Wealth Inequality and Democracy

Community Conversations for Democracy Series #4
August 8, 2026, 10am-12pm
Kingston Village Green

From the French Revolution to the Gilded Age, history has shown us that extreme inequality of wealth can lead to self-dealing and corruption, and ultimately societal upheaval or a period of reform and renewal. Are we in such a moment now? Join us for a conversation about the ways in which concentrated wealth undermines democracy and an assessment of its current manifestations (such as Citizens United).

Speakers

Scott Rausch
Scott Rausch is a tenured History instructor at North Seattle College, where he has taught for the past 20 years. He received his PhD in History from the University of Washington in 2000, focusing on the History of U.S. Foreign Relations and Twentieth Century U.S. History. Among the courses he teaches are U.S. History, World History, Modern East Asia, Latin American History, and coordinated studies courses combining History and science.

Andrew Villenueve
Andrew Villenueve is the founder of the Northwest Progressive Institute, which has become an influential organization in the Pacific Northwest, delivering insightful research, imaginative advocacy and uplifting journalism. Andrew continues to serve in a leadership role at NPI.

Andrew has worked to advance progressive causes for over two decades as a strategist, speaker, author and organizer. He is also a cybersecurity expert, experienced facilitator and member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps. He is passionate about building infrastructure and keeping people safe.