The David Frum Show

In this discussion, Doug Irwin, a trade historian from Dartmouth and author of 'Clashing Over Commerce', reveals how protectionist policies often backfire. He explains the unintended economic consequences of Trump's tariffs, which disproportionately affect lower-income citizens and harm trade relationships. Irwin also delves into the historical shifts in U.S. trade policy, emphasizing the dangers of abandoning the bipartisan free-trade consensus and the complexities of modern trade that challenge outdated views on tariffs and trade deficits.

Ritchie Torres, a Congressman from New York's 15th District, shares his journey from public housing to Congress as a leading voice for centrism in the Democratic Party. He discusses the dangers of performative politics and the far-left's rise, stressing that intensity, not majority support, drives change. Torres emphasizes the need for a serious governing agenda to address America’s affordability crisis, underscoring the importance of decency and connection in political campaigns while navigating the complex dynamics within the party.

Peter Strzok, a former FBI counterintelligence official and author, shares insights into the agency's turmoil during Trump's second term. He discusses how political pressures have led to the purging of experts and weakening of national security functions, leaving the U.S. vulnerable to foreign threats. Strzok also addresses the implications of Trump's controversial decisions regarding Jeffrey Epstein and his ongoing legal battle over his firing. The conversation sheds light on the shifting landscape of the FBI and the broader political fractures within Trump's base.

George Conway, a former litigator and outspoken Trump critic, joins for a compelling discussion on the fragility of legal institutions in the Trump era. He shares his transformation from corporate attorney to activist, highlighting the unsettling reality that courts may fail to curb executive overreach. Conway emphasizes Congress's shortcomings in upholding its constitutional duties and critiques the judiciary's capability to rein in a president who disregards the law. This conversation sheds light on the broader implications of legislation impacting American rights and the economy.

Bridget Brink, the former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and a Democratic congressional candidate, shares her firsthand experiences from Kyiv during the early days of the Russian invasion. She discusses Trump’s inconsistent Ukraine policy and its dire consequences for U.S. foreign relations. Brink reveals the emotional and logistical challenges of working in a war zone, emphasizing the crucial need for U.S. support for Ukraine. The conversation highlights the broader implications of America’s historical role in global peace and the urgency of the upcoming election for Ukraine's future.

Tina Brown, an acclaimed journalist and founder of the Fresh Hell Substack, joins to explore the strange world of billionaires. She reveals how extreme wealth can warp reality and lead to a sense of entitlement, illustrating these effects with her insights on Donald Trump's behavior. Brown discusses how philanthropy often serves as a tool for image enhancement rather than genuine altruism. The conversation also touches on the psychological toll of immense wealth and its impact on relationships and public perception, making for a thought-provoking listen.

Karim Sadjadpour, an expert on Iranian internal affairs from the Carnegie Endowment, discusses the pressing issues facing Iran today. He delves into the survival instincts of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and the regime’s obsession with martyrdom and repression. The conversation highlights the disconnect between the Islamic Republic's revolutionary slogans and the aspirations of its people. They explore the high stakes of Iran's nuclear ambitions and the inner turmoil within the regime, offering insights into possible futures for the country.

Ruben Gallego, Arizona Senator and Marine Corps veteran, joins to discuss the shifting dynamics of political representation, particularly among young men and Latino voters. He shares insights on how the Democratic Party can resonate better with these demographics. The conversation dives into the implications of Donald Trump's potential strategies for the 2026 elections, emphasizing the need for Democrats to engage authentically and navigate the challenges of the current political landscape. Gallego also touches on topics like free trade and revitalizing U.S. manufacturing.

Marty Baron, former Executive Editor of The Washington Post, reflects on his pivotal role during the Trump era. He discusses the increasing pressures on news organizations, including corporate intimidation and retaliatory lawsuits. The conversation highlights the erosion of public trust in journalism, exacerbated by ideological homogeneity and a disconnect from working-class America. Baron also critiques how Trump's policies have transformed media accountability and the importance of maintaining integrity in a rapidly evolving political landscape.

Joining the discussion is George Packer, a Staff writer at The Atlantic, known for his insightful coverage of American society and foreign policy. They dive into J.D. Vance’s dramatic political shift from reflective memoirist to a figure of controversy. Packer questions whether Vance genuinely believes in his new rhetoric or if he's simply catering to power demands. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of political corruption and extortion, drawing parallels between Vance’s identity and loyalty within the current political landscape.