A Case for (Responsibly) Expanding Citizen-Led Policymaking in the United States
As we consider bringing ballot initiatives to more U.S. states, what can we learn from the past century of experience with direct democracy?
Latest
Big ideas, bold solutions. Explore the latest research, analysis, and policy insights from our experts.聽聽
The big reason why Republicans should worry about an angry Elon Musk
Lee Drutman wrote in Vox about how Musk could exploit the US political system during the November 2026 midterm elections.
鈥榊ou have to do everything:鈥 Harvard鈥檚 high-powered D.C. lobbyists an essential part of plan to counter Trump
Lee Drutman was quoted in the Boston Globe on how Harvard should approach its lobbying strategy.
15,000 Churches Will Close This Year. Each Could Be a Home for Civic Revival
Hollie Russon Gilman and Ryan Eller wrote for The Chronicle of Philanthropy on how churches could revitalize civic life.
Civic Assemblies in Action: Lessons on Civic Engagement from Fort Collins
In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents are participating in deliberative processes to determine the future of a piece of public land.
Can Voters Game Out Their Ranked Choice Ballot?
Mark Schmitt was quoted in The City on how to approach ranked choice voting in the New York City mayoral elections.
Democrats keep saying America is an 鈥渙ligarchy.鈥 Is that true?
Lee Drutman wrote for Vox on why America has become an oligarchy.
Tech Can Help Cities Rebuild Civic Life, If We Let People In
Hollie Russon Gilman and Sarah Jacob wrote for Next City on how digital tools are being experimented with across the country.
4/20 Is More than a Holiday鈥擨t鈥檚 a Case for Direct Democracy
Maresa Strano and Mark Schmitt remind us that 4/20 isn鈥檛 just about cannabis, it shows that when lawmakers stall, voters can lead.
America鈥檚 Winter of Political Discontent Could Spark a Democratic Spring
Lee Drutman outlines how this winter of discontent for U.S. politics could spring seeds of renewal.