What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Ian Millhiser, a senior correspondent at Vox with a focus on courts and law, dives into the Supreme Court's consideration of Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood in South Carolina. He discusses the surprising journey this case took to reach the highest court despite legal precedents against defunding. The conversation touches on political influences affecting judicial decisions, the implications for healthcare access, and patients’ rights in the context of significant state actions. Millhiser unpacks the complexities of this legal battle and what it means for abortion rights.

Aymann Ismail, a staff writer at Slate, sheds light on the shocking detention of Tufts student Rumeysa Ozturk by ICE agents. The discussion unravels the troubling connections between federal surveillance and the suppression of free speech, especially for Muslim activists. Ismail delves into how organizations like Canary Mission exacerbate fears among foreign students. With personal stories and broader implications at stake, the conversation highlights the chilling effect on dissenting voices in America’s academic landscape.

John Nichols, associate editor at The Capital Times and expert on electoral issues, tackles the unprecedented financial stakes in Wisconsin's Supreme Court race, reaching nearly $100 million. He reveals Elon Musk's staggering $19.3 million influence and his attempts to steer judicial appointments. Nichols discusses the ideological shift in the court and how this impacts crucial issues like abortion rights. The conversation also uncovers the sensational tactics used in campaigning and the broader implications of billionaire influence on democracy.

Shayla Love, a science journalist known for her in-depth reporting on ketamine, discusses the drug's fascinating journey from a medical anesthetic to a trend in mental health therapy. She explores its dissociative and euphoric effects, diving into its therapeutic potential for depression among Silicon Valley elites. Love raises important questions about the risks of misuse and the ethical dilemmas in psychedelic therapy. The conversation also touches on the cognitive implications for decision-makers in society, striking a balance between benefits and dangers.

Azeem Khan is an advisor to UNICEF’s crypto fund and a co-creator of the blockchain Morph, bringing valuable insights into the world of memecoins. He discusses the whimsical rise of memecoins, acknowledging their reliance on community engagement. The conversation dives into launching new coins like Buenwum and Wayne Worm, navigating promotional strategies and market chaos. They also candidly share lessons learned from the rollercoaster experiences of managing meme coin projects, warning about the risks and unregulated nature of the crypto landscape.

Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, an Air Force veteran and author of 'Renegade', dissects the leaked Signal chat of Trump administration officials contemplating a military strike. He discusses the chaos engulfing national security discussions and the alarming informality with which sensitive military plans were debated. Kinzinger highlights the internal distrust in the Trump era, accountability in official testimonies, and the urgent need for better protocols in handling classified information amidst a climate of misinformation.

Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, a higher education reporter at The Washington Post, dives into the chaotic landscape of student loans shaped by recent political shifts. She discusses the Department of Education's current challenges, such as staff cuts affecting critical services and the controversial idea of disbanding the agency. The conversation highlights anxiety surrounding income-driven repayment options and the need for improved borrower support. Additionally, Douglas-Gabriel emphasizes the impact on marginalized groups and the importance of financial planning for future college students.

David Weigel, a national political reporter at Semafor, dives into the excitement surrounding Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders' 'Fighting Oligarchy' tour. He discusses the Democratic Party's struggle to craft a unifying message amid grassroots movements. The podcast highlights the differences between establishment strategies and vibrant rallies, reflecting on how these dynamics could reshape the party's future. Weigel also contrasts today's activism with the Tea Party, showcasing the urgency and concerns of activists seeking progressive change.

Lee Bollinger, President Emeritus of Columbia University and a noted First Amendment expert, dives into the pressures facing higher education today. He discusses the Trump administration's tactics of using federal funding threats to influence universities. Bollinger highlights the importance of academic freedom and the legal arguments that institutions can leverage. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating free speech, anti-Semitism, and affirmative action within the current political landscape, underscoring the critical need for collaboration among universities to protect these principles.

Dana Mattioli, a Wall Street Journal reporter and author of "The Everything War," dives into the intriguing evolution of Jeff Bezos's relationship with political power. He discusses how Bezos shifted from a rival of President Trump to a more conciliatory figure. The conversation highlights Bezos's growing influence in D.C. and the strategic moves Amazon has made to ingratiate itself with the Biden administration. The episode also touches on the broader implications of big tech policies and Bezos's changing role in the political landscape.