WSJ Opinion: Free Expression

Glenn Hutchins, a financier and philanthropist, discusses the economic implications of Trump's tariffs and emerging inflation trends. He dives into how the Federal Reserve is navigating these challenges while maintaining independence. Hutchins also explores the transformative impact of AI on job markets and sectors resistant to change. Furthermore, he evaluates the Democratic Party's shifting strategies in response to electoral losses and the need to connect with voters on pressing issues like cost of living and class divisions.

Rishi Sunak, former British Prime Minister and current Hoover Institution fellow, delves into the perilous state of democracy today. He discusses the surge of authoritarianism and the necessity for democracies to adapt to a multipolar world. Sunak highlights the Western Alliance’s resolve in standing against Russian aggression, and the differing U.S. and European views on Palestine. Lastly, he addresses the threats posed by China and the crucial need for economic self-sufficiency and resilience in democratic nations.

Nadav Eyal, an Israeli journalist and commentator known for his insightful analysis, discusses the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the resulting humanitarian crisis. He highlights the severe famine and aid disruptions affecting civilians, as both sides face mounting accusations. Eyal explains the international backlash, including potential recognition of a Palestinian state by global leaders. He also delves into Israel's military strategies and the complexities of achieving a lasting peace amid escalating tensions and domestic scrutiny.

Donald Trump’s control of the Republican Party is almost complete. But there are still some members pushing back against the president. Sen. Lisa Murkowski is a persistent dissident. She was one of the few Senators to vote against a recent package of cuts that had already been approved in a spending bill. She has also voted against and expressed reservations about a number of Donald Trump’s cabinet members. She voted to convict him on impeachment charges after the January 6 2021 Capitol Hill riots.  On this episode of Free Expression, Gerry Baker speaks with Murkowski about her recent memoir, “Far From Home,” her concerns about HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s stances on vaccines in relation to the recent measles outbreak in Texas, and why she’s “not losing sleep” over the direction of the Republican party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

William Daley, former Commerce Secretary and White House Chief of Staff, dives into the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party, particularly the rise of democratic socialists like Zohran Mamdani and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. He expresses concerns over the party's future and potential electoral risks by catering too much to its radical elements. Daley also contrasts the current situation with the GOP's Tea Party movement and discusses which candidates he believes could effectively appeal to the broader electorate, including moderates.

Economist Douglas Holtz-Eakin, former director of the Congressional Budget Office, joins to dissect Trump's ambitious ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill.’ He discusses the bill's potential benefits for the economy amid complex political dynamics. Holtz-Eakin highlights the urgent need for entitlement reform and addresses growing national debt concerns stemming from past tax cuts. Their conversation reveals rifts within the GOP and emphasizes how this significant legislation reflects broader shifts in Republican ideologies about governance and fiscal responsibility.

Heather Mac Donald, a Thomas W. Smith Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, joins to discuss the unexpected rise of 33-year-old Zohran Mamdani in the NYC mayoral race. They delve into Mamdani's radical stances, including his support for higher taxes and pro-Palestinian causes. The conversation highlights how Mamdani's victory signifies a shift toward democratic socialism among younger voters. They also critique the effects of far-left policies on New York’s economy and the implications for the Democratic Party's future.

Marc Reuel Gerecht, a seasoned political analyst and former CIA officer, delves deep into the shifting dynamics of the Middle East. He discusses Israel's aggressive focus on averting Iran's nuclear threat and the complex interplay of military operations and U.S. involvement. Gerecht analyzes how regional powers like Russia and China are reacting to the unfolding conflict, while also touching on Iran's internal leadership struggles and the potential for regime change, revealing a landscape fraught with uncertainty and shifting alliances.

Few people have lived the entertainment world like Barry Diller. Over 60 years in the business, he has run movie studios and TV networks and most recently built a portfolio of digital media properties. In the process he has seen the sector move from a studio-and producer-driven model to the increasingly tech-dominated business it is today.  On this episode of Free Expression, Diller speaks with Gerry Baker about his life in the entertainment business, how modern tech domination has diminished the value of creativity and why Hollywood went woke and progressive. Discussing his newly published memoir, “Who Knew?,” he also reveals what he calls the “sexual nuance” of being gay while being married to a woman, his wife of 25 years, the fashion designer, Diane Von Furstenberg.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates and author of 'How Countries Go Broke: The Big Cycle', discusses the looming U.S. debt crisis. He shares insights on the alarming rise of the national debt and its potential implications for the economy. Dalio emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to fiscal health, drawing lessons from history. He also presents his three-part solution for addressing unsustainable debt while navigating political incentives that often prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability.