Oliver Laughland

Oliver Laughland, the Guardian US Southern Bureau Chief, shares insights from Starbase, Texas, the burgeoning hub of SpaceX. He discusses the local community's mixed feelings about SpaceX's growth, balancing job creation against environmental and gentrification concerns. The episode also touches on the ethical implications of Musk's ambitions, reflecting on the community's hopes for space exploration versus pressing socio-economic issues. Laughland explores the potential of SpaceX becoming its own city, revealing the intricate relationship between innovation and ethical leadership.

Oliver Laughland, The Guardian's US southern bureau chief with a focus on civil unrest, discusses the aftermath of a tragic shooting by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. The viral footage capturing the moment sparks a nationwide outcry and protests. Laughland delves into Renee Good's background and the conflicting narratives surrounding the incident, highlighting local officials' rejection of federal claims. He warns of escalating tensions in Minneapolis and the potential for unrest, as protests spread across the country amid fears of disproportionate federal backlash.

In this engaging discussion, Maanvi Singh, an immigration reporter, and Oliver Laughland, Southern Bureau chief at Guardian US, uncover the dark world of Trump’s deportation machine. They detail the discovery of a secret deportation hub in Alexandria, exposing the harrowing experiences of detainees. The conversation covers how rapid transfers obstruct legal access, the complexities of family separations, and the dire conditions in El Salvador’s prisons. Their investigation reveals the chilling impact of these practices on immigrant communities and legal systems.