Why do liberals continue to struggle with political persuasion—even when the facts and policies are on their side?

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty sits down with author, strategist, and political thinker Spencer Critchley to explore why liberals often fail to connect emotionally with voters, and how they can turn that around.

Drawing on his new Substack project, The Liberal Backbone, soon to become a published book, and his book Patriots of Two Nations, Spencer discusses:

• The “Liberal Paradox” — how rational thinking blinds progressives to emotional reality

• Why politics operates in the other 99% of human consciousness

• How Trump and other populists use simple emotional cues to persuade

• Why evidence-based arguments fail with many voters

• The global crisis facing liberal democracy

• How liberals can reclaim narrative, purpose, and connection

• The importance of rhetoric, storytelling, and identity in political communication

Spencer also explains why understanding—not dismissing—different perspectives is crucial for bridging America’s political divide.

🔹 About Spencer Critchley

Spencer is the award-winning host of Dastardly Cleverness in the Service of Good, author of Patriots of Two Nations, and a respected political strategist who has worked with Barack Obama’s campaigns and numerous progressive organizations.

Read The Liberal Backbone on Substack:

https://spencercritchley.substack.com

Learn more about his work:

https://dastardlycleverness.com

Read Patriots of Two Nations: https://amzn.to/4nXbLVK

(Free audio book, Kindle and Paperback versions on sale)

🔹 About Lean to the Left

Lean to the Left covers progressive politics, social justice, democracy, and the ongoing fight to hold Donald Trump and MAGA extremism accountable. Hosted by Bob Gatty.

If you believe in democracy, dignity, and truth — this channel is for you.

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