Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

Graham Platner, a Marine, U.S. Army veteran, and oyster farmer, is running for U.S. Senate in Maine to challenge long-time incumbent Susan Collins. He shares insights about his political awakening shaped by military service and community organizing. Platner discusses the challenges faced by working-class candidates, emphasizing the need for grassroots support. He highlights the connection between his love for oyster farming and his commitment to serving his community, aiming to give a voice to those feeling disillusioned by politics.

Erica Chenoweth, a Harvard political scientist, delves into the dynamics of civil resistance and its role in combating authoritarianism. She discusses how just 3.5% of the population engaging in protests can effectively halt such takeovers. The conversation includes the rise of nonviolent strategies, the impact of grassroots movements, and the nuances of competitive authoritarianism in the U.S. Chenoweth emphasizes the importance of historical context and the potential of coordinated civil society efforts to inspire hope and drive democratic change.

Bill McKibben, a prominent environmentalist and author of 'Here Comes the Sun', shares his journey from climate despair to optimism about renewable energy. He highlights the transformative potential of solar power, especially in regions like California and rural Pakistan. The discussion digs into the urgent need for renewable energy to fight climate change and the challenges tied to resource extraction. McKibben emphasizes solar energy’s ability to empower communities and reshapes our future, framing it as a pivotal element in combating environmental crises.

Bill Bishop, a China expert and former media executive, shares his insights on the turbulent landscape of U.S.-China trade relations. He discusses the ongoing ramifications of tariffs and trade wars initiated under Trump, delving into China's economic evolution post-COVID-19. The conversation explores the fierce competition in technology, particularly semiconductors, and the ideological underpinnings driving each nation's strategies. Bishop also examines China's ambitions in clean energy and the complexities of governance in the contrasting systems.

Brandon Scott, the Mayor of Baltimore focused on violence prevention, joins to discuss the stark contrast between the perception and reality of crime in the city. He highlights record lows in violent crime despite media narratives. Scott elaborates on a comprehensive violence prevention plan that emphasizes community-led initiatives, targeted interventions, and improved police-community relations. He advocates for a holistic approach that prioritizes safety and trust, showcasing positive shifts in public safety and community engagement.

E. Jean Carroll, author and journalist known for her landmark lawsuits against Donald Trump, shares her gripping journey in the legal arena. She delves into the personal toll of battling a powerful figure, stressing the resilience required to pursue justice. Carroll discusses the media’s role in shaping public perception of her case and highlights the challenges of defamation in high-profile trials. With a focus on empowering young women, she offers insights into navigating social media and the importance of accountability in journalism.

Aya Ibrahim, a former senior advisor in the Biden-Harris administration, dives into the U.S.'s standing in the evolving global economy. She reflects on the U.S. tech landscape and the impact of AI regulation. Ibrahim discusses the decline in American credibility post-Trump and the challenges it poses for the dollar. The conversation touches on inflation's real-world effects and the urgent need for effective policymaking that balances domestic concerns with international responsibilities. Ethical tech use and the importance of global competition, especially with China, are also key themes.

Omar Wasow, an associate professor of political science at UC Berkeley, dives into the dynamics of modern protests and their impact on democracy. He discusses the grassroots No Kings protests and their inclusive nature. Wasow analyzes how media representation of protests varies and highlights the 'attention trap' facing activists. They also consider the legacy of platforms like Black Planet and the challenges in addressing systemic inequities in protest responses. The conversation connects historical movements to current political actions, emphasizing the necessity of civic engagement.

Kate Shaw, a constitutional law professor at Cardozo, joins fellow legal experts Melissa Murray and Leah Litman to dissect recent Supreme Court rulings and the court's evolving ideology under Trump. They analyze landmark cases like Medina v. Planned Parenthood, diving into their implications for Medicaid and parental rights. The trio addresses the tension between individual freedoms and state intervention, while also critiquing the judicial system's integrity and calling for urgent reforms to preserve democracy and uphold the rule of law.

Zeke Faux, a Bloomberg News reporter and author of 'Number Go Up: Inside Crypto's Wild Rise and Staggering Fall', dives into the chaotic world of cryptocurrency. He discusses the Trump administration's evolving stance on crypto, especially the controversial meme coins tied to Trump and Melania. Faux breaks down the mechanics of meme coins, their speculative nature, and how viral personalities leverage them for profit. He also critiques the risks involved and the broader implications of government involvement in the crypto market.