Steve Benen

MSNBC writer Steve Benen joins to discuss Trump's controversial disaster aid decisions, revealing a pattern of politically motivated denials. They highlight how Trump's refusal to assist blue states like Maryland impacts his own supporters in Trump-leaning areas. The conversation explores the administration’s tactics to punish political dissenters and how this can backfire, ultimately damaging the very voters that support him. Beneath the politics, Benen critiques the broader implications of partisan governance on national unity.

Ali Velshi is joined by NBC News’ Raf Sanchez, Janis Mackey Frayer, Kelly O’Donnell, Laurence Tribe, Charlie Dent, Joe Walsh, Steve Benen, A. Scott Bolden, Dave Jones, and a Law Professor. They discuss the devastating earthquake in Morocco, President Biden's trip to Vietnam, government funding and impeachment discussions, Republicans' actions, aftermath of a major earthquake, Alabama's AG power, the term 'banana republic,' and challenges of abortion access.

Joining the discussion is Steve Benen, a respected MSNBC writer and author of *Ministry of Truth*. He dives deep into the political machinations behind Trump's selective disaster aid decisions, emphasizing how they serve as rewards for supporters and punishments for opponents. Notably, Benen highlights the impact on rural Trump-voting counties in Maryland, revealing a disconnect that could backfire on GOP support. The conversation also probes into the broader implications of MAGA ideology and the potential backlash from disillusioned voters.

In this engaging discussion, MSNBC's Steve Benen, author of *Ministry of Truth*, dives into the fallout from Jeffrey Epstein's 'Birthday Book,' which includes a damning signed note from Trump. As press secretary Karoline Leavitt fumbles with awkward spins, Benen critiques the absurdity and intensity of MAGA's disinformation strategies. The conversation also reveals the Republican party's troubling loyalty to Trump amidst scandal, questioning their integrity and the power of right-wing media in shaping narratives around accountability.

Steve Benen, an insightful author known for his sharp analysis of Republican tactics, dives into the fierce political landscape unfolding at the Democratic National Convention. He reveals how the GOP has been rewriting history, influencing narratives around critical events like the Trump-Russia investigation. The conversation also touches on the unexpected presence of moderate Republicans and the evolving dynamics of younger voters, highlighting the importance of combating misinformation in modern politics.

Rick Wilson, a sharp political strategist from The Lincoln Project, critiques Trump's ongoing decline and its repercussions. Ben LaBolt, the White House Communications Director, showcases Biden’s wins, including the Cancer Moonshot initiative aimed at advancing cancer treatment. Steve Benen discusses his book on democracy, shedding light on the Republican narrative and historical distortions. The trio also reflects on the shifting political dynamics, the necessity of effective campaigning, and the evolving landscape of journalism and its impact on democracy.

Joining the discussion is Steve Benen, author of the insightful book Ministry of Truth, which dives deep into GOP narratives. He highlights the rising anxiety among Fox News personalities as they urge Trump to adopt a more disciplined tone amidst mounting backlash for his attacks on Kamala Harris. The conversation explores the dangerous intersection of misinformation and electoral strategies, revealing how Trump's reliance on falsehoods threatens both his campaign and democratic processes, showcasing the faltering grip of Republican propaganda.

Join Steve Benen, an insightful author whose new book delves into the GOP, as he discusses the growing panic among Fox News personalities regarding Trump's controversial messaging. They fear his attacks on Kamala Harris are backfiring, prompting calls for a more 'civil tone.' The conversation explores the limits of Republican propaganda and how the MAGA movement's reliance on lies is threatening democracy. Benen also highlights the internal conflicts within the GOP and the challenges posed by changing voter perceptions.

Discussion on lack of progress and unity within the House Republican Conference. Israeli Prime Minister talks about potential hostage release and election results. Exploring the future of the Israel-Hamas war and Gaza's governance after the war. Lack of outrage and government dysfunction. Negotiations for release of hostages and calls for ceasefire. The rise of a third political party in the United States. Importance of voting and understanding the significance of every vote. The power of abortion as an issue and its potential impact on the election.

Bob King, Fmr. President of the UAW, and other guests discuss the ongoing political battle in the US causing a potential government shutdown, the impact of the UAW strike and the need for worker recouping, the danger of vaccine misinformation, implications of a gag order on the former president, congressional impasse and auto industry strikes, geopolitical dynamics and national security, and the history and influence of The Heritage Foundation's Mandate for Leadership.