What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Dive into the drama surrounding Sean Diddy Combs's high-profile trial in New York. Witness the emotional reactions of spectators, journalists, and friends as they navigate the tense atmosphere inside and outside the courtroom. Experience the chaos as the courtroom erupts with feelings and disruptions during gripping testimonies. This legal saga reveals not just the facts of the case, but also the powerful dynamics at play among those who are watching.

Sheera Frenkel, a tech reporter for The New York Times, dives into the controversial role of Palantir in government data management. She discusses how the company's tools aim to break down data silos but raises concerns about privacy implications. The conversation touches on the ethical dilemma of centralized data collection, especially its impact during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Frenkel also highlights the tension within Palantir regarding its partnership with government agencies and the potential risks to civil liberties.

Mark Betancourt, a freelance reporter specializing in immigration, shares the harrowing story of an Ethiopian woman tortured by her government and facing deportation from the U.S. They discuss the chilling consequences of shifting asylum policies under the Trump administration, particularly the dismantling of protections for torture survivors. Betancourt highlights the evolving asylum process and its impact on vulnerable individuals, revealing the legal battles and human rights implications embedded in these changes.

Isaac Saul, executive editor of Tangle and author of "I think I’m leaving Zionism, or Zionism is leaving me," dives into the evolving landscape of Zionism amid ongoing conflict. He discusses the surge in anti-Semitic incidents and the complex identity struggles many face. Saul reflects on personal transformations during pivotal visits to Israel and explores how younger generations perceive the term 'Zionist.' The conversation underscores the urgent need for empathy and dialogue, emphasizing pathways towards understanding amidst polarized views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Marcia Howard, president of the Minneapolis Federation of Educators, and Brandt Williams, a senior editor at MPR News, delve into the profound impact of George Floyd's murder five years later. They discuss the ongoing struggle for police reform, highlighting promises unfulfilled by city leaders. Howard emphasizes the crucial role of educators in activism, while both guests reflect on the transformation of George Floyd Square into a symbol of justice. The complexities surrounding community safety and urban infrastructure are also examined, underscoring the continuing fight against systemic oppression.

Anand Menon, a Professor of European Politics and Foreign Affairs at King's College London, dives deep into the chaotic world of post-Brexit Britain. He discusses the political fallout from Brexit and the challenges faced by the Labour Party under Keir Starmer. Menon highlights the rise of far-right populism and its implications for British politics. The conversation also touches on the effects of Trump's trade agreements and the need for a strong political narrative to combat voter disillusionment, drawing parallels between the U.S. and U.K. in navigating these turbulent times.

Kate Conger, a New York Times reporter who co-wrote a book about Elon Musk's Twitter takeover, shares intriguing insights on Musk's surprising exit from Washington and its potential repercussions on his political future and crypto ventures like DOGE. She discusses Musk's shift back to focusing on his companies, Tesla and SpaceX, and reflects on the delicate balance between ambitious tech goals and the limitations posed by government. The conversation highlights privacy concerns related to centralized data initiatives initiated by Musk's colleagues.

Jake Epstein, a senior defense reporter for Business Insider, dives into the escalating drone warfare between Ukraine and Russia. He discusses NATO's training for future conflicts emphasizing man versus machine. The podcast highlights the informal environments where Ukrainian workers innovate in drone production, showcasing unexpected military adaptability. Epstein also addresses the transformative impact of drones on strategies and psychological aspects of warfare, revealing how these developments are reshaping global military tactics.

Imani Gandy, Editor-at-Large for Rewire News Group, and Mary Ziegler, law professor and author, dive into the heartbreaking case of Adriana Smith, who was declared brain dead while pregnant. They discuss the complex legal and ethical dilemmas her family faces, highlighting the tension between fetal rights and bodily autonomy. The conversation touches on reproductive rights, systemic biases in healthcare, and the troubling implications of current laws, all while emphasizing the need for dignity and equitable treatment in medical scenarios.

Marisa Lagos, a political correspondent for KQED and co-host of Political Breakdown, dives into Gavin Newsom's strategic maneuvering in his political career. She discusses his ambitious rise from San Francisco mayor to a possible presidential candidate. The conversation highlights his efforts to bridge gaps with right-wing figures while grappling with his California liberal identity. Lagos also addresses the complexities of maintaining authenticity amidst political pressures and how Newsom's governance style influences his national ambitions.