Interesting Times with Ross Douthat He Has a Plan for the Left. It Might Involve Overthrowing the Constitution.
47 snips
Nov 27, 2025 
Osita Nwanevu, a progressive writer and author of 'The Right of the People,' dives deep into the flaws of American democracy. He argues that the founding principles were significantly undemocratic, advocating for reforms like statehood for D.C. and Puerto Rico. Nwanevu tackles pressing issues, linking economic reform with democratic empowerment and emphasizing worker rights. The discussion also touches on how contemporary populism challenges traditional notions of democracy and the potential for a new left movement inspired by figures like Bernie Sanders.
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Economic Grievances Beat Abstract Democracy
- Osita Nwanevu argues 2024 showed many voters prioritized economic concerns over abstract defenses of democracy.
- He says people doubted institutions were functioning and invested hopes in Trump to 'unstick' them.
Three Criteria For Real Democracy
- Nwanevu defines democracy as a system where the governed govern, emphasizing political equality, responsiveness, and majority rule.
- He argues U.S. institutions, especially the Senate, flout these democratic characteristics.
Founding As Anti‑Democratic Bargain
- Nwanevu contends the 1787 founding was designed to curb 'excessive democracy' and protect wealthy interests amid postwar economic crisis.
- He frames the Constitution as a contingent political bargain, not sacred law, open to dramatic reform.
