The Gerrymander Games

Another week, another reminder that democracy is not a “set it and forget it” system. This week on the podcast, we talk about the escalating redistricting battles happening across the country, the continued weakening of the Voting Rights Act, and what we can do to help Democrats take back the House (and maybe the Senate). We also dig into: * Why mid-decade gerrymandering feels like a race to the bottom * Whether voters may be less predictable than political strategists assume * What ordinary people can actually do right now * Why local races and state courts matter more than many people realize * How optimism and pragmatism can coexist, even during exhausting political moments Lisa shares practical ways listeners can prepare for the months ahead — from voter registration and postcards to strategic donations and canvassing opportunities — while Aaron makes the case that even heavily manipulated political maps don’t guarantee voter behavior. Here are some of the resources we mention: Oath.vote Mobilize.us (click on Get out the Vote or Voting Rights for election-focused events) Postcards to Voters And because we still believe in balancing civic engagement with joy, we wrap up with joyful moments featuring: * solo quiet-house time with Tucci the cat, * a visit to Berkeley’s Magnes Museum, * New York adventures, including Broadway musicals and family weddings, * and a renewed appreciation for Berkeley weather. If you’ve been feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, or unsure where to focus your energy, this episode is ultimately about finding productive ways forward without surrendering hope. Give it a listen, and as always, thanks for thinking alongside us. You can also email us at [email protected] or take our listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.com. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe