The Bulwark Podcast

George Packer: Phoenix, the Most American City

Jun 19, 2024

Author and journalist George Packer discusses how Phoenix symbolizes American issues like political extremism, climate change, and the border crisis. He highlights the city's approach to the water crisis, emphasizing acceptance of facts over partisanship. Could Phoenix be a roadmap for America's future?

50:29

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Episode guests

George Packer

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Quick takeaways

Phoenix is seen as a microcosm of national issues like political extremism and climate crisis.

Arizona's water crisis is prompting bipartisan cooperation, especially in rural areas.

Deep dives

Challenges of Phoenix's Diverse Issues

Phoenix is depicted as a microcosm of diverse national issues, encompassing political extremism, climate crisis, housing challenges, and immigration debates. The intense heat, water scarcity, and political volatility in Phoenix create a delicate balance between growth and potential social collapse.

Intro

2min

Complex Issues in Phoenix: A Microcosm of America

23min

Exploring Phoenix's Economic Success and Political Implications

2min

Heat, Homelessness, and Sustainability in Phoenix

10min

Challenges Faced by the Biden Administration in Implementing Big Projects and Infrastructure

2min

Challenges in Education and the Influence of National Politics

9min

Discussions on Headline Changes, Book References, and Future Guest Previews

2min

Phoenix is a microcosm of the big issues in the election and the country generally, including political extremism, climate change, and the border. But when it comes to the state's water crisis, Arizonians are showing signs of sanity—by accepting facts and downplaying partisanship. Could the city be a guide for America's future? George Packer joins Tim Miller.

show notes:

George's piece on Phoenix
George's 2019 piece on his son's education

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The Bulwark Podcast

George Packer: Phoenix, the Most American City

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Challenges of Phoenix's Diverse Issues

Political Courage in Face of Extremism

Water Crisis in Arizona

Educational Ideologies and Civic Discourse

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts