Know Your Enemy

In this engaging discussion, reporter Ian Ward of Politico, an expert on the post-liberal right and MAGA world, unveils insights from the recent election and Trump's emerging power dynamics. Topics include J.D. Vance's pivotal role in the campaign and his relationships within Trump's circle. The conversation navigates the implications of Project 2025 and the rivalry between conservative think tanks. Additionally, they tackle Trump's growing appeal among economically disadvantaged voters and the alarming impact of new abortion legislation on societal norms.

Astra Taylor, a filmmaker and co-founder of The Debt Collective, joins authors Malcolm Harris and Olúfẹ́mi Táíwò, a philosophy professor, to delve into the complexities of voting in the upcoming election. They discuss the moral dilemmas of supporting candidates like Kamala Harris and the effectiveness of third-party alternatives. The conversation critiques the political landscape shaped by extremism and highlights the necessity of grassroots organizing, especially in response to social justice issues, emphasizing that civic engagement goes beyond casting a vote.

Debates on the strategic value of voting heat up as guests tackle complex questions surrounding the 2024 election. Is voting a moral statement or a tactical move? Frustration with the current administration intertwines with the need for continued activism. The discussion encourages a deeper understanding of the political landscape, urging listeners to look beyond immediate outcomes. Engaging with these ideas could shape a more informed and mobilized future for the left.

Rick Perlstein, an acclaimed author on American conservatism, joins the discussion to explore the media's failures in addressing Trump and the far right. He critiques how elite journalism often simplifies complex narratives and inadvertently enables right-wing movements. The conversation highlights the Democratic Party's tendency towards 'conservatism lite' and reflects on the historical evolution of conservative thought. Perlstein also examines the troubling relationship between polling, public sentiment, and the implications for democracy today.

Talia Lavin, a journalist and author of "Wild Faith: How the Christian Right Is Taking Over America," delves into the darker aspects of conservative evangelicalism. She explores themes like the traumatic impact of evangelical parenting methods, including corporal punishment rooted in fears of original sin. The conversation also uncovers the roots of authoritarianism tied to fundamentalist teachings, alongside the rise of conspiratorial beliefs such as QAnon and End Times theology, examining how these beliefs have influenced evangelical support for Trump.

Historian Timothy Shenk, author of 'Left Adrift', dives into the shifting tides of liberal politics from the New Deal era to the present. He analyzes the role of consultants Stan Greenberg and Doug Schoen in navigating class dealignment and the Democratic response to a rightward shift. The conversation also touches on Bill Clinton's complex legacy in the rise of neoliberalism and draws parallels with political dynamics in Israel. Shenk offers valuable insights on lessons for American progressives ahead of the 2024 elections.

Dorothy Fortenberry, a playwright and screenwriter known for her work on 'The Handmaid's Tale,' dives into the political landscape leading up to the 2024 elections. She discusses how masculinity intersects with contemporary political issues such as declining sperm counts and reproductive rights in a post-Roe world. Their conversation sheds light on the challenges of family welfare amid climate discourse and critiques the healthcare system's failures, urging for a more compassionate approach to care and community in today's society.

Tash Lewis, a Dissent co-editor known for her engaging insights, joins the conversation. The pair tackles some stimulating listener questions on leftist politics intertwined with orthodox Christianity. They discuss how to cultivate hope within socialist movements during tough times. Freud's teachings get a fresh perspective, and family politics bring in some humor and complexity. To top it off, Tash serenades Matt with a delightful rendition of 'Happy Birthday' in Welsh, adding a personal touch to the lively dialogue.

The hosts dive into thoughtful listener questions, revealing insights from their journey. They celebrate personal milestones and friendships, peppering the discussion with humor and anecdotes. There's an intriguing analysis of the GOP's future post-Trump and the evolving nature of conservatism. The importance of community support is emphasized, especially amidst challenges, while a lively chat about gun ownership in America adds depth. Surprising contributions from past guests make this milestone even more memorable!

Kamala Harris, a key political figure and presidential candidate, and Donald Trump, the former president, engaged in a tense debate that revealed sharp contrasts in their priorities. Harris delivered a powerful response regarding GOP attacks on abortion, gaining momentum, while Trump veered off-topic, discussing absurd claims about immigrants. The podcast delves into themes of immigrant blame and the harmful rhetoric surrounding it, along with the intersection of internet humor and racism, highlighting the societal implications of these narratives.