M. Gessen

M. Gessen, a New York Times Opinion writer who witnessed Russia’s drift into autocracy under Putin, discusses alarming parallels with the U.S. political landscape. They highlight outrageous proposals from Trump that reshape democratic boundaries and suggest how trivial conversations overshadow vital issues. Gessen explores voter discontent as a catalyst for supporting disruption of a neglected system and warns of the subtle shift toward authoritarianism driven by executive overreach. Insightful, chilling, and thought-provoking.

M. Gessen, an opinion columnist for The New York Times and author of "Surviving Autocracy," offers insightful advice on navigating authoritarian regimes. They discuss the fallacies surrounding voter behavior and the crucial lessons from Viktor Orbán's tactics that could be influential in future U.S. politics. The conversation also highlights the power of modern podcasters, including Joe Rogan, in shaping political opinions and the importance of community engagement in preserving democracy amidst rising disillusionment.

M. Gessen, an accomplished journalist focusing on authoritarianism, and Michelle Goldberg, a keen observer of social movements, dive deep into the moral imperative of resistance. They explore the bravery of Israeli dissidents and grassroots organizers in the U.S. protesting ICE enforcement. Discussing the balance between local actions and larger movements, they question the effectiveness of small-scale resistance. Both emphasize the role of community in activism while grappling with the personal thresholds for leaving one's homeland when protests feel futile.

In this engaging discussion, M. Gessen, a Russian and American journalist known for their incisive reporting on autocracy, shares insights on the alarming parallels between Putin's regime and Trump's governance. They argue that the real danger lies in Americans adapting to a crumbling democracy, as Trump challenges every institution with relentless attacks. Gessen highlights the importance of visionary leadership to combat growing complacency and emphasizes that public engagement is vital for safeguarding democracy in these turbulent times.

M. Gessen, a New York Times opinion columnist and expert on autocracy, draws intriguing parallels between the Trump administration and early 2000s Russia under Putin. They discuss how chaos in politics can become normalized, desensitizing the public to significant issues. Gessen highlights the psychological mechanisms that allow autocrats to maintain power and the dangers of intellectual decline in society. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for resilience and awareness amidst overwhelming news cycles.