Ismar Volić, a mathematics professor and director of the Institute for Mathematics and Democracy, teams up with Theodore R. Johnson, a scholar of Black electoral politics and Washington Post columnist. They delve into how math shapes apportionment in the U.S. Congress and the historical rivalry between Jefferson and Hamilton over rounding methods. The duo discusses the flaws of the Electoral College, potential reforms for fairer voting, and how statistical techniques could enhance democratic representation. Brace for a blend of humor, history, and enlightening insights!

Theodore Johnson, a former military man and Post columnist, dives into the significance of names in American culture. He discusses the implications of renaming military bases like Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg, highlighting the tension between honoring history and erasing narratives. The conversation also touches on the politically charged renaming of the Gulf of America and how such changes reflect societal values. With wit and insight, Johnson and the hosts explore whether these acts of rebranding genuinely address deeper issues or just skim the surface.