The podcast discusses Biden's industrial policy, Israeli airstrikes in Syria and Gaza, the fentanyl crisis, and the potential foreign policy outcomes if Trump is re-elected. It also explores challenges in establishing electric vehicle charging infrastructure, competitiveness in the EV market, America's industrial policy impact, global crises, and an analysis of the Trump administration's foreign policy performance.
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Quick takeaways
Limited progress in building EV charging stations may hinder electric car transition despite governmental incentives.
Israeli airstrikes in Syria and Gaza raise concerns over potential escalation and geopolitical implications.
Deep dives
Challenges in US Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
President Biden's goal to build 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations by 2030 faces obstacles as only seven stations are operational. The slow progress may impede the transition to electric cars despite governmental incentives for their production. The push for EV adoption highlights challenges such as limited consumer interest and concerns over repair costs and longevity, contrasting with advancements in traditional gasoline cars.
Israeli Strikes and Regional Tensions
Israeli airstrikes near the Iranian embassy in Damascus and a subsequent incident in Gaza have sparked international condemnations. The strikes raise concerns over potential Iranian retaliation, risking escalation in regional conflicts. The US administration seeks to navigate the aftermath amidst political complexities, with implications for broader geopolitical strategies and potential consequences for international relations.
Public Concern on Fentanyl Misuse in US Swing States
A high percentage of voters in swing states consider fentanyl misuse a crucial issue for voting decisions, surpassing other significant topics like abortion and climate change. The impact of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, on overdose deaths in America is alarming and surpasses historical wartime fatalities. The disconnect between public priorities and policy focuses highlights the urgency to address the escalating opioid crisis affecting communities nationwide.
This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss Biden’s industrial policy, Israeli airstrikes in Syria and Gaza, the fentanyl crisis, and what foreign policy might look like if Trump wins in November.
Each week on What Really Matters, Walter Russell Mead and Jeremy Stern help you understand the news, decide what matters and what doesn’t, and enjoy following the story of America and the world more than you do now. For more, check out tabletmag.com/what-really-matters. You can read Walter Russell Mead’s Tablet column here, and check out more from Tablet here.