Statecraft

Arnab Datta, an expert in infrastructure policy, and Skanda Amarnath, a macroeconomic policy specialist, dive into the role of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) in stabilizing oil markets. They propose a novel idea: leveraging the SPR strategically to support American industry and manage oil price volatility. The discussion highlights the historical underutilization of the SPR, the impact of geopolitical events like the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and innovative strategies for future oil acquisitions. They also explore how intelligent policy advocacy can influence market dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, historian John Milton Cooper Jr., a Pulitzer Prize finalist for his biography of Woodrow Wilson, unpacks the mystery of Wilson's 1919 stroke and its shocking cover-up. He reveals how Edith Wilson controlled the narrative, hiding crucial information from Congress and the media. The psychological shifts in the president and the implications for governance are explored, alongside the tension between Wilson and his advisers. Cooper also dives into the constitutional dilemmas that surfaced during this critical time, making for a riveting historical analysis.

Matthew Meselson, a pivotal figure in banning biological weapons research and investigator of the Sverdlovsk anthrax outbreak, shares gripping insights. He discusses the confusion around the deaths in 1979 and the Soviet cover-up. Meselson details his collaboration with the CIA and the challenging journey to investigate the incident firsthand. He draws parallels between Sverdlovsk and the COVID lab leak theory, highlighting failures in containment and secrecy. His anecdotes reveal the complicated interplay between science, diplomacy, and Cold War politics.

Dr. Matthew Meselson, known for DNA research, influenced Nixon to ban toxins. Learn how Hungarian lunch ladies and Michael Crichton played a role. Explore the impact on diplomacy and honesty in international relations. Discover the guest's background and productivity in science, including studying classic literature. Uncover the link between a lethal disease outbreak, monkeys, and transportation from Africa to Ancient Athens.

Cecilia Muñoz, former Director of the Domestic Policy Council under President Obama, sheds light on the often-overlooked role of this critical office. She discusses the key differences between the Biden and Obama transitions, the challenges of bureaucratic delays in policy implementation, and why some decisions never reach the president. Muñoz also explores the importance of inter-agency coordination, local government partnerships, and how personal relationships can influence major legislative outcomes.

Chris Snyder, a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Institute for Progress and an economics professor at Dartmouth, dives deep into Advanced Market Commitments (AMCs). He discusses the unexpected collaboration of the U.S. and Russia in funding innovations. Snyder reveals why certain diseases like malaria didn't get AMCs, while cancer and Alzheimer’s may be poor candidates. He explores the complexities of vaccine funding and the vital role of organizations like the Gates Foundation in enhancing vaccine distribution, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to health challenges.

Laura Thomas, a former CIA case officer and Chief of Base in Afghanistan, shares her insights from over 17 years in national security. She discusses the inner workings of a CIA base and the complexities of balancing human intelligence with technology. Thomas delves into the intelligence failures surrounding the fall of Kabul, critiquing both the decision-making processes and cultural challenges faced. She also highlights the importance of local knowledge in foreign intervention and the ongoing struggles to cultivate expertise within government agencies.

Andy Weber, Former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Programs, shares his experiences securing nuclear materials after the Soviet Union's fall in 1991. He details the urgent efforts to prevent unguarded uranium from falling into the wrong hands and the complex intelligence gathering required. Weber also reveals the intricate scams involving the black market trade of nuclear materials and the critical importance of personal relationships in government negotiations. His insights on managing global nuclear threats provide a gripping look into a high-stakes world.

Dr. Mark Dybul, former U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and leader of PEPFAR, shares insights from his pivotal role in saving 20 million lives through innovative health initiatives. He discusses groundbreaking strategies to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission in Africa and the challenges of funding and implementing effective treatment. Dybul also highlights the necessity of bipartisan support and collaboration between governments and NGOs in advancing health policies while reflecting on the ethical complexities faced in public health.