NNN Explains: Extremists in US Politics

Why are extremists so powerful right now?

Rep. Kevin McCarthy was ousted from his role as Speaker of the House by a small-but-extreme faction in his own party. Today we explain the perverse incentives that brought us here. (Photo by Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

For regular updates, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Threads.

By popular request, we’re making it easier for you to find all our explainers in one place. This one breaks down the perverse incentives in US politics that empower extremists. This work takes a lot of time and energy – and that costs money. Thanks for understanding why this work is paywalled. Paid subscribers can access all of these explainers.