Can Fusion Voting Save American Democracy?

In this episode of This Old Democracy, host Micah Sifry sits down with Dan Cantor, veteran political organizer and chief strategist at the Center for Ballot Freedom, to explore a once-common but now largely forgotten reform: fusion voting. Drawing on his decades of experience on the political left—and his recent work with moderate Republicans and Independents—Cantor makes the case that reviving fusion voting could help ease polarization, empower new political voices, and make our elections more representative and responsive. Together, they delve into: What fusion voting is and how it works Why third parties struggle under current electoral rules The historical roots of fusion in 19th-century American politics How modern fusion parties could give moderate and cross-partisan voters more meaningful choices The legal strategy underway to re-legalize fusion voting in multiple U.S. states Why fusion voting could strengthen—not fragment—our democracy Whether you're a political reform nerd or just frustrated with the current system, this conversation offers both clarity and hope.