Reed Galen Encourages Grassroots Mobilization where You Live

Reed Galen has a mission. He wants to get you engaged in the fight for the future of democracy. The co-founder of The Lincoln Project and a spinoff organization, The Union, believes in the power of grassroots mobilization efforts where you live. He joins Todd Allbaugh, host of The Todd Allbaugh Show, to share what it means to work with communities around the United States.

Galen leads more than 70,000 volunteers across the country. He focuses on state and local races that are often overshadowed by high-profile elections. And he has an eye-opening story about a recent trip to Wisconsin. He says he saw a real disconnect between politics and the everyday lives of residents. Galen calls reconnecting within communities a key effort.

“I saw the best of humanity in towns like Viroqua and Wisconsin Rapids, but I also saw the worst of politics,” Galen explains. “The system is failing its citizens. If we don’t start reconnecting with each other, whether through a local book club or a soccer team, we won’t be able to push back against the noise and ugliness that is surrounding us.”

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Watch the entire interview here:

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The discussion with Allbaugh shifts to the broader issues affecting working-class citizens, especially those in our state. Galen highlights the potential harm of economic policies like tariffs. And explains how it can increase the price of essential goods like cars while disproportionately impacting people who rely on affordable transportation for work.

“This kind of policy hits those who can afford it the least,” Galen says. “Those living in rural or economically disadvantaged areas will bear the brunt of price hikes and economic stagnation. For example, people who need to commute to their jobs will have to choose between buying a car or keeping their job. Politicians are ignoring these issues while creating communities where people are angry and divided.”

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Listen to the entire interview here:

[podcast src="https://civicmedia.us/shows/todd-allbaugh-show/2025/02/14/the-union"]

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Throughout the interview, Galen calls for a return to local civic engagement. He encourages people to take action in your own community, even if it is in a small way. He stands by the idea these types of efforts can bridge the growing divide in the nation.

“Politics is important, but it shouldn’t be the only way we connect with our neighbors,” he says. “Get involved. That’s the only way we can rebuild and push back against the forces that are eroding democracy.”

Galen’s work shows a commitment to empowering individuals at the grassroots level. He hopes it proves that even in uncertain times, local action can create lasting change.