Democracy or Else: How to Save America in 10 Easy Steps

In their collaborative book, Democracy or Else: How to Save America in 10 Easy Steps, authors Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Tommy Vietor (all former Obama communications staff), with Daniel Halloway present a powerful manifesto on the urgency to preserve and restore democratic principles in the face of modern challenges. Drawing on extensive experience in politics, media, and activism, the authors provide a clear assessment of current threats to democratic institutions while offering practical strategies for individual and collective action. One of the work’s strengths is its accessibility and relevance. Despite addressing complex political issues, the authors effectively communicate their message in a direct and engaging manner, ensuring that readers of all backgrounds can understand the importance of their call to action. They directly address the rise of populism, the spread of misinformation, political polarization, and the negative influence of money in politics, emphasizing that passive observation is not an option.

The central argument of the book is that any meaningful transformation begins from the bottom up. Emphasizing the power of local activism and community engagement, Favreau et al. convincingly argue that individuals can bring about meaningful political transformation. They back up their argument with compelling (and impactful) examples, such as grassroots movements that led to important social reforms, including marriage equality and criminal justice reform. Through these stories, they highlight the potential of ordinary citizens to bring about change when united around shared purposes and values.

Democracy or Else not only identifies the problems that plague American democracy, it also offers a practical roadmap for its renewal, a roadmap that is equally applicable to the Canadian context. The book outlines ten actionable steps, such as educating yourself, getting involved in local politics, advocating for voting rights, and supporting independent media. These steps are accompanied by concrete examples and personal anecdotes that are intended to inspire and empower readers to take an active role in the political process. In short, Democracy or Else is more than a critique of the current state of things. It is a passionate call for civic engagement and a testament to the belief that democracy, when actively nurtured and defended, can withstand even the most serious threats. Favreau, Lovett, Vietor, and Halloway have created a timely and indispensable guide that challenges readers, including educators, to reconsider their civic roles and work together toward a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient democratic society.

The authors are also co-hosts of the engaging and hilarious Democrat-leaning American political podcast, Pod Save America, which acts as a perfect companion piece to the book. The pod, like the book, is filled with energy and information relevant to organizers and political activists, especially those of us seeking to elect progressive candidates to support a just society.

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Book Review by Richardo Harvey (he/him)
OSSTF/FEESO Regional Organizer

Zando—Crooked Media Reads, 2024.