Nobody would deny that politics in America is fundamentally broken. At the surface level, we have a farce called “political parties” that whip us into a frenzy every few years about Congressional seats. But below that is a much older struggle — one between moneyed interests and average citizens.

Both are deeply embedded problems that have nearly destroyed democracy in America. Here’s a brief look at how we got here, as well as some ideas on how to move forward.

I am writing from a spot nestled in the woods in Washington County in rural New York, listening to the chatter of the morning birds and looking forward to a walk along the Battenkill River later today. It is summer vacation and that means summer reading, somehow especially delicious done by the sea, or in a hammock, or a shady spot under a tree.

RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIF. – While small town parades, backyard barbecues and fireworks displays may be what many people associate with the 4th of July, Independence Day deserves far greater respect. Fifty-six men signed a single piece of parchment on this day in 1776 that contained 1,338 words that changed the history of the world for the better. That hallowed document claimed independence not only for a Nation but for a People.

Unfortunately, 242 years later, we are in danger of surrendering to the temptation of dependence.

In the latest episode of “Deconstructed,” IVN Principal Political Analyst TJ O’Hara talks with Dr. Lilliana Mason, author of the book "Uncivil Agreement: How Politics Became Our Identity," and assistant professor of government and politics at the University of Maryland. Dr. Mason deconstructs political polarization in America and the behavioral impact it is having on our nation.

Being born in America is like winning the lottery of life.

Being able-bodied and able-minded on top of that, in good health and of average or better intelligence, is just a big 'ole cherry right on top of the biggest, best bowl of pure ice cream there ever was.

Where to even begin?

Immigration is not a partisan issue, but the mainstream media and Congress have framed this current effort to fix our broken system as a partisan game, appealing to our lowest common denominators.

By all meaningful accounts, immigration reform needs to be addressed by Congress, and yet, our elected leaders double down on their partisan narratives, further dividing the country, giving oxygen to the extreme voices who offer no chance of solving this crisis.