Stay Tuned with Preet

Tim Heaphy, the lead investigator for the House Select Committee on January 6 and author of 'Harbingers,' dives into the complex narratives surrounding the Capitol attack. He discusses why some view rioters as patriots and examines the chilling effects of widespread apathy towards government. Heaphy also highlights the emotional toll on law enforcement, particularly following the insurrection, and underscores the critical need for civic engagement to safeguard American democracy against rising threats.

Judge Aileen Cannon's controversial order to keep Jack Smith's investigative report under wraps is sparking intense debate. Preet Bharara and Joyce Vance dissect Trump's legal battles, including his upcoming sentencing and the implications of recent rulings against him. They also explore the aftermath of a New Orleans terror attack, where law enforcement failures are under scrutiny. The discussions highlight the intersection of law and politics, particularly as Trump's presidency intertwines with ongoing legal challenges.

Lee Gelernt, Deputy Director of the ACLU Immigrants’ Rights Project and a formidable litigator in immigration law, joins Joyce Vance to dissect the potential legal aftermath of Trump's proposed immigration policies. They delve into the traumatic effects of past family separation strategies and the ethical concerns surrounding them. The conversation also highlights the contentious debate over birthright citizenship and the implications of law enforcement changes under the Insurrection Act. Gelernt emphasizes the vital role of community activism in shaping humane immigration reforms.

Edward Watts, a historian at UC San Diego and author of "Mortal Republic," delves into striking parallels between contemporary America and the decline of ancient Rome. He discusses the erosion of public trust, political polarization, and social inequality. Watts highlights the lessons from Rome's fall, emphasizing the importance of a strong middle class and inclusive governance. He also reflects on individual leadership's impact on political dynamics and warns against the normalization of violence in politics, urging a reevaluation of democratic resilience.

Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor and host of "The Happiness Lab," delves into the complex nature of happiness. She discusses how both positive and negative emotions are essential for well-being. The conversation covers the 'parenting paradox', the importance of social connections, and how job crafting can enhance career fulfillment. Dr. Santos emphasizes gratitude's role in happiness and explores why moments of sadness are necessary for appreciating joy. Her insights provide a roadmap for maximizing happiness in everyday life.

The podcast dives into the ramifications of a defamation lawsuit settlement between ABC News and Donald Trump, dissecting the legal nuances involved. It explores the challenges media faces when navigating defamation issues, including the real-world implications of high-profile libel cases. The discussion highlights the strategic choices made in legal battles and the necessity of clear communication surrounding complex legal terminologies. It emphasizes the interplay between media interests and legal decisions, shedding light on the motivations behind settling versus going to trial.

Tina Brown, an award-winning journalist and former editor of major publications like Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Preet. They delve into the current political landscape, examining why some billionaires diverge into questionable territories. The conversation also explores the rise of charismatic political figures and the power of authenticity in attracting diverse support. Additionally, they reflect on the challenges of accountability in politics and the potential implications of Donald Trump's possible return.

George Packer, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his sharp analysis of American politics, delves into the state of democracy in the face of the upcoming 2024 election. He discusses troubling trends in voter behavior and the implications for the Democratic Party. Packer raises concerns about the misuse of power in political investigations and ponders the chilling prospect of Trump targeting January 6 Committee members. The conversation also touches on the shifting identity of the Democratic Party and the dangers of reactionary politics.

The discussion tackles President Biden's potential preemptive pardons for individuals on the controversial 'Trump enemies list.' It dives into the arrest of Luigi Mangione, linked to the UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder, illuminating the ripple effects of the case. The legal team's analysis offers insights into the complexities of pardons and public perception within a politically charged atmosphere. The podcast also highlights the Supreme Court's examination of Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for minors, adding depth to ongoing social debates.

Michèle Flournoy, former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy under President Obama, dives into the transformative plans of the Trump administration for the Pentagon. She discusses the significant implications of proposed budget cuts on U.S. defense strategy. The conversation also highlights the essential leadership qualities for the Secretary of Defense, the rise of online scams affecting national security, and the evolving role of women in combat. Flournoy emphasizes the necessity for experience and integrity in military leadership during turbulent political times.