Pod Save America

Atul Gawande, a physician and public health expert, joins the discussion to dive into pressing issues in health policy. He critiques the recent measles outbreak and the inadequate response, stressing the need for effective public health strategies. The conversation also touches on RFK Jr.'s controversial moves against vaccine regulation. Additionally, they tackle the implications of Trump's recent authoritarian tactics, examining threats to free speech and the consequences of his trade policies. Gawande's insights highlight the intersection of healthcare and politics in today's landscape.

Oren Cass, a conservative economist and head of American Compass, joins the discussion to critique Trump's trade policies and tariffs, sparking an intriguing debate on their economic impact. The conversation delves into public protests against immigration policies and the Republican party's messaging on economic issues. They explore the complexities of trade with authoritarian regimes like China and emphasize the need for a balanced approach to free trade. Packed with sharp insights, the dialogue highlights the evolving dynamics within American politics and economics.

Michael Lewis, renowned author of The Big Short and Moneyball, joins to discuss his latest work, Who is Government? He highlights the unsung heroes of civil service whose crucial roles often go unrecognized. Lewis dissects the damaging stereotypes of bureaucrats, emphasizing the importance of reliable information. He critiques Elon Musk's approach to governance and examines the complex dynamics of political leadership. Additionally, he calls attention to the critical narrative of government effectiveness, advocating for stories that reshape public perception.

Emma Vigeland, a political analyst, joins economics journalist James Surowiecki and former National Security Advisor Susan Rice to tackle the fallout from Trump's new tariffs. They discuss how these policies are based on flawed calculations, affecting global markets and lower-income Americans. Vigeland hints at Democratic strategies to capitalize on Trump’s missteps. Surowiecki critiques the economic implications of Trump's approach, while Rice shares insights on national security and Trump's controversial foreign relations. It's a lively dissection of politics and economics!

Ruben Gallego, a U.S. Senator from Arizona, discusses the Democratic response to Trump's provocative ambitions for a third presidential term. He emphasizes the importance of a clear strategy to win back voter trust and highlights the urgent need for Democrats to connect with working-class interests. The conversation also touches on the disturbing implications of current immigration policies and how grassroots mobilization can counteract Republican tactics. Gallego's insights provide a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities facing Democrats in an increasingly polarized political landscape.

Ezra Klein, journalist and author of "Abundance," teams up with fellow journalist Derek Thompson, who co-authored the same book. They argue that a scarcity mindset is limiting America's potential. The conversation touches on the need for better infrastructure to engage Democratic voters, critiques past governance failures, and advocates for a proactive approach to housing and clean energy. They discuss the political divide between abundance and scarcity, emphasizing reform and reimagining government accountability to restore public trust.

Jasmine Mooney, a Canadian actress and entrepreneur who faced 12 days of detention by ICE, shares her harrowing experience and the chilling realities of the U.S. immigration system. The conversation uncovers the emotional turmoil and struggle for justice within a flawed system. Additionally, critical discussions about Trump's new tariffs reveal their impact on the automotive industry and overall consumer sentiment. The unpredictability of political communication is explored, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the press and political dissenters.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear joins the discussion, sharing insights on winning in red states and the critical role of Medicaid for healthcare access in his region. The conversation dives into the political pressures affecting American institutions and the charm of grassroots activism in conservative landscapes. With a witty recount of a chaotic military chat among Trump officials, the episode balances humor with serious topics, like the push against immigrant rights and the importance of effective communication in politics.

Congressman Adam Smith, U.S. Representative from Washington's 9th district and a national security expert, joins the discussion on the current landscape of American politics. He addresses the challenges Democrats face, urging a reevaluation of their strategies to broaden their coalition and unite against authoritarianism. The conversation touches on the need for accountability, military strategy in conflicts like Ukraine, and the shifting political dynamics with younger voters. Smith emphasizes the importance of adapting and revitalizing the party to meet evolving challenges.

The podcast dives into Trump's escalating conflict with the judiciary, highlighting concerns over judicial independence amid political pressures. Discussions reveal his controversial plans to eliminate the Department of Education, which threaten vital educational services. Listeners learn about the shifting voter dynamics, particularly his surprising appeal among immigrant communities in blue states. Insights into public distrust in political and judicial systems elevate the urgency for citizen engagement and proactive strategies leading up to the upcoming elections.