The United States of Anxiety

The United States of Anxiety

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In the midst of an election that has exposed deep and sometimes ugly rifts in American society, WNYC and The Nation have partnered for a new podcast series called “The United States of Anxiety.” Each week they look to understand how we arrived at this point by diving deep into the polarized economic, social and political landscape as it exists in communities on Long Island, New York. 

This week, we’re sharing their latest episode,which looks at the role of the media in creating a narrative of anxiety in the U.S — particularly conservative talk radio. First, WNYC’s Arun Venugopal visits Patty, a Donald Trump supporter who lives in Long Island, to find out about her media diet and how Trump’s messaging speaks to her. Then, WNYC’s Matt Katz talks to The Nation’s Kai Wright about how conservative media reflects the changes taking place in our country and why its followers are distrustful of mainstream news. 

You can (and should) find more episodes of The United States of Anxiety on iTunes or by going to their website.