Temperatures will continue to fall over the next few days

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That question motivated journalist and author Thomas Ricks to return to the country’s Founding Fathers. Dismayed by the divisiveness he saw in our political system, he set out to read the writings of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. 

He also went back further and read what they read: the works of Greek and Roman philosophers who shaped their ideas of government and democracy. He concludes that many of the features that frustrate modern voters — like the gridlock in Washington — are

 did foresee a president like Donald Trump

Use the audio player above to hear a conversation between host Kerri Miller and Ricks about his new book, “First Principles,” and how looking back at America’s origins can illuminate America’s present.

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Journalist and author Thomas Ricks wrote “First Principles” to answer the question he asked himself: Is this what the nation’s founders intended?

Journalist and author Thomas Rick wrote “First Principles” to answer the question he asked himself: Is this what the nation’s founders intended?

Is America living up to its ideals?

Author Thomas Ricks (left); his latest book, “First Principles.”

Is America living up to its ideals?

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