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Nick Halaris and Oakland Corps Co-Founder Dmitri Mehlhorn delve into the complexities of voter engagement in America, touching on undecided voters, the urban youth vote, and the urban-rural divide. They discuss the political identity of rural Americans, the influence of fear and technology on political perceptions, and the looming threat of oligarchy in the U.S. Dmitri shares insights from his work with Oakland Corps, focusing on innovating political engagement and supporting marginalized voters. Their discussion emphasizes the importance of courage in political activism and building a strong civic ecosystem to counter authoritarianism.
Areas of discussion include:
- Humans are complicated and capable of great evil.
- The divide is overwhelmingly urban vs. rural.
- Young urban voters are likely anti-Trump if they participate.
- Rural Americans view Democrats as literal demons.
- The elite are not listening to them.
- Trump could become the most powerful individual in history.
- The rule of law limits unchecked power.
- Courageous personal acts can make a difference.
- The cost per Democratic vote is skyrocketing.
- We are part of a larger civic ecosystem.