Episode #264 of the @professorpennpodcast. Professor Penn argues that citizen engagement is long overdue, challenging a system where money — not voters — has held politicians accountable. He examines the growing role of military members in politics and recounts a recent tense face-to-face exchange with Minnesota Senate candidate Adam Schwarze. Professor reacts to comments from Steve Bannon regarding a potential future candidacy involving Steve Daines, then breaks down how the military-industrial complex is embedded directly within U.S. Congress. Using the federal registry, he reveals how much is being spent on weapons and war, raising the question of why America always seems to be at war. The episode also explores how political stressors can evolve into religious hatred, before Professor Penn closes with a discussion on the history of U.S. immigration and the clear parallels to what the country is experiencing today.