Know Your Enemy

Waleed Shahid, a key organizer of the Uncommitted Movement, joins fellow activist Abbas Alawieh, an Arab-American DNC delegate from Michigan, to discuss recent political shifts within the Democratic Party. They explore the Uncommitted Movement’s grassroots strategies for pro-peace initiatives and the challenges faced by Palestinian-American advocates. Shahid and Alawieh reflect on their community’s disillusionment with party leadership, the significance of their demands at the DNC, and the pressing need for change to align with the pro-ceasefire sentiments of their constituents.

Waleed Shahid, an organizer of the Uncommitted Movement, and Abbas Alawieh, an Arab-American delegate to the DNC, discuss their push for change within the Democratic Party. They share insights from their communities regarding the party's stance on Israel-Palestine and the unfulfilled demands they presented at the convention. With a focus on the disconnection between leadership and constituents, they explore potential shifts under a Harris administration and the crucial need for the party to reflect pro-ceasefire sentiments.

Vinson Cunningham, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'Great Expectations,' joins to explore the journey of a young black man during Obama's historic campaign. They delve into the interplay of politics, race, and faith, discussing how personal narratives shape political identities. Cunningham draws parallels between his own experiences and contemporary figures like Kamala Harris. The conversation also touches on literary influences from Ralph Ellison to Saul Bellow, emphasizing how fiction and faith intertwine with political narratives.

Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States and a pivotal figure at the recent Democratic National Convention, reflects on her reintroduction to America. She discusses the energy surrounding the Harris-Walz ticket and the significance of the Democratic platform. The conversation critiques the lack of attention to uncommitted delegates and Palestinian rights, highlighting the challenges they face within the party. The guest also touches on the implications of featuring police and ex-CIA members, offering a nuanced view of contemporary political narratives.

Daniel Schlozman, an expert on American political dynamics, joins Sam Rosenfeld, a scholar of party ideologies, to unravel the perplexing state of U.S. political parties. They explore how the transformation since the 1970s has led to parties that feel both omnipresent yet ineffective. The discussion highlights the disconnect between national themes and local interests, the rise of radical factions, and the role of para-party groups in undermining true party goals. Their insights illuminate the troubling paradox of modern American politics.

J.D. Vance, Republican senator from Ohio and author of 'Hillbilly Elegy,' discusses his controversial evolution from a memoirist to a prominent figure in Trump’s inner circle. The conversation highlights Vance's tumultuous childhood, emotional struggles, and desperate quest for approval. His transition to Catholicism and the influence of elite spaces, such as Yale Law School, are explored. The hosts analyze the complexities of his political persona, critiques of his claims, and how his narrative mirrors broader cultural and socioeconomic issues facing America today.

Mary Harris, host of Slate's What Next, brings insightful analysis as she talks with Sam about the chaotic collapse of Project 2025. They dive into the internal strife within conservative circles and Trump's complicated relationship with the initiative. Radical proposals, like easing child labor laws, raise eyebrows while garnering minimal support from voters. They also explore the ideological rifts between traditional conservatism and Trump’s pragmatic strategies, leaving listeners to ponder the future of the Republican Party.

In this episode, the podcast delves into the aftermath of Biden stepping down as the Democratic nominee and the rise of Kamala Harris. The discussion covers the unconventional choice of J.D. Vance as Trump's running mate and the impact of an assassination attempt on Trump's campaign. The hosts analyze the current state of the presidential race, the GOP Convention, and the Democrats' dynamics, shedding light on the uncertainties and shifts in the political landscape.

Historian Suzanne Schneider discusses Yoram Hazony's aspiration to export Israel's model of illiberal democracy worldwide. Hazony believes nations derive legitimacy from divine covenant, not consent. This political theology justifies sovereign, ethno-states with no regard for human rights or international law. The podcast explores the influence of Israel's illiberalism on the rise of far-right movements globally.

The podcast discusses Joe Biden's debate performance and the uncertainty surrounding his candidacy, exploring possible replacements like Kamala Harris and Gretchen Whitmer. They examine the dilemma of Democrats pushing Biden out or hoping for success, along with concerns about his mindset in today's political climate.