Chalkboard Politics: Can Civil-Military Norms Survive a Polarized America?

In this episode of Chalkboard Politics, the team explores the growing pressures facing civil-military relations in the United States during a period of stark polarization, institutional distrust, and heightened debate over executive power. To begin the episode, professor Peter Feaver examines how the American constitutional system intentionally creates tension between civilian leaders and military institutions through checks and balances, making systems of trust, restraint, and professionalism central to democratic governance. The discussion then turns to the politicization of the military, including how partisan rhetoric, social media, and public polarization risk drawing military institutions into broader cultural and political conflict. Feaver also analyzes questions surrounding leaks, resignations, legality, and the role of military officials in advising civilian leaders during crises, particularly in debates over Iran and the use of force. Together, the episode considers whether American democratic institutions can remain resilient under mounting political strain—or whether the erosion of longstanding civil-military norms risks destabilizing the constitutional balance between civilian authority, military professionalism, and democratic accountability.