There Actually Is a Plan: How Democrats Can Save Us and Keep Winning (w/ Ben Wikler)

Episode 92  ·  Jul 28, 09:55 AM
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America can feel like it's spiraling out of control—but could a state like Wisconsin hold the blueprint for turning things around? Ben Wikler, former chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin and author of the new book This Is the Plan: How to End America's Meltdown and Save Democracy, joins Stacey Abrams to explain why the answer is yes. Drawing on Wisconsin's political battles, Wikler argues that Democrats can win back voters ahead of the midterms by learning from closely divided states that have successfully pushed back against Republicans. They discuss how Democrats can sharpen their messaging, the lasting impact of gerrymandering, whether it's finally time to abolish the Electoral College, and the power we all have to make a big difference by organizing locally.

America can feel like it's spiraling out of control—but could a state like Wisconsin hold the blueprint for turning things around? Ben Wikler, former chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin and author of the new book This Is the Plan: How to End America's Meltdown and Save Democracy, joins Stacey Abrams to explain why the answer is yes. Drawing on Wisconsin's political battles, Wikler argues that Democrats can win back voters ahead of the midterms by learning from closely divided states that have successfully pushed back against Republicans. They discuss how Democrats can sharpen their messaging, the lasting impact of gerrymandering, whether it's finally time to abolish the Electoral College, and the power we all have to make a big difference by organizing locally.
Learn & Do More: 
  1. BE CURIOUS: Pick up a copy of Ben Wikler's This Is the Plan: How to End America's Meltdown and Save Democracy to learn more about his vision for building a future rooted in democracy, opportunity, and freedom for all.
  2. SOLVE PROBLEMS: Elections depend on poll workers, and many communities still need more. Power the Polls connects volunteers with local poll worker opportunities to help ensure safe, fair, and accessible elections. If you're interested in serving your community and earning some extra money while doing it visit http://powertothepolls.org to apply and help your neighbors vote.
  3. DO GOOD: As the new school year approaches, Operation Backpack, an initiative from Volunteers of America, is collecting donations to provide backpacks and school supplies for children experiencing homelessness, poverty, and other hardships. Your donation also supports essential services for children and families, including after-school programs and housing stability. You can also find volunteer opportunities in your area visit www.voa.org/operation-backpack-2026/ and consider inviting a few friends or neighbors to donate or volunteer alongside you.