This week, they celebrate a significant Democratic win in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, hinting at a shift in political tides. Trump’s hefty new tariffs draw scrutiny for their impact on lower-income Americans. The conversation turns to controversial immigration policies, with a focus on the government’s aggressive deportation tactics. Lightening the mood, they also delve into online sleepwear shopping while weaving in fascinating book and movie recommendations for cultural enrichment.
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Quick takeaways
Susan Crawford's victory in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race signals a potential shift in Democratic voter sentiment amidst Trump-related backlash.
Trump's announcement of sweeping tariffs aims to reshape trade but risks economic strain and increased consumer prices, raising skepticism about effectiveness.
The arbitrary standards used by the Trump administration for deporting alleged gang members highlight serious human rights concerns and lack of due process.
Deep dives
Democratic Momentum in Wisconsin
The recent Wisconsin Supreme Court race marked a significant victory for Democrats, with liberal candidate Susan Crawford winning against conservative Brad Schimel. This race attracted over $100 million in spending, mostly from enraged liberals and a notable investment from Elon Musk, who attempted to sway the election in favor of Schimel. Crawford's decisive win signals a potential shift in voter sentiment as Democrats expand their base and possibly capitalize on Trump-related backlash. The results may suggest that Democratic turnout is surging compared to Republican participation, particularly in off-year elections, as evidenced by other recent electoral successes in Florida and Pennsylvania.
Tariffs and Economic Implications
President Trump's recent announcement of sweeping tariffs, imposing up to 10% on nearly all foreign goods, aims to reshape trade dynamics but poses risks of economic strain. Economists warn that these tariffs may lead to increased prices for American consumers and further uncertainty for businesses grappling with supply chain decisions. The tariffs could inadvertently harm the very industries they seek to protect, potentially leading to higher costs without guaranteed job growth in manufacturing. As the administration claims these actions will revive American industry, skepticism remains about their effectiveness and long-term impact on the economy.
Gang Member Identification Process
The Trump administration's approach to identifying gang members for deportation has raised serious human rights concerns due to its arbitrary and insufficient standards. Many individuals are being sent to a harsh Salvadoran prison based on flimsy evidence, such as tattoos or clothing style, rather than any proven criminal activity. A specific case highlights this issue, where a wrongly deported man, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, was victimized by a system that lacks due process and accountability. This lack of oversight not only places innocent lives in jeopardy but also reflects a broader disregard for the legal obligations owed to individuals in deportation proceedings.
Elon Musk's Political Influence
Elon Musk's recent political activities, particularly his financial backing in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, have raised questions about his influence in American politics. His overt attempts to sway the election in favor of the conservative candidate through large donations and cash incentives draw criticism and suggest an alarming trend of wealthy individuals attempting to buy electoral outcomes. As his popularity wanes, there are concerns that Musk's involvement may become a liability for Republican candidates. This situation highlights potential conflicts where the personal brand of influential billionaires intersects with political campaigns, possibly impacting voter perceptions.
Voter ID Law and Its Implications
Wisconsin's recent constitutional amendment to solidify its voter ID law has garnered attention, particularly in light of the liberal triumph at the polls. While proponents argue that voter ID laws are common-sense measures, critics maintain they disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Many believe that these voter ID requirements are perceived as strategic moves to limit participation rather than genuinely aimed at ensuring electoral integrity. This duality presents a conundrum for Democrats, who may need to reassess their strategies in light of evolving voter preferences and regulatory landscapes surrounding election access.
This week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz discuss liberal judge Susan Crawford’s sweeping victory in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race; Trump’s new, nearly universal massive tariffs; and the dangerously casual standards the government is using to deport alleged gang members despite acknowledged mistakes.
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Podcast production by Kevin Bendis
Research by Emily Ditto
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