In this discussion, Washington Post reporter Jeff Stein analyzes the shifting landscape of American politics, focusing on populism's surge. Politician J.D. Vance shares insights on how this alteration affects both his party and economic policies. Vice President Kamala Harris emphasizes the need to engage with working-class sentiments. Former President Donald Trump weighs in on distancing his brand from the current administration's economic struggles. Together, they dive into how populism is reshaping political identities ahead of the next election.

Jeff Stein, a journalist from the Washington Post, dives deep into the complexities of American sanctions and their unintended fallout. He reveals how sanctions often devastate economies, particularly in Venezuela and Syria, while sparking internal debates within the U.S. government on their effectiveness. The discussion contrasts broad sanctions with 'smart sanctions' aimed at reducing collateral damage. Stein also addresses the potential rise of alternative financial systems as nations look to bypass U.S. influence, emphasizing the need for strategic approaches in an increasingly interconnected world.

A lot of Americans are still feeling iffy about the economy, but Joe Biden’s so proud of how things are going that he’s stuck his name on it. The Washington Post’s Jeff Stein explains “Bidenomics.”This episode was produced by Miles Bryan, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Michael Raphael, and hosted by Noel King.Transcript at vox.com/todayexplainedSupport Today, Explained by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Journalist Jeff Stein from The Washington Post dives into the U.S. international sanctions regime, uncovering its massive expansion affecting over a third of all nations. He discusses how these sanctions, while meant to pressure regimes, often harm vulnerable populations instead. The conversation also touches on the Veepstakes and political oddities, including a humorous tale about RFK Jr.'s encounter with a dead bear cub. Stein’s insights reveal the complexities and contradictions of modern American foreign policy.

Jeff Stein, a White House economics reporter, and Elahe Izade, a journalist focusing on U.S. diplomacy, dive into America’s heavy reliance on sanctions as a foreign policy tool. They discuss the historical roots of these economic penalties and their impact on countries like Venezuela and North Korea. The conversation addresses the effectiveness and moral implications of sanctions, especially amid global crises. Elahe also shares insights from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, highlighting the tension between political actions and public dissent.

Former Special Forces and CIA case officer James Stejskal and Jeff Stein delve into Green Beret missions in Berlin, covert CIA operations, recruitment challenges in Russia, the conflict in Ukraine, and thrilling espionage fiction.

Guest Jeff Stein discusses his new podcast on revolutionary abolitionist John Brown. Topics include Israel demanding US occupation of Gaza, investigation into Oct 7 friendly fire, Nikki Haley's campaign strategy, loose bolts on Boeing planes, and the significance of John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry.

Jeff Stein, White House economics reporter at the Washington Post, joins Jon Favreau to discuss the $16 McDonald's meal that captivated the internet and the economic disconnect facing Biden's re-election. They explore why voters still disapprove of Biden's handling of the economy despite positive indicators, the impact of social media on perception, and the difficulties of political messaging during economic frustration.

JFK assassination expert discusses Biden's suppression of documents; Former FBI agent talks about extremist inroads in law enforcement; Challenges in identifying and addressing extremism; Problem of rehiring fired officers; Infiltration of white extremists in police forces

Spies using peanut butter as a dead drop, establishment of CIA's new China center, management shortcomings in the CIA, challenges of detecting insider spies, debate on relocating Secret Service, problems within the Secret Service