12/3/22 - Mini Show: Saudi Lobbyist, Permafrost Virus, CNN Layoffs, RailWorker Interview, FIFA, Dem Repub Chart
Dec 3, 2022
auto_awesome
Daniel Boguslaw, a journalist focused on Saudi investments, shares insights into the controversial Saudi lobbyist's role in Arizona's water politics, raising questions about corporate influence and resource management. Maximilian Alvarez interviews Marilee Taylor, a seasoned railroad engineer, who discusses the ongoing rail worker strike and the challenges faced by workers in the industry. The conversation highlights critical labor rights issues, the impact of recent layoffs at CNN, and the complicated revival of ancient viruses from permafrost, all intertwining with today's pressing political and economic concerns.
Railroad workers express anger and frustration over Congress passing bills that could force a contract on them, violating their democratic rights and enraging them about the Biden administration's involvement.
The appointment of a Saudi lobbyist to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors raises concerns about corporate capture, foreign capital investment, and exploitation of US water resources, highlighting the need to protect workers' rights and vital resources.
CNN's layoffs amidst economic uncertainty and cost-cutting pressures raise questions about the future of the media industry, emphasizing the importance of supporting independent media and sustainable business models.
Deep dives
Railroad workers express anger and frustration over contract dispute
Railroad workers have been in a contract dispute for three years, and the recent news of Congress passing bills that could force a contract on the workers has sparked anger and frustration. Workers feel that their democratic rights are being violated and are enraged by the Biden administration's involvement in the dispute. The ongoing struggle for quality of life issues, such as work-life balance and time away from the railroad, has taken a toll on workers' mental, physical, and emotional well-being. The anger is not only directed at the railroad companies, but also at the Biden administration for their support of the companies in the dispute. Solidarity and support from other unions have been pouring in, and workers see this as a fight that extends beyond their own industry.
Saudi alfalfa company's lobbyist appointed to oversee water issues
A lobbyist for a Saudi alfalfa company has been appointed to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in Arizona, overseeing water issues. This move has raised concerns about corporate capture and foreign capital investment, as the Saudi company buys up farmland in Arizona to grow alfalfa, which is then shipped back to Saudi Arabia. The issue of water rights and the export of US water has sparked outrage among workers and the wider public. The appointment has drawn criticism for its potential impact on local and regional water politics, and a breakdown of regulatory oversight. This story serves as a reminder of the need to fight for workers' rights and protect vital resources from exploitation.
CNN announces layoffs amid economic uncertainty
CNN has announced layoffs as the parent company, Warner Brothers Discovery, faces economic uncertainty and cost-cutting pressures. The news of the layoffs comes after President and CEO Chris Licht reassured employees that there would not be widespread mass layoffs. This development raises questions about the future of the media industry and the challenges faced by news organizations in the evolving digital landscape. The layoffs at CNN highlight the need for continued support of independent media and the importance of strong, sustainable business models in the face of changing media consumption habits.
The Fight for Better Work Conditions in the Rail Industry
The podcast episode discusses the ongoing struggle between freight rail carriers and unions representing railroad workers. After years of negotiations and a tentative agreement being voted down by four major unions, a national rail strike was looming. However, President Biden and Congress intervened, urging Congress to impose a labor agreement between the rail companies and workers to avert the strike. The House passed the legislation, which includes increased pay and more flexible schedules for workers. While this move may prevent an immediate strike, the episode highlights that the fundamental issues regarding quality of life and workplace safety in the industry remain unresolved. Workers are still hoping for true systemic change and are ready to fight for better conditions.
Solidarity and Future Actions
The episode emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action in supporting railroad workers. To show solidarity, individuals are encouraged to engage with their professional organizations, invite rail workers to speak about the issues, and create homemade signs to display support at rail yards. It is also suggested that churches and other civic organizations express their support for workers and challenge President Biden's intervention. The episode highlights the reciprocal nature of solidarity, with railroad workers ready to offer support and solidarity to other workers and organizations fighting for their rights. The ultimate goal is to forge strong alliances and create a united front against anti-worker actions, ensuring long-lasting systemic change in labor conditions.
