Nicole Hemmer, a political historian and co-host of "This Day," discusses the significant funding cuts to Voice of America and their historical implications for press freedom. Dorian Lynskey, a cultural journalist and author of "Everything Must Go," dives into humanity's obsession with end-of-the-world narratives, linking them to contemporary anxieties about climate change and social instability. Together, they explore how these stories reveal our deepest fears and the vital importance of independent journalism in preserving truth in a chaotic world.

Molly Ball, a senior political correspondent at the Wall Street Journal, and Nicole Hemmer, a historian specializing in modern conservatism, delve into the implications of Donald Trump's remarkable electoral comeback. They discuss how voter frustrations with inflation and immigration have fueled his support, posing concerns about democracy's health. Hemmer warns of unchecked power, while Ball debates whether traditional barriers to executive authority will hold. The duo also examines the Democratic Party's struggle to reconnect with working-class voters and navigate its ideological divides.

Katie Thornton, a reporter on conservative talk radio's history, joins Nicole Hemmer, a historian and author, to unpack the rise of conservative media. They dive into how early radio programming shifted from the 1930s, the impact of the FCC's Fairness Doctrine, and the transformation of the media landscape during the Civil Rights Era. The discussion highlights the emergence of influential figures like Rush Limbaugh and the connection between Christian media and conservative talk radio, showcasing the profound effects on American political discourse.

Nicole Hemmer, a history professor at Vanderbilt University and author of "Partisans," delves into the transformation of the Republican Party in the 1990s. She discusses the significant shifts in conservative ideology from Reagan's tenure to the rise of figures like Pat Buchanan and the impact of talk radio, particularly Rush Limbaugh. Hemmer highlights how Buchanan's campaign and Limbaugh's media innovation reshaped political engagement. The conversation also touches on the party's increasing embrace of extremism and the implications for American democracy.

Nicole Hemmer, a leading historian of the conservative movement, delves into Trump's inflammatory remarks during the California wildfires. She discusses how crises are manipulated for political gain, contrasting today's divisive tactics with historical unity in disasters. The conversation reveals the evolution of right-wing rhetoric and its impact on public discourse, illustrating how misinformation fosters anger and despair. Hemmer emphasizes the need for community resilience to combat these narratives and highlights the importance of solidarity during challenging times.