America Has A Trust Problem with Alexander Theodoridis

Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Alexander Theodoridis, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Co-Director of the UMass Poll, for an honest look at why trust in American politics and institutions is at an all-time low. They talk about what’s really driving voter dissatisfaction, the roots of polarization, and why approval ratings and party loyalty don’t mean what they used to. Alex shares insights from his research on public opinion, hyper-polarization, and how Americans are reacting to an era of constant political gridlock. They break down the frustrations of voters who feel like neither party is offering real solutions, the rise of populism, and what happens when people feel the system just isn’t working for them. Plus, how material concerns shape political choices, why it’s so hard to break out of our bubbles, and whether either party can earn back the public’s trust. For more from Alexander Theodoridis, keep an eye out for the latest UMass Polls and follow his research on public opinion, democracy, and polarization. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices