .
Trailer · Thu, April 30, 2020
Introducing Let's Find Common Ground
As the tone of public discourse becomes increasingly angry and divisive, Common Ground Committee offers a healing path to reaching agreement and moving forward. We talk with top leaders in public policy, finance, academe and more to encourage the seeking and finding of points of agreement, and to demonstrate how combating incivility can lead us forward.
S1 E8 · Tue, April 14, 2020
The Pandemic Election
Co-Directors of the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the presidential election. Bob Shrum, the former senior strategist for Al Gore, John Kerry, and a host of Democratic senators and governors, and Mike Murphy, the former senior strategist for John McCain and Mitt Romney and a political analyst for NBC News, discuss the latest on changing voter attitudes toward the Trump administration, voting while sheltering in place and the dilemmas and opportunities of the Biden and Sanders campaigns.
S1 E7 · Fri, March 13, 2020
On to November: What Matters and Why?
Center Director Bob Shrum moderates a discussion exploring how the primary campaigns and developments in Washington are shaping the general election landscape. The panelists include: Rob Collins - Republican strategist; Former Executive Director of the National Republican Senatorial Committee Christian Grose - Associate Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, USC Dornsife; Academic Director, USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy Betsy Fischer Martin - Emmy-winning journalist; Former TV news executive; Executive Director, Women and Politics Institute, American University Mike Murphy - Co-Director, Center for the Political Future; political analyst for NBC News; former Senior Strategist for John McCain
Fri, March 06, 2020
Super Tuesday: What Happened and What's Next?
Fifteen states, including California for the first time, cast their votes for the 2020 primaries on Super Tuesday, March 3. A round table of experts weighed in on the results in real-time and offered predictions on what to look for next. The panelists include: Christina Bellantoni - Director, USC Annenberg Media Center Bill Carrick - Strategist for Sen. Dianne Feinstein, LA Mayor Eric Garcetti, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and President Bill Clinton Jeff Greenfield - Politics and Media Analyst; Spring '20 CPF Fellow David Hill - Pollster and Strategist; Spring '20 CPF Fellow Bob Shrum - Director, Center for the Political Future Ernest Wilson - Professor of Communication and Political Science; Former USC Annenberg Dean; Founder, Center for Third Space Thinking
S1 E5 · Thu, February 27, 2020
Congressman Will Hurd on National Security and the GOP of the Future
Center Co-Director Mike Murphy is joined by U.S. Representative Will Hurd, R-Texas. He is the only black Republican in the U.S. House, representing Texas' 23rd district that spans San Antonio to El Paso. In his three terms, he has broken from his party by supporting universal background checks for gun sales and the LGBT Equality Act, as well as opposing Trump's border wall. Rep. Hurd served as an undercover officer in the CIA in the Middle East and South Asia for nearly a decade. He shares his insights on the country's pressing national security issues, public service, and the future of the Republican party.
S1 E4 · Tue, January 28, 2020
The Roots & Impact of Tribalism
Center for the Political Future Executive Director Kamy Akhavan moderates a panel on the roots and rise of tribalism on American life, past and present, its impact on the state of politics and governance in America, and the role of political leaders in worsening the trend or reversing it. The panelists include: Ron Christie - Former Special Assistant to President George W. Bush and Vice President Cheney Stevan Hobfoll - Author, “Tribalism: The Evolutionary Origins of Fear Politics” Jonas Kaplan - USC Dornsife Assistant Research Professor of Psychology; Co-Director, Dornsife Neuroimaging Center Alison Renteln - USC Dornsife Professor of Political Science, Anthropology, Philosophy, Public Policy and Law
S1 E3 · Fri, January 17, 2020
Pollster John Della Volpe on Millennial Voters in 2020
Center Director Bob Shrum is joined by John Della Volpe, Director of Polling at the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics to discuss the impact of millennial voters on the 2020 election. In partnership with the Annenberg Center on Communication Leadership and Policy.
S1 E2 · Wed, January 15, 2020
Anthony Scaramucci on Trump, Democratic Candidates, and the GOP
Center Director Bob Shrum is joined by former White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci. After the release of his book, "Trump: The Blue Collar President," he has again made headlines withdrawing his support of President Trump. Scaramucci shares where he stands now on Trump's re-election, the Democratic field, and the state of the Republican party.
S1 E1 · Mon, December 09, 2019
Welcome To Election R&D: 2020 and Beyond
At the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, veteran strategists Bob Shrum and Mike Murphy regularly talk with top operatives on both sides of the 2020 contest and the journalists who are covering it. The conversations get behind the curtain -- because what seems to be happening in the campaign is often different than what really is. What are the calculations in the war rooms of 2020? How is the media covering the race, and how is the coverage shaping the outcome? Hear from those who’ve known success and setbacks in presidential races. And laugh, too, at their stories of the inside maneuvers and blunders that shape the outcome. Every exchange is guided by standards central to the Center’s mission: Respect each other and respect the truth. Opponents are adversaries, not enemies. And if you lose, don’t burn down the stadium. Election R&D will be there from the primary debates to election day, and then to a post-election, in depth analysis of the driving forces that led to victory and defeat.
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