Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Jasmine Crockett vs. James Talarico, Sherrone Moore Arrested, and Rachel Dating Drug Dealers
Dec 12, 2025
Marc Caputo, a seasoned political reporter from Axios, joins the conversation to delve into the U.S. strategies against Venezuela and the political shifts happening in Miami. They unpack Trump’s pressure on Maduro and discuss the implications of recent sanctions. The discussion also touches on the local political climate in Miami, especially regarding Cuban-American voters and generational changes. Additionally, Van and Rachel critique cultural representation, reflecting on the awards exclusion of the film 'Sinners' and its significance in Black art.
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Messaging Versus National Notoriety
- Jasmine Crockett's viral messaging emphasized confrontation with Trump but obscured her policy experience and local Texas focus.
- Van and Rachel argue that substantive, local issue messaging matters more to Texas voters than national notoriety.
People Over Performance
- Van criticizes Crockett's short announcement video as tone-deaf because it centers Trump instead of voters' needs.
- He urges candidates to prioritize concrete solutions and people-focused plans over media moments.
Israel As A Political Litmus Test
- Israel policy is a litmus test for where a Democrat falls between old-guard centrism and emerging progressive critiques.
- Van says a willingness to question U.S.–Israel alignment signals a genuine progressive posture.