Lever Time Robert Reich Saw This Coming
11 snips
Sep 15, 2025 
Robert Reich, former Labor Secretary and acclaimed author, dives into his extensive political journey and the lessons learned from multiple presidential administrations. He discusses the failures of the Baby Boomer generation and critiques the Democratic Party's shift toward corporate interests. Reich reflects on Obama's legacy, highlighting missed economic reform opportunities and the disconnect between the party and working-class voters. He also confronts deep-rooted anti-establishment sentiments while offering a cautiously optimistic vision for America's political future.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
RFK Scolds Young Reich
- Robert Reich recounts being scolded by Robert F. Kennedy for organizing an anti-Vietnam petition as an intern.
- The episode taught him humility and that he could not rely on the Democratic establishment to act on anti-war positions.
Reagan Era Marked A Major U-Turn
- Reich argues the Reagan era marked a major U-turn: taxes fell, antitrust enforcement waned, and labor was weakened.
- He says his generation failed to reverse that direction as it came of age politically.
Clinton Transition Clash With Wall Street
- Reich describes the Clinton transition excitement and the internal clash with Wall Street figures like Bob Rubin over deficit priorities.
- He fought for investment in workers and job training but lost many arguments to deficit-focused advisors.
