What Could Go Right? DOGE, Democracy, and Everything Between with Matthew Yglesias
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Mar 26, 2025 
Matthew Yglesias, co-founder of Vox and author of the Slow Boring Substack, dives into the complexities of American democracy and governance. He discusses Trump's reform agenda and its implications for future policy shifts. The conversation touches on the Democratic Party's internal struggles in the wake of Trump's presidency, emphasizing the need for unity and fresh strategies. Yglesias also critiques U.S. foreign aid and highlights the importance of meaningful discourse in a fragmented media landscape, envisioning a hopeful future shaped by impactful ideas.
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Equilibrating Properties of U.S. System
- The U.S. system has equilibrating properties that often counteract extreme changes.
- These properties require individual actions and shouldn't lead to complacency.
Internal Tensions Limit Drastic Change
- American institutions have internal tensions that prevent drastic changes, including within political coalitions.
- Policy continuity comes from the equilibrating nature of these institutions.
USAID Effectiveness
- USAID's most effective programs are public health initiatives.
- A significant portion of USAID's budget goes to less effective programs.