In this episode of American Angst, political philosopher Michael Bailey offers a clear, engaging, and deeply informed exploration of the filibuster—what it is, how it has evolved, and why its modern use may be undermining democratic governance in the United States. Moving beyond the familiar image of marathon speeches, Bailey explains how today’s “silent filibuster” functions as a routine tool of obstruction, effectively requiring a supermajority for most legislation and raising serious questions about accountability, majority rule, and the balance of power. Drawing on constitutional principles, historical context, and contemporary political realities, he challenges the common defenses of the filibuster—particularly the idea that it protects minority rights—while arguing that it often suppresses deliberation rather than promoting it. Host Dale McConkey provides light humor and conversational flow.

The views expressed on American Angst are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

After a break, American Angst returns with Dr. Michael Bailey bringing his sharp, historically grounded perspective to one of the biggest questions in political culture right now: how unusual is this latest American war footing, really? Rather than offering hot takes, Bailey carefully sorts through what feels familiar, what feels troublingly new, and what may signal a deeper shift in the way the United States talks about power, war, and presidential authority.

With his trademark mix of intellectual seriousness, dry wit, and wide-ranging historical context, Bailey explores whether today’s rhetoric around conflict is simply more of the same—or something far more unsettling. If you want political commentary that is thoughtful, probing, and more interested in perspective than panic, this episode is worth your time.

The views expressed on American Angst are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

In this return appearance on American Angst, congressional candidate Shawn Harris joins Michael Bailey and host Dale McConkey for a candid, unscripted conversation about politics grounded in lived experience rather than partisan theater. Drawing on decades of military service as a brigadier general and his current life as a cattle rancher, Harris frames leadership as humility, responsibility, and a relentless focus on people over personality.

The discussion moves from Northwest Georgia’s “kitchen-table” struggles—affordability, rural healthcare and mental health gaps, and PFAS contamination—to bigger questions about voter laws, institutional trust, and the risks of sliding into another “forever war.” Harris critiques celebrity politics and fear-driven narratives, arguing that real representation means showing up, listening, reading the fine print, and working with anyone—Democrat, Republican, or Independent—who’s serious about solving problems.

What emerges is more than a campaign interview: it’s a reminder of what public service can look like when compromise is treated as progress, not weakness. The episode feels less like spin and more like a neighbor pulling up a chair, telling you what he’s seen, and inviting you to hold him accountable.

The views expressed on American Angst are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.