In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt discusses the nuanced differences between democracy and a constitutional republic, emphasizing the importance of civic participation, language, and leadership in safeguarding democratic norms. Key Takeaways The distinction between democracy and republic, and why language matters. The role of language and symbolism in civic identity ("America" vs "United States of America"). How leadership, especially wo

What does it take to strengthen American democracy today? In this episode of Defense of Democracy, congressional candidate Brandt Robinson discusses why he’s running for Congress, the growing challenges to voting rights and public education, and what defending democracy truly means in 2026. From grassroots activism in Florida to the national debate over immigration reform, Brandt explains: Why civic participation is declining and how to rebuild it The crisis in public educati

Discover how candidate Kate Barr is flipping the script on political norms by running in the Republican primary to combat gerrymandering and advocate for electoral reform. This episode delves into the realities of partisan district drawing, voter engagement, and innovative strategies to restore democracy. Key Takeaways For more information on Kate Barr, please visit: www.katebarrcanwin.com/ instagram.com/katebarrcanwin tiktok.com/@katebarrcanwin facebook.com/katecomptonba

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt discusses the current political climate, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and the erosion of democratic norms. He highlights the overwhelming feelings many people experience and the need for empathy and understanding in political discourse. Addison also explores the role of education in fostering democracy, the significance of voting, and the necessity of conscious participation in civic l