The recent discussion between Senator Ron Johnson and James Humphreys in Utah on March 30, 2025, centered around the launch of their new podcast, "American Common Sense." The podcast aims to foster civil dialogue about government and civic education, inspired by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington.
During the conversation, Johnson emphasized the importance of education in understanding government principles, referencing Jefferson's motivation for founding the University of Virginia. He noted that Washington believed an enlightened public is essential for a functioning democracy, stating, "in so much as the public is in charge of the government, the public must be enlightened." This highlights a concern that the current education system does not adequately prepare citizens to engage with their government.
The discussion also touched on the resilience of the American government compared to other democracies. Johnson pointed out that the U.S. government has withstood significant challenges, including the Civil War, without collapsing, unlike several other nations that have faced political instability and frequent government reshuffles.
Humphreys expressed a desire for more open conversations about politics, suggesting that avoiding such discussions leads to a lack of accountability for those in power. He hopes that the podcast will encourage listeners to engage in meaningful dialogue, especially during family gatherings where political discussions often arise.
The podcast, "American Common Sense," aims to educate listeners and promote civil discourse. It is currently available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with additional social media presence on Facebook and Instagram. The hosts are optimistic about receiving feedback and fostering community discussions to enhance civic understanding and engagement.