To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes

Charlie Sykes is joined by Nicholas Grossman, editor of Arc Digital and political science professor, to dissect the first 100 days of Trump's second term—from the international backlash to his Canada rhetoric to the domestic fallout of authoritarian policies. They explore the growing cracks in public opinion, the danger of a politicized military, and the economic time bomb of Trump’s tariff regime. Plus, they discuss whether civil society—not Congress—holds the real key to stopping the administration’s most extreme ambitions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes is joined by journalist Ryan Lizza to unpack the first 100 days of Trump's second term and why much of the political media is failing to meet the moment. They discuss Lizza’s dramatic exit from Politico, the dangers of corporate media under pressure, and why journalists — and citizens — must rethink how they cover and confront this new era. Plus, they explore the chilling implications of government weaponization, surveillance, and the slow erosion of democratic norms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and Adam Kinzinger unpack Donald Trump's public humiliation by Vladimir Putin, his surrender on Ukraine, and the dangerous implications for America's standing in the world. They also dive into Trump's open market manipulation, the erosion of Congressional power, and why this political moment may be the most consequential in American history. Kinzinger argues it's time for Americans to decide: fight, flee, or acquiesce. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FBI arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan. Charlie Sykes and former Congressman Adam Kinzinger gave their reaction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes is joined by Paul Rieckhoff to break down the chaos engulfing the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth—from classified leaks on Signal to a spiraling internal purge. They explore how a Fox News persona ended up with the nukes, what it means for U.S. national security, and why even Trumpworld is starting to panic. Plus, signs of resistance from Harvard, independent veterans, and the surprising impact of punching the bully in the nose.More info on Paul's work:www.IndependentVeteransOfAmerica.orgwww.IndependentAmericans.uswww.AmericanVeteransForUkraine.org https://youtube.com/@independentamericans8488?si=_LqnAsAM14Rdh7tVwww.Righteous.us Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes is joined by Lawfare’s Ben Wittes to unpack a whirlwind week in Trumpworld—from the Supreme Court’s late-night rebuke of secret deportations to Pete Hegseth’s Pentagon meltdown. They discuss the legal stakes of the Abrego Garcia case, the markets reacting to Trump’s Fed threats, and the eerie silence around Trump’s authoritarian moves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this Easter Sunday, Charlie Sykes is joined by Atlantic writer Tom Nichols to unpack the dizzying pace of democratic erosion in Trump's second term. From threats to the IRS, FCC, and Fed, to the elevation of conspiracy theorists and foreign propaganda apologists, they examine how fear, intimidation, and nihilism are driving the administration’s agenda. But amidst the chaos, they find reasons for hope—including a judiciary showing backbone and institutions that may yet rediscover their courage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julian Zelizer, a Princeton history and public affairs professor and contributor to NPR, dives into the chaotic political landscape shaped by Trump. He discusses the administration's alarming defiance of the Supreme Court and the normalization of undermining the rule of law. Zelizer highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by institutions like Harvard, while emphasizing the dangers of unchecked executive power. They also explore the complexities of U.S.-China negotiations and the implications of a burgeoning presidential influence on democracy.

Tim O’Brien, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and expert on finance and politics, joins to dissect the chaos surrounding Trump's tariff war and his relationship with Vladimir Putin. They delve into the implications of Trump's unpredictable policies on global markets and alliances, revealing how his actions strain international relations and legal norms. The conversation takes a turn towards the ongoing U.S.-China trade conflict while humorously reflecting on the unpredictable nature of political allegiances, likening the chaos to a dog napping under a desk.

Join former Marine fighter pilot Amy McGrath and ex-congressman Denver Riggleman as they tackle pressing issues like national security and the impact ofTrump’s rhetoric on U.S. governance. They discuss the chilling effects of loyalty-driven purges and conspiracy theories, all with a touch of bourbon-fueled honesty. Expect a candid conversation about military dynamics, political challenges in red states, and the geopolitical landscape, along with insights into their new podcast, Truth in the Barrel. Tune in for a blend of grit and insights!