Building on his analysis of the causes and potential cures for today’s intense political polarization, and his assessment of the 2008 election, Ronald Brownstein will explain how the current divisions in American politics affect the debate over health care issues. He will analyze the debate about health care between and within the parties, focusing not only on the presidential campaign, but also Congress and developments in Kansas.

Brownstein has served as the national political correspondent and columnist for the Los Angeles Times and as chief political correspondent and columnist for U.S. News and World Report. Brownstein is the author or editor of six books, has twice been named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and has appeared frequently on numerous national news network programs. Brownstein is currently the political director for Atlantic Media Company.