Stay Tuned with Preet

Franklin Foer, a staff writer for The Atlantic, delves into the fallout of the October 7 attack on Israel. He analyzes escalating tensions in Gaza and the risk of wider regional conflict. The conversation highlights the erosion of diplomatic negotiations amid these crises and the complexity of leadership decisions. Foer also discusses how the upcoming U.S. elections could shape foreign policy in the Middle East, and the implications of potential Israeli military strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. A nuanced look at war, diplomacy, and the search for peace.

Joining the conversation is David Frum, a former speechwriter for President George W. Bush and a staff writer at The Atlantic. He dives into the recent vice presidential debate, examining its unusual politeness and potential influence on the upcoming election. Frum discusses the historical significance of such debates and their impact on voter perceptions, particularly regarding character and health. He also critiques the evolving political landscape, addressing key issues like abortion and immigration, showcasing the complexities politicians face today.

Nadav Eyal, a prominent journalist from Yediot Ahronot, provides an in-depth look into Israel's striking intelligence operation against Hezbollah. He discusses the dramatic pager detonation on September 17 and its ripple effects, including significant casualties and the impact on Hezbollah’s leadership. Eyal also analyzes Israel's military tactics, the paranoia creeping into Hezbollah, and the subsequent conspiracy theories within the group. He contrasts the roles of Israeli intelligence agencies, shedding light on their historical distinctions and recent accountability issues.

Aaron Zebley, former chief of staff to Robert Mueller, and Andrew Goldstein, ex-chief of the public corruption unit at SDNY, reveal behind-the-scenes insights from the Mueller investigation. They discuss challenges in proving intent in recent assassination attempts on Trump and the complexities of managing high-stakes legal cases. The duo dives into the impact of voter fraud claims in politics, the investigation's focus on foreign interference, and the public's expectations versus legal reality surrounding the Mueller Report.

In this insightful discussion, Dahlia Lithwick, a senior editor at Slate and host of the Amicus podcast, dives into the immense power of the Supreme Court as it navigates a pivotal election year. She explores the court's potential role in deciding the presidential election, drawing parallels to Bush v. Gore. Lithwick also examines high-profile upcoming cases involving ghost guns, gender-affirming care, and the implications of Trump's ongoing legal challenges, shedding light on the court's shifting dynamics amidst political turmoil.

Bradley Tusk, a political strategist and venture capitalist, joins the conversation to discuss the innovative world of mobile voting aimed at making elections more accessible. He dives into the challenges of the current voting system, emphasizing how low turnout and polarization hinder democracy. Tusk shares insights on mobile voting's evolution and its potential benefits for marginalized communities. The conversation also touches on reforms like nonpartisan primaries and ranked choice voting, advocating for a more engaged electorate.

H.R. McMaster, a retired Lieutenant General and former National Security Advisor, shares insights from his time in the Trump White House. He discusses Trump's foreign policy approach and the implications of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. McMaster also critiques the political rhetoric surrounding recent legal cases and examines the complexities of leadership during turbulent times, especially in relation to the military and its culture. His reflections offer a fascinating glimpse into the challenges of national security in contemporary politics.

Mimi Rocah, the Westchester County District Attorney, joins the conversation to dissect the alarming assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The discussion delves into the legal ramifications of such incidents and the urgent need for enhanced safety measures for political figures. Rocah also highlights the dangerous effects of political rhetoric, emphasizing how divisive language can foster radicalization. The podcast uncovers the complex dynamics of gun culture in America and the societal responsibilities in addressing political violence.

Max Boot, a historian and Washington Post columnist, dives into his book about Ronald Reagan's impact on today's Republican Party. He discusses Reagan’s legacy of uniting factions during his presidency, contrasting it with the current polarization. Boot explores Reagan's relationship with Tip O'Neill, revealing how they collaborated despite differences. He also reflects on Nancy Reagan's vital role in his political life and examines the historical neglect during the AIDS crisis, shedding light on leadership responsibilities.

Patti Solis Doyle, a veteran political strategist and former advisor to Obama and Clinton, joins Rick Wilson, co-founder of the Lincoln Project, to dissect the recent debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. They analyze Harris’s commanding presence and Trump’s conspiratorial tactics, pondering their impacts on the upcoming election. The discussion includes the fallout from restrictive abortion laws and the surprising influence of celebrity endorsements on voter turnout, showcasing the ever-shifting landscape of politics in 2024.