Lowering the Temperature: Political Violence, Antisemitism, and Democracy

Political violence is becoming more visible – and, in some spaces, more normalized. In this conversation, A More Perfect Union Executive Director Aaron Dorfman speaks with former Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar and Philadelphia City Commissioner Seth Bluestein about what’s driving this moment, how antisemitism intersects with political extremism, and why civic leadership requires a clear rejection of violence.

Drawing on their experience overseeing elections and public institutions, the speakers explore the erosion of trust in institutions, the role of misinformation, and what Jewish leaders and civic institutions can do to lower the temperature in their communities — especially during high-stakes election cycles.

This conversation is nonpartisan but not neutral, and grounded in democratic principles, pluralism, and the belief that conflict must be resolved without threats, intimidation, or harm.

Learn more about A More Perfect Union’s democracy principles at democracyprinciples.org.