Saving Democracy Institute

A non-partisan think tank focused on citizens, dedicated to explaining and strengthening American democracy.

Our goal is to provide clear insights into democratic challenges and empower citizens to make democracy stronger. You don't need to be a political expert to make a difference—just curiosity and a desire to get involved.

What We Offer

Democracy De-Coded Articles

Clear, accessible explanations of complex democratic concepts and current challenges.

Citizen Action Guides

Practical resources to help you engage effectively in the democratic process.

Data and Research

Evidence-based insights into democratic trends and challenges facing America.

Helpful Resources

Tools and materials to navigate news, understand elections, and protect democracy.

Research Areas & Downloads

1.

The Basics of American Democracy

What Is a Democracy Democracy vs Republic In American Government
2.

A Brief History of Democracy in the United States

The Unsteady American Evolution Toward Democracy
3.

Political Values in the United States

Critical Thinking and Democracy American Political Values
4.

The Mechanics of American Government

American Democracy in Comparative Perspective Majority Rule and Minority Rights in American Democracy Due Process Federalism and Power Sharing Within the United States
5.

Elections, Participation, and the Electoral Process

Gerrymandering: When Politicians Pick Voters Instead of The Other Way Around Understanding Ranked Choice and Other Voting Systems Security and Fairness of American Elections How Money Shapes Our Elections
6.

Political Processes: How Things Do and Don't Get Done

Direct Democracy in America From the Colonial Era to the Present The Electoral College and U.S. Democracy
7.

Politics and Your Purse: Democracy and the American Political Economy

How To Engage and Influence Your Elected Officials American Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances in the Real World Wealth Inequality and Democracy The American Economy And Voting Extreme Wealth Inequality Threatens Democracy
8.

Civic Engagement and Democracy

A Checklist For Good Citizenship An Educational IDEA
9.

The Importance of Civic Education for a Healthy Democracy

Civic Literacy Good Civics Education
10.

The Media's Role in Democracy: Information and Accountability

Being Media Literate Disinformation and Democracy
11.

Civil Liberties and Civil Rights

Free Speech and Democracy The Right to Vote and Democracy
12.

Democracy and Diversity

Diversity and Democracy Immigration and Democracy
13.

Threats to Democracy

Authoritarianism and Democracy Political Violence and Democracy

Get Involved

Join us in strengthening American democracy through education and engagement.

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Contact: [email protected]