For more than two centuries, science has helped build our nation. Throughout our history, policies informed by science have helped make America safer and more prosperous. But in recent years, a hyperpolarized Congress, a fragmented media landscape and the injection of enormous amounts of money in politics have fractured this partnership. Worse still, this comes at a time when our nation faces serious challenges such as climate change, food insecurity and declining education standards. It's time to create a more constructive public dialogue; bringing scientists, media, and concerned citizens together to hold public officials accountable.