John Gastil

@jgastil.bsky.social

Penn State professor who studies deliberative democracy and group decision making. Currently on sabbatical at the University of Pennsylvania Annenberg Public Policy Center. Recent books: Hope for Democracy, Legislature by Lot, and Dungeon Party (a novel).

I've had more than one academic colleague tell me that they're considering writing an op-ed about what's happening in higher ed, with federal grants, and other issues related to their expertise. Here's a great resource for this; reach out to them, and they can help. scholars.org/local-impact...

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Can the idea of "civic lotteries" (random selection for empowered citizen deliberation) gain as much traction in the US as it has elsewhere? We'll see. Here's hoping the anti-democratic moment we're in now spurs a more powerful pro-democratic movement. www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/22/o...

It’s time for a fourth branch of government - The Boston Globe

When politicians fail to solve thorny policy issues, they should put the question to a House of the People.

bostonglobe.com

I'm often at a loss when considering how to respond to vitriol or nonsense posted in social media. I've started just posting a link in reply, which I hope will lead to clicks from those with a smidge of curiosity. Simply, leavingmaga.org

Leaving MAGA - Leaving MAGA

MISSION STATEMENT Empower others to leave MAGA and tell their stories. Foster reconciliation with their friends and family. Develop movement leaders to help others leave. Dear MAGA Americans, I was a ...

leavingmaga.org

The Journal of Sortition is launching soon. It should interest anyone hoping to see more experiments with random selection in democracy. For any skeptics out there, remember that the venerable jury system is doing just fine, thank you. www.imprint.co.uk/product/jos/

Journal of Sortition - Imprint Academic

SIGN UP HERE FOR THE JOURNAL OF SORTITION NEWSLETTER FOR A FREE PRINTED AND BOUND COPY OF THE FIRST ISSUE!   Launching in Spring 2025 Call for papers Little more than a decade ago the word ‘sortition...

imprint.co.uk

I'll make my first BlueSky post a happy note in what are unhappy times for American democracy. Colorado Atty General Phil Weiser will run for governor in 2026. Phil was my debate partner in college. His public service has done great things for Colorado--and the US. www.cpr.org/2025/01/02/c...

AG Phil Weiser is the first big name to declare for 2026 Colorado governor's race

Democrat Phil Weiser is midway through his second term as Attorney General. Over his six years in office he made a name for himself fighting the first Trump administration in court, as well as suing o...

cpr.org