Divided politics, divided nation: Hyperconflict in the Trump era

The United States is caught in a partisan hyperconflict that divides politicians, communities, and even families. Drawing on his personal experience growing up in a conservative, rural community, teaching in the liberal Ivy League, and working in the heart of the D.C. establishment, West discusses his new Brookings Institution Press book entitled, “Divided Politics, Divided Nation: Hyperconflict in the Trump Era”. The memoir draws on conversations over the past 40 years with friends, colleagues, and family members. These discussions give the book a unique perspective from which to understand the heated nature of U.S. politics, how we reached our current boiling point, and remedies to bring the country back together.

On March 25, Brookings Vice President Darrell West discussed his book and was joined by journalist Karen Tumulty for a discussion. Following the conversation, the speakers answered questions from the audience.