Juliette Kayyem, a Harvard Kennedy School professor and author, joins the discussion to unpack the latest twists in Donald Trump's legal saga and the cozy ties between tech magnates Zuckerberg and Musk with politics. She explores the devastating wildfires in LA and the ongoing implications of climate change on disaster response. The conversation also navigates the failures of the legal system and tech companies' ethical lapses, raising questions about accountability and resilience in today's political landscape.

Nick Romeo, a staff writer for The New Yorker focused on American politics, joins the discussion. They dive into Jimmy Carter's complex legacy, examining his humanitarian efforts and moral leadership in contrast to his presidency's challenges. The conversation also addresses the fierce divide within the GOP over immigration and the innovative potential of citizen assemblies in revitalizing democracy. They explore how these assemblies encourage civic engagement and tackle local issues like youth homelessness, emphasizing the importance of diverse representation.

The discussion kicks off with quirky moral dilemmas and hilariously imaginative scenarios about historical figures and animals. A deep dive into historical decisions showcases their effect on modern healthcare, particularly reproductive rights. The hosts creatively ponder the transformative power of literature on historical events and band identities. They humorously critique education's focus, emphasizing practical skills, and explore unique political systems. Finally, they reflect on parental insights and the contrasting food regulations in the US and EU.

David Greenberg, author of the biography "John Lewis: A Life," shares insights into the life of civil rights icon John Lewis. They discuss Lewis's evolution from a young activist in Alabama to a key figure in Congress, powered by his commitment to non-violence and mentorship from civil rights leaders. Greenberg reveals new documents that shed light on Lewis's moral courage, including his powerful confrontation with President Bush Sr. His story highlights lasting impacts on social justice and modern activism.

Julie Huygen, a researcher for the Slate Political Gabfest and former national security lawyer, dives into pressing topics. She unpacks the surrender of House Republicans during the government shutdown and analyzes the complex intersection of media and politics, particularly under Trump's influence. The discussions also delve into the legal challenges facing TikTok regarding national security and free speech, sparking questions about the future of social media regulation and U.S.-China relations.

Join Steven A. Cook, a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and a Middle East expert, as he delves into the crumbling al-Assad regime in Syria, exploring the role of regional players like Hezbollah and Iran. The conversation shifts to the unexpected public sentiment surrounding a healthcare CEO’s assassination, revealing deep-rooted frustrations with the healthcare system. They also tackle the contentious issue of birthright citizenship in the U.S. and its implications for modern society. Cook’s insights shed light on these pressing geopolitical and societal challenges.

This discussion highlights President Biden's controversial pardon of his son, Hunter, and its implications for the Democrats. The hosts dive into the party's introspection after electoral losses and the struggle to understand voter dynamics amid shifting loyalties. They also tackle the Supreme Court case regarding healthcare for transgender minors, addressing the tensions between state laws and parental rights. Additionally, historical parallels and contemporary political challenges are explored, showing how past events shape current debates.

This week, Annie Lowrey, a staff writer at The Atlantic with sharp insights into the economy, joins the hosts to dive into several hot-button topics. They dissect Trump's threatened tariffs, analyzing their feasibility and market implications. The conversation shifts to the potential risks of the 'bro economy,' especially focusing on the rise of online sports betting and its impact on young men. They also explore the chilling effects of social media censorship on political discourse, highlighting the complexities of free speech in today's media landscape.

Dan Diamond, a healthcare reporter for The Washington Post, shares insights into the evolving landscape of health policy under Donald Trump. The conversation dives into the controversial selections for Trump's Cabinet, particularly concerning allegations of sexual misconduct. They also discuss the integration of Christian teachings into Southern education and its implications. Diamond highlights the potential changes to public health policy, especially regarding the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid reforms amidst the administration's chaotic dynamics.

Political Gabfest host Emily Bazelon talks with author Stephanie Gorton about her new book, The Icon & The Idealist.They discuss racism and prudishness in the early suffragist movement, how eugenics played a role in the birth control movement, and how two different women fought each other, despite wanting the same things. Tweet us your questions @SlateGabfest or email us at gabfest@slate.com. (Messages could be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.)Podcast production by Cheyna Roth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices