What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Seth Tupper, Editor-in-Chief of the South Dakota Searchlight, and Ahilan Arulanantham, Co-Director of the Center for Immigration Law and Policy, dive into Kristi Noem's swift rise to power and her controversial role in immigration enforcement. They discuss her actions during protests and the impact on migrants facing deportation. Tupper shares insights from Noem’s political journey, while Arulanantham discusses ongoing legal battles against the Trump administration's policies. Together, they unravel the complexities of power dynamics within the Department of Homeland Security.

Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East Correspondent for The Economist, dives into the recent escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict, spotlighting Israel's major airstrikes on Iranian sites. He discusses the broader implications of these military actions and their connection to U.S. diplomacy regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions. Carlstrom highlights the risks of further warfare and examines Netanyahu's strategic motives in the region. The conversation touches on the complex interplay of domestic and international politics that affects both nations' stability.

Noel Brewer, Gillings Distinguished Professor in Public Health at the University of North Carolina and former CDC committee member, discusses the tumultuous recent firing of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. He delves into the implications of appointing new members amidst rising vaccine skepticism and explores the challenge of rebuilding public trust in vaccinations. Brewer emphasizes the critical need for transparency in vaccine governance and how these decisions affect access to life-saving vaccines in America.

Lily Hay Newman, a senior writer for WIRED focused on information security, shares essential tips for safeguarding your digital life while traveling. She discusses the alarming rise in traveler detentions at U.S. borders and the invasive search powers of customs agents. Listeners learn about the legal rights for citizens versus visa holders and strategies to protect personal information. With insights into airport security and the challenges faced by marginalized travelers, Newman emphasizes the need for awareness and preparation when crossing borders.

Makena Kelly, a senior writer at WIRED and expert on all things Dogecoin, dives deep into the shifting landscape of DOGE post-Elon Musk. She discusses the transition of DOGE into a formal government initiative and the unique challenges of managing tech talent within the bureaucracy. The conversation reveals the tension between promises of efficiency and the realities of government systems, as well as ongoing legal issues impacting immigration policy. Join in for insights on the chaotic yet fascinating interplay between cryptocurrency and government dynamics.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times columnist known for his historical insights, and Jeremy Lindenfeld, a reporter focused on climate and inequality, dive into Trump’s military posturing in California. They analyze the implications of federal troop deployment, questioning whether these moves reveal a desperation for control. The conversation also broaches the historical context of government crackdowns on protests, drawing parallels to state responses and the challenges faced by Democrats in opposing authoritarianism effectively.

In this discussion, Alex de Waal, Executive Director of the World Peace Foundation and author of *Mass Starvation*, delves into the dire situation in Gaza, where millions face starvation amidst political turmoil. He highlights personal stories of families struggling against food scarcity and explores the weaponization of famine in warfare. The conversation reveals the psychological impact on individuals and the urgent challenges in delivering humanitarian aid, emphasizing the historical context of food rations as a method of control.

In this discussion, Christina Cauterucci, a Slate senior writer and host of Outward, dives into the decline of corporate support for Pride Month. She critiques the commercialization of Pride while exploring its roots in activism against oppression. The conversation highlights the importance of grassroots movements in reclaiming the authentic essence of Pride, emphasizing community over corporate interests. Cauterucci encourages listeners to reflect on what Pride truly represents and how it can be revitalized in more meaningful ways.

Elizabeth Goitein, co-director at the Brennan Center for Justice, dives deep into the recent decision to deploy the National Guard in Los Angeles amid protests against ICE raids. She discusses the legal foundations of such a move, navigating the complexities of the Posse Comitatus Act and the Insurrection Act. The conversation highlights the mixed responses from local officials and the ethical implications of federal intervention in civil unrest. Goitein underscores the potential threats this poses to democracy and constitutional rights.

Nancy Scola, a reporter from POLITICO, dives into the pivotal antitrust challenges Google faces, led by Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater. They discuss Slater's unique approach to breaking up the tech giant, emphasizing her past in the Trump era and how it shapes today's regulatory landscape. The conversation reveals political tensions influencing legal strategies and highlights the evolving relationship between tech power and government oversight. Scola also sheds light on the impact of these cases on innovation and competition in the industry.