A conversation with Professor Matt Grossmann about his research on how the two major parties are changing and resulting in a wide polarization and dysfunctional governing. The Republican Party he says, is the vehicle of an ideological movement while the Democratic Party is a coalition of social groups. Republican leaders prize conservatism and attract support by pledging loyalty to broad values. Democratic leaders instead seek concrete gove rnment action, appealing to voters’ group identities and interests by endorsing specific policies.
Guest: Matt Grossmann is the Director of the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research and Associate Professor of Political Science at Michigan State University. He is co-author with Professor David Hopkins of the new book Asymmetric Politics: Ideological Republicans and Group Interest Democrats.
Then, the new wave of candidates running for office with Sayu Bhojwani.
Guest: Sayu Bhojwani is the founder and president of New American Leaders, the only national organization focused on preparing immigrant leaders to run for public office. She served as New York City’s first commissioner of immigrant affairs. She is author of People Like Us: The New Wave of Candidates Knocking at Democracy’s Door.