Melissa Murray, a legal professor and MSNBC contributor, joins to dissect Trump's alarming rhetoric on birthright citizenship and its constitutional implications. Adam Serwer, a writer for The Atlantic, explores the phenomenon of 'Tony Soprano Syndrome,' revealing how audiences idolize morally ambiguous figures and the consequences for societal values. They discuss the normalization of mob-like tactics in politics and the chilling effects on accountability and justice, highlighting the need for ethical reconsideration in governance.

Join Adam Serwer, a staff writer at The Atlantic, renowned for his political insights; comedian Michael Kosta, who adds a humorous twist to analysis; and election expert Grace Kuhlenschmidt as they delve into the dramatic final campaign pushes of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Explore Trump's bizarre mic moment, the impact of Peanut the Squirrel's untimely death on voters, and the quirky world of election predictions, including a consultation with an astrologist. Serwer also unwraps the complex web of MAGA conspiracies shaping public sentiment.

Author Adam Serwer and Mini Timmaraju discuss recent Supreme Court scandals and reproductive healthcare challenges in the US. Topics include GOP support for violence and racism, accountability in the Supreme Court, protecting reproductive rights, Justice Alito's controversies, and religious carve-outs in healthcare.

Adam Serwer of The Atlantic and The Federalist Society discuss the potential impact of a second term under President Trump on the courts, the influence of conservative legal movement on judicial appointments, Trump's potential use of the Insurrection Act, his actions on immigration and views on racial diversity, Christian nationalism, and his relationship with the press.

Vox's Sean Illing talks with Adam Serwer, whose new book The Cruelty Is the Point documents the role of cruelty in American politics, the way it was weaponized by the GOP during the Trump administration, and how these tactics could continue to shape the future of America.Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), Interviews Writer, VoxGuest: Adam Serwer (@AdamSerwer), staff writer, The AtlanticReferences:  The Cruelty is the Point: The Past, Present, and Future of Trump's America by Adam Serwer (One World; 2021) "The Cruelty Is the Point" by Adam Serwer (The Atlantic; Oct. 3, 2018) "The Great Awokening" by Matt Yglesias (Vox; Apr. 1, 2019) Enjoyed this episode? Rate Vox Conversations ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave a review on Apple Podcasts.Subscribe for free. Be the first to hear the next episode of Vox Conversations by subscribing in your favorite podcast app.Support Vox Conversations by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcastsThis episode was made by:  Producer: Erikk Geannikis Editor: Amy Drozdowska VP, Vox Audio: Liz Kelly Nelson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices