To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes

Charlie Sykes speaks with Michael Roth, president of Wesleyan University, about the escalating attacks on higher education under Donald Trump’s administration. They discuss the administration’s sweeping funding cuts, threats to academic freedom, and the reluctance of university leaders to push back against government overreach. Roth offers a candid perspective on why he refuses to stay silent and what must happen to preserve the independence of American institutions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and David Frum discuss the volatile state of the U.S. economy, the Trump administration’s trade war with Canada, and the potential consequences of Elon Musk’s growing influence in government policy. They analyze Trump’s economic policies, including his fixation on tariffs and trade conflicts, and question the administration’s erratic geopolitical maneuvers, from Ukraine to Panama. The conversation also explores the Republican Party’s surrender to Trump’s agenda and the alarming speed of institutional capitulation in American democracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes is joined by Nicholas Grossman, editor of Arc Digital and professor of political science at the University of Illinois, to dissect the latest political chaos. They explore Donald Trump’s bizarre loyalty to Vladimir Putin, the unraveling of U.S. alliances, and the dangerous shift in global power dynamics. From the potential government shutdown to the erosion of democratic norms, this conversation is a deep dive into the troubling state of American politics and its broader implications. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and Reed Galen discuss the latest political turmoil, including the potential government shutdown, economic uncertainty, and the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party. They examine the rise of authoritarian figures, the state of the opposition, and the disconnect between voters and the political establishment. The conversation also delves into the broader implications of America's shifting global role, the dangers of Trumpism, and how Democrats can counteract the MAGA movement in an increasingly fractured political landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes sits down with Politico senior writer Jonathan Martin to break down the latest political chaos, including the explosive clash between the Trump cabinet and Elon Musk. They explore the growing tensions within Trump's cabinet, the unpredictability of his policy decisions, and the broader implications for America's allies. Martin also offers insight into the Democratic Party’s struggles, Gavin Newsom’s surprising stance on transgender athletes, and the nervous atmosphere at the recent Munich Security Conference. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and Washington Post columnist Karen Tumulty react to President Trump's speech to Congress. They discuss the administration’s approach to governance, including its impact on national security, economic policy, and the broader implications of Elon Musk’s influence. Tumulty and Sykes analyze the Republican Party’s response, the weakening of institutional guardrails, and how the media is navigating this new political landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and Susan Glasser discuss the significant geopolitical shifts occurring under Donald Trump's presidency, particularly regarding Ukraine and Russia. They analyze the implications of Trump's actions, including his confrontational meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, and the broader consequences for American foreign policy and alliances, especially in relation to NATO and Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and Adam Kinzinger discuss the significant shifts within the Republican Party, particularly in relation to Donald Trump's presidency. They explore the betrayal of traditional conservative values, especially regarding foreign policy and support for Ukraine. They also discuss the feelings of isolation and vindication among those who oppose Trump, and the challenges faced by individuals of faith in a politically charged environment. They also critique Elon Musk's influence on government and the potential dangers of drastic cuts to essential services. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes Adam Kinzinger discuss the recent Oval Office meeting between President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Ukrainian President Zelensky. They share their reaction to the treatment of Zelensky, the implications of Trump's actions for U.S. foreign policy, and the shifting dynamics within the Republican Party regarding support for Ukraine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Sykes and Kara Swisher discuss the evolving landscape of media and the influence of billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, and the future of major media outlets like the Washington Post. Swisher talks the motivations behind these billionaires' actions and their impact on society, emphasizing the need for accountability and the dangers of unchecked power. They also discuss the complex relationship between Trump and Elon Musk, Musk's self-perception as a savior and the potential consequences of his actions on Trump's political standing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.