What Next
Slate Podcasts
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. Get more of What Next with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of What Next and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or visit slate.com/whatnextplus for access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
Oct 24, 2024 • 25min
Abortion Is on the Ballot. Republicans Have a Plan.
Grace Panetta, a political reporter at The 19th, discusses the crucial abortion ballot measure in Florida. She shares how despite a national trend against strict abortion laws, Florida Republicans are strategizing to maintain their six-week ban. The conversation includes personal stories from mothers affected by these laws, the use of taxpayer funds for anti-ballot initiatives, and the broader impact of legislative challenges on reproductive rights. Grace also highlights the unique dynamics of voter sentiment and political pressure in this heated battleground.
Oct 23, 2024 • 24min
When It Comes to the Border, Has Trump Already Won?
Rogé Karma, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in immigration policy, dives deep into the shifting landscape of American views on immigration. He discusses how Trump's anti-immigration rhetoric has resonated across the political spectrum, surprising many with support for strict measures even among Kamala Harris backers. The conversation explores the rapid rightward shift in public opinion and reveals the complex dynamics that fuel both fear and appreciation for immigrants, challenging widely held myths about their economic impact.
Oct 22, 2024 • 26min
Why Killing Sinwar Won’t End the War
Jonathan Dekel-Chen, a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and father of hostage Sagi, joins Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, to discuss the fallout from Yahya Sinwar's death. They tackle the emotional turmoil for families of hostages, shifting dynamics within Hamas, and the impact on future negotiations. The pair also analyze the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the uncertain path toward a potential ceasefire, revealing complexities that linger even after Sinwar's removal from power.
Oct 21, 2024 • 25min
Should the Menendez Brothers Be Free?
Brian Buckmire, an ABC Legal Contributor and felony trial attorney, dives into the rekindled fascination surrounding the Menendez brothers' case. He discusses how recent evidence of parental abuse has sparked debates about their potential release. The conversation touches on society's obsession with infamous crime stories and the complexities of justice, family ties, and wrongful imprisonment. Buckmire also examines how media influence shapes public perception and the motivations behind legal challenges in high-profile cases like this.
Oct 20, 2024 • 30min
How Secure Is Our Election?
Jen Easterly, the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, discusses the robust measures in place to secure upcoming elections. She emphasizes the challenges local election workers face amid misinformation and harassment. Easterly warns about threats from foreign influence and AI-generated misinformation while highlighting the need for public education. Furthermore, she stresses the importance of trust and collaboration among citizens to uphold American democracy during this fragile time.
Oct 18, 2024 • 17min
The Elon-Trump Alliance
Teddy Schleifer, a New York Times reporter specializing in campaign finance and billionaire influence, analyzes Elon Musk's surprising shift from a Hillary supporter to a prominent Trump ally. He unpacks how Musk's backing could alter the political landscape this election season. They discuss Musk's super PAC strategies, his significant social media influence, and the implications of his actions on voter mobilization. Schleifer highlights the potential rewards Musk might gain should Trump return to power, showcasing the entwined dynamics of business and politics.
Oct 17, 2024 • 25min
Kamala’s Bid for Black Men’s Votes
The discussion dives into Kamala Harris's efforts to connect with young Black voters during a pivotal town hall event. It highlights the rising interest of Black men in the Republican camp and how this challenges traditional Democratic support. The conversation also explores shifting voter dynamics since Obama's presidency and examines the strategies Harris employs to engage this crucial demographic. Additionally, it contrasts her outreach with Trump's unconventional methods, assessing the potential effects on the upcoming election.
Oct 16, 2024 • 24min
Overdose Deaths Are Going Down. Why?
David Ovalle, a Washington Post reporter focusing on opioids and addiction, discusses a recent CDC report showing a decline in overdose deaths after years of increase. He examines the 30% drop in North Carolina and factors contributing to this change, like improved harm reduction strategies. Ovalle also highlights regional differences in trends, particularly the East Coast versus the West Coast, and addresses the long-standing addiction crisis and ongoing disparities among different demographics. It's a hopeful yet complex look at a pressing issue.
Oct 15, 2024 • 24min
Gambling on Elections, What Could Go Wrong?
Nitish Pahwa, a business and tech writer at Slate, dives into the intriguing world of gambling on elections. He discusses how platforms like Polymarket are emerging as powerful tools for predicting political outcomes, often outpacing traditional polls. The conversation explores the evolution of prediction markets and their effects on public sentiment, but also raises ethical concerns and the potential risks involved. Pahwa sheds light on the intersection of gambling culture and political forecasting, highlighting the implications for democracy and decision-making.
Oct 14, 2024 • 26min
An Extremely Online Hurricane Season
Will Oremus, a technology writer for the Washington Post, dives into the chaotic world of misinformation during hurricane seasons. He highlights how social media exacerbates the challenge of finding accurate information amid disasters. Oremus discusses the spread of false narratives concerning government aid and the influence of AI-generated content on public perception. He also explores how manipulated images can shape narratives and affect trust in disaster response efforts, raising concerns about public safety in an increasingly digital landscape.
