The Brian Lehrer Show

Elizabeth Kim, a reporter for Gothamist and WNYC, dives into the New York City mayoral campaign's dynamics. She discusses the potential impact of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's endorsement on progressive candidates like Maya Wiley. The conversation also explores the intricacies of ranked-choice voting and its influence on voter choices amid debates about public safety and police reforms. Kim highlights the tension around candidate strategies and the significance of endorsements in shaping electoral outcomes.

Audrey Mickahail, Senior VP at Opportunity@Work, and Aaliyah Siddiqi, a self-made tech marketing specialist from Philadelphia, delve into the world of skilled workers following non-traditional paths. They discuss the challenges 'STAR' workers face in job markets that prioritize degrees over capabilities. Personal stories reveal the hurdles of navigating career uncertainties and the necessity of redefining hiring practices. The conversation advocates for acknowledging diverse skills while addressing biases that limit opportunities for talented individuals.

John Schaefer, the host of WNYC's New Sounds, is spearheading a campaign to save the beloved music program amidst financial turmoil. He discusses the urgency of raising $1.5 million to keep it alive, fueled by emotional support from fans. Schaefer reflects on the evolution of contemporary music since 1982 and the importance of human curation over algorithms for music discovery. He also shares exciting upcoming music events, reinforcing the role of community in celebrating diverse musical genres.

Tiffany Hsu, a technology reporter for The New York Times, dives into the alarming trend of historical erasure under the Trump administration. She reveals how public records are being selectively altered to shape a more favorable narrative, raising concerns about the integrity of history. Hsu discusses the role of institutions in safeguarding diverse historical narratives and highlights specific examples, such as the removal of transgender references from the Stonewall National Monument's webpage. The implications of these actions for marginalized communities and the preservation of truth are explored in-depth.

Bridget Bergin, WNYC's senior political correspondent, and Reuven Blau, a criminal justice reporter for The City, dive into a recent mayoral forum focused on crime and public safety. They dissect the shifting views on policing, revealing a movement from defunding to advocating for more police presence. The conversation highlights the growing challenges at Rikers Island, particularly its role as a mental health facility. Debates on the controversial stop and frisk policy also reveal candidates' differing stances on racial profiling and community safety.

Selena Simmons-Duffin, an NPR health policy reporter with a focus on the Department of Health and Human Services, discusses the far-reaching consequences of recent federal health agency layoffs. She highlights how cuts to vital programs, including those for rape prevention, jeopardize essential services for vulnerable populations. The conversation probes the fallout from Medicaid cuts and the portrayal of low-income individuals, alongside personal stories revealing the dangers to public health from abandoned facilities. The impact of these changes is profound and unsettling.

Michael Froman, president of the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Trade Representative, dives into the intricate history of American trade policies. He discusses the role of tariffs and trade wars, particularly the Smoot-Hawley Act's impact on the Great Depression. The conversation transitions to Keynesian economics, the consequences of trade agreements like NAFTA, and their implications for income inequality. Lastly, Froman reflects on the personal stories intertwined with trade policies, showcasing the human cost of economic decisions.

U.S. Senator Cory Booker, a passionate advocate for social justice from New Jersey, discusses his record-breaking Senate speech and the Democratic response to Trump's agenda. He emphasizes the crucial role of grassroots movements in bridging political divides and tackling urgent issues like healthcare. Booker highlights the importance of civic engagement, drawing connections to historical social movements. He also underscores the need for collective action against authoritarianism, particularly concerning academic freedom and diversity funding.

Elaine Godfrey, a staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the massive protests against Trump's second administration, which saw thousands marching in all fifty states. She highlights the emotional stakes among activists who view these protests as crucial to social responsibility. Godfrey also points out the creative protest signs, blending humor with serious commentary on societal issues. Personal anecdotes from protesters add depth, while reflections from a centenarian WWII veteran underscore the long-standing frustrations regarding social issues and veterans' organizations.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.Tariff Chaos (First) | When Family Members Believe Conspiracy Theories (Starts at 41:36) | How to Compost in NYC (Starts at 1:05:21)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here.