Jonathan Smith

2 weeks ago | mainepublic.org | Jennifer Rooks |Jonathan Smith

Each summer, Maine Humanities Council leads the Read ME program, encouraging people across the state to read books by select authors. This year, recommending author, poet Julia Bouwsma, chose The Great Transition, by Nick Fuller Googins, and American Breakdown, by Jennifer Lunden. We’ll hear from these authors and others about their work, and about what books they recommend for your summer reading list.

1 month ago | mainepublic.org | Jennifer Rooks |Jonathan Smith

The rule of law is at the foundation of America's justice system. But this principle that all Americans must abide by the law is "endangered," according to Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. What does it mean if the Trump administration chooses not to abide by court orders? And is the current Supreme Court able to uphold the rule of law?

1 month ago | mainepublic.org | Jennifer Rooks |Jonathan Smith

This is an 8 pm rebroadcast of an earlier show; no calls will be taken (Original broadcast date April 23, 2025)A recent report by the Nationhood Lab found that despite a divisive climate, Americans share certain ideals, rooted in the Declaration of Independence. We’ll learn about these shared beliefs—and whether it’s possible to harness them to heal national strife.

2 months ago | mainepublic.org | Jennifer Rooks |Jonathan Smith

A recent report by the Nationhood Lab found that despite a divisive climate, Americans share certain ideals, rooted in the Declaration of Independence. We’ll learn about these shared beliefs—and whether it’s possible to harness them to heal national strife. Panelist:Colin Woodard, director, Nationhood Lab, with the Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy; contributing writer, Politico; state and national affairs writer, Portland Press HeraldTheodore R.

2 months ago | mainepublic.org | Jennifer Rooks |Jonathan Smith

We discuss the life and death of Pope Francis, and how his views had political repercussions. Religious beliefs affect important issues in U.S. ranging from reproductive rights to school vouchers, immigration and foreign policy. How does the Constitutional separation of church and state apply to politics and discourse today? Panelists:Tom Gjelten, research fellow in journalism, Georgetown University; NPR correspondent for almost 40 years, most recently reporting on religionRev.