This week, Marc Dunkelman, a Fellow at Brown University and author of "Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress – and How to Bring it Back," dives into modern governance challenges. He discusses the corrosive effects of political corruption, particularly highlighting NYC's Mayor Eric Adams. The conversation takes a sharp turn as the group examines the ethical dilemmas in the justice system, especially influenced by the Trump era, and touches on the troubling implications of data management in government, sparked by figures like Elon Musk.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
The Eric Adams Case
The Trump administration pressured NYC Mayor Eric Adams to cooperate on immigration in exchange for dropping corruption charges.
Seven prosecutors resigned, refusing to participate in this apparent corrupt bargain.
insights INSIGHT
Justice Department's Dire Situation
The Justice Department's actions under Trump are worse than predicted, undermining ethical norms and oaths of office.
Leniency is being used as a political tool, raising concerns about impartial justice.
insights INSIGHT
Performative Humiliation as a Tool
The Trump administration uses performative humiliation as a tool of power.
This is evident in the Eric Adams case and other instances of authoritarian behavior.
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This book is a monumental biography of Robert Moses, who was the single most powerful man in New York City and State during his time. It explores how Moses accumulated and wielded power, shaping the city through his public works projects, including highways, bridges, and parks. The book delves into Moses's early life, his idealistic beginnings, and his transformation into a powerful figure who dominated New York's politics without ever being elected. It also highlights the social and environmental impacts of his projects and his eventual fall from power. The biography is renowned for its detailed and nuanced portrayal of power dynamics in urban politics[2][4][5].
Why Nothing Works
Who Killed Progress—and How to Bring It Back
Marc J. Dunkelman
This book delves into the reasons behind America's current inability to address significant challenges such as housing shortages, climate crises, and infrastructure issues. Dunkelman argues that a 'vetocracy' allows nearly anyone to stifle progress and that progressive reforms have inadvertently contributed to this gridlock. He suggests that progressivism must rediscover its roots to break through the current paralysis and restore faith in public institutions.
Public Citizens
David Lilienthal
This week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz discuss the apparent corrupt bargain involving NYC mayor Eric Adams and the bonfire of Justice Department resignations; what could possibly go wrong when Musk and DOGE access the IRS and Social Security; and talk to Marc Dunkelman about his new book Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress – and How to Bring it Back.
For this week’s Slate Plus bonus episode, Emily, John, and David discuss whether the human body could endure a voyage to Mars and if space really is our destiny as humans.
Political Gabfest 
