What does it mean to be Jeffersonian?
The Jeffersonian consists of self-reliance, an uncompromising dedication to liberty (over security, profit, comfort and tradition), an unambiguous wall of separation between church and state, first-rate public education, thoughtfulness and diffidence about America's place in the world, and a commitment to civility.
Jefferson brought genius (not to mention reason, good sense and idealism) to everything he undertook, and he believed that the purpose of America was not to seek glory and profit in the world's arena, but to build a nation of quality, justice and cultural achievement.
Praise for the Thomas Jefferson Hour
The reason the TJ Hour works is obvious when you listen—it is Clay Jenkinson: his on-air warmth and intelligence, the breadth of his knowledge, the concerns toward which he directs the discussion, and his ability to connect with the public radio audience. The idea of using Thomas Jefferson as a framing device gives the discussion a perspective that distinguishes it from the usual public affairs discussion. It combines actual, serious discussion of important, overriding principles with the entertainment of the Thomas Jefferson set-up. It works.
Bill Thomas
Director of Radio
Prairie Public, North Dakota
The Thomas Jefferson Hour is a thought-provoking way of exploring contemporary issues through the lens of history. Clay Jenkinson brings listeners interesting and thoughtful perspectives in an engaging way.
Joe Moore
Director of Program Content
KVPR Fresno and KPRX Bakersfield, CA
The Thomas Jefferson Hour has been a staple of WHRV's lineup since its inception. With this market's deep history as home to our nation's first region, the Jamestown Colony's founding in 1607, and our Commonwealth's ties to Thomas Jefferson, interest in this program over the years has resulted in a sizeable listener base. We have hosted debates between Thomas Jefferson (Clay Jenkinson) and Alexander Hamilton (Bill Chrystal), and they've been overwhelmingly well-attended by enthusiastic audiences. In addition to our very popular local call-in shows, it's one of our most popular public affairs programs.
Anthony McSpadden
Director of Programming
WHRV, Norfolk, VA
“Jenkinson’s TJ is more than just an entertaining impersonation. It’s a vehicle for discussing political theory and the values that shaped our nation—both for the better and for the worse.”
The Thomas Jefferson Hour was named one of the "Best Under-the-Radar Podcasts" of 2015 by Mother Jones.
Read their March/April 2015 interview with Clay Jenkinson, both in and out of character.