The Al Franken Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Minnesota's Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan sheds light on the pressing issues surrounding ICE's actions in the state. Known for her advocacy on tribal and immigrant rights, Flanagan highlights the cover-up regarding the Renee Good investigation and the troubling immunity claims surrounding law enforcement. She also celebrates the vibrant Somali community, detailing their contributions despite facing discrimination. The conversation touches on healthcare concerns, cross-party solidarity, and strategies for community support and nonviolent resistance.

David Frum, a staff writer at The Atlantic and host of The David Frum Show, offers keen insights on Trump’s controversial actions in Venezuela. He breaks down how the administration's approach resembles old-fashioned imperialism centered on oil profits, raising questions about constitutional spending powers. The duo also explores the implications of proposed plans to seize Greenland and critiques the lack of coherent strategy in U.S. foreign policy. Frum highlights the chaotic aftermath and the unlikely prospects for Venezuela's future, painting a sobering picture.

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island, author of 'The Scheme', dives deep into the troubling influence of dark money on the Supreme Court. He reveals the extensive tactics of the Federalist Society and Leonard Leo in judicial appointments and discusses the implications of Mitch McConnell's blockade on Merrick Garland. Whitehouse analyzes the lasting harm of Citizens United and outlines patterns of pro-corporate rulings. He also highlights ethical failures surrounding Justice Thomas, emphasizing the urgent need for judicial reform.

Jimmy Kimmel, the acclaimed late-night host and comedian, shares insights from his lengthy career that began in radio and evolved dramatically into television. He candidly reflects on the early struggles of his show, humorously admitting it was once "genuinely terrible." A pivotal moment for him was his son's health crisis, which ignited his passion for advocating healthcare reforms and confronting political challenges. Kimmel also discusses the art of interviewing, the grind of a five-night show, and the balance between scripted and spontaneous comedy.

David A. Graham, a journalist at The Atlantic and author of "The Project: How Project 2025 is Shaping America," dives into the shocking implications of Project 2025. He reveals how its architects viewed Trump’s first term as a failure, prompting a shadow administration plan. Topics include immigration overhaul, education privatization, and radical healthcare reforms. Graham emphasizes Russell Vought’s strategy to centralize power and demoralize government employees, warning of the long-term risks for democracy and federal governance.

Join historian Anne Applebaum, known for her sharp insights on Eastern Europe, and Franklin Foer, a political journalist specializing in geopolitics, as they dive into Trump's first year back in office. They dissect eight conflicts Trump reportedly 'ended' while examining the tumultuous situations in the Middle East and Ukraine. Anne shares a poignant account of USAID cuts impacting global humanitarian efforts, while Franklin critiques the administration's handling of foreign relations and media influence. Their discussion unveils a complex, troubling landscape for democracy and diplomacy.

Mark Leibovich, a staff writer for The Atlantic known for his insightful political commentary, joins the conversation to delve into the latest tumultuous happenings in Washington. He discusses the troubling allegations against Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who reportedly ordered killings and endangered American troops. The pair also recap a chaotic Cabinet meeting where Marco Rubio fawned over Trump, who delivered a controversial rant about Somalis. Additionally, they unpack the implications of Trump’s pardons and explore the Republican Party's growing fractures.

David Kirkpatrick, a staff writer at The New Yorker and investigative journalist, discusses the astonishing ways the Trump family has profited during his presidency. He reveals the staggering $3.4 billion made through international deals, licensing, and cryptocurrency ventures. Kirkpatrick highlights ethical concerns and contrasts Trump's promises about foreign deals with the financial windfalls from Mar-a-Lago. He also explains the intricacies of NFTs and the influence of presidential endorsements in the crypto market, painting a vivid picture of modern profiteering.

Liz Oyer, former U.S. pardon attorney, sheds light on the controversial pardons from Trump's second term, revealing how many were driven by money and loyalty. She describes the blanket pardons for January 6th rioters and brands the pardon of cryptocurrency mogul Changpeng Zhao as potentially the most corrupt in U.S. history. Oyer critiques the current pardon attorney's extreme political stance and expresses concern about the lack of transparency and favoritism in the pardoning process, especially regarding high-profile cases.

Catherine Rampell, an opinion writer and economist for The Bulwark and MSNBC, dives into the recent government shutdown. She shares insights on how the Trump administration manipulated SNAP benefits during this crisis. Rampell discusses rising prices impacting Americans, contradicting Trump’s economic claims. She also critiques the idea of a 50-year mortgage for first-time homebuyers, emphasizing its potential dangers. Join them as they dissect tariffs and their chaotic consequences for consumers and businesses.