Episode #268 of the @professorpennpodcast. Professor sits down with Matthew Simon, Chair of the North Dakota Republican Party, to discuss his path into politics, the personal hardships that came with it, and why everyday citizens have been pushed away from civic engagement. They explore how that disengagement fuels many of the nation’s current challenges, break down the nine core values behind Simon’s party platform, and emphasize the necessity of holding public officials accountable. The conversation closes with a deeper reflection on responsibility in government and the often-overlooked spiritual force shaping political leadership and culture.