Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

Kate Conger, a New York Times reporter and co-author of "Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter," joins to discuss Elon Musk's unprecedented political influence alongside major tech developments. They explore Musk’s role as a co-president, the SEC lawsuit against him, and how these dynamics are reshaping the tech and political landscape. Conger reveals the consequences of unchecked power, the legal scrutiny faced by Musk, and the evolving norms of content moderation on social media platforms under new leadership.

Nicholas Reville, co-founder of the Center for Addiction Science, discusses innovative approaches to combat addiction. He explores how GLP-1 weight loss drugs, initially for diabetes, may help curb cravings for substances like alcohol and opioids. Reville emphasizes the urgent need for new treatments amid the opioid crisis and examines Big Pharma's troubled history in addiction management. He calls for collaborative efforts and effective frameworks to advance addiction research and improve treatment outcomes.

Leah Greenberg, co-founder of Indivisible, shares her insights on grassroots political organizing in response to the impending second inauguration of Donald Trump. She discusses the origins and impact of Indivisible, emphasizing community engagement and accountability for elected officials. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic narratives and coalition-building to resist controversial legislation. Greenberg also reflects on the successes and challenges of past political strategies, stressing the need for unity among progressives in today’s complex landscape.

Jiaying Zhao, an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair at the University of British Columbia, discusses the revolutionary potential of unconditional cash transfers in tackling homelessness. She highlights her study demonstrating that direct cash transfers can lead to net societal savings over time. Zhao shares insights on the 'cognitive tax' of poverty, revealing how financial stress impacts decision-making. The conversation also challenges stereotypes surrounding homelessness and advocates for more nuanced, evidence-based policy responses to aid vulnerable populations.

Elizabeth Rhodes, research director for the Unconditional Cash Study, and David Broockman, political science professor at UC Berkeley, delve into the intriguing outcomes of $1,000 monthly unconditional cash transfers. They reveal how these transfers impacted political views without shifting leanings and discuss surprising findings about work attitudes. The guests explore the dual nature of financial support on economic stability while addressing societal perceptions of self-sufficiency. They challenge stereotypes around welfare use, highlighting broader implications for social participation and well-being.

Wright Thompson, a senior writer for ESPN and author of "The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi," dives into the haunting legacy of Emmett Till's 1955 murder. He uncovers shocking truths often omitted from history, revealing personal connections and the broader societal implications. The conversation touches on Willie Reed's courageous testimony and the struggle against the 'big lie' that distorts memory. Thompson's insights challenge listeners to confront Mississippi's troubled past and its ongoing impact on contemporary identity and community.

Steve Levitsky, a Harvard professor and a bestselling author, delves into the pressing issue of democratic backsliding. He discusses the critical role of societal memory in resisting authoritarianism, drawing on examples from South Korea and the U.S. Levitsky explores competitive authoritarianism, highlighting how modern leaders manipulate public support while undermining democracy. He critiques presidential systems for fostering division and emphasizes the urgency for bipartisanship to safeguard democratic principles in turbulent times.

Donnie Holloway, Producer of the podcast and a keen observer of political evolution, interviews Chris Hayes to explore the implications of Trump 2.0 on democracy. They dive into the parallels between past presidencies and today's political landscape, touching on economic inequality and the shifting ideologies within the Republican Party. Discussions about the crisis of attention and its societal impacts also emerge, along with insights from Chris's latest book and the dynamics of social media in shaping political discourse.

McKay Coppins, a staff writer for The Atlantic and bestselling author, explores the evolving landscape of conservatism in the Trump era. He traces the ideological fractures within the Republican Party and how Trump's leadership has blurred traditional boundaries. Coppins highlights the contrasts between populism and established conservatism, discusses the complexities of American nationalism, and reflects on the dark dynamics of political staffing. His insights offer a thought-provoking look at the potential future challenges and fragmentation within a party unsure of its identity.

Matt Pearce, a seasoned journalist and president of the Media Guild of the West, dives into the shifting media landscape. He discusses how social media platforms have reshaped our trust in journalism, challenging traditional reporting. Pearce emphasizes the importance of journalistic integrity in a world dominated by algorithms and corporate consolidation, calling attention to the need for supportive structures for independent media. He also highlights the press's critical role in society and the need for unionization among journalists to navigate these changes.