The Optimistic American - Audio Edition: Why America Needs a New Political Party, by Forward Party Founder, Governor and Madam Secretary Christine Todd Whitman

Why America Needs a New Political Party, by Forward Party Founder, Governor and Madam Secretary Christine Todd Whitman

Sep 6, 2023

Paul Johnson’s guest in this episode is Forward Party Co-Chair Christine Todd Whitman. They discuss the current U.S. political landscape, what’s not working, and how ranked-choice voting could change the current status quo.

Additionally, they go over Whitman’s journey from Republican New Jersey Governor and cabinet-level official to becoming involved with the Forward Party, the challenge of being unaffiliated with either major party, and how the Forward Party is trying to bring about change in American politics.

Forward Party Co-Chair, Governor Christine Todd Whitman shares her story of going from governor of New Jersey and a cabinet-level official to getting involved with the Forward Party.
There are a few things those interested in joining the Forward Party need to agree to. Upholding the rule of the law, respecting the Constitution, and being willing to solve problems working with others across the aisle. Additionally, willing to work to change the way the American people choose their candidates.
One of the main goals of the Forward Party is to break the hold of the two parties so that people have more choices.
Gov. Whitman shares that there are 500,000 elective offices across the country in any given year, and 70% of those are uncontested. Of those, 5-10% are never filled.
Paul Johnson and Gov. Whitman talk about how the voting system has gotten to where it is today, as well as the consequences of not being affiliated with either the Republican or Democratic party.
Gov. Whitman opens up about what made her choose the Republican Party, before getting involved with the Forward Party.
For Paul, the greatest thing the American government has ever done has been to empower the individual over itself.
Gov. Whitman shares what could be done to have a dialogue between different sides, and what to focus on to get people to buy into bringing about change.
In Gov. Whitman’s opinion, with ranked-choice voting, there wouldn’t be a need for primaries. Moreover, it would prevent people from voting for “the lesser of evils.”
Gov. Whitman hopes that ranked-choice voting and primaries aren’t just going to change the voting system but parties, too.
Gov. Whitman lists the steps people can take to join the Forward Party in its effort to bring about change.