How Wired Magazine is Scooping the Competition. Plus, Whither the Democrats?
Feb 8, 2025
auto_awesome
In this conversation, Vittoria Elliott of WIRED shares her insights on how tech moguls like Elon Musk are reshaping federal agencies, revealing exclusive scoops on his controversial government maneuvers. Ryan J. Reilly discusses the Justice Department’s turbulent landscape post-January 6. Representative Don Beyer and Ezra Levin examine the Democrats' struggle for effective strategies in a hostile political climate, emphasizing the need for stronger communication and activism. Together, they dissect the intricate dance of power, ethics, and the future of governance.
Elon Musk's access to sensitive federal data raises serious concerns about government integrity and potential breaches of privacy laws.
The Democratic Party's internal struggle reflects fragmentation and a growing urgency among constituents for decisive actions against overreach.
Grassroots activism is becoming crucial, as mobilized citizens demand transparency and accountability from lawmakers in response to Musk's maneuvers.
Deep dives
Elon Musk's Influence on Federal Agencies
Elon Musk's recent takeover of several federal operations has raised significant concerns about the integrity of government systems. His actions, including gaining access to the Treasury Department's payment system and targeting agencies like USAID, demonstrate a blatant intertwining of corporate power with governmental functions. Reports suggest that Musk's team of young engineers, some with dubious backgrounds, have been granted extensive access, raising alarms about potential breaches of conduct and data privacy laws. The implications of these intrusions may ensure a lasting impact on how federal agencies are managed and regulated.
Concerns Over Governance and Transparency
The administration's approach, which emphasizes rapid execution without adherence to traditional protocols, poses risks to established governance norms. The apparent disregard for transparency has led to fears of law violations and erosion of public trust in federal institutions. Accounts revealed that Musk's operatives have been accessing sensitive data without proper oversight, raising questions about whether they are following due process. The lack of clarity around the personnel involved in these operations has left both public and federal employees in the dark, leading to further apprehension about accountability.
Democratic Disarray and Public Sentiment
The Democratic Party is facing fragmentation, struggling to respond effectively to the challenges posed by Musk's influence and unprecedented executive actions. Reports indicate that there has been a significant increase in public engagement with Senators, as constituents express their anxiety over the current political climate. Senators have noted heightened call volumes from concerned citizens, reflecting widespread discontent with the political status quo. This growing urgency among the electorate could signal a shift in momentum, compelling lawmakers to take more decisive actions against perceived governmental overreach.
Political Tactics in Response to Authoritarianism
In light of Musk's maneuvers and the Trump administration's policies, there has been a call for more aggressive tactics from the Democrats. Some party members advocate for obstructionist strategies, akin to those employed by Republican counterparts during the Obama years, to curb the advancing agenda. The notion is that Democrats must employ all legislative tools at their disposal to resist nominees and legislation that aligns with Musk and Trump's goals. However, there remains hesitance within the party, as many members prefer a more collaborative approach, which may not suffice in countering a perceived authoritarian shift.
The Role of Grassroots Movements
Grassroots organizations play a critical role in shaping the political landscape, particularly as citizens mobilize to demand transparency and accountability in government. Activists emphasize the importance of local organizing and collective action, asserting that individual voices can create a significant impact when unified. The heightened activism is illustrated by rallies and protests opposing Musk's manipulation of federal resources, demonstrating a responsive public eager to engage with their elected officials. This movement reinforces the idea that organized constituents can exert pressure on lawmakers, galvanizing more robust responses to those in power.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency has accessed sensitive information at the treasury and gutted the United States Agency for International Development. On this week’s On the Media, how a tech magazine scooped mainstream outlets with its reporting on the DOGE taskforce. Plus, at the Department of Justice, data wipes and mass firings target records of January 6.
[01:00] Host Micah Loewinger sits down with Vittoria Elliott, reporter for WIRED covering platforms and power. This week WIRED has been covering Elon Musk’s rampage through the federal agencies, and has been the first to report on several key stories
[12:51] Micah speaks with Ryan J. Reilly, who covers the Justice Department and federal law enforcement for NBC News, about President Donald Trump’s campaign of retribution against those in the Justice Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation who he feels unfairly targeted him and his followers.
[26:09] Host Brooke Gladstone sits down with Representative Don Beyer of Virginia to talk about Democrats' approach as President Trump challenges Congress’ power. Brooke also speaks with Ezra Levin, co-founder and co-executive director of the nonprofit Indivisible, about Democrats’ PR strategies, and the party’s resistance to using the Mitch McConnell playbook to push back against the G.O.P.
On the Media is supported by listeners like you. Support OTM by donating today (https://pledge.wnyc.org/support/otm). Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @onthemedia, and share your thoughts with us by emailing onthemedia@wnyc.org.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
