In this solo episode, Rory examines the state of American democracy under Donald Trump. He discusses the four distinct chapters in Trump's authoritarian power grab. This episode also explores the resilience of American society, and closes with a note of optimism and predictions for 2026.

Is Venezuela heading toward regime change? Are the U.S. and Venezuela destined for war? Why is Trump so interested in Venezuela, and what will be the fate of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro? Rory Truex is joined on The Civic Forum by University of Chicago's Michael Albertus, a leading scholar of Latin American politics, to break down the state of politics in Venezuela and possible outcomes moving forward.

Bridge Grades founder Brad Porteus joins Rory Truex on The Civic Forum to explain how polarization is shaping Congress and why some lawmakers work across the aisle while others fuel division. The conversation breaks down how Bridge Grades scores members of Congress, what collaboration really looks like in practice, and why bipartisan behavior is often hidden from public view. The episode explores the incentives that push legislators toward zero-sum politics, the role of social media in amplifying outrage, and the long-term consequences for American democracy. Viewers will learn how the “bridgers vs. dividers” framework works, how rhetoric and legislative action are measured, and what healthier political incentives might look like.