Ben Mathis-Lilley

In this discussion, political reporter Greg Bluestein, known for his insights on Georgia politics, joins Slate's Ben Mathis-Lilley for a deep dive into public unrest. They explore heated town hall meetings across the country, where constituents are vocally opposing drastic government cuts that threaten local jobs. The conversation highlights the political struggle within the GOP, especially in Georgia, as lawmakers face backlash and are forced to moderate their stances. Amidst rising economic discontent, Trump's approval ratings are starting to take a hit.

Ben Mathis-Lilly, a senior writer at Slate and expert on Donald Trump's administration, delves into the dynamics of Trump's return to power. He discusses the complex leadership landscape, including tensions between old and new MAGA leaders. The conversation highlights the implications of 'MAGA 2.0' and the challenges Trump faces from Congress. They also explore shifting GOP economic policies, the ongoing influence of figures like Steve Bannon, and the intricate dance of navigating political loyalties within Trumpworld.

Ben Mathis-Lilley, a frequent contributor to the TLDR newsletter and author of "Hot Seat," shares his insights on achieving financial success in 2025. The conversation covers the shifting investment trends in Canada, focusing on the growing appeal of stocks and renewable energy. They discuss practical tips for maximizing tax-advantaged savings accounts and explore light-hearted but effective strategies for managing personal finances. With a mix of humor and wisdom, Ben encourages listeners to align their spending with their values for a prosperous new year.

Greg Bluestein, a political reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, brings an insider's view of the growing unrest among constituents in Georgia. Joined by Ben Mathis-Lilley, a senior writer for Slate, they delve into the public outrage over federal spending cuts, shaking every corner from town halls to Republican districts. Highlights include a representative's evolving stance on Dogecoin and the broader implications of political leaders avoiding direct engagement with their voters. The conversation unveils the rift between political actions and community sentiments, reshaping upcoming elections.

Ben Mathis-Lilly, a senior writer at Slate, offers keen insights into the new dynamics of Trumpworld. He discusses the surreal political landscape leading up to the inauguration and the emergence of MAGA 2.0, highlighting key figures and internal conflicts within Trump’s camp. The conversation delves into the complex leadership dynamics influenced by Susie Wiles and the tensions stirred by Steve Bannon. Mathis-Lilly also explores the rift in the GOP, examining how populism reshapes party power and social media's role in future political conflicts.