Run Down the Middle Launches to Move Political Discourse Beyond Division and Toward Solutions

New platform led by longtime public policy advocate Elliot Richardson offers an approach to public policy focused on evidence, education and meaningful action

CHICAGO, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Partisan and destructive politics is threatening our democracy and thwarting the ability of policymakers to address the most important issues impacting Americans. Run Down the Middle (RDM) is a new platform launched today for the majority of Americans more interested in civility and problem solving than supporting a divisive agenda driven by big money and extreme politicians. Co-founded by small business advocate, coalition builder and attorney Elliot Richardson, this platform will provide a constructive place that will help Americans cut through hyperbole on the issues, evaluate potential solutions and meaningfully engage in the civic process.

The platform was created in response to a political and media environment where partisan narratives, outrage-driven content and an emphasis on conflict can overshadow substantive discussion of the issues affecting Americans. Across traditional and social media, complex policy debates should not be reduced to divisive political narratives, making it difficult for audiences to separate facts from fiction and identify potential paths forward.

RDM enters the national conversation at a time of growing dissatisfaction with the country's political divisions and traditional party affiliations. Gallup reported that a record 45% of U.S. adults identified as political independents in 2025, while 27% identified as Democrats and 27% as Republicans. That growing shift reflects a broader desire for civic resources that help people move beyond political frustration, better understand the issues and identify practical ways to make their voices heard.

RDM will use digital content, analysis and calls to action to dissect the forces driving a wedge between Americans, break down public policy issues, provide context around how they affect Americans and their communities and examine potential solutions. Content will also connect audiences with practical ways to engage, from understanding legislation and accessing trusted resources to contacting elected officials and participating in civic life.

"Throughout my career, I've seen what can happen when people put politics aside and focus on solving problems," said Elliot Richardson, co-founder and CEO of Run Down the Middle. "Too often, political conversations become about who is to blame or which side is winning instead of how we move forward. We created Run Down the Middle to bring the focus back to understanding the issues, seriously considering solutions and giving people a constructive way to be part of the process. RDM is also focused on bringing Americans together so collectively, they can transcend destructive politics and run down the middle."

Richardson's vision for the platform grew from experience in public policy, government relations and coalition building. As president of the Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC), Richardson has worked with elected officials across the political spectrum to advance legislation supporting small businesses and local communities. Through that work, he has seen firsthand both the possibilities of bipartisan problem-solving and the barriers political division can create.

A multigenerational team will help shape RDM's content and conversations. Richardson's father, Jeff Richardson, brings decades of business and life experience, while his son, Jonah Richardson, will help lead digital strategy and short-form content, connecting the platform with younger audiences through digital-first storytelling. Margarite Richardson will contribute her perspectives through content creation. Michael Stage, Content and Operations Manager, will support the platform's content development and day-to-day operations. Isabelle Leofanti will contribute content as well. 

For more information, visit www.rundownthemiddle.com and subscribe on Substack at rundownthemiddle.substack.com. Follow RDM on Instagram at @rundownthemiddle for updates, short-form civic explainers and additional content.

About Run Down The Middle
Run Down the Middle (RDM) is an evidenced-based public policy and civic education and engagement platform built to help Americans make more informed decisions about the issues shaping government, communities and everyday life. Founded by attorney and longtime public policy advocate, Elliot Richardson, RDM was created to counter the polarization, divisiveness and distrust that have made it harder to solve the most important problems facing the country. Through evidence-based analysis, clear civic education and calls to action across multiple platforms, RDM addresses the structural forces that keep Americans divided, proposes solutions and encourages meaningful participation in the political process. Designed for today's media habits, RDM brings together multigenerational perspectives, practical resources and constructive dialogue to help Americans move from frustration to informed action. For more information, visit: www.rundownthemiddle.com or subscribe on Substack at rundownthemiddle.substack.com

Media Contact:
Charisse Barnachea
312.459.5296
[email protected] 

SOURCE Run Down the Middle