The David Frum Show

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.

Ambassador Susan Rice, former National Security Advisor under Obama, joins to discuss the alarming disintegration of national-security processes during Trump's presidency. Rice highlights the perils of 'Signalgate' and the absence of a full-time national security adviser. She raises concerns about a $400 million jet gifted by Qatar, revealing the broader implications for America's alliances and the rule of law. The conversation underscores the critical need for accountability in governance and the risks posed to national security by informal leadership practices.

Shashi Tharoor, a prominent Indian Member of Parliament and advocate for secular politics, joins the discussion on recent geopolitical tensions. They dive into Trump's 'week of the four scams,' examining accusations of misinformation surrounding trade deals and a jet from Qatar. Tharoor sheds light on the delicate India-Pakistan ceasefire and critiques the Trump administration's role in peace efforts. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas posed by foreign influences in U.S. politics, particularly regarding the impact of rising nationalism in India.

Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer for The Atlantic and expert on democracy, joins to discuss the startling corruption during the Trump presidency. They explore how authoritarian regimes undermine institutions and the personal cost of political polarization, particularly the loss of friendships. The conversation also touches on the erosion of trust in politics and the importance of reconciliation in fostering unity. Applebaum's insights into contemporary challenges illuminate the broader implications for democracy today.

In this episode of The David Frum Show, The Atlantic’s David Frum discusses how misinformation, distrust in science, and extremist rhetoric are fueling a deadly resurgence of preventable diseases in the United States—and urges clear and responsible leadership to protect public health. He’s then joined by Alan Bernstein, the director of global health at the University of Oxford, to examine the long-term consequences of the right’s war on science and vaccine research. Finally, David answers listener questions on creating laws to counter Donald Trump’s norm violations, on David’s confidence in the future of free and fair elections, and on how to teach civics to high schoolers in the Trump era. Get more from your favorite Atlantic voices when you subscribe. You’ll enjoy unlimited access to Pulitzer-winning journalism, from clear-eyed analysis and insight on breaking news to fascinating explorations of our world. Subscribe today at TheAtlantic.com/podsub. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices