Know Your Enemy

Explore the remarkable rise of Zohran Mamdani, the young democratic socialist who triumphed in New York's mayoral primary. His campaign's innovative strategies successfully energized young voters, contrasting sharply with the negativity surrounding rival Andrew Cuomo. Discover insights into the challenges Zohran faced, including Islamophobic attacks and accusations of antisemitism linked to his advocacy. Plus, hear from veteran campaign strategist Waleed Shahid about the unique qualities that set Zohran apart as a candidate and an advocate for progressive values.

In this engaging conversation, Sam Tanenhaus, author of 'Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America,' delves into the complex legacy of William F. Buckley Jr. The discussion uncovers the challenges of chronicling Buckley's multifaceted life, from his Southern roots and CIA connections to his role in shaping post-war conservatism. Tanenhaus reveals controversial facets, like Buckley's racially charged media ties and his personal evolution from America First to Cold Warrior, offering rich insights into the man behind the legend.

The discussion delves into Trump's 'America First' foreign policy and its impact on U.S. dealings with Iran. It highlights the internal conflict within the MAGA movement following the Israel-Iran tensions. Key questions arise about Trump's motivations for striking Iran and the influences shaping his decisions. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of restraint versus interventionism in American politics and the longstanding repercussions of these choices on future foreign policy.

Journalist Tammy Kim dives into the heated anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, exploring the events that sparked them. The conversation reveals the shifting narratives around 'good' and 'bad' immigrants, and how these perceptions impact activism. Tactics of protest are dissected, debating the merits of confrontational versus peaceful demonstrations. Kim emphasizes the vital role of disorder as a means to challenge authority and advocates for diverse approaches within the activist landscape.

Join Jesse Brenneman, a savvy producer and host of Tech Talk, as he discusses the film 'Reagan' and its outlandish representation of the 40th president. The conversation delves into Hollywood's relationship with anti-communism, intertwining laughter and critiques of Reagan's legacy. Jesse shares insights on how the film's simplistic narrative and aesthetic choices shape public perception of a complex historical figure. Expect engaging anecdotes about Reagan's journey from Hollywood to the heart of conservative politics, alongside reflections on the film's deeper meanings.

The hosts dive into a revealing new book that critiques Joe Biden's presidency and mental fitness. They discuss astonishing anecdotes, like Biden's forgetfulness and confusion, which raise serious concerns about his ability to serve. The conversation also touches on the implications for the Democratic Party and the media's role in covering up these issues. Additionally, they analyze the narcissism in leadership, illustrating how Biden's controlled narrative clashes with the reality of his capabilities.

This discussion dives into Christopher Caldwell's provocative analysis of civil rights legislation and its profound impact on America's constitutional framework. It critiques how these laws shaped governance and societal structures, notably through the lens of the baby boomer generation. The hosts explore the implications for freedom of association, immigration policies, and contemporary political correctness. They also reflect on Caldwell's conservative insights and their relevance in today's polarized political landscape, setting the stage for future explorations of influential conservative literature.

This discussion dives into the intriguing connections between Trump's allure and ancient mythologies. Manvir Singh examines how the fervor around Trump mirrors longstanding archetypes, such as shaman and witch. He explores how modern movements like QAnon echo these historical narratives, revealing a desire for a promised restoration. The conversation uncovers the complexities of faith, communication, and deep-rooted cultural beliefs that shape contemporary political landscapes.

In this discussion, Andrew Marantz, a staff writer at The New Yorker focused on the intersection of politics and culture, analyzes the rise of 'bro' podcasts. He highlights how these platforms, like Joe Rogan's, significantly sway younger male voters, especially within diverse communities. The conversation delves into the authenticity of political figures engaging on these platforms and how informal discourse reshapes political narratives. Marantz also examines the evolving landscape of leftist podcasts and the impact of humor in serious political dialogue.

The papal conclave is not just about divine selection; it’s steeped in political intrigue and historical corruption. Join a fascinating discussion on the upcoming film depicting the secretive world of cardinals as they choose a new pope. The host and guest delve into the contrasting cultural perspectives on church politics, highlighting significant differences between the U.S. and Italy. Plus, they discuss how the film might even influence real-life cardinals. Get ready for a mix of cinema, conspiracy, and compelling conversation!