KQED's Forum

Gil Duran, a freelance journalist and creator of the newsletter "The Nerd Reich," dives into the controversial influence of Silicon Valley billionaires like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel on U.S. governance. He discusses how these tech elites leverage their wealth to challenge democratic norms and push radical ideologies. Duran reveals how this powerful group aims to establish tech-driven governance, with alarming implications for democracy and society. He also outlines their connections to autocratic trends, urging listeners to engage in informed activism.

Omar El Akkad, a journalist and acclaimed author of "American War" and "What Strange Paradise," discusses his latest non-fiction work critiquing Western hypocrisy regarding the Gaza conflict. He reflects on how identity and storytelling shape perceptions of war and migration. Focusing on America's moral failures, he examines the impact of political systems on the Palestinian plight and the emotional complexities faced by individuals in conflicting cultural realms. Through personal anecdotes, he emphasizes the urgent need for meaningful advocacy and understanding in today's society.

Nick Miroff, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in immigration, sheds light on the chilling effects of the Trump administration's mass deportation campaign. He shares the story of a Turkish PhD student held by ICE and discusses the recent revocation of student visas targeting critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Miroff also reveals how immigration officials assess gang affiliations using tattoos, and he critiques the authoritarian tactics shaping these policies, exposing the vulnerabilities faced by immigrant communities.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum and Harvard professor Steven Levitsky as they dissect the mechanics of modern autocracy. They explore how figures like Trump manipulate government to curb dissent, drawing parallels with regimes in Hungary and India. The conversation delves into competitive authoritarianism, the erosion of democratic norms, and the influence of factionalism. Applebaum and Levitsky discuss the vital lessons from history that can help recognize and combat rising authoritarian trends in today's political climate.

Javed Kaleem, an education reporter for the Los Angeles Times, sheds light on the implications of the Trump administration's scrutiny of California universities. Steve Hetz, a neuroendovascular surgeon at UCSF, discusses the severe impact of funding cuts on research and patient care. Meanwhile, Michael Chwe, a UCLA political science professor, emphasizes the political tension surrounding DEI practices. They unravel the fears faced by international students and faculty amidst hiring freezes and federal investigations, painting a vivid picture of today's educational landscape.

Barbara Lee, a longtime East Bay Congresswoman and candidate for Oakland mayor, shares her vision for the city amid its upcoming election. She emphasizes the need for effective leadership and collaboration to unite Oakland and tackle challenges like public safety and affordable housing. Lee discusses her Congressional experience, focusing on building partnerships between labor and business to foster economic stability. She advocates for community engagement, transparency in governance, and revitalizing the city's image to address pressing urban issues.

Alissa Wilkinson, a New York Times movie critic and author of "We Tell Ourselves Stories," delves into Joan Didion's reflections on how Hollywood shaped American politics. They explore Didion's unique lens on storytelling amid chaos and her critique of political superficiality seen in figures like the Reagans. Wilkinson emphasizes Didion's belief that narrative influences perception, highlighting the contrast between cinematic expectations and the complexities of reality. The discussion also touches on Didion's lasting impact on California culture and modern political dynamics.

Neelam Patil, a chef and educator, alongside Vanessa Silva, founder of Culinary Artistas, dive into the vital skill of teaching kids to cook. They discuss how essential cooking skills can foster independence and creativity. The conversation includes practical tips for safe cooking, fun activities to engage children, and the significance of family connections through food. They also explore the challenges and joys of nurturing young culinary talents, with inspiring anecdotes that make cooking a delightful family affair.

Eric Schmitt, a senior national security correspondent for the New York Times, and Garrett Graff, a journalist and historian, dive into a staggering intelligence breach involving a leaked Signal chat among U.S. military officials. They discuss the fallout from sharing sensitive attack plans over unsecured channels and the implications for national security. The conversation also touches on the accountability lapses within the Trump administration, the potential risks to international alliances, and the ethical concerns surrounding military responses in a tumultuous geopolitical landscape.

Loren Taylor, Oakland’s former City Councilmember, shares his vision as a mayoral candidate. He emphasizes the need for local government experience to tackle budget shortfalls and crime effectively. Taylor discusses innovative solutions for public safety, including programs for homelessness and violence prevention. He calls for community engagement in local issues and underscores the importance of transparent leadership. With an eye on revitalizing District 6, he celebrates community spirit while addressing infrastructure challenges and affordable housing.