Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Institute for Democratic Engagement & Accountability (IDEA)

The Foundational Principle of IDEA

We are grounded in a fundamental principle: When citizens and elected officials participate in civil, representative, and focused dialogue, it fosters mutual respect, enhances decision-making, and builds greater faith in the democratic process.

5
Countries Where DTHs Have Been Held
95%
Of participants say Deliberative Town Halls are "very valuable for democracy"
11%
Avg. Increase in Trust in Participating Elected Official

Recent News

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From Frustration to Motivation: Our 2025 Journey Together

This year has been a defining journey for the Institute for Democratic Engagement & Accountability (IDEA). As we head into the holiday season, we wanted to step away from the research and data…

Michael testifying before congress

Dr. Neblo Testifies Before Congress: Americans Want a Real Conversation, Not Just More Communication 

New survey research from IDEA for the House Subcommittee on Modernization shows that Americans haven’t given up on democracy; they just want it to listen better. 
 Public trust in…
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IDEA Launches Summer Democracy Fellows Program for 2026

IDEA is proud to announce it is launching a new Summer Democracy Fellows program, offering students first-hand experience working in Washington, D.C. The program provides an opportunity to engage…

Michael Neblo

IDEA Director Michael Neblo Featured at Civil Discourse Forum: Is Democracy for Everyone?

Michael will join UCLA’s Dr. Khaled Abou el Fadl for the upcoming Civil Discourse Forum: Is Democracy for Everyone? on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Thompson Library 165. 

Michael's…

People Directory

Associate Director of Program and Communications
Director of Research; Professor, Political Science
Associate Director of Research
Director of the Institute for Democratic Engagement and Accountability (IDEA); Professor of Political Science and (by courtesy) Philosophy, Communication, and Public Policy