Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast

Dave Weigel, a political journalist for Semafor and writer of the 'Americana' newsletter, explores the chaotic landscape of the upcoming election. He highlights Trump's embrace of the 'weird vote,' notably through alliances with JD Vance and figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The conversation dives into the rise of conspiracy theories within the Republican Party, the erosion of trust in traditional media, and how this fuels unconventional political identities. Weigel sheds light on shifting strategies and the complex dynamics that are shaping modern political discourse.

In this discussion, climate reporter Zoya Teirstein and Dr. Vernon Morris, a chemistry and atmospheric sciences professor, dive into the urgent issues surrounding Project 2025. They highlight potential rollbacks of crucial climate policies and the impact on vulnerable communities. Teirstein emphasizes the risks of dismantling regulatory bodies, while Morris stresses the invaluable role of NOAA in environmental protection and disaster response. The conversation underscores the grave consequences for climate governance and public safety if conservative agendas prevail.

Engaging discussions unfold around the intricacies of the upcoming election and candidate strategies. The impact of women's progress in politics takes center stage, especially with Vice President Harris's candidacy. They explore historical events that can sway elections, alongside ethical journalism during political chaos. Legal insights reveal the implications of narrow election outcomes, while personal anecdotes about balancing politics and self-care add a light touch. Community engagement and the significance of music are celebrated amidst political divides.

Anderson Clayton, at just 25, is the youngest chair of a state Democratic Party in the U.S., leading North Carolina through a pivotal political landscape. In this conversation, she dives deep into the state's swing status and the implications of gerrymandering on voter turnout. Clayton shares insights on the stark contrast between moderate Democrats and extreme Republican candidates, especially concerning critical issues like abortion and voter rights. She emphasizes the engagement of younger voters and the importance of grassroots local politics in shaping the future.

During this year’s DNC, President Biden reflected on numerous accomplishments and discussed his track record. One of the signature pieces of legislation of the Biden presidency, and of Democrats in this era, is the Inflation Reduction Act, also known as the IRA. This August marked the 2-year anniversary of the landmark federal law. Our guest this week teamed up with his students to track the cumulative effects of the implementation of the IRA. Jay Turner is the Wiliam R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Environmental Studies at Wellesley College. He’s also a historian, author on U.S. environmental politics and wrote “Charged: A History of Batteries and Lessons for a Clean Energy Future.” He joins WITHpod to discuss progress made, developments in batteries and electric energy sources, possible paths forward to reach ambitious goals and more.

Alex Wagner, a prominent MSNBC host known for her incisive political commentary, joins the discussion fresh from the Democratic National Convention. She reflects on the historic moment of Kamala Harris's nomination as the first Black woman and South Asian person to receive such a distinction. Wagner shares her experiences of the enthusiastic atmosphere, the unity and emotional depth of the event, and the complexities facing the Democratic Party. She also touches on the significance of personal stories that resonate deeply with many attendees, highlighting the intricate dynamics within current political discourse.

Daniel Chandler, the research director at the London School of Economics and author of "Free and Equal: A Manifesto for a Just Society," explores the potential of John Rawls' ideas for creating a fairer society. He discusses the relevance of Rawlsian principles in addressing contemporary crises, emphasizing justice and equality through concepts like the 'veil of ignorance.' Chandler also examines universal basic income as a tool for enhancing social equity and reflects on the principles of cohesive capitalism, inviting listeners to envision a just society.

Heather McGhee, a New York Times bestselling author and board chair at Color of Change, joins to discuss the remarkable rise of Kamala Harris amid political chaos. They delve into the shifting media perceptions of Harris and her navigation of gendered expectations in a male-dominated political landscape. McGhee highlights the challenges of representing a diverse coalition and the importance of relatable communication in bridging political divides. The conversation also critiques stereotypes in politics, emphasizing the need for empathy and community-centric policies.

Best-selling author Dave Eggers, known for his advocacy against book banning, discusses the alarming rise of censorship in schools across the U.S. He highlights a South Dakota community's fight against the removal of literary works, including his own. Eggers explores the motivations behind these bans, particularly against literature that addresses LGBTQ+ and racial justice. He reflects on the irony of censoring books in educational settings while promoting teenage autonomy and emphasizes the importance of defending educational integrity and literary freedom.

John Ganz, an author known for his insights on historical continuity and societal changes in America, dives deep into the connections between the 1990s and today's political climate. He discusses how figures like Murray Rothbard shaped modern conservatism and the emergence of populist sentiments. Ganz also explores the lasting impact of the 1992 Civil Rights Act and the rise of radicalism within the Republican Party. He draws parallels between phenomena like the mysterious illness in Leroy and contemporary societal reactions, unveiling complex themes of consensus, representation, and discontent.