The David Frum Show

Helen Lewis, a journalist and staff writer for The Atlantic, examines the unexpected rightward shift in comedy. She discusses how cultural changes and fears of 'cancel culture' have pushed comedians toward right-leaning ideologies. Lewis highlights the challenge of navigating authenticity and audience expectations, noting the complicity of both performers and audiences in this trend. They also explore the new ecosystems of comedy, including monetization through platforms like Patreon, and the moral responsibilities comedians face when engaging with extremist views.

Will Thomas, an assistant professor at the Michigan Ross School of Business and co-author of 'Crypto Kleptocracy', delves into the shadowy world of cryptocurrencies and their links to corruption. He reveals how crypto's anonymity opens new channels for graft, enriching powerful figures while complicating legal accountability. Thomas explains the distinctions between meme coins and stablecoins, and their roles in illicit funding. The discussion also contrasts the Trump administration's lax approach to crypto with Biden's regulatory stance. What's the future of crypto legislation? Tune in for insights!

Michael Waldman, President of the Brennan Center for Justice and former presidential speechwriter, dives into the alarming tactics Trump could deploy to manipulate the 2026 elections. He discusses the vulnerabilities within the electoral system and the potential weaponization of law enforcement against officials. The conversation highlights the erosion of the Voting Rights Act and the implications of partisan gerrymandering. Waldman stresses the critical need for national reforms to safeguard democracy against these threats.

Jonathan Gruber, an economist and healthcare policy expert from MIT, shares insights on the tumultuous history of the Affordable Care Act. He discusses the persistent issues plaguing the American healthcare system, including high costs and misinformation around health outcomes. Gruber contrasts the U.S. system with successful models from other countries and highlights the impact of middlemen on pricing. The duo also delves into the alarming rise of anti-vaccine sentiment and the challenges faced by public health advocacy.

Sam Tanenhaus, a historian known for his profound biographies, discusses his new work on William F. Buckley Jr. with David Frum. They delve into Buckley's complex legacy, exploring how his Catholic faith influenced National Review's culture and his relationship with figures like Rush Limbaugh. Tanenhaus recounts personal anecdotes that highlight Buckley's kindness and mentorship, while also reflecting on the shifts in conservative media and electoral politics. The conversation poses the question of Buckley as a great man, revealing his emotional depth and lasting impact.

Margaret MacMillan, an esteemed historian and professor at the University of Toronto and Oxford, joins the conversation to explore the fading influence of the United States on the global stage. They discuss whether the U.S. operates as an empire and the signs of its decline. MacMillan highlights how unilateral actions and economic policies reflect an abandonment of international norms, while considering the potential rise of alternatives like China. Their engaging dialogue uncovers the historical roots of America’s current role and the challenges that lie ahead.

Sarah Longwell, a communications strategist and publisher at The Bulwark, joins to discuss the striking trends in exit polls from recent elections. She reveals how young women overwhelmingly leaned Democratic, highlighting the growing gender gap and political polarization. Longwell also explores how changing media ecosystems and cultural dynamics are pushing women away from male-dominated subcultures and Republican candidates. Additionally, she shares insights on the need for parties to adapt their strategies to capture the shifting electorate.

Quico Toro, founder of Caracas Chronicles and a keen analyst of Venezuelan politics, dives into the escalating U.S.-Venezuela tensions. He discusses the U.S. naval buildup and the complexity of Maduro's regime, emphasizing that Venezuela is more of a trafficking route than a drug producer. Toro explores the implications of potential U.S. airstrikes, the factors keeping Maduro in power, and the historical shifts in Venezuela's democracy. The conversation ultimately reflects on paths to achieving Venezuelan relief without military intervention.

In this discussion, Tom Nichols, a civil-military relations expert, analyzes the implications of militarizing American politics under Trump's administration. He talks about how the erosion of legal structures and the purging of Pentagon lawyers pressure military leaders into compliance with dubious orders. The conversation shifts to the risks of using the National Guard for political purposes and the potential chaos in national security decision-making. Nichols argues for the moral responsibility of military officials to resist illegal orders, highlighting a critical moment in U.S. democracy.

Ken Burns, a renowned documentary filmmaker famous for works like The Civil War, discusses his new series on the American Revolution. He explores the dualities of the revolution, highlighting both liberty and exclusion. Burns reflects on the moral complexities of key figures like Washington and Jefferson, while revealing the often-forgotten roles of Loyalists and Native Americans. The conversation also delves into how these historical narratives shape our current identity and the importance of embracing a complex patriotism that acknowledges past contradictions.