Frustration with political polarization and gridlock seems to be in the air, as several recent podcast episodes have discussed this problem and ways forward. This post gives a brief review of some of those episodes:
- RCV Clips Podcast – Interview with Sally Hudson (11/2025)
- It’s Up To Us – the new Forward Party Podcast (1/15/2026)
- Andrew Yang Podcast – Rebuilding Trust in a Divided State (1/19/2026)
RCV Clips Podcast – November 2025 Episode
Chris Hughes invites Sally Hudson on the podcast to talk about the history of election systems in Charlottesville, VA, and how election system design can be used to concentrate power in the hands of one voting bloc. For example, city councils using at-large seats versus ward-based seats can have a drastic implication for outcomes and power. Hudson explains that a different system can have diverse representation by design instead.
Honestly, every time I hear Sally Hudson speak it is extremely insightful and compelling. This episode is well worth a listen for anyone interested in election reforms and a historical example of how it matters.
It’s Up To Us – Forward Party Podcast: Episode 1
Lindsey Williams Drath, Christine Todd Whitman, and Kerry Healey talk about how to get involved in politics outside of the two party system. In this episode, the three former Republicans talk about how the Republican Party has transformed over the last two decades, and how real change requires effort from outside the political duopoly. They discuss how the two parties want to keep the most polarizing and controversial issues front of mind and unresolved, because those are what motivate more political donations and engagement.
One of the very important points they raise is that a lot of controversial, big issues, remain unsolved because they are so valuable as political tools to both parties. This was a refreshing conversation to listen to as it spoke the many frustrations that are apparent to so many of us, and they also explain how they are actually doing something concrete to address the two-party problem.
Andrew Yang Podcast – Rebuilding Trust in a Divided State
This is an exciting interview with independent and Forward candidate for governor of Minnesota, Mike Newcome. Newcome explains that he was compelled to enter the race after seeing the partisan system focused on fighting each other, rather than focusing on what is right for his state of Minnesota. This is really a key frustration felt by so many across the country. I can only hope that more people like Newcome step up and try to be the change they want in the country by running for office.