What Next

Molly Henseley Clancy, a sports writer for the Washington Post, sheds light on the dark underbelly of American gymnastics. She discusses the persistent issues of physical and emotional abuse, linking them to the sport's controlling culture established by influential coaches. The aftermath of the Nassar scandal reveals troubling truths about athlete safety and inadequate systemic responses. Clancy emphasizes the urgent need for reforms and accountability to protect young gymnasts while contrasting hopeful changes with lingering challenges.

Calling Kamala Harris a “DEI hire” is both sexist and racist, and despite the GOP leadership’s pleading, it has quickly emerged as a favored line of attack from the right. Guest: Dr. Brittney Cooper, professor of gender studies and Africana studies at Rutgers UniversityWant more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anne Toomey McKenna, a professor and expert in electronic surveillance, alongside Henry Grabar, a journalist covering the Paris Olympics for Slate, delve into the unprecedented security measures France is implementing for the Games. They discuss the ethical implications of automated surveillance and AI technologies, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties. The conversation highlights how the changes made for the Olympics may permanently alter urban surveillance practices, leaving lasting impacts long after the festivities conclude.

Guest Nitish Pahwa discusses Silicon Valley's shift towards Trump-Vance ticket. Topics include CEOs' political changes, resistance to tax increases, Thiel's influence on Vance, fundraising post-Biden, balancing tech support with Democratic base, and Silicon Valley donors' impact on the general election.

Stephen Vladeck, expert on federal courts and constitutional law, discusses Biden's court reforms. Topics include congressional oversight of the Supreme Court, President Biden's proposed reforms like term limits and a code of conduct, and Congress's authority to regulate the court. The conversation also covers historical context, challenges in passing reforms, and the importance of checks and balances in the current political climate.

Policy correspondent Abdallah Fayyad discusses the resignation of the Secret Service Director after security failures at a Trump rally. They explore the lack of accountability in the agency's history, controversies, transparency issues, and concerns about protecting high-profile figures. The podcast raises questions about the Secret Service's effectiveness and management.

Scaachi Koul, Slate senior writer, explores Kamala Harris's internet meme popularity and serious political platform questions. They discuss Harris's comedic moments, diverse heritage, centrist political history, communication style, and image evolution. The podcast delves into Harris navigating challenges, criticisms, and meme culture while aiming for a presidential image.

David Faris, a Slate contributor and political science professor, discusses Joe Biden's unexpected decision to withdraw from the race and its impact on the Democratic Party. The podcast delves into Biden's choice, the implications for Kamala Harris, the dynamics of the Democratic National Convention, and potential lawsuits to keep Biden on the ballot. It also reflects on Biden's handover and the Democratic Party's structure.

Tech reporter Drew Harwell from the Washington Post discusses the proliferation of conspiracy theories after significant events, the role of social media in politics, and how powerful individuals amplify false narratives. The influence of conspiracy theories in modern media and challenges in navigating a landscape where misinformation spreads online.

Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter discusses antitrust laws and tech giants like Google, Apple. Topics include market manipulation, AI ethics, competition, pricing, and regulation. Kanter emphasizes the importance of fair competition, innovation, and diversity in the tech industry.