Jacobin Radio

Featuring Aslı Bâli and Greg Grandin on the MAGA model of US imperialism. Support The Dig at Patreon.com/TheDig Subscribe to the Unite and Win podcast at podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unite-and-win-a-guide-to-workplace-organizing/id1866713309 Check out equator.org for longform articles, public events, and reading groups. The Dig goes deep into politics everywhere, from labor struggles and political economy to imperialism and immigration. Hosted by Daniel Denvir.

In a deep dive with Jacob Mundy, a peace and conflict studies professor at Colgate University, this discussion unpacks the tumultuous history of Western Sahara. Mundy shares insights on Morocco's 1975 invasion, the refugee crisis, and the early military successes of the Polisario. He explores the complexities of international support, including the roles of Algeria and Libya. The podcast also addresses the impact of U.S. policies, such as the 2020 recognition of Moroccan sovereignty, and the implications for ongoing conflicts and regional dynamics.

Alejandro Velasco, a historian and expert on Venezuela, delves into the country’s economic recovery amidst hyperinflation and political repression following contested elections. He discusses the enduring legacy of Chavismo, the challenges faced by Maduro, and the implications of U.S. foreign policy. Eric Blanc analyzes Victor Berger’s controversial racial history, showcasing his transformation from a white supremacist to an anti-racist leader. Blanc argues for the relevance of sewer socialism's lessons for contemporary leftist movements.

Gabriel Hetland, an Associate Professor and author of *Democracy on the Ground*, dives into the recent U.S. operation against Nicolás Maduro. He discusses the internal power struggles within Venezuela, the role of Delcy Rodríguez, and the implications of U.S. intervention on regional politics. Hetland explores the eroding support for Chavismo, the complex military loyalties, and the potential for nationalist backlash against U.S. control. Their conversation paints a vivid picture of Venezuela's political landscape amid ongoing imperial tensions.

Pedro Paulo Zahluth Bastos, a Brazilian political economist, and Denys Pilash, a Ukrainian political scientist, delve into the ramifications of Trump's military actions in Venezuela, coining it the 'Donroe Doctrine.' They explore how the U.S. adopts a blunt, imperialistic approach to secure resources, while also critiquing Maduro's regime. Pilash connects the struggle against U.S. imperialism with the fight for justice in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for consistent internationalism. Their discussion reveals the complexity of navigating anti-imperialism without endorsing corrupt leaders.

In this enlightening discussion, Alejandro Velasco, a historian from NYU, Gabriel Hetland, a professor at SUNY Albany, and political scientist Yoletty Bracho dissect the intricate dynamics of Venezuelan politics. They analyze Trump's strategies against Venezuela, shedding light on the role of opposition figures like Maria Corina Machado in shaping U.S. narratives. The conversation explores oil's centrality to national identity, the fragmentation within the Venezuelan opposition, and the implications of sanctions on the country's economic collapse, all framed within a context of rising authoritarianism.

In this engaging conversation, Matt Huber, a geography and environmental policy professor, dives into the nuances of abundance for the Left, sparked by recent Democratic discourse. Huber critiques the tension between supply-side focus and traditional redistribution approaches. He explores the structural obstacles to infrastructure projects and the role of public agencies versus NGOs. Emphasizing the need for a massive renewable energy build-out, he highlights nuclear energy's potential and critiques climate NIMBYism, offering a vision for a strong working-class coalition.

Emile Torres, a moral philosopher, delves into the unsettling connections between transhumanism and eugenics, questioning the ethics of tech elites. Quinn Slobodian critiques neoliberalism's roots in race science and how its ideologies persist in modern discussions. Femi Taiwo dissects the backlash against DEI initiatives, linking it to broader class dynamics and revealing its superficiality. Kristin Du Mez explores the rise of Christian nationalism and its alarming political implications, while Susannah Glickman examines the defense industry's role in shaping Silicon Valley, uncovering troubling narratives behind high-tech development.

Andrew Epstein, a seasoned communications director and political strategist, shares insights from Zoran Mamdani's impactful mayoral campaign. He discusses the creative strategies that turned affordability into a central message and how viral video content engaged voters. Epstein reflects on transitioning from anarchism to socialism and the influence of Bernie Sanders on mass organizing. He details the importance of crafting a positive, inclusive political tone while effectively countering media attacks, all while ensuring that policy focus remained sharp and actionable.

Oscar Mendoza, a social scientist focused on Chilean politics, and Pablo Abufom, a philosopher and political analyst, explore the shocking electoral shift in Chile following the rise of far-right president José Antonio Kast. They discuss the failed constitutional process, the impact of media on public perception, and how fear of crime drove voters away from the left. Mendoza further delves into the dynamics of compulsory voting and Kast's political strategies, while Abufom connects this resurgence to historical pinochetismo and the challenges facing the opposition.