Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

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.

Beth Macy, an investigative journalist and author known for her works on rural America and addiction, dives deep into the transformation of Urbana, Ohio. She shares personal reflections on returning home and highlights the stark economic changes affecting local community dynamics. The conversation delves into how deindustrialization and media decline have shaped political views, while emphasizing the importance of education and community ties. Macy also tackles the challenge of maintaining relationships across political divides, showcasing stories of resilience and decency in the face of fragmentation.

Doug Gordon, a journalist and co-author of 'Life After Cars,' and transportation writer Sarah Goodyear join the conversation on rethinking our car dependency. They explore how cars overburden society and the environment, advocating for pedestrian-friendly alternatives. The duo discusses the social tyranny of car reliance, the cultural marketing behind America’s car love, and international examples of successful urban redesigns. They argue for a future where biking and walking are prioritized, revealing the potential transformation of cities without cars.

Jen Psaki is on a mission to show us how the Democratic party can use this political moment to fight and win again. On Season 2 of her podcast, “The Blueprint,” she interviews the people reshaping the party, starting with Texas Congressman Greg Casar, Chair of the Progressive Caucus. The first two episodes of “The Blueprint with Jen Psaki” are available now, and will continue to drop every Wednesday, from now through mid-November.   Stay right here to listen to a special preview. And for the full episode, search for “The Blueprint with Jen Psaki” and follow the show. Plus, subscribe to MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts for ad-free listening. Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mary McCord, Executive Director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and former acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security, dives into the troubling pattern of military deployment in American cities under Trump. She explores the implications of using armed forces domestically and the historical distrust of standing armies among the Founding Fathers. McCord also discusses legal frameworks like the Posse Comitatus Act and the Insurrection Act, uncovering how these laws shape the current landscape of military use against civilians.

In the Trump-era, and within the public health narrative shaped by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a debunked but persistent myth has taken hold: that infant vaccinations cause autism. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence disproving this claim, the narrative remains central to anti-vaccine rhetoric. Professor Richard Grinker, a cultural anthropologist and director of The George Washington University Institute for Ethnographic Research, joins WITHpod to discuss how autism has become a political obsession, recent inflection points, what the research says about autism being underdiagnosed or overdiagnosed and more. Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trymaine Lee, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and MSNBC contributor, reflects on his near-death experience and its connection to his new book. He discusses the historical and contemporary impact of violence on Black life in America, linking intergenerational trauma to health disparities. Lee delves into the systemic roots of urban violence, the symbolic role of guns, and the emotional toll of repeated loss in his family. He urges a shift in perspective toward understanding Black dignity beyond violence and the vital need for local solutions.

Costa Samaras, a climate and energy expert from Carnegie Mellon, explores the impending electricity crisis as the U.S. faces unprecedented demand driven by AI and data centers. He highlights the rising costs of electricity linked to climate impacts and historical inefficiencies. Discussion includes the challenge of utility infrastructure and the need for targeted investments. Samaras emphasizes innovative solutions like rooftop solar to mitigate price pressures and enhance equity in energy access. Tune in for insights on the future of our electrical grid!

In this enlightening discussion, guests Robert Malley and Hussein Agha, seasoned negotiators in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, delve into their book 'Tomorrow Is Yesterday'. They dissect the recent violence in Gaza, emphasize the failures of the Oslo Accords, and raise critical questions about the future peace prospects. The duo explores the intricate dynamics between U.S. interests and peace efforts, urging a deeper understanding of the conflict's historical roots and complexities. Their insights highlight the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and realistic solutions.