What Next

Elle Reeve, a CNN correspondent and author of 'Black Pill', dives deep into the internet culture shaping today's political landscape. She explores how the ideologies emerging from platforms like 4chan fuel real-world extremism, linking events from Gamergate to the Charlottesville rally. The discussion reveals how irony turned into serious belief systems among online communities and highlights the normalization of extremist rhetoric in political discourse. Reeve also examines the aftermath of these events, including their legal and cultural ramifications.

Aware of Donald Trump’s reputation as a dealmaker, Ukrainians had some hope as he took office—maybe Trump could break the stalemate with Russia and find peace. Then that Oval Office meeting happened…Guest: Romeo Kokriatski is the managing editor of New Voice of Ukraine, and co-host of the podcast Ukraine Without Hype.Want more What Next? Join Slate Plus to unlock full, ad-free access to What Next and all your other favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, Ethan Oberman, and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vincent Pinti, a law and public-policy graduate student at the University of Michigan, shares his firsthand experiences with severe federal funding cuts. He discusses the ripple effects of these cuts, especially on health services and individuals with disabilities. As Vincent navigates the challenges posed by reduced government support, he highlights the stark contrast between political promises and the reality faced by those reliant on assistance. His insightful stories underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms to address the growing gap in support.

Congressional Republicans are trying to extend Trump’s first-term tax cuts, appease GOP budget hawks and increase defense spending—all in a single budget. Can it be done?Guest: Jim Newell, senior politics writer at Slate.Want more What Next? Join Slate Plus to unlock full, ad-free access to What Next and all your other favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, Ethan Oberman, and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Louise Snyder, a journalist and author of "No Visible Bruises," dives into the troubling realities of women incarcerated for homicide. She discusses a striking statistic: 20% of these women killed their abusive partners. Snyder highlights the failures of self-defense laws in protecting victims and advocates for much-needed reforms. Through powerful anecdotes, she reveals the harrowing journey of women trapped in cycles of violence, ultimately calling for a justice system that truly understands and defends vulnerable women.

Dr. Jada Thompson, an associate professor specializing in agricultural economics at the University of Arkansas, dives into the egg crisis gripping the nation. She explains how avian flu dramatically reduced chicken populations, driving egg prices sky-high. The conversation reveals the complex dynamics of the egg market, including the role of feed costs and auction demand. Thompson also discusses how management strategies and disease containment practices have influenced the volatility in egg pricing, making it clear that recovery may be a long road ahead.

Tech reporter Ryan Mac, co-author of “Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter,” discusses the resignation of 21 federal workers from the U.S. Digital Service in protest against DOGE management. He highlights the growing dissatisfaction and calls for transparency among staff. The conversation dives into political tensions resulting from these protests, the impact of Musk's leadership style, and the ongoing challenges faced by federal employees amid the rising conflict surrounding DOGE initiatives. Mac provides an insightful look at the intersection of innovation, loyalty, and accountability.

Yair Rosenberg, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of Deep Shtetl, delves into the intricate aftermath of the Gaza ceasefire. He discusses the emotional toll on families reuniting amid trauma, the complex humanitarian implications for returning Palestinians, and the uncertain future of negotiations. Tensions rise with ongoing violence in the West Bank, making peace efforts even more challenging. Rosenberg highlights the contrasting narratives that complicate reconciliation, stressing the delicate balance required for any lasting resolution.

In this discussion, political reporter Greg Bluestein, known for his insights on Georgia politics, joins Slate's Ben Mathis-Lilley for a deep dive into public unrest. They explore heated town hall meetings across the country, where constituents are vocally opposing drastic government cuts that threaten local jobs. The conversation highlights the political struggle within the GOP, especially in Georgia, as lawmakers face backlash and are forced to moderate their stances. Amidst rising economic discontent, Trump's approval ratings are starting to take a hit.

Dan Adler, a staff writer for Vanity Fair specializing in celebrity culture, dives into the captivating aura surrounding Barron Trump. They discuss how Barron's quiet demeanor paradoxically fuels public fascination and speculation about his role in a shifting political landscape. The conversation touches on Barron’s evolution during his father's presidency, the scrutiny he faced as a child, and how his college experience at NYU reflects broader themes of identity and legacy. Adler also examines the dynamics of celebrity and expectations on Barron as a potential future leader.