What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Jeff Goodell, a renowned climate change writer and author of impactful books like The Heat Will Kill You First, dives into the heartbreaking consequences of the recent flash flooding in central Texas. He discusses how climate change has intensified such disasters and questions the effectiveness of current flood response strategies. The conversation also highlights the need for better community preparedness and infrastructure planning to combat increasing extreme weather risks. Goodell urges accountability from agencies like FEMA to protect vulnerable populations.

Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times columnist, dives deep into the parallels between the Fugitive Slave Act and current immigration policies. He highlights how historical injustices shape today's political narratives and how federal overreach mirrors past practices. Bouie discusses the role of activism in challenging oppressive laws, drawing connections between 19th-century abolitionists and contemporary advocates for immigrant rights. He emphasizes the evolving public sentiment on immigration and the potential for activism to drive significant policy shifts.

Sommer Brugal, a Miami reporter for Axios, dives deep into the controversial 'Alligator Alcatraz,' a hastily built migrant detention center in the Florida Everglades. The conversation reveals the swift establishment of such facilities and their political motivations. Brugal critiques the facility’s grim branding and explores its implications for immigration policy and environmental concerns. The discussion highlights the harsh realities faced by detainees and raises ethical questions about the inhumane conditions in ICE custody.

Join Will Oremus, a technology news analysis writer for the Washington Post, as he dives into the heated debate surrounding AI regulation. He discusses the recent removal of an amendment that would have limited state-level AI laws and the ongoing struggle in Congress to establish a cohesive national AI policy. Oremus explores the shift from regulating AI to increased military funding and highlights the influence of Big Tech on political dynamics. It's a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of legislation and the future of artificial intelligence!

The conversation dives into the bittersweet evolution of the internet, contrasting joyful early experiences with today's disillusionment. Guests share humorous reflections on how a once-playful space has turned serious and corporate. There’s a nostalgic yearning for genuine connections and a call to step away from screens and reconnect with the world outside. It raises a thought-provoking question: Is anyone really having fun online anymore?

Daniel Swain, a weather and climate scientist at the University of California, discusses the alarming impact of funding cuts on the National Weather Service. He highlights how these reductions hinder accurate storm predictions and endanger public safety. Swain addresses current challenges in forecasting severe weather, like hurricanes and tornadoes, underlines the critical need for resources, and warns about the risks of reduced meteorological capabilities amid increasing extreme weather events.

David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect, delves into President Trump's expansive and controversial bill ahead of its July 4th deadline. He reveals how its hefty tax cuts for the wealthy clash with sharp reductions to essential programs like Medicaid and SNAP, making it deeply unpopular across the board. The conversation also explores the intricate political maneuvers and party tensions as lawmakers grapple with the bill's implications for healthcare and fiscal accountability. Dayen highlights the implications for constituents and potential fallout on Democrats ahead of the midterms.

Brian Stelter, CNN's Chief Media Analyst, dives into the looming threat to public broadcasting as the Trump administration gears up to cut funding from NPR and PBS. He reflects on the historical significance of public media and Mr. Rogers’ heartfelt plea to Congress. Stelter discusses the dire consequences of these funding cuts, particularly for rural stations that rely on public broadcasting. The conversation unpacks the battle for federal support and the ongoing struggle to maintain independent journalism in an increasingly polarized media landscape.

Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate who specializes in courts and law, dives into the tumultuous recent decisions from the Supreme Court. He discusses the significant shift in the court’s approach to universal injunctions and the implications for judicial authority. The conversation highlights changes to birthright citizenship laws and the confusion they may bring for families. Stern also addresses the partisan dynamics at play, revealing how recent rulings favor Republican interests and the challenges faced by liberal justices.

Philip Bump, a Washington Post columnist, and Scott Shuchart, a former ICE official, dive into the controversial practice of ICE agents wearing masks during arrests. They discuss how this trend threatens public trust and accountability in law enforcement, drawing parallels to masked protesters. The conversation touches on rising concerns over officer safety versus community perceptions, the skepticism surrounding reported assaults on officers, and the urgent need for political oversight in immigration enforcement practices.