Daily News Lesson

SHOW ALL

Jan. 6, 2023, 3:25 p.m.

Exploring the threats to democracy that remain two years after Jan. 6

Summary

In the first general election after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, many of the most high-profile election deniers lost their races. But threats to democracy remain as extremist political factions remain emboldened, Trump’s presidential bid is built on lies and cities are reporting record numbers of hate crimes. Cynthia Miller-Idriss and Kim Lane Scheppele joined Laura Barrón-López to discuss. For a transcript of this story, click here .

Five Facts

  • Who is interviewed in this story, and what are their backgrounds?
  • What are some of the reasons democracy in the U.S. is still under threat, according to this story?
  • Where and When did election deniers lose important races in the U.S.?
  • How has Congress addressed possible legal challenges that could overturn election results?
  • Why is domestic extremist violence still a potential threat to democracy, according to this story?

Focus Questions

What do you think would be the best way to strengthen democratic institutions in the U.S.? Media literacy : What are some of the opinions or recommendations the guests offer in this story?

For More

What students can do: The events, decisions and personalities whose decisions led to the attack on the Capitol can seem complex and confusing. Use this explainer made up of videos and findings of the Jan. 6 committee to better understand what is known and unknown about what led to the attack. Talk with a classmate, family member or teacher about how you feel seeing some of the footage from that day and what development struck you as the most significant.

Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.

Recent Daily News Lessons

Red, White & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade in Philadelphia

Daily News Lesson

America at a Crossroads: A look at America's founding from the room where independence was declared

Judy Woodruff visits Independence Hall to commemorate America's 250th anniversary with historians Lindsay Chervinsky and Ron Chernow.

Screenshot 2026-07-21 at 10.25.25 AM

Daily News Lesson

America at a Crossroads: What political satire can reveal about the strength of a democracy

Political satire can reveal a hidden strength of the democracy of a country

surveillance

Daily News Lesson

Police say Flock cameras help solve crimes, but critics call them an invasion of privacy

Dozens of cities have cancelled their contracts with Flock after significant backlash followed a series of law enforcement errors

wildfiress-e1784233815803

Daily News Lesson

The health risks of wildfire smoke across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic

Learn about the dangerous wildfire smoke blanketing wide regions of the U.S.

SUPPORTED BY VIEWERS LIKE YOU. ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

PBS News Hour Classroom

Copyright © 2025 News Hour Production LLC. All Rights Reserved

Illustrations by Annamaria Ward