Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar

Ryan Grim, Washington Bureau Chief for The Intercept and host of The Intercepted, joins to dissect inflation's toll on Americans and Biden's controversial speech addressing it. The conversation navigates the $40 billion military aid to Ukraine and the tragic killing of a Palestinian-American journalist, questioning media integrity. Grim also discusses the chaotic landscape of leftism, spotlighting a failed Democratic Socialist campaign and the challenges of accountability within political movements. Prepare for insightful critiques and engaging dialogue!

A deep dive into the current economic turmoil reveals the challenges for middle-class Americans amid rising inflation and supply chain issues. Biden's proposed solutions are contrasted with Republican alternatives, hinting at a critical midterm landscape. The ongoing baby formula shortage underscores urgent policy needs. Elon's comments spark a conversation on free speech and social media's content moderation challenges. Meanwhile, the struggle for Starbucks workers highlights an evolving labor movement and the fight for rights within the workplace.

Mohamed Younis, Head of Polling at Gallup, dives deep into public opinion on pressing issues. He discusses the U.S.'s increasing military involvement in Ukraine and its implications, drawing historical parallels. The conversation shifts to the contentious abortion rights landscape post-Roe v. Wade, underscoring the complexities of public sentiment and potential impacts on upcoming elections. Younis also examines how changing views on these topics could shape voter behavior as he navigates the intricate web of social and political dynamics.

Maximilian Alvarez, Editor in Chief of The Real News Network and host of Working People, dives into the Great Resignation and its effect on worker empowerment. He discusses the growing influence of billionaires on media and the clash between financial interests and journalistic integrity. Alvarez also critiques 'barstool conservatism,' revealing how cultural shifts reflect broader political changes. He highlights the rising tide of unionization among workers at major companies, and underscores the vital need for collective action in today's corporate landscape.

The discussion dives into the momentous implications of the leaked draft suggesting Roe v. Wade may be overturned, exploring its significance for abortion rights and American politics. They also tackle the unsettling economic downturn and its effects on public sentiment. The conversation turns to U.S. military support for Ukraine, addressing the risks involved in escalating tensions. Finally, they analyze the Ohio GOP Senate primary's impact on future governance and the challenges faced by progressive candidates in their political battles.

In this engaging conversation, guest Kyle Kondik, Managing Editor of Larry Sabato's Crystal Ball, dives into the aftershocks of the Roe v. Wade reversal and its potential impact on upcoming elections. He discusses the Ohio primary results, revealing how Trump's influence shaped candidate choices. Kondik also highlights the struggles faced by labor movements against corporate tactics, emphasizing the need for accountability among leaders. The talk wraps up with an examination of how cultural distractions can sidetrack crucial political discussions.

Jordan Chariton, an on-the-ground reporter for Status Coup, shares his insights from the Ohio primary elections. The conversation dives into the political fallout of the leaked Supreme Court opinion regarding Roe v. Wade and its potential effects on state laws and voter sentiment. They explore the divisions within the Republican Party and how issues like abortion could reshape political alliances. Chariton also discusses the dynamics of recent primaries and emphasizes the importance of on-the-ground coverage in understanding the evolving political landscape.

Guest Richard Wolff, a professor emeritus at UMass Amherst and an influential voice on economic issues, dives deep into the troubling dynamics of the Ukraine conflict and critiques U.S. military involvement versus humanitarian needs. He discusses the alarming decline in the stock market, linking it to broader economic woes affecting everyday Americans. Wolff also tackles the systemic crisis of student debt, exposing it as rooted in fraud, and highlights the emerging student unionization efforts amid economic uncertainties, showcasing a shift in awareness among younger generations.

Kim Kelly, a labor reporter and author, discusses the buried narratives of American labor history and highlights the struggles faced by workers today. James Lee, a YouTuber and commentator, analyzes China's political landscape, including its zero-COVID policy and governance impacts. Matt Stoller, an antitrust policy analyst, delves into corporate profits during inflation and the monopolistic challenges in the hearing aid market. The conversation also touches on youth mental health in the digital age, critiquing media accountability in modern society.

Sarah Fisher, an Axios reporter known for her media industry insights, and David Dayen, Executive Editor at The American Prospect, dive into the chaos of Elon Musk's Twitter acquisition. They analyze the downfall of CNN+, revealing the challenges traditional media faces in the digital age. The conversation also covers the complexities of the Ukraine war, labor movements at Amazon, and the intricacies of student debt. With a focus on accountability in journalism, Fisher and Dayen encourage a deeper understanding of pivotal issues shaping our world.