Stay Tuned with Preet

Antony Blinken, the former U.S. Secretary of State, shares insights on Trump’s proposed plan for Gaza, rooted in his team's earlier ideas. He discusses the challenges of securing a ceasefire and the complexities of Netanyahu's messaging. Blinken highlights the role of intermediaries in dealing with Hamas and examines shifting U.S. and Israeli public opinion on the war. With concerns about civilian harm and radicalization, he advocates for a time-bound approach to Palestinian recognition tied to key reforms. Blinken also reflects on U.S. strategies regarding Ukraine and the role of the U.N.

The discussion dives into the potential flaws in the indictment against Jim Comey. Preet and Joyce dissect the vagueness of the charges and examine the impact of Senator Cruz's questioning. They debate whether the government can prove Comey’s intent and consider the implications of legal strategies used during testimonies. The hosts also explore the significance of media leaks suggesting internal doubts within the DOJ and question the motivations behind criticism of Comey. It's a thought-provoking look at a complicated legal landscape.

Joyce Vance, a former U.S. Attorney and legal commentator, joins the discussion to unravel the indictment of James Comey for allegedly making false statements to Congress. They explore the implications of politicizing law enforcement, framing it as a perilous moment for democracy. Vance discusses the defense strategies available to Comey, potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and the broader risks of targeting political opponents. Their conversation delves into legal intricacies, including the role of exculpatory evidence and presidential interference, making for a riveting legal breakdown.

Steven Pinker, a renowned cognitive psychologist and Harvard professor, delves into his book on common knowledge and its impact on social norms. He explains how shared awareness shapes collective behavior and why clear academic writing is essential. Pinker connects common knowledge to everything from traffic norms to market speculation, highlighting how misinformation can undermine trust. The conversation also touches on how political dynamics have shifted under Trump's influence, showing the fragility of established norms.

The discussion highlights a troubling social media post by Trump aimed at AG Pam Bondi, warning of its implications for the rule of law. The hosts argue that such demands for prosecuting political foes echo oppressive tactics from history. They also delve into the investigation surrounding Charlie Kirk’s assassination and the ensuing political fallout. The conversation touches on First Amendment issues and the ethical dilemmas facing prosecutors in light of Trump's vindictive approach.

Elie Honig, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and legal analyst, shares insights from his book, *When You Come at the King*. He reveals the intricacies of special counsel investigations and discusses historical cases, from Watergate to Trump's presidency. Elie explains why independent probes are crucial for accountability and outlines the unique challenges these investigations face. Expect anecdotes, including a wild story about the mob's attempt to take down Curtis Sliwa, making for a fascinating and informative conversation.

Dahlia Lithwick, a Senior Editor at Slate and host of the Amicus podcast, dives into the Supreme Court's impact on presidential power and democracy. She discusses the 'appeasement theory' regarding Trump and the Court, while highlighting significant upcoming cases. The conversation also touches on the differences between the regular and shadow dockets, stressing the importance of scrutiny in the Court’s actions. Lithwick provides insights into how the political climate influences judicial decisions and the implications of the shadow docket's rise.

John Feinblatt, President of Everytown for Gun Safety, and Adam Winkler, a Constitutional scholar, engage in a compelling discussion on the complex landscape of gun violence in America. They dive into the challenges of legislative reforms and the cultural implications tied to gun rights. The duo highlights grassroots activism and the stark contrast between public support for gun control and pro-gun movements. They also explore the future of gun reform, emphasizing the need for political engagement and innovative approaches to ensure community safety amidst a deeply polarized atmosphere.

In a recent discussion, the hosts analyze a Supreme Court ruling that empowers ICE with greater discretion during immigration raids, raising ethical concerns about racial profiling. They delve into the legality of Trump’s use of the National Guard in Los Angeles, and critique the militarization of responses to societal threats. The conversation highlights the troubling trend of opportunism undermining integrity in politics and finishes with a humorous take on family rivalries while examining legal boundaries around military authority.

Daron Acemoglu, an MIT professor and 2024 Nobel Prize co-recipient, dives into the economics of democracy and power shifts in the U.S. He discusses President Trump’s controversial decisions impacting federal agencies and the implications of government equity in corporations like Intel. Acemoglu also critiques the erosion of democratic trust and highlights the risks of rising wealth inequality. In a bonus segment, he compares the Industrial Revolution with the AI revolution, revealing what is often overlooked in such analyses.