Thomas Zimmer, Historiker und Gastprofessor an der Georgetown University, spricht über die bevorstehenden US-Wahlen und die Gefahren des Trumpismus für die Demokratie. Jule Reimer, Umweltjournalistin beim Deutschlandfunk, thematisiert die Herausforderungen der UN-Artenvielfaltskonferenz COP16 und die Bedeutung internationaler Zusammenarbeit. Zudem wird die instabile Lage der Ampelkoalition in Deutschland diskutiert, die auf interne Konflikte und wirtschaftliche Schwierigkeiten zuammenprallt, während die politische Situation in Georgien beleuchtet wird.

In this discussion, Thomas Zimmer, a democracy scholar from Georgetown, and Michael Weiss, a seasoned investigative reporter focused on Russia, delve into the alarming implications of Russ Vought's radical constitutionalism. They analyze how populist influences have reshaped the Republican Party and the potential risks posed by competent yet extremist figures. The conversation also tackles the geopolitics of Syria's recent turmoil amid distractions from Russia and Iran, raising concerns about the global stability in an era of shifting power dynamics.

Historian Thomas Zimmer discusses Project 2025, a plan by right-wing activists, aiming to reshape federal agencies, implement Schedule F, promote authoritarianism, and enforce conservative societal orders. The conversation delves into civil service reforms, unitary executive theory, government vacancies, threats to democracy, and the upcoming MSNBC Live event.

Congressman Brendan Boyle, representing Pennsylvania's 2nd District, discusses the dysfunction looming in Congress as it shifts into a new session. Historian Thomas Zimmer dives into Project 2025, revealing the radical transformation of American conservatism and its potential societal impacts. The pair analyze how economic policies could sway voter behavior, especially among working-class individuals, and examine the complexities of Pennsylvania's political landscape, particularly regarding gender dynamics and the challenges female candidates face.

Neera Tanden discusses the GOP's stance on reproductive rights, John Heilemann assesses Biden's reelection chances, and Thomas Zimmer reveals The Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 plan. The podcast touches on election dynamics, impact of third party candidates, abortion's political implications, battle over healthcare, and conservative radicalization.