A controversial bill in Alabama is the latest in a wave of different abortion bans sweeping the country. This week, On the Media looks at the influence of Janet Porter, a little-known lobbyist who has been pushing what are misleadingly referred to as “heartbeat” laws. And, a deep dive into the rise of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, and what his autocratic regime tells us about the future of Europe. Plus, a new book reveals how conspiracy theories became a fact of American life.
1. Jessica Glenza [@JessicaGlenza], health reporter at the Guardian US, on the influence of Janet Porter, the lobbyist behind the so-called "heartbeat" abortion laws. Listen.
2. Paul Lendvai, author of Orbán: Hungary's Strongman, on the rise of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Listen.
3. Anna Merlan [@annamerlan], author of Republic of Lies, on the long arc of conspiratorial thinking in the United States. Listen.
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Songs:
Dame tu Mano by Combo Chimbita
Passing Time by John Renbourn
The Glass House by Marjane's Inspiration
Califone by Burned by Christians
We Insist by Zoe Keating
Green Onions by Booker T. and The MG's
X-File Theme
High Water Everywhere Part 1 by Charlie Patton
Bullwinkle, Part II by The Centurians
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