Democracy 2076’s Cecily Wake on updating the Constitution—and saving the future
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Dave Martin
646-483-5898
dave.goodgovpodcast@gmail.com
Fogelsville, PA — What will American democracy look like in 50 years—and will it still work?
On this episode of The Good Government Show, Cecily Wake, Deputy Director of Democracy 2076, explores a provocative but essential idea: democracy must evolve to survive.
“Anything that lasts a long time needs to be fixed along the way,” Wake explains. “If we don’t make those changes… it’s much more likely to break.”
Democracy 2076 is working toward a bold goal—ensuring that by the nation’s 300th anniversary, the U.S. Constitution and democratic system remain strong, responsive, and representative.
That starts with a simple but often overlooked truth: the Constitution was designed to change.
Yet, with no new amendments since 1971, Wake argues the system risks becoming rigid—out of step with modern realities and public expectations.
The organization’s work focuses on three key areas:
- Constitutional renewal — identifying potential amendments for a modern democracy
- Cultural storytelling — shaping how media and entertainment influence public perception of government
- Political realignment — understanding how future coalitions may reshape democracy
At the heart of it all is a call for participation.
“If we want to have a democracy, we have to do democracy,” Wake says. “That means we have to be able to disagree—and still come together to solve problems.”
Wake also challenges a growing misconception—that democracy itself is partisan.
“Democracy is nonpartisan… it’s something we all have a responsibility to build.”
Despite today’s polarization, she remains optimistic. When viewed over the long arc of history, she says, the trend still points toward more democratic governance—and more opportunity.
“There’s a wellspring of hope… people are excited to think about the future of our democracy.”
Ultimately, this episode reframes the conversation about government—not just fixing today’s problems, but building systems that will last for generations.
Because good government isn’t just about now—it’s about what comes next.
Pull Quotes:
- “Anything that lasts needs to be fixed along the way.”
- “If we want to have a democracy, we have to do democracy.”
- “Democracy is nonpartisan—it’s something we all must build.”
- “If it becomes rigid, it’s much more likely to break.”
- “There’s a wellspring of hope—and opportunity.”
The Good Government Show highlights the people and ideas shaping effective, forward-looking government—exploring not just how government works today, but how it can work better tomorrow.