The Brian Lehrer Show

Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General, shares insights on the alarming cancer risks associated with even moderate alcohol consumption. He emphasizes the need for clear health warnings on alcohol labels. Murthy also discusses the complexities around alcohol, addiction, and public health, urging informed discourse on topics like cannabis legalization. Furthermore, he highlights the transformative power of arts in combating loneliness among the elderly and advocates for community engagement to tackle mental health challenges in a post-pandemic world.

Timothy Gardner is a climate and energy correspondent at Reuters, while Aysha Bagchi reports for USA Today on the Justice Department. They analyze the Senate confirmation hearings for Chris Wright, a controversial fossil fuel executive, whose views on climate change raised public alarm. They also discuss Pam Bondi's appointment as attorney general, focusing on her past as a prosecutor and concerns about political bias. The tensions surrounding energy policy and judicial independence create a gripping narrative about future legislative directions.

Reuven Blau, a senior reporter for The City known for his investigative work on criminal justice and prison healthcare, sheds light on serious issues within New York State prisons. He discusses the troubling hiring practices that allow doctors with checkered pasts to treat inmates. The conversation reveals alarming instances of medical malpractice and negligence, including personal stories of misdiagnosis. Blau calls for urgent reforms to improve oversight and accountability in prison healthcare, highlighting the dire need for change to protect incarcerated individuals.

Julian Zelizer, a Princeton professor and CNN political analyst, dives into the interplay between inaugural addresses and partisanship. He presents a refreshing take on how partisanship can strengthen democracy, referencing historical insights and lessons from the civil rights movement. Zelizer analyzes notable inaugural speeches, including those of FDR and LBJ, revealing how they navigated political tides. He also explores the evolution of American political parties since the 1980s and the challenges posed by today’s hyper-partisanship.

Terrence McDonald, editor at New Jersey Monitor, shares insights on Governor Phil Murphy's final address. He discusses the pressing need for affordable housing and the proposed zoning reforms to drive development, amidst concerns about environmental impacts. McDonald also dives into Murphy's controversial cell phone ban in schools, connecting it to youth mental health issues. Finally, he touches on the broader challenges of navigating state politics in a shifting national landscape, highlighting Murphy's commitment to New Jersey's values.

Albany reporter Jon Campbell shares insights from Governor Hochul's recent address, emphasizing her centrist policy proposals as she eyes re-election. They discuss plans for tax cuts aimed at middle and lower-income residents and the ongoing debate over taxing the ultra-wealthy. Campbell highlights a new initiative for tuition-free associate degrees for those 25-55 and Hochul's focus on enhancing subway safety amidst concerns over police presence. The chat also touches on housing proposals aimed at protecting renters' rights and her stance on abortion and child care initiatives.

Join Susan Glasser, a New Yorker staff writer and co-host of "The Political Scene," as she discusses the pivotal confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's nominee for defense secretary. They dive into Hegseth’s controversial views, including his Christian nationalist beliefs and their implications for military effectiveness. The conversation highlights tensions over military policies, diversity initiatives, and the impact of personal convictions on military leadership. Plus, concerns about transparency in the confirmation process take center stage.

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s defense secretary nominee, joins Karen Greenberg, director of the Center on National Security at Fordham Law. They dive into heated discussions from the confirmation hearings, exploring topics like the vital role of women in combat and the necessity of merit-based standards. Greenberg critiques the implications of military support for Israel while confronting the legacy of U.S. actions in Iraq and Afghanistan. They also tackle essential themes like sexual assault prevention and the need for stringent financial oversight in veterans' affairs.

Ron Wyden, the progressive U.S. Senator from Oregon and author of "It Takes Chutzpah," discusses navigating a new Republican-majority Senate. He shares insights on recent wildfire crises and proposes legislative solutions for environmental challenges. The conversation extends to inflation, food price gouging, and the need for consumer protections. Wyden introduces his 12 Rules of Chutzpah, emphasizing strategic advocacy for progressive change, while highlighting the complexities of U.S.-Israel relations and the urgent need for addressing humanitarian concerns.

Maureen Corrigan, a book critic for Fresh Air and Georgetown professor, explores the enduring impact of 'The Great Gatsby' as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. She discusses the novel's themes of hedonism and societal commentary, drawing parallels between Gatsby’s tragic love and modern challenges surrounding the American Dream. Corrigan reflects on its cultural significance, the implications of censorship, and how its narrative structure remains relevant today, emphasizing the importance of keeping such classics in education.