Radio Atlantic

Daniel Engber, an Atlantic science writer, and Arthur Allen, a health journalist and author of "Vaccines: The Controversial Story of Medicine’s Greatest Lifesaver," dive deep into the precarious state of vaccine infrastructure. They discuss the historical roots of anti-vaccine sentiment and its current political amplification. With figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. gaining prominence, they explore potential risks to public health policies and vaccine distribution. The conversation underscores the fragility of trust in health institutions amidst rising skepticism and historical context.

Zoë Schlanger, a staff writer at The Atlantic focused on science and the environment, discusses the dangers lurking in your kitchen. She warns against using black plastic spatulas and other plastic utensils, which may release harmful toxins into food. The conversation covers alternative materials like glass and wood, emphasizing their safety for cooking. Schlanger also highlights the risks of common kitchen items, including nonstick pans and gas stoves, urging listeners to reassess their kitchenware choices for a healthier holiday meal.

Tom Nichols, a staff writer at The Atlantic and professor emeritus at the Naval War College, unpacks the implications of Trump's strategic military appointments. He critiques how Trump's loyalty-driven selections in the military and intelligence sectors could jeopardize civil-military relations and democracy itself. Nichols addresses concerns about the qualifications of key candidates and the potential erosion of constitutional obligations. Using humor, he also examines the normalization of political dysfunction and the importance of resisting such trends.

New York Representative Ritchie Torres, a prominent voice for Latino communities, dives into the challenges facing the Democrats, especially regarding immigration. He discusses how far-left policies may be alienating working-class voters and contributing to a rightward shift in urban areas. Torres emphasizes the need for the party to recalibrate its messaging to regain trust and appeal to diverse constituents. The conversation also touches on the impact of disinformation on public perception and electoral outcomes as the 2024 elections approach.

Anne Applebaum, an Atlantic staff writer focusing on democracy's threats, and political reporter McKay Coppins dive into the implications of a recent election that reshaped voter dynamics. They discuss the potential normalization of authoritarian impulses following Trump's victory. The conversation touches on demographic shifts among Latino and Black voters and the likelihood of electoral mandates affecting governance. They also explore challenges facing U.S. foreign policy amid rising autocracies and the pervasive issue of disinformation eroding public trust.

Mark Leibovich, a seasoned political reporter for The Atlantic, and Tim Alberta, an insightful staff writer, dive into the chaotic landscape of the Trump campaign and its implications for the election. They discuss how Trump's unpredictable behavior, including controversial statements, may alienate key voter demographics. The conversation shifts to strategies for managing the emotional toll of election night, emphasizing the importance of mental clarity amidst the chaos. Listeners get tips on navigating election coverage while reflecting on the evolving political strategies at play.

Jeffrey Goldberg, the Editor in Chief of The Atlantic, dives into the challenges journalism faces with a possible second Trump administration. He discusses the alarming pressures on media, including attacks on journalistic integrity and the implications of major newspapers pulling endorsements. The conversation highlights how political dynamics affect public trust and the tough choices ahead for reporters in a divided landscape. Goldberg also reflects on threats such as government intimidation and the need for a resilient free press in turbulent times.

Maryland Congressman Jamie Raskin, a key figure on the January 6th committee and author of "Unthinkable," shares his insights on the shifting narratives surrounding the January 6 insurrection. He discusses Trump's evolving rhetoric—from condemning rioters to portraying that day as one of 'love and peace.' Raskin examines the troubling implications of this political revisionism and its impact on future elections, urging a need for moral clarity and the importance of confronting the past to safeguard democracy.

Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, teams up with Peter Pomerantsev, a senior fellow and expert on propaganda, to delve into the subtleties of autocracy. They explore how absurd claims can serve as loyalty tests and how humor often intertwines with fear in political rhetoric. The conversation turns to the normalization of misinformation and the construction of alternative realities by political identities. They also reflect on the fragile state of American democracy and the pressing implications of the upcoming elections.

David Graham, a political writer from Durham, and Vann Newkirk, a Rocky Mount native and senior editor, dive deep into North Carolina's critical role in the upcoming presidential election. They discuss the state’s unique political landscape, where Democrats aim to engage rural voters amid a tight race. The duo highlights the influence of a scandal-ridden Republican and the lasting effects of recent hurricanes on voting dynamics. Can local issues, such as these, truly sway national outcomes? The conversation unveils the fascinating interplay of politics and culture in the South.