The Hillbilly Scientist

The Hillbilly Scientist

From Polk Lore by James Hrynyshyn

January 13, 2026 · 42 min · Season 4 · Episode 1

About this episode

Paul Maddox discusses the intersection of science and politics in North Carolina's elections.

UNC cell biologist Paul Maddox is more than a little frustrated with the lack of intelligence in evidence in Washington these days. He’s one of a historic number of scientists running for office this year. Which should tell you something. For this episode, though, he doesn't claim his PhD makes him more qualified than the other Democrats who want the seat he's after: NC 11 of the US House of Representatives. We don't talk about recent example of stupid behavior in politics. We even avoid any mention of the changes in the recommended vaccination schedules that will almost certainly lead to more unnecessary deaths. Instead, we talk about more fundamental ideas: what do the people of western North Carolina want from their politicians? Are we really ready to abandon respect for science and expertise? And is it still possible to win an election by running on who you are instead of just which party you represent?

People in this episode

Host: James Hrynyshyn

Guest: Paul Maddox

Topics covered

  • politics
  • science
  • elections
  • public health
  • North Carolina

Keywords

  • Paul Maddox
  • UNC
  • politics
  • science
  • North Carolina
  • elections
  • public health

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: UNC, US House of Representatives

Places: Washington, North Carolina, NC 11, western North Carolina

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