Hidden Tribes

More in Common is a new research organization missioned "to better understand the forces that drive political polarization and tribalism in the United States today, and to galvanize efforts to address them."

Their first project is the Hidden Tribes of America survey report that defines the tribes, and tries to explain their core beliefs and opinions on today's issues.

More in Common ~ Hidden Tribes

Though the labels and issues are in flux, getting elected and remaining in office to govern successfully depends on building coalitions across these groups, especially toward the middle. Our elected officials and the news media should play constructive roles in finding common ground to reduce polarization, not inflame it.

The Wall Street Journal just published a video series Voices From a Divided America that gives voice to Americans and issues on all sides, without editorial bias or reader comments. It's worth a listen.

The Wall Street Journal ~ Voices From a Divided America

The 2018 mid-term election results will be known next week. Is either side ready to listen and work together to compromise and govern? Or, will we just shift to 2020 election mode and further embed the blame, ad hominem attacks, and polarization? And does that suggest that the time might finally be right for a credible third-party candidate and platform who speaks across the divide to the "exhausted majority"?