Understanding the US politics now

Hi everyone, In the recent political climate, I've begun to notice how little I know about US politics and politics as a whole. I've never really given much thought to politics, however, as there is causation between politics and markets, I would love to understand more about this and not feel like an outcast when discussing with people in the financial industry. I would like to know how everyone in this forum has gained knowledge about politics - whether the knowledge was gained from books (if so, please give few examples), certain newspapers, magazines etc.. As I am not of this country, I get very confused when I read the newspaper, watch debates or even in conversations and politics are mentioned. Who is good, bad - why? I am completely novice in this regard; I had to look up what leftist and rightist meant. If anyone here has any recommendation on a good starting point in understanding all these things, please let me know. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.