What does it look like when a democracy slowly starts to unravel?
It's not overnight and not with tanks in the streets.
But instead piece by piece; when institutions are quietly dismantled, civic norms are eroded, and unchecked power begins to take root.
And more importantly - what can we do about it?
This week on TIE Unearthed, I speak with my long-time friend Christina Hartman - powerhouse in the world of democracy, both at home in the U.S. and internationally. She’s worked with the likes of Freedom House and the National Democratic Institute, led multi-million dollar international programs, run for Congress and for Pennsylvania Auditor General, and raised millions for nonprofits.
But today, she brings a warning: democracy in one of the world’s most influential nations is under threat, and many don’t even realise how far it’s already gone.
In this conversation, we explore:
🔹 Christina’s incredible journey from international development to American politics
🔹 The slow path to authoritarianism and how it really happens
🔹 Why voters are disillusioned, and what it’ll take to rebuild trust
🔹 The power of community, civic engagement, and what you can do to make democracy deliver.
We talk about Project 2025, April’s protests, the media’s role, the idea of seeding power, and the terrifying vacuum left when America steps back from global leadership.
This episode is a wake-up call.
But it’s also a rallying cry.
Because if we want systems that serve people - not power - we have to show up. Together.
🎧 Tune in now to episode 106 of TIE Unearthed for an insight to what is happening right now in the US, and what we can all do about it.
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