Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast

Rick Wilson, founder of The Lincoln Project, shares insights on the potential fallout of a Trump comeback, emphasizing the looming political chaos. Roger McNamee, author of Zucked, critiques how tech giants pursue dystopian goals that jeopardize democracy. They delve into the alarming normalization of toxic political behavior and how technology exacerbates disinformation in elections. The conversation reveals the dire need to prioritize user welfare over profit while navigating the profound implications of these interconnected crises.

Charlie Sykes, a political commentator and author, shares insights on maintaining sanity in today's chaotic news cycle. Skye Perryman, President of Democracy Forward, discusses the critical legal strategies needed to push back against Trump's agenda, emphasizing the role of the courts in protecting democracy. The duo explores the impact of Trump's deportation strategy on the economy and addresses the need for public vigilance against authoritarianism. They also highlight the importance of civic engagement in combating extremism within political discourse.

Dana Milbank, a Washington Post columnist and author, discusses the implications of Trump's nominations on future politics. Julia Davis, an expert on Russian media, highlights Russia's response to Trump's recent moves. They delve into how political appointments reflect deeper societal issues, the influence of Russian narratives on American perceptions, and the rising authoritarianism parallels in both nations. The conversation also touches on Trump’s immigration policies and the challenges facing American families within that context.

Symone Sanders, MSNBC's The Weekend host and a savvy political strategist, joins the discussion to dissect the emerging blind spots in VP Harris's strategy. Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run for Something, emphasizes the critical role of grassroots movements in reshaping the Democratic Party's future. The duo reflects on the lessons learned from the 2020 elections, underscoring the necessity for diverse candidates and effective communication. They also celebrate recent electoral successes, highlighting the importance of hope and new leadership in challenging political times.

Rick Wilson, founder of The Lincoln Project, offers sharp insights into Trump's chaotic cabinet appointments and the risky political landscape they create. Katherine Ebright, a counsel at the Brennan Center, dissects the controversial Alien Enemies Act of 1798, warning about its potential misuse against non-citizens today. They also address the internal turmoil within the MAGA movement and the challenges posed by misinformation, emphasizing the importance of political engagement over despair in these tumultuous times.

Kurt Anderson, an author and political analyst, discusses the unpredictability surrounding the potential Trump administration. Randi Weingarten, the President of the American Federation of Teachers, passionately addresses Trump's detrimental impacts on American education. They dive into the cultural battles linked to education policy and warning signs of privatization. The conversation reveals the critical need for strong public schools and equitable education for all families, highlighting the erosion of trust in the public education system.

Dan Nathan, host of On The Tape and CNBC contributor, analyzes the economic messaging of recent elections, noting misjudgments about Trump's sway and Biden's struggle to connect with working-class voters. Stephen Vladeck, a CNN contributor and expert on constitutional law, explores how courts could restrain Trump, emphasizing the Supreme Court's role in protecting democracy. The duo also tackles the implications of controversial political appointments and the risks of inflation affecting the working class.

Ron Brownstein, CNN political analyst and senior editor at The Atlantic, dissects voting patterns and the implications of VP Harris's loss. Miranda Green, an independent investigative reporter, exposes the issue of 'pink slime' newspapers that were mailed to swing district voters, illustrating how misinformation swayed the election. They also discuss voter behavior, highlighting a shift among young and Latino men, and explore the broader impact of dark money in today's media landscape. Tune in for sharp insights and eye-opening revelations!

Jason Selvig, one half of The Good Liars, shares his on-the-ground insights that led him to predict VP Harris’s loss. Anna Merlan, a reporter at Mother Jones, dives into the implications of RFK Jr. potentially joining Trump’s administration. They discuss shifting voter sentiments, particularly among former Obama supporters embracing Trump, driven by skepticism toward establishment politics. The conversation also touches on public health mistrust and the allure of alternative health narratives amid growing political distrust.

Dave Weigel, a Semafor reporter, shares sharp insights on the 2024 election, revealing the competitive dynamics in key districts. Jocelyn Benson, Michigan’s Secretary of State, talks about her state's vigorous response to threats against democracy, stressing the importance of civic engagement. The conversation dives into the ongoing challenges Democrats face, including the impact of Trump's narratives and voter dynamics, while celebrating Michigan's record voter turnout and the resilience of women candidates.