Republicans and Democrats Both Support Social Security — and Even Agree on Some Reforms

Social Security is sometimes described as the “third rail of American politics.” It got this name in the 1980s because it was so popular among both Republicans and Democrats that if any politician dared to “touch” Social Security and cut it substantially, the politician’s career would...
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Congress’s Most Famous Bipartisan Roadtrip: The Friendship of Beto O’Rourke and Will Hurd

Divisions in Washington, D.C. can seem bitter, so it can be helpful to remember more positive bipartisan experiences that began only a few years ago and continued afterward. A two-day road trip made by two Texas congressmen from different political parties from San Antonio to Washington,...
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How Maslow’s “Hierarchy of Needs” Can Help Us Find Common Ground

Imagine that the economy has imploded and you have just been let go from your job. After months of tirelessly searching for a new job, your savings have been depleted and you are forced to foreclose on your home. As you sit, stressfully contemplating your plans for the future, what are...
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Surveys Show Both Democrats and Republicans Support Healthcare Improvements

A recent Gallup survey found that 63% of Americans were at least somewhat dissatisfied with the availability of affordable healthcare. Studies from other research organizations indicate that Americans from across the political spectrum think government healthcare plans should be improved...
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Surveys Say Republicans and Democrats Both Support International Cooperation, Alliances

In terms of foreign policy, there are misleading stereotypes of Democrats and Republicans. Supposedly, Democrats are strongly supportive of international cooperation, while Republicans are nationalistic, wanting to focus on America before other countries. Yet surveys of Republicans...
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Surveys Show that Democrats — Not Just Republicans — are Proud to be American

From the Left This view is from a writer rated Lean Left. Surveys show majorities of Democrats and Republicans are proud to be American, preferring life in the U.S. to any other place. Many people agree on key aspects of what it means to be a “true American.” A false narrative popular...
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Reducing Polarization: Research Says Typical Republicans and Democrats are Moderate, Only Talk Politics Occasionally

Animosity towards members of an opposing political party has substantially worsened in recent years. But much of what we know about polarization and citizens’ attitudes to their political opponents may be wrong. \When Democrats and Republicans say they reflexively dislike each other, they...
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Democrats and Republicans Actually Both Support These Free Speech Positions

Many Americans share the misperception that America is divided on freedom of speech issues. People on different sides disagree about what constitutes hate speech, what types of speech should be protected, and whether suppression of speech can be productive. However, some recent surveys...
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