The New Yorker Radio Hour

Ketanji Brown Jackson, appointed by President Biden in 2022, shares her groundbreaking journey as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court. She discusses the challenges of navigating a court marked by heightened ethical scrutiny and declining public trust. Jackson reflects on her powerful dissent on affirmative action, emphasizing the importance of accountability. She reveals the collegial culture among justices, contrasting the tension with their camaraderie, and offers insights from her memoir "Lovely One," reflecting on her family and personal growth.

In this conversation, Danielle Deadwyler, known for her powerful role as Emmett Till's mother in 'Till,' discusses her new role in 'The Piano Lesson,' an August Wilson masterpiece. She delves into the conflict between siblings over a family heirloom, exploring themes of heritage, identity, and emotional connections. Deadwyler reflects on the importance of shared histories through struggle and joy, while also addressing the representation of Black women in theater. With Denzel Washington's involvement in adapting Wilson's works, the cultural significance of this art form is emphasized.

Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, both Harvard professors and co-authors of "How Democracies Die," dive into the concerning state of American democracy. They argue that voters aren't solely responsible for protecting democracy; it’s the role of elites and institutions. The duo highlights the troubling trend of democratic backsliding, emphasizing that this crisis predates Trump. They stress the need to confront hard questions about political behavior and the Electoral College, warning that without reform, the democratic landscape will continue to deteriorate.

In this engaging discussion, director Sam Gold, celebrated for his innovative Shakespearean adaptations, shares insights into his youthful and vibrant interpretation of 'Romeo + Juliet.' He highlights the contemporary relevance of Shakespeare for today's teens, likening it to a 'Euphoria' vibe. Gold aims to address serious themes like teen suicide while making theater accessible and engaging. He passionately advocates for authentic connections to the text, emphasizing theater's potential to foster dialogue and mental health awareness among young audiences.

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.