The David Frum Show

Caitlin Dickerson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter for The Atlantic, dives deep into the troubling transformation of U.S. immigration policy under Trump. She uncovers how the massive budget surge for ICE, increasing from $8 billion to $28 billion, has fueled mass detentions and empowered private-prison companies. Dickerson critiques how fear-based governance has reshaped American society, raising concerns about the integrity of law enforcement and the ethics of current immigration practices. Her insights shine a light on urgent issues within immigration enforcement.

Glenn Kelman, CEO of Redfin and co-founder of Plumtree Software, discusses the dismal state of the U.S. housing market. He explains how pandemic-era mortgage rates have paralyzed both buyers and sellers, leaving many young people unable to purchase homes. The conversation dives into essential topics like zoning reform, immigration, and the aging of first-time homebuyers. Despite the challenges, Kelman remains hopeful for a brighter future if America can relearn how to build effectively.

Tim Mak, a Kyiv-based journalist and founder of The Counteroffensive, and Adrian Karatnycky, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, discuss Ukraine's unwavering spirit amidst U.S. political shifts. They analyze the evolving battlefield dynamics, highlighting the unity of the Ukrainian people and the importance of resisting any peace that capitulates to Russia. The conversation also covers President Zelensky's controversial anti-corruption initiatives, the rise of youth-led protests, and the complex interplay of U.S. support and Ukrainian nationalism in these turbulent times.

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the dangers of abandoning the bipartisan free-trade consensus and the complexities of modern trade that challenge outdated views on tariffs and trade deficits.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.