EPISODE · Nov 16, 2020 · 30 MIN
Is common ground hiding in plain sight?
from Democracy Works · host Michael Berkman, Candis Watts Smith, Will Friedman, Jenna Spinelle
Will Friedman is president of Public Agenda, a national, nonpartisan, nonprofit research and public engagement organization that strives to strengthen democracy and expand opportunity for all Americans. One of the organization's major projects is the Hidden Common Ground Initiative, which challenges the increasingly dominant narrative of a hopelessly-divided America by identifying and elevating the areas and narratives where Americans agree on solutions to politically-polarized issues, and by fostering productive dialogue on those areas where we truly disagree.This work, along with the Hidden Tribes initiative, Common Ground Committee, and others begs the question — if this common ground is already prevalent in our society and our democracy, then why is it hidden? We explore that question in this episode and ask how to work toward common ground in a way that does not simply maintain the status quo.Additional InformationHidden Common Ground InitiativeRelated EpisodesTrust, facts, and democracy in a polarized worldDoes Congress promote partisan gridlock? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What this episode covers
Despite increasing partisan polarization, voters in the 2020 election agreed on ballot initiatives to advance $15 minimum wage in Florida and marijuana legalization in several states. Our guest this week would say this is an example of the hidden common ground that exists among everyday citizens but is obscured by political parties and media pundits.
NOW PLAYING
Is common ground hiding in plain sight?
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
May 9, 2026 ·24m
May 7, 2026 ·56m
Apr 27, 2026 ·19m
Apr 21, 2026 ·31m
Apr 21, 2026 ·53m
Apr 8, 2026 ·27m