Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

Tim Mak, a seasoned journalist and founder of The Counteroffensive, shares firsthand experiences from Kyiv as he comprehensively reports on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the impact of frequent Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, the resilience of daily life amid power outages, and the profound human toll of the war. Tim explores potential paths to peace, the significance of U.S. aid, and the multifaceted challenges facing Ukraine, including public sentiment, military logistics, and the historical context influencing the nation’s struggle.

Ebtihal Mubarak, a Saudi-born journalist and author, sheds light on the alarming surge in executions in Saudi Arabia, with over 335 carried out this year alone. She discusses the role of the U.S. in Saudi relations and critiques the stark contrast between lavish entertainment events and the harsh realities faced by ordinary citizens. Ebtihal also shares her personal journey through journalism, the challenges of censorship, and her eventual decision to flee her homeland as press freedoms dwindled.

Benjamin Wallace-Wells, a staff writer at The New Yorker, delves into the alarming rise of political violence in the U.S. He discusses the implications of threats against officials and how they shape democratic participation. The conversation explores lone-actor violence versus organized extremism and the intertwining of mainstream rhetoric with violent acts. Wallace-Wells also highlights the chilling effects on public events and the growing security burdens for politicians, revealing a complex landscape of fear and its impact on civic life.

David Sirota, an investigative journalist and founder of The Lever, dives deep into the alarming normalization of corruption in American politics. He discusses how decades of legal changes have made anti-bribery laws nearly unenforceable. Renowned for his insights, Sirota explores historical parallels, from Watergate's aftermath to current trends in campaign finance. He highlights the evolving tactics employed by politicians, including Trump, and examines how money and influence shape policy beyond direct payments. His thoughts on meaningful reforms offer a glimmer of hope amidst the corruption.

Discover the shocking decision behind the mass roundup of innocent Japanese Americans in a compelling narrative. Hear about Aiko Herzig-Yoshinaga's meticulous research at the National Archives, where she uncovers a supposedly destroyed government report. This document, rich with handwritten notes, challenges the official story of this dark chapter in history. Get a sneak peek into how these revelations could reshape our understanding of America’s past and the powerful figures involved in its cover-up.

Jonathan Cohn, a senior national correspondent and healthcare expert, dives into the rising costs of U.S. healthcare. He discusses how expiring ACA subsidies have become a central issue in political debates. Cohn explains the major goals of the ACA, the impact of enhanced subsidies during the pandemic, and the political ramifications of the individual mandate debate. He also highlights how making plans more affordable has changed enrollment behavior and warns of the consequences if subsidies lapse, affecting millions of Americans.

Dive into a chilling chapter of American history as the narrative unveils the shocking executive order targeting Japanese Americans during World War II. Hear personal stories of families uprooted from their homes and discover the key government figures behind this mass incarceration. The podcast reveals a cover-up of accountability reports, emphasizing the need to recognize and confront such injustices to prevent their recurrence. This poignant exploration reminds us of the fragility of civil liberties and the importance of vigilance.

Memo Torres, a multimedia journalist and director of engagement at LA TACO, shares insights on the recent surge of immigration raids across Los Angeles. He explains the aggressive tactics used by various enforcement agencies and highlights community responses, including civilians confronting agents and documenting the events. Torres discusses the psychological impact of these raids on families, the challenges in locating detainees, and the troubling conditions in detention facilities. He emphasizes the need for responsible coverage while warning that this trend is likely to persist.

Benjamin Gedan, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center and former South America director on the National Security Council, discusses the complexities of U.S. military actions against Venezuela. He critiques the legal basis for recent strikes and warns against a large-scale military commitment, highlighting the precarious humanitarian situation. Gedan also delves into Venezuela’s economic decline, drug trafficking issues, and the impact of sanctions on civilians, as well as regional perceptions of U.S. intervention.

Jasper Nathaniel, an independent journalist reporting from the West Bank, sheds light on the alarming rise in settler violence and military actions. He recounts his harrowing experiences witnessing brutal attacks, including a traumatic incident involving a Palestinian woman. Jasper discusses the implications of video evidence on international attention and military responses, as well as the fostered relationships he built in local communities. He also explains how current policies are leading to de facto annexation, highlighting the urgent need for global awareness.