The Battle for American Identity (with Ben Rhodes)

<p>Are we a country based on ideals, on the American creed set out in our founding documents? Or are we a nation of blood and soil, as Vice President JD Vance has argued? Both these strains run throughout American history. Those of us on the side of equality and inclusion have much to learn from those who have come before. </p><p>This week we’re joined by Ben Rhodes to discuss his new book, <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/717294/all-we-say-by-ben-rhodes/"><em>All We Say</em></a>, in which he compiles 15 speeches that articulate various sides of these debates over American identity. Rhodes is a former speechwriter for President Obama and the current co-host of <a href="https://www.crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-the-world/"><em>Pod Save the World</em></a><em>. </em></p><p>Recorded on August 17, 2026.</p> <p>The Brennan Center is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that works to repair, revitalize, and defend our systems of democracy and justice so that they work for all Americans. The Brennan Center cannot support or oppose any candidate for office.</p>