Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

Public streets play a big role in our day-to-day lives.  And if you’ve visited any large metropolitan city, you’ve seen just how much traffic can fill up roadways. New York City became the first city in America to implement congestion pricing, a program aimed at generating revenue and making streets less crowded. But the initiative hasn’t been immune to opposition, including from the Trump administration, which has ordered the city to end the program. Janno Lieber is the chair and CEO of the Metropolitan Transit Authority. He joins WITHpod to discuss the effects of congestion pricing in NYC, legal fights ahead and more. 

Robert Garcia, Representative from California’s 42nd district and former Long Beach mayor, dives into the urgent challenges threatening American democracy. He discusses the Democratic Party's struggle to connect with disillusioned voters and emphasizes the need for assertive leadership. Garcia highlights the alarming concentration of power and its impact on public trust. He calls for innovative messaging to engage the working class and outlines strategies for revitalizing democracy through grassroots mobilization and effective communication in a digital age.

Elle Reeve, a CNN correspondent and author of "Black Pill," dives into the alarming rise of internet trolls influencing U.S. politics. She reveals how online extremism, particularly from groups like incels and the alt-right, has shifted from the shadows to the mainstream. Elle dissects toxic ideologies shaping young men's perceptions of masculinity and the real-world consequences of online hate. The conversation also touches on the role of influential figures in amplifying these disturbing beliefs and the emotional struggles faced by those within these extremist communities.

Yoni Appelbaum, the deputy executive editor of The Atlantic and a social historian, dives into the shifting nature of American mobility and opportunity. He explores how zoning laws often favor affluent areas, stifling upward movement for marginalized communities. Discussing the historical evolution of 'Moving Day' and the Yimby movement, he reveals the complicated ties between housing policies and social mobility. Appelbaum also reflects on Jane Jacobs’ impact on urban development and the critical role of local voting in enforcing change.

Jeremy Konyndyk, President of Refugees International and former USAID official, discusses the chaotic changes at USAID under the Trump administration. He reveals how recent policy shifts threaten to dismantle the agency’s mission, altering American soft power globally. Konyndyk highlights the dire implications for global health, the independence of federal agencies, and the humanitarian efforts jeopardized by budget cuts. He shares personal insights into the challenges faced by USAID personnel and the growing competition from other nations like China.

Zeke Faux, a Bloomberg News reporter and author of "Number Go Up," dives deep into the chaotic world of cryptocurrency. He discusses Donald Trump's shifting stance on crypto and the emerging influence of meme coins in politics. Faux highlights the complexities of tracking profits in decentralized exchanges and critiques the obsession with crypto gambling. He explores the speculations behind meme coins, their community-driven value, and the ethical concerns surrounding these trades, providing insights into the evolving crypto landscape.

Wes Moore, the Governor of Maryland and a Rhodes Scholar with a powerful personal journey, joins Jen Psaki for an engaging conversation. They dive into the meaning of patriotism and the Democratic Party's need for bolder, more authentic messaging. Moore shares insights on tackling systemic poverty while drawing parallels between sports discipline and political responsibility. They also discuss effective communication strategies to bridge gaps between politicians and the public. Expect a candid exploration of where the party can grow and connect.

Jonathan Blitzer, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of "Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here," dives deep into the complexities of U.S. immigration policies. He critiques the misguided approaches of the Trump administration and discusses historical roots influencing current crises. Blitzer sheds light on the evolving asylum law since the 1980 Refugee Act, explores factors driving the 2014 immigration surge from Central America, and underscores the crucial role of undocumented immigrants in rebuilding communities like Los Angeles.

Dive into the first chapter of a new book that unpacks how our attention has become a prized, yet endangered resource. The narrative weaves a timeless tale, comparing modern distractions to Odysseus’ mythical battle against the Sirens. It touches on the intersection of technology and anxiety, revealing the impact of smartphones on our mental health. Moreover, it critiques how corporations prioritize capturing consumer attention, often at the expense of quality, prompting a deeper reflection on the value of focus in our information-saturated world.

Introducing “Trumpland with Alex Wagner.” On “Trumpland,” MSNBC’s Alex Wagner takes a break from the anchor chair to get out into the field and speak with the people on the frontlines of Trump’s policies—and promises.  Listen to the full first episode here, as Alex travels to DC—but not for the inauguration. Hours after President Trump was in sworn into office for the second time, he began issuing a series of presidential pardons for the January 6th insurrection. Listen along as Alex speaks to the inmates, their families, and the police officers who survived one of the most violent attacks on the Capitol in our nation’s history. Catch new episodes of “Trumpland with Alex Wagner” on Thursday evenings during Trump’s first 100 days. You can find the show in the “Alex Wagner Tonight” feed.  Remember to follow the show so you don’t miss a single episode. And sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen without ads.