Navigating the Narrow Bridge: Congressman Eric Swalwell and the Fight for Democracy
On a particularly timely edition of The State of Belief host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA). Congressman Swalwell shares his insights on the current state of American democracy, the importance of courage in the face of adversity, and the role of faith communities in promoting compassion and kindness during challenging times. Inspired by the example of his strictly-by-the-book Republican police officer father, the legislator describes the courage each of us needs right now in the face of lies and fearful self-preservation so many of our leaders are choosing right now.
You'll hear about the significance of showing up for one another in moments of crisis; the impact of recent political events, including the January 6th Capitol attack; communicating authentically in an age of scripted messaging; and how each of us can take action and engage more deeply in our communities.
Paul also takes a few minutes to share the words he spoke at a recent Multifaith Monday gathering in New York City on the power of love and courage as essential components of democracy, and the mandate to be the change we wish to see.
Congressman Eric Swalwell is a seven-term member of Congress, representing California’s 14th District. A former prosecutor who led the Hate Crimes Unit in Alameda County, Swalwell's experience in local government prepared him for his Congressional role, where he served on the House Intelligence Committee and played a key role in the investigations into Russian interference and President Trump's impeachments. Rep. Swalwell currently sits on the House Committee on the Judiciary and the House Committee on Homeland Security. He founded the Congressional Future Forum, focused on issues and opportunities for millennial Americans.
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Ray Kirstein is the producer of The State of Belief podcast.
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