As we embark on the most important presidential election since 1860—yes, there’s that much at stake—it’s time to sound a warning. We have to reach people (and that is most people) who aren’t paying attention, and who by virtue of a lack of knowledge, may innocently vote our democracy down the river. So I’m making the extraordinary ask that you share this short audio essay with your friends and family who are too busy, bored, or disgusted with politics to really pay attention.

It’s that important.