The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart

Jon Meacham, a presidential historian and acclaimed author, joins to dissect the current political landscape against the backdrop of U.S. history. They delve into Trump’s rhetoric and billionaire backing while questioning its unprecedented nature. The duo reflects on the legacy of the Biden administration and how past crises inform America's future. Engagingly, they examine democracy, empathy in leadership through a young Bush's story, and the philosophies of Hobbes and Locke, all highlighting the recurring patterns that shape governance.

Mark Cuban, co-founder of Cost Plus Drugs and renowned entrepreneur, dives deep into how 2024 was shaped by technology, business, and politics. He shares insights on his role as a campaign surrogate for Kamala Harris and discusses his mission to disrupt the healthcare system. The conversation shifts to the potential of AI in government and governance, the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency, and the challenges facing small businesses. Cuban also critiques insurance company practices, highlighting their impact on healthcare finance and costs.

In this engaging conversation, Senator Bernie Sanders, an Independent from Vermont known for his fight for democratic socialism, discusses the crisis of trust in government. He emphasizes the need for accountability and reform to address economic inequality and healthcare access. Delving into the corrosive influence of corporate money on politics, he advocates for prioritizing essential workers and the public's needs over billionaires' interests. Sanders also highlights the importance of effective government in tackling social issues, reflecting on critical legislative challenges.

Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, and Annie Lowrey, staff writer at The Atlantic, dive into the shifting political landscape of male voters. They explore why white men, even those in unions, are leaning Republican, despite pro-union sentiments. The discussion highlights the impact of modern masculinity on political alignment and critiques how Democrats can better connect with men's experiences. They blend serious analysis with lighthearted reflections on family dynamics, making for an engaging conversation.

Sarah Smarsh, author of 'Bone of the Bone: Essays on America by a Daughter of the Working Class,' dives deep into why Democrats have lost touch with working-class voters. She discusses the emotional disconnect in political messaging and the impact of neoliberal policies on labor rights. Smarsh emphasizes the dignity workers find in their jobs, despite economic challenges, and highlights the need for more genuine representation of working-class voices in politics. The conversation also touches on intersectionality and the significance of inclusive politics.

In this enlightening discussion, Heather Cox Richardson, a prominent historian and author of “Democracy Awakening,” delves into the implications of Trump's recent victory. She emphasizes the resilience of democratic institutions, drawing on historical examples that inspire hope and action. The conversation explores the complex dynamics of American politics, including voter behavior influenced by disinformation, the fragility of democracy, and the ideological shifts shaping current governance. Richardson also addresses the media's role in fostering informed citizenship.

Mona Charen, a conservative policy editor at The Bulwark, and Harvard's Laurence H. Tribe, a constitutional law expert, discuss the contradictions of patriotism within the MAGA movement. They analyze how symbols of revolution are used to support an increasingly authoritarian leader. The conversation digs into the manipulation of patriotism and the judicial impacts of political polarization. They emphasize the importance of accountability, the need for trust in institutions, and the nuanced relationship Americans have with their national identity.

Teddy Schleifer and Ken Vogel, both New York Times reporters, dive into the alarming influence of billionaires on American elections. They explore how mega-donors are reshaping democracy, emphasizing the secrecy of political donations and the opacity of dark money. The duo discusses the implications of wealthy philanthropists influencing policy, particularly around social issues like reproductive rights. They also reflect on the intertwining of corporate funding and political power, raising crucial questions about transparency and the future of electoral integrity.

Oren Cass, Chief Economist at American Compass, advocates for a populist approach to Republican policies, focusing on labor rights and economic equity. Zachary Carter, author of "The Price of Peace," dives into Keynesian insights, challenging traditional conservative ideologies. They discuss the contradictions in the GOP's pro-worker rhetoric, the impacts of tariffs, and the evolving dynamics of immigration policy. The conversation highlights the need for a modern economic framework that prioritizes workers amidst the complexities of contemporary politics.

Stacey Abrams, a renowned voting rights activist and author, teams up with Matt Masterson, Microsoft’s Democracy Forward Program Director and election security expert. They tackle the pressing issues of election integrity and access, dissecting myths surrounding voting safeguards. The duo emphasizes the crucial need for transparency, bipartisanship, and auditable paper trails to ensure fair elections, while also addressing the challenges posed by strict ID laws and voter suppression tactics across the country.