How America’s Divisions Are Deepening—and What It Will Take to Heal Them

America is more divided than ever, and nearly everyone plays a role in that divide—whether they realize it or not. But is there a way forward? Sarah Longwell and Jessica Tarlov, host of Raging Moderates and co-host of Fox News’s The Five, examine the state of political polarization, its impact on voters, and whether common ground is still possible.

Why America Feels So Divided

From social media echo chambers to partisan media consumption, the forces fueling division are everywhere. Tarlov and Longwell discuss how these dynamics shape public discourse—and what it means for the future of civil debate.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

• Polarization isn’t just political—it’s personal. Many Americans now view those with opposing views as adversaries rather than fellow citizens.
• Media consumption fuels the divide. Partisan news outlets and algorithm-driven content deepen ideological silos.
• Voters are exhausted. Frustration with political gridlock and performative outrage is growing across the spectrum.

Can We Rebuild Civility?

Tarlov, author of the upcoming book I Disagree: Winning Arguments Without Losing Friends, argues that productive disagreement starts with empathy. Longwell, whose book How to Eat an Elephant releases in September, emphasizes the need for structural changes in how we engage with opposing views.

"We have to stop treating political differences like moral failures." — Jessica Tarlov

What’s Next for America’s Political Landscape?

The conversation also touches on voter sentiment ahead of upcoming elections, the role of social media in amplifying division, and whether bipartisan solutions are still within reach.

How to Listen and Engage

Catch the full discussion on The Focus Group with Sarah Longwell, available on YouTube, podcast platforms, and the Bulwark+ ad-free feed. Upgrade to Bulwark+ for exclusive content, community discussions, and an uninterrupted listening experience.

Want to join the conversation? Leave a comment, share the episode with a friend, or pre-order Tarlov’s book I Disagree and Longwell’s How to Eat an Elephant to dive deeper into these issues.