New Bestseller by Politics Girl Shares Common Sense Solutions

Leigh McGowan discusses her book about the American political system and provides a roadmap to fix it on Matenaer on Air

Leigh McGowan, widely known as “Politics Girl” across social media, has just become a New York Times bestselling author with her book A Return to Common Sense: How to Fix America Before We Really Blow It. McGowan joined Jane Matenaer and Greg Bach on Matenaer on Air to talk about everyday Americans who believe in rebuilding the nation through common sense solutions. 

If we don’t have a voice, what do we have? We have nothing,”

Leigh McGowan, “Politics Girl” on Matenaer on Air

McGowan’s book opens with a course in American civics, titled “America 101.” It’s meant to provide readers with a simple understanding of the government’s structure.

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LISTEN to the entire interview here:

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“I don’t want people to feel bad about not understanding politics. That was done by design,” McGowan says. “The book goes beyond finger-pointing and divisiveness, focusing on six key principles that can unite Americans, no matter their political leanings. America is a land of freedom and government should be a force for good are just two of the core values. Most people across the political spectrum agree on these ideas.”

Reflecting on the current political climate, McGowan draws attention to the dangers of growing polarization. She tells Matenaer and Bach, platforms like X (formerly Twitter) contribute to division and misinformation. She also criticizes the Republican Party’s recent moves, including voter suppression tactics in swing states like Wisconsin.

“One party is trying to disenfranchise voters, and if they succeed, eventually they won’t need anyone’s vote,” McGowan explains.

McGowan also discusses the Republican Party’s Project 2025. She warns this isn’t just a short-term threat.

“If they don’t get it this year, it will become Project 2029,” she says.  

Matenaer and Bach agree with McGowan – voters of all political backgrounds should be concerned. Project 2025 undermines the foundation of American democracy.

However, McGowan remains hopeful. She credits the people of Wisconsin for pushing back against anti-democratic policies by calling for an end to extreme gerrymandering. And she urges citizens to stay engaged.

“If we don’t have a voice, what do we have? We have nothing,” McGowan says.