Teddy Schleifer and Ken Vogel, both New York Times reporters, dive into the alarming influence of billionaires on American elections. They explore how mega-donors are reshaping democracy, emphasizing the secrecy of political donations and the opacity of dark money. The duo discusses the implications of wealthy philanthropists influencing policy, particularly around social issues like reproductive rights. They also reflect on the intertwining of corporate funding and political power, raising crucial questions about transparency and the future of electoral integrity.

Teddy Schleifer, a New York Times reporter on tech, teams up with analyst Samo Burja to dive deep into Silicon Valley's surprising rightward turn since the Trump era. They explore how tech leaders are embracing conservative values, the potential lost ties with the Democratic Party, and the impact of independent media on political discourse. The discussion also touches on the migration of tech talent from San Francisco and the public's renewed political enthusiasm as the 2024 election approaches, signaling a shift in engagement and ideology.

Reporter Teddy Schleifer discusses the challenges of reporting on big money philanthropy. Topics include the importance of independent media outlets, balancing individual stories vs systemic issues, Mackenzie Scott's emergence as a major philanthropist, Melinda Gates' distancing from Bill Gates' philanthropy, Elon Musk's potential philanthropy, Zuckerberg's philanthropy in light of Facebook's evolution, and lesser-known Silicon Valley donors. The impact of crypto wealth and the differences between cryptophilanthropy and traditional philanthropy are also explored

Teddy Schleifer, a journalist from the New York Times, sheds light on the influence of billionaires in American politics. He discusses how Trump’s billionaire cabinet raises ethical concerns about prioritizing wealth over public interests. The conversation explores potential cuts to social safety nets, driven by the spending reform agenda of a Republican-led Congress. Schleifer emphasizes the risk of corruption and the disparity between the wealthy elite's interests and the needs of everyday Americans, sparking a thought-provoking dialogue about democracy's future.

Teddy Schleifer, a New York Times reporter specializing in campaign finance and billionaire influence, analyzes Elon Musk's surprising shift from a Hillary supporter to a prominent Trump ally. He unpacks how Musk's backing could alter the political landscape this election season. They discuss Musk's super PAC strategies, his significant social media influence, and the implications of his actions on voter mobilization. Schleifer highlights the potential rewards Musk might gain should Trump return to power, showcasing the entwined dynamics of business and politics.