The Fifth Column

The hosts dive into their surprising movie confessions and COVID trauma, blending humor with serious reflection. They dissect Trump's fascination with rare minerals and the political quirks around tariffs. A heated discussion on the reckoning of pandemic policies ensues, alongside calls for transparency from intelligence agencies. They analyze ICE's tactics and recent public sentiment against aggressive enforcement. The conversation wraps up with poignant critiques of media sensationalism and the implications of U.S. support for Iranian protesters.

Ana Kasparian, a progressive political commentator and co-host at The Young Turks, joins the hosts to delve into critical issues in media and California politics. They critique LA leadership and evaluate Gavin Newsom's unexpected effectiveness on social media. Ana shares insights from her investigation into Amy Cooper, emphasizing the need for nuanced storytelling. The discussion also explores the biases in media coverage linked to partisan politics and the fallout Ana faced when challenging established narratives, highlighting the importance of honest journalism.

In this engaging discussion, Josh Barro, a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times and host of the Very Serious Substack, weighs in on pressing political and housing issues. He critiques Trump's pardons for January 6th rioters and explores how they reshape GOP dynamics. Barro also breaks down New York's complex rent regulations and warns about the pitfalls of government ownership in housing. The conversation wraps up with a humorous take on cultural malaise and encouragement for straight individuals to embrace their identity.

Kevin D. Williamson, a conservative columnist known for his sharp insights on politics and culture, joins the discussion. He shares the chaotic joys of having four kids in 19 months, including hilarious tips on naming and identifying triplets. The conversation also delves into the complexities of U.S. involvement in Venezuela, exploring historical precedents and legal ramifications. Williamson's reflections on early encounters with Trump reveal how he underestimated Trump's ambition, while debates on masculinity and parenting practices add a unique twist.

Thor Halvorssen, founder of the Human Rights Foundation and a Venezuelan dissident, shares his insights on the recent turmoil surrounding Maduro's regime. He discusses the chaotic atmosphere during the operation leading to Maduro's removal and the implications of U.S. pressure on authoritarianism. Halvorssen highlights Maria Corina Machado's role in a potential democratic transition and warns of the ongoing risks posed by narco-generals and instability. His perspective sheds light on a critical moment for Venezuela's future.

Charles C. Mann, a prominent science writer and author of acclaimed works like 1491 and 1493, dives into the fascinating intersection of history and science. He explores how cutting-edge tools like LIDAR are revealing hidden pre-Columbian cities in the Amazon. Mann critiques traditional views of wilderness, highlighting Indigenous land management through fire ecology. He also discusses the complexities of the Pueblo identity and how the Pueblo Revolt significantly shaped the trajectory of Spanish expansion in North America.

The hosts dive into the questionable ingredients of eggnog and share hilarious holiday anecdotes. They discuss the meaning of Kwanzaa and read listener corrections about 2024 predictions. Come along for Michael's pricey theater outing and their jabs at pop culture. There's a wild reflection on Trump's powers and economic policies ahead of midterms, along with quirky debates over state policies involving celebrities. They also explore Nixon tapes for comic relief and analyze Russia's coercive tactics in Ukraine. It's a wild ride into the new year!

This week, John Fugelsang, a comedian and political commentator, shares his insights on the intersection of faith and politics. He discusses his Catholic upbringing and how it shaped his views on spirituality. John offers a sharp critique of religious fundamentalism, explaining how it fuels authoritarianism and justifies violence. He contrasts this with his personal journey towards a more compassionate practice of Christianity, while also exploring the parallels between religious and political ideologies in today’s society.

Tina Nguyen, a Senior Reporter at The Verge, dives into the heated clash between big tech and government. She shares insights on how tech companies shifted from adversaries to allies of Trump. The discussion hilariously veers into Mariah Carey’s whiskey branding and examines the influence of figures like David Sacks. They also explore the strategic storytelling attempts of conservatives and critique new adaptations of Orwell’s works. With a mix of humor and sharp analysis, this conversation dissects the intricate webs of media, politics, and culture.

The hosts dive into the reactions surrounding recent tragic events, mixing humor with serious commentary. They dissect Donald Trump's controversial post about Rob Reiner, highlighting its vicious nuances. A discussion emerges on the responsibility of politicians to avoid exploiting tragedy for political gain. The panel contrasts U.S. integration practices with those in Europe, asserting America's strengths. They reflect on the shifting tolerance for Trump's rhetoric among voters and question how this might impact Republican support.