The New Yorker Radio Hour

Join Susan Glasser, a political staff writer for The New Yorker, Jane Mayer, renowned for her investigative insights, and Evan Osnos, who covers both politics and culture, as they unpack the implications of Donald Trump's reëlection. They discuss Biden's challenges with voter dissatisfaction and the dangers posed by Trump's authoritarian rhetoric. The trio highlights how shifts in the American electorate could redefine power dynamics, along with the looming threat to democracy and the significance of the press in holding authority accountable.

Rachel Maddow, MSNBC host and author of "Prequel," examines the haunting resurgence of fascism in America. She discusses connections between contemporary politics and historical far-right movements, including the 1939 German-American Bund rally. Maddow emphasizes the importance of recognizing unsung anti-fascist heroes and the role of citizen bravery in resisting authoritarianism. She also highlights the emotional toll on journalists covering elections and the dangers of media narratives in shaping political discourse.

Liz Cheney, former representative from Wyoming and a key figure in the January 6th investigation, discusses her bold stance against Donald Trump. She reflects on the implications of a Trump presidency for women's rights and the importance of resisting autocracy. Cheney candidly addresses her past support for Trump and the moral dilemmas faced by Republican leaders. She also reveals the influence of endorsements on the political landscape, highlighting her disappointment with Jeff Bezos’ actions surrounding Kamala Harris.

Jazmine Hughes, a writer for The New Yorker, discusses Kamala Harris’s deep connection to Alpha Kappa Alpha, revealing how it shaped her identity and political journey. She highlights the organization’s role in uplifting African American women and its grassroots activism. Additionally, celebrated choreographer Bill T. Jones reflects on his groundbreaking work 'Still/Here,' exploring themes of life, death, and community in art, particularly during the AIDS crisis. His insights reveal the powerful intersection of personal narrative and performance.

Charlamagne tha God, co-host of the "Breakfast Club" and author of "Get Honest or Die Lying," shares his thoughts on Vice President Kamala Harris's engagement with Black voters. He discusses the exaggerated narrative of her losing support, emphasizing the Democrats' messaging issues. Charlamagne recalls facing death threats for simply interviewing Harris and critiques the lack of honesty in political discourse. He highlights the need for Democrats to address immigration and economic concerns more authentically to resonate with voters.

Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood, dives into the critical landscape of abortion rights. She highlights the significant impact of the pro-choice vote in recent elections and the organization's ambitious $40 million campaign commitment. Johnson discusses the alarming prospect of a second Trump term, including potential bans on vital abortion medications. Her insights underscore the urgency of restoring healthcare access and the importance of electing supportive candidates amidst a polarized political climate.

Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of "Hamilton," discusses his latest project—a reimagining of the 1979 cult classic, "The Warriors," into a concept album with playwright Eisa Davis. They explore how this adaptation intertwines themes of resilience and identity, drawing parallels to ancient tales like Anabasis. With a star-studded cast, including Lauryn Hill and Nas, Miranda explains the power of music to tell diverse urban stories. He remains undaunted by the challenges of making a complete album in a single sitting, recalling how few believed in the potential of "Hamilton."

Justin Vernon, the creative force behind Bon Iver, delves into his return with the new EP 'SABLE,' his first in over five years. He shares the personal journey behind the album, addressing themes of heartache and emotional introspection. Vernon reflects on the complexities of fame, the significance of collaboration with artists like Taylor Swift and Charli XCX, and the profound impact of psychedelics on his creativity. His candid thoughts on performance and growth resonate, highlighting a transformative period for both him and his music.

Evan Osnos, a Longtime staff writer for The New Yorker with in-depth insights on Kamala Harris's campaign, discusses the complexities of her rise in politics. He shares how Biden’s endorsement has shifted her trajectory yet underscores her razor-thin lead in polls. Osnos highlights the skepticism Harris faces and her determination not to wait for traditional processes. The emotional impact on young voters and the looming fear of another Electoral College loss for Democrats are also explored, emphasizing the unprecedented stakes of her candidacy.

Brian Jordan Alvarez, an actor and creator of the FX show 'English Teacher,' dives into the chaotic world of public schools, where book bans and tech restrictions fuel comedic inspiration. He shares insights on his viral TikTok fame and the challenges of portraying a gay Latino teacher in a conservative Texas setting. The conversation explores the ties between humor and identity, the transformative power of literature in education, and the importance of clarity in performance, especially in comedy.