3/25/24: Putin Blames Ukraine For Moscow Attack, ISIS Claims Responsibility, Trump Truth Social Financial Bailout, NBC Hosts Furious Over Ronna McDaniel hire, Alex Jones Flips On Israel After Civilian Strike, Israel Expands Settlements, GOP Resignation Exposes Revolving Door, Apple Hit With Lawsuit
Mar 25, 2024
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Matt Stoller, Director of Research at the American Economic Liberties Project and antitrust expert, joins Krystal and Saagar to tackle pressing issues. They delve into Putin's rapid blame of Ukraine following a deadly attack in Moscow, and Trump's financial struggles with Truth Social. The discussion also covers media ethics surrounding political operatives, Israel's military actions and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the implications of Apple's hefty antitrust lawsuit. Don't miss this captivating exploration of contemporary political and economic dynamics!
Alex Jones' condemnation of Israel's actions in drone strike signals shift in his stance.
Apple faces antitrust lawsuit over monopolistic practices limiting competition and innovation in multiple industries.
Deep dives
Media Criticism Over Hiring of Former RNC Chair
MSNBC faces internal consternation after hiring former RNC chairwoman, leading to on-air criticism by hosts like Chuck Todd. The hiring sparks debate on the ethics of bringing party operatives into journalistic roles. The network states no plans to feature her on-air exclusively on NBC News programs.
Israeli Drone Attack on Unarmed Civilians
Al Jazeera obtained horrifying drone footage showing Israeli drones targeting and killing four unarmed civilians near Konunis. The graphic footage recalls past atrocities and war crimes. The debate over showing such graphic content for awareness balanced with avoiding algorithm suppression.
Critical Comment from Alex Jones
Alex Jones comments on the drone strike footage, stating that Israel has lost the moral high ground with robotic mass genocide. He cites US Code on genocide and condemns the violent attacks witnessed in the footage.
Apple's Monopoly Power in the Smartphone Market
Apple is facing an antitrust lawsuit for its monopoly power in controlling prices in the smartphone market. The lawsuit alleges that Apple has maintained its power through exclusionary conduct rather than superior products. A key point is how Apple's behavior makes it harder for users to switch from an iPhone to rival products, thus limiting competition and innovation.
Apple's Extension of Ecosystem into Various Industries
Apart from smartphones, the lawsuit addresses Apple's effort to extend its ecosystem into banking, automobiles, and other industries. Apple's control over customer experiences in automobiles via CarPlay illustrates a strategic push towards dominating various sectors beyond just smartphones.
Apple's App Store Fees and Exclusionary Practices
Apple's 30% fees for apps and the restrictions on app developers are highlighted in the lawsuit. The complaint exposes how Apple's policies stifle competition and innovation, particularly by excluding apps that may compete with parts of the Apple ecosystem.
Broader Implications and DOJ's Antitrust Agenda
The lawsuit against Apple is part of a broader antitrust initiative by the Department of Justice targeting monopoly power across different industries. It signals a shift towards challenging monopolization practices, not just in big tech, but also in other sectors like meatpacking, airlines, and healthcare, emphasizing a focus on promoting competition and consumer welfare.
Krystal and Saagar discuss Putin blaming Ukraine for the Moscow attack, Trump Truth Social financial bailout, NBC hosts furious after Ronna McDaniel hire, Israel drone strike on civilians, Alex Jones flips on Israel, Yoav Gallant trip to US, Israel ramps up settlements, GOP rep resignation exposes revolving door, Apple hit with antitrust lawsuit.