The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart

Join Sam Rosenfeld, an Associate Professor of Political Science at Colgate University and co-author of "The Hollow Parties," as he dives into the challenges of the U.S. two-party system. Discover why third parties struggle to gain traction and how gerrymandering and restrictive electoral rules contribute to polarization. The conversation reflects on the founding fathers' vision versus today's political landscape, prompting listeners to consider whether a multi-party system could better represent diverse voter interests for a healthier democracy.

Melissa Murray, an NYU Law professor and constitutional law expert, and Jessica Valente, founder of AbortionEveryday.com and reproductive rights advocate, delve into the current state of abortion rights. They discuss the misinterpretation of a recent Supreme Court ruling on Mifepristone as a win. The duo emphasizes the emotional toll of restrictive laws, legal complexities faced by providers, and the need for collective political action to protect reproductive freedoms. Their insights highlight the disconnect between public support and the political landscape.

Bill Hartung, a Senior Research Fellow focused on military spending, and Roxana Tiron, a National Security Reporter at Bloomberg, dissect the complexities of the military-industrial complex. They question whether the U.S. arsenal truly protects democracy, especially amid current conflicts. Insights on the bloated defense budget reveal a glaring disconnect in prioritizing military spending over public services. The duo also examines the contradictions of arms sales and the challenges faced by investigative journalism in shielding national security issues from public scrutiny.

In a thought-provoking discussion, investigative journalist Jane Mayer and ethics advocate Noah Bookbinder tackle the subtle erosion of democracy. They delve into the corrosive influence of dark money, revealing how it has twisted political representation and public trust. The duo emphasizes the urgent need for regulatory reforms and citizen engagement to combat corruption and restore accountability. With insights into the historical context of these issues, they call for greater transparency in government spending and a reimagined political landscape.

Dive into engaging conversations that tackle some of today's most complex issues. The host brings in special guests to discuss a range of topics, from politics to the art of sandwich making. Alongside heartfelt chats, producers and friends offer insights on current headlines. Get ready for thought-provoking dialogues every Thursday!