
What Next | Daily News and Analysis
The problem with the news right now? It’s everywhere. And each day, it can feel like we’re all just mindlessly scrolling. It’s why we created What Next. This short daily show is here to help you make sense of things. When the news feels overwhelming, we’re here to help you answer: What next? Look for new episodes every weekday morning.
Latest episodes

Nov 22, 2024 • 27min
TBD | What's Google Without Chrome?
Leah Nylen, an antitrust reporter for Bloomberg News, dives into the Department of Justice's drastic recommendations for Google's monopoly, particularly the potential separation of Chrome. She discusses how this could shake up Google's market dominance and advertising strategies amidst political changes. The conversation highlights Chrome's critical role in Google's ecosystem, implications for data sharing in search, and the possible impact on AI development. Nylen also reveals how the political landscape could alter antitrust enforcement against tech giants.

5 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 29min
Mass Deportation How?
Molly O'Toole, an insightful reporter on immigration and security, dives deep into the controversial promise of mass deportation made by Donald Trump. She explores the chilling tactics, including aggressive raids in certain communities, that could be employed. O'Toole also addresses the complex realities faced by undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers, examining the emotional toll and ethical implications of these policies. The podcast unravels the crisis within immigration courts and the failures of past administrations, shedding light on a pressing societal issue.

Nov 20, 2024 • 31min
Trump’s Shadow Cabinet
David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect, dives deep into the turbulent landscape of Donald Trump's cabinet choices. He reveals how figures like Matt Gaetz and Pete Hegseth amplify the chaos, serving as distractions from pressing issues. Dayen argues that the real power may rest with White House czars rather than traditional cabinet members. He discusses the implications of centralizing authority in the Trump administration, suggesting upcoming appointments could reflect a strategically chaotic approach that prioritizes loyalty over governance.

Nov 19, 2024 • 30min
Welcome to Trump City, USA
Henry Grabar, a Slate staff writer, and Ron Kim, a New York State Assembly representative, dive into urban voting shifts as Donald Trump gains traction in cities traditionally supporting Democrats. They explore the surprising GOP appeal among Latino and Asian American voters, reflecting changing demographics. The discussion highlights low voter turnout during primaries, and contrasts progressive challenges with rising conservative sentiments. They also touch on social media's role in shaping young voters' political views and the complexities of catering to diverse community needs.

Nov 18, 2024 • 27min
Jamie Raskin: “We Can’t Let The Fear Paralyze Us”
Jamie Raskin, a U.S. representative from Maryland and a key figure in Donald Trump's second impeachment, shares his insights on the current political climate. He discusses the importance of fighting back against authoritarianism and reflects on the implications of the 14th Amendment for future elections. Raskin emphasizes the need for unity among progressives and the urgency of democratic reforms. Despite challenges, he encourages listeners not to let fear dictate their actions in these turbulent times.

Nov 17, 2024 • 29min
TBD | The X-odus
Nitish Pahwa, a Slate business writer, shares insights on the shift from Twitter to X under Elon Musk's leadership. He discusses the dramatic decline in user engagement and how political tensions have pushed many to seek alternatives. The conversation delves into the complexities of loyalty to a platform that now prioritizes misinformation and trolls. Pahwa highlights the emotional toll of leaving social media, encouraging listeners to consider healthier online spaces while remaining wary of the risks associated with continuing on X.

Nov 15, 2024 • 25min
TBD | The Manosphere That Delivered Trump Back to Power
In this engaging discussion, Makena Kelly, a senior writer at Wired, delves into the fascinating intersection of technology and politics. She analyzes how Donald Trump's strategies, including engagement with the 'manosphere' and influential podcasters, shifted voter dynamics. Kelly highlights the hyper-masculinity that resonates with young male voters and contrasts Trump's grassroots tactics with Democrats' traditional approaches. The conversation reveals the evolving influence of social media in political campaigns and the challenges of modern political communication.

Nov 14, 2024 • 34min
Can SNL Meet the Moment?
Sam Adams, a senior editor and writer for Slate, dives into the challenges faced by Saturday Night Live in the current political landscape. He questions whether the show can effectively satirize figures like Donald Trump, whose absurdity often surpasses parody. The discussion explores the history of political satire on SNL, the struggle to balance humor with serious discourse, and how the show might adapt in uncertain times. Adams also reflects on SNL's potential for innovation as it approaches its 50th season, emphasizing the vital role of comedic commentary.

Nov 13, 2024 • 28min
Trump Vs The World
Fred Kaplan, Slate’s “War Stories” correspondent and author of "A Capital Calamity," dives into the potential fallout from a Trump reelection. He explores the anxiety among international leaders and the implications for U.S. foreign policy regarding wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Kaplan highlights Trump’s skeptical view of NATO and contrasts his approach to Israel with traditional diplomacy. The conversation also tackles Trump's controversial claims about resolving the Ukraine conflict and the shifting political dynamics surrounding U.S. military support.

Nov 12, 2024 • 29min
Protecting Abortion, Electing Trump
Caroline Kitchener, a national reporter for the Washington Post, dives into the complex intersection of abortion rights and the political landscape in this insightful discussion. She highlights how many pro-choice voters still supported Trump despite his ambiguous stance. The conversation addresses the implications of a potential Trump re-election on abortion access, ongoing legal battles over mifepristone, and the possible revival of historic regulations like the Comstock Act. Kitchener's analysis reveals the intricate dynamics shaping voter behavior and political strategies leading into 2024.