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

Journalistic experts dissect the explosive implications of the Epstein files and their ties to Donald Trump. They reveal shocking revelations from 2011 emails, where Trump was ominously referred to as 'the dog that hasn't barked.' The panel discusses victim testimonies, Trump’s inconsistent political reactions, and the troubling connections between Epstein, elite networks, and global intelligence. Dive into how real conspiracies can inform larger narratives and the absurdity of denial amidst mounting evidence.

Explore the fascinating political origins of SimCity and its impact on urban planning through a libertarian lens. Delve into contrasting video games that provoke new visions of societal management. Hear Naomi Klein's critiques of the Left's responses to societal challenges and the importance of addressing shared grievances rather than dismissing them. The hosts discuss the limitations of current healthcare debates and the balance between cynicism and trust in public communication, urging for clearer visions for a progressive future.

Air Date 11/21/2025 In an ethical political system, being willing to break the law in order to starve people amid a political dispute wouldn't be a source of greater leverage and power but it is in ours and the shutdown put the wildly different senses of ethics between the parties on full display. 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! KEY POINTS KP 1: Government Shutdown or General Strike How to Fight Trumps Agenda - The Socialist Program w Brian Becker - Air Date 11-12-25 KP 2: What Its Like Suing Trump in Court Over SNAP Funding - Boom! Lawyered - Air Date 11-13-25 KP 3: The History of SNAP How Food Stamps Feed America - The Politics of New America - Air Date 11-4-25 KP 4: MAGA Republican ERUPTS Over Major SNAP Consequences As Gross Tantrum Backfires - The Damage Report - Air Date 10-31-25 KP 5: Addressing Food Insecurity With Dignity - The Giving Garden - Air Date 9-3-25 KP 6: Senator Sanders Slams The Surrender Dems - What A Day - Air Date 11-11-25 KP 7: Pope Condemns Trump Hispanics Quit GOP More Illegal Airstrikes How SNAP Boosts The Economy - The David Feldman Show - Air Date 11-10-25 (00:55:53) NOTE FROM THE EDITOR On how to preserve democracy DEEPER DIVES (01:10:38) SECTION A: SHUTDOWN 02:01:39) SECTION B: FOOD INSECURITY (03:19:42) SECTION C: GOP AWFULNESS SHOW IMAGE CREDITS Description: Composite image of the SNAP program logo (food stamps) and a symbol of a stethoscope (healthcare) in a closed cage with a GOP elephant symbol standing on top against a faded American flag background. Credit: Internal composite design. Elements from Pixabay | Pixabay license | and UDSA Produced by Jay! Tomlinson Visit us at BestOfTheLeft.com Listen Anywhere! BestOfTheLeft.com/Listen Listen Anywhere! Follow BotL: Bluesky | Mastodon | Threads | X Like at Facebook.com/BestOfTheLeft

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.