The David Frum Show

Timothy Naftali, historian and former director of the Nixon Library, joins to discuss presidential libraries and Trump’s Miami project. They explore Trump’s unique brand of corruption, contrasting it with Nixon's constraints and shame. The conversation dives into the implications of Trump's interventionist policies in Venezuela and how they prioritize personal gain over U.S. interests. Naftali warns about the potential for the library to serve as a laundering mechanism, raising concerns about its funding and purpose.

The discussion dives deep into the flawed U.S. approach to Venezuela, with critiques of Trump's worldview on oil and exploitation. David Rothkopf highlights the alarming dysfunction of the National Security Council under Trump, raising concerns about unclear military objectives. They explore the potential legal pitfalls of arresting Maduro and the hesitance of oil firms to engage in reconstruction efforts. The conversation also touches on regional political fallout and the broader implications of sidelining expert advice in national security.

In this enlightening discussion, Anne Applebaum, a renowned journalist specializing in Eastern Europe and authoritarianism, joins to dissect Nicolás Maduro's capture. She sheds light on the sham nature of Venezuela's 2024 elections and critiques the U.S.'s unilateral actions without international support. The duo also explores Trump's manipulative messaging strategy and potential deals with Russia. They emphasize the dangers of a nationalist foreign policy while reflecting on Venezuelans' hopes for democracy amidst political theatrics.

Charlie Warzel, a staff writer at The Atlantic and host of the Galaxy Brain podcast, dives into the challenges of podcasting in a click-driven world. He discusses how algorithms promote outrage, pushing creators towards sensationalism. Warzel explores the psychology behind why people are drawn to conspiracies, emphasizing the need for accountability in media. Together with David Frum, they advocate for transparency in journalism to foster trust and counteract sensationalism, urging a return to purpose-driven truth-seeking in media.

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.