On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck explores the frustrations of the “mainstream middle” in red states and why Democrats can’t seem to reach them, even as discontent with the country grows. From the poisonous information ecosystem that radicalizes voters to the outsized influence of social media and big tech money in Washington, the conversation digs into how extremism thrives while moderation is punished. Chuck also examines the rise of independents, the possibility of a third-party shake-up, and how redistricting battles in California, Missouri, and Georgia could reshape the political map. With major races in New Jersey and Virginia looming, and Democrats struggling to find the right message, the episode highlights both the dangers and the opportunities in an increasingly unsettled political landscape.

Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states that could elect an independent candidate to the U.S. Senate and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.

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Timeline:

(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)

00:00 Introduction

00:30 Feeling terrible about the state of the country, don't see a path out

02:00 We have a poisonous information ecosystem that radicalizes people

02:45 Social media is poisoning the well, but big tech doesn't shoulder blame

04:00 When algorithms curate content, it makes the platform a publisher

05:30 Public schools finally starting to ban phones in classrooms

06:30 The phones are toxic for adults too, not just kids

08:30 Big tech companies have saturated D.C. with money to avoid regulation

10:30 The administration is speaking in the language of the red scare

11:15 Bipartisanship hasn't been good for Donald Trump

12:00 The fastest growing political party is "no party"

13:15 The two major parties need a time out in order to course correct

14:15 Spencer Cox can't succeed in MAGA, but would be a great leader

15:30 A third party scare could sober up the two major parties

17:15 The one commonality between the parties is internet radicalization

19:00 We need a moderate temperament to lead the country

20:15 Our information ecosystem punishes moderation

22:00 The big redistricting fight brewing in California

23:15 There are 3 big money entities trying to get CA voters to vote no

24:00 California voters are educated and want the redraw to be temporary

25:15 Missouri redistricting law could go before voters and be repealed

26:45 California Democrats have been very organized

28:15 Democrats' messaging problem over redistricting

30:15 The Georgia Democratic primary for governor is fascinating

32:30 GA governor primary could be bellwether for progressive vs moderate

33:15 Big money pouring into NJ and Virginia races

34:45 Virginia AG race will show whether law & order politics will be effective

37:00 Trump conceding the NYC mayor's race to Mamdani

38:00 Jeffries in a tough spot, can't be seen embracing a socialist

39:45 ToddCast Top 5 states most likely to elect an independent to the senate

41:00 #1 & #2 - Vermont & Alaska

42:00 #3 Minnesota

43:30 #4 Arizona

44:15 #5 Florida

45:45 Runner ups

47:00 Ask Chuck

47:15 Is it possible for a candidate to run as a uniter in the current climate?

52:15 At congressional hearings, are the subjects provided questions in advance?

55:00 The importance of presenting multiple viewpoints in a fractured ecosystem

58:30 Instances of a political death being used to attack other side so soon?

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Chuck’s Commentary - Algorithms Are Destroying Our Brains & Democracy + California’s Redistricting Fight Heats Up + Top 5 States That Could Elect An Independent Senator

The Chuck ToddCast