Julia Yaffe

Julia Yaffe, a reporter and commentator for Puck specializing in national security and politics, dives into the implications of military troop deployments in U.S. cities. She reveals that many military officers grapple with the balance between following orders and their concerns about political motivations. The discussion highlights the complexities of trust between troops and civilians, legal ambiguities in deployment orders, and the effects of government shutdowns on military morale. Yaffe also touches on how political theater shapes local responses and military perceptions.

Journalist Julia Ioffe, author of the critically acclaimed book 'Motherland', joins to unveil the Trump administration's initiative to target alleged anti-Christian bias within the State Department. She discusses the motivations driving this controversial task force and the feelings of marginalization among members of other faiths. Ioffe also reveals how this political maneuvering has affected hiring practices and the broader culture within Foggy Bottom, which has historically been inclusive of diverse beliefs.

Julia Yaffe, a seasoned reporter specializing in U.S. diplomacy and foreign policy, joins Peter to dissect Donald Trump's striking remarks at the UN, where he ridiculed the organization. They explore Trump's unexpected pivot against Vladimir Putin, driven by insights on Russian setbacks. Yaffe sheds light on the State Department's forced involvement in aggressive deportation strategies, revealing the ethical dilemmas faced by career diplomats who are repurposed for such operations. This conversation dives deep into the intersection of foreign policy and domestic challenges.