Cato Podcast

Eric Gomez, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, dives into the complex and shifting landscape of the Ukraine conflict. He discusses the U.S. greenlight for Ukraine to target deep into Russia, analyzing the implications of this strategic move. Gomez critiques U.S. foreign policy towards Ukraine, highlighting potential changes with a new administration. He also addresses the evolving public sentiment in the U.S. about supporting Ukraine and the rising geopolitical tensions involving North Korea's presence in Europe.

Dr. Marty Makary, a renowned surgeon at Johns Hopkins and author, dives into the flaws within the medical system in this insightful discussion. He tackles how rigid beliefs and groupthink often impede progress in medicine. Makary highlights the peanut allergy epidemic as a case study in cognitive dissonance, emphasizing the need for adaptability and humility among medical professionals. Through his engaging anecdotes, he raises critical questions about the trust we place in established guidelines and the importance of evolving practices for better health outcomes.

Luke Wachob, an advocate with People United for Privacy, discusses the growing threats to donor privacy, emphasizing the politically motivated challenges facing contributors. He highlights recent legal battles, such as Arizona's Voter's Right to Know Act, that complicate nonprofit advocacy. The conversation reveals a troubling decline in small donor contributions, raising concerns for local charities. Wachob also delves into the implications of legislative ambiguities on charitable giving and the overarching risks to individual freedoms and privacy.

Brandan Buck, a research fellow at the Cato Institute and expert on U.S.-Mexico relations, discusses the perilous notion of a U.S. military invasion of Mexico to combat fentanyl trafficking. He argues that such action would exacerbate violence and complicate the socio-political landscape. Buck highlights the economic and diplomatic repercussions that could strain U.S.-Mexico relations and even push Mexico closer to China. He emphasizes that a military solution lacks practicality without local cooperation and could lead to further chaos.

Civil forfeiture is under scrutiny as the FBI's seizure of valuable safe deposit box contents raises legal and ethical questions. A class action lawsuit challenges the due process violations faced by victims. Legal tactics by law enforcement complicate the landscape, as they seek to avoid class action status. The discussion highlights the financial incentives behind these seizures and the struggles individuals face in contesting them. Advocates call for reform to simplify access to the legal system for those affected.

Willie Yeatman, a Senior Fellow at the Pacific Legal Foundation, shares his expertise on the complexities of federal regulation and the proposed Department of Government Efficiency. The discussion highlights the skepticism surrounding real change within the entrenched administrative state and the necessity for congressional involvement in meaningful deregulation. Yeatman also discusses the barriers established companies pose against reform and underscores the critical role of judicial rulings in navigating regulatory challenges, emphasizing accountability and cooperation in governance.

The next Trump Administration will feature a new head of the FCC, Brendan Carr. He's said he stands on the side of the First Amendment when it comes to some FCC roles, but also views many tech firms as central to a "censorship cartel." Cato’s Jennifer Huddleston and Brent Skorup comment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caleb Franz, author of "The Conductor," dives into the life of Rev. John Rankin, a crucial but overlooked figure in the abolitionist movement. He discusses Rankin's remarkable transformation of his home into a sanctuary on the Underground Railroad, highlighting the risks involved. Franz explores Rankin’s collaboration with William Lloyd Garrison, focusing on their shared moral commitment to immediate emancipation. The conversation also reflects on the importance of storytelling in reviving the legacy of unsung heroes like Rankin.

In this discussion, Tommy Berry, an expert on the Vacancies Act and editor at the Cato Institute, delves into the challenges of Senate confirmations for presidential nominees. He highlights past issues and the importance of congressional oversight in appointments. Berry also examines the Vacancies Act's implications, using Matthew Whitaker as a case study for acting officials. Additionally, he discusses how Senate authority serves as a check on executive power and provides insight into the historical context of recess appointments and their constitutional significance.

David Kemp, a policy analyst at the Cato Institute, offers sharp insights into the economic realities of nuclear power expansion under Biden. He critiques the ambitious timeline for increasing nuclear capacity, highlighting historical inefficiencies and financial hurdles. Kemp compares U.S. nuclear projects to those in France, discussing challenges that have caused delays and high costs. He also addresses the implications of subsidies and regulatory reforms, pondering their potential impact on taxpayers and the long-term sustainability of the nuclear industry.