In a moment when it feels like our democracy is under siege, a powerful new movement is emerging, not from Washington, but from the states, cities, and communities.

In the cover story from our April issue, executive editor David Dayen spotlights political leaders at the state level – attorneys general, governors, and legislators – who are stepping up to fill the void left by a federal government abandoning its constituents. The piece digs into how these leaders aren’t just talking about democracy; they're actively defending it, rebuilding it, and enacting real progressive governance.

The fight is happening right now. When four state attorneys general held a community impact hearing in Phoenix to hear directly from Americans harmed by reckless federal policies, you could feel the desire from citizens for real, concrete action from their political leaders. This is what democracy and movement building looks like, and The American Prospect is there to document and amplify it.

While others focus on Washington gridlock, we're tracking the bold state-level initiatives that are actually moving forward.

These initiatives aren't just policy experiments; they're blueprints for a progressive future where the government serves the people, not powerful special interests. As Dayen puts it, winning requires political leaders to "not just talk about their goals, but act on them."

Independent journalism is essential to this project. Without publications like the Prospect, these stories would go untold. The corporate media focuses on conflict and dysfunction, but we spotlight the constructive work being done to improve peoples’ lives.

Our spring fundraising campaign goal is $50,000 to continue this vital reporting. Your support allows us to investigate how the administration is dismantling federal protections while also highlighting the pathways forward in states and communities.

Will you join us by making a donation today?

While others focus on Washington gridlock, we're tracking the bold state-level initiatives that are actually moving forward.

As Arizona AG Kris Mayes said, "When the federal government and Congress abandon their responsibilities, it falls to us to step up and defend the people that we serve."

At The American Prospect, we believe the same principle applies to journalism. When you support our work, you're not just funding articles, you're investing in a vision of what America can be when we use our power effectively.

Together, we can build something better.

Mitchell Grummon
Publisher
The American Prospect