Best of the Left - Leftist Perspectives on Progressive Politics, News, Culture, Economics and Democracy

This discussion dives deep into how language shapes our perceptions and political realities. The hosts debunk the myth of 'pulling yourself up by your bootstraps,' revealing its elite-driven origins and societal impacts. They also analyze the transformation of 'political correctness' into a weapon for cultural wars, highlighting its ironic self-policing within leftist circles. Additionally, they redefine the concept of cancel culture, exploring its roots in marginalized communities and the power dynamics at play. It's a compelling exploration of words that shape our world.

The podcast dives into the alarming prospect of a new nuclear arms race, especially under questionable leadership. It explores the troubling history and implications of the Doomsday Clock and reveals how the myth of nuclear deterrence is more dangerous than protective. Survivors from Hiroshima and advocates call for total disarmament, while analysts discuss the global repercussions of expanding arsenals in China and Russia. The conversation is rich with critiques of modern nuclear policies, the haunting legacy of atomic bombings, and the stark economic tradeoffs involved.

Sherilyn Eiffel, former president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, dives deep into the Supreme Court's impact on democracy, especially regarding institutional capture. Civil rights expert Janai emphasizes the critical stakes surrounding the Voting Rights Act and its implications on minority representation. Historian Mark Bray discusses the dangers of labeling anti-fascist activism as domestic terrorism and shares his harrowing experience of leaving the U.S. due to threats. Together, they shed light on the machinery of control and the ongoing fight for truth and democracy.

Jeffrey Stein, an ACLU National Security Project staff attorney, dives into the controversial use of military strikes against suspected drug-smuggling vessels in Venezuela. He argues these actions, framed as part of the war on drugs, violate both U.S. and international laws, amounting to extrajudicial killings. The discussion also critiques Trump's narrative linking Venezuelan officials to drug cartels, revealing the shaky evidence behind such claims. Stein emphasizes the need for transparency in the legal justifications for such lethal strikes.

Explore the allure of villains and why antiheroes capture our interest across time. Dive into the impact of plutocracy on public life and corporate accountability, highlighting figures advocating for consumer protection. Discover how historical shifts shape perceptions of transgression and the challenges democracy faces when treated like a market. Finally, envision a member-driven political landscape that champions solidarity and participation while emphasizing the need for campaign finance reform.

Sam Seder, host of The Majority Report, warns about leaked plans for National Guard crowd-control measures, urging listeners to be vigilant against election interference. Mark Elias, founder of Democracy Docket, highlights the dangers of weaponized voter data and the importance of litigation to protect voting rights. Zohran Mamdani, a progressive politician, shares his experience facing Islamophobia during his campaign and emphasizes the need for dignity and inclusion in New York City. Together, they explore the current threats to democracy and strategies to counter them.

Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, political scientists and co-authors, delve into the alarming signs of democratic decline and the critical importance of institutional norms. U.S. Representative Andy Kim discusses the fight against corruption and political retribution in governance. Labor scholar Stephanie Luce shares strategies for empowering underdogs through base-building and collective care. Lastly, commentator Ted Johnson presents a framework for a non-partisan patriotism that embraces pride and accountability as America approaches its 250th anniversary.

In this discussion, Chris Hayes, a prominent cable-news host known for his probing political insights, tackles the troubling prevalence of racism in the US. He exposes a scandalous leaked chat revealing the racist and violent attitudes of Young Republican leaders, critiquing their responses. The conversation also touches on alarming incidents like a swastika found in a congressional office and the broader implications of systemic racism across American policies and culture. Hayes's sharp commentary provides a wake-up call to urgent societal issues.

In this insightful discussion, guests tackle the pressing issue of free speech under attack. Anna Gomez, an FCC commissioner, shares concerns about regulatory limits on content and the pressure on broadcasters. Investigative reporter Ken Klippenstein dives into NSPM-7, revealing its implications for civil liberties. Historian Mark Bray sheds light on the anti-fascist movement, addressing the misconceptions surrounding it and the threats he's faced. Together, they explore the chilling effects of government actions on dissent and the media landscape.

Original Air Date: 10/13/2020 Today we take a look at the myths of Columbus and American Exceptionalism™ that we cling to and turn our gaze to some of the less-understood but more accurate and important aspects of our collective history Be part of the show! Leave us a message or text at 202-999-3991, message us on Signal at the handle bestoftheleft.01, or email Jay@BestOfTheLeft.com Full Show Notes Check out our new show, SOLVED! on YouTube! BestOfTheLeft.com/Support (Members Get Bonus Shows + No Ads!) Join our Discord community! SHOW NOTES Ch. 1: Can You Handle The Truth? - Native Opinion Podcast an American Indian Perspective - Air Date 10-20-19 Ch. 2: Why the US celebrates Columbus Day - Vox - Air Date 10-8-20 Ch. 3: Columbus In His Own Words - Let's Talk Native TV - Air Date 10-12-19 Ch. 4: In Search of a Better American Myth - Progressive Faith Sermons, Dr. Roger Ray - Air Date 10-11-20 Ch. 5: Jon Schwarz on social silence, hidden history, and why Trump is our most honest president - The Katie Halper Show - Air Date 11-22-18 Ch. 6: City Upon A Hill: A History Of American Exceptionalism - BackStory - Air Date 1-22-16 Ch. 7: The American Exceptionalism Mythology - Loud & Clear - Air Date 7-5-19 Ch. 8: Columbus redux! - Let's Talk Native - Air Date 7-17-19 Ch. 9: Why The Right Is So Dishonest About American History - Cracked (Some More News) - Air Date 11-21-17 SHOW IMAGE "Christopher Columbus Statue Torn Down at Minnesota State Capitol" by Tony Webster, Flickr | License | Modifications: Cropped   Produced by Jay! Tomlinson