Slate News

Barry Ritholtz, an investments expert known for breaking down market behaviors, joins the hosts to discuss the US stock market reaching all-time highs. He explores the historical context of these surges and the implications of Trump’s tariffs on market dynamics. The conversation also digs into the emotional toll of market volatility on investors and why the US dollar continues to decline amidst economic shifts. Ritholtz offers insights that blend serious analysis with engaging storytelling.

Tony Ho Tran, Senior Tech Editor at Slate, dives into the legal ramifications of AI as Meta secures a crucial victory in a lawsuit. The conversation reveals how generative AI technologies can jeopardize creative rights and user protections. Tran discusses the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI ownership and copyright, emphasizing the importance of media literacy in an evolving digital landscape. Tune in to explore how AI is reshaping our interactions and the urgent need for regulations to safeguard artists and everyday users.

Daniel Swain is a weather and climate scientist at the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. He discusses the severe implications of budget cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Weather Service, emphasizing how these reductions compromise storm prediction and public safety. The conversation highlights the critical role of accurate weather forecasting in various sectors and the importance of public advocacy to secure essential funding for weather services. Swain's insights reveal the urgency of addressing these challenges amid escalating climate extremes.

Catherine Rampell, a Washington Post opinion columnist and MSNBC anchor, joins Will Saletan, a former Slate colleague, to unpack the implications of Trump's latest budget bill. They explore its potential damage to health care for the underprivileged and how it might serve the interests of the wealthy. The discussion also reveals the evolving dynamics of the Republican Party under Trump, questioning whether there's still a place for moderates. Rampell also reflects on the ethical controversies of Trump's new merchandise ventures, including a fragrance.

David Dayen, executive editor of the American Prospect, dives into Trump's ambitious legislative push for a massive bill that many lawmakers find deeply unpopular. They discuss the bill's potential pain points, including significant tax cuts for the wealthy paired with severe cuts to critical programs like Medicaid and SNAP. The conversation also highlights the internal conflict among Republicans and the broader implications for healthcare and immigration policy, all amidst the looming pressures of upcoming midterm elections.

Brian Stelter, the chief media analyst at CNN, dives into the contentious battle over public media funding, examining the Trump administration's attempts to strip support from NPR and PBS. He traces the historical roots of this conflict back to Fred Rogers' landmark testimony in 1969. Stelter highlights the decline of authentic dialogue in today's political climate and shares personal stories showcasing the impact of potential budget cuts. He emphasizes the crucial role of public broadcasting in underserved areas, questioning what the future holds for these beloved institutions.

Join legal experts Steve Vladeck, Sherrilyn Ifill, and Jamelle Bouie as they dissect the Supreme Court's recent term. Vladeck highlights the erosion of public trust amidst significant rulings, while Ifill warns of the implications for civil rights and judicial integrity. Bouie adds historical context, examining how originalism can marginalize voices in legal history. The trio critically assesses the court’s conservative majority and its impact on democracy, education, and the relationship between law and politics.

Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate and co-host of the legal podcast Amicus, dives into the recent contentious decisions made by the Supreme Court. He discusses the implications for birthright citizenship and universal injunctions, raising alarms over the potential chaos that could ensue. The conversation highlights the court's perceived partisanship and the troubling balance of judicial power. Stern also critiques the impact of these rulings on healthcare rights and the growing dissatisfaction among justices, painting a picture of a fraught legal landscape.

Philip Bump, a Washington Post columnist specializing in immigration enforcement, joins Scott Shuchart, a former ICE official, to discuss the controversial trend of ICE agents concealing their identities with masks. They highlight the risks this poses to community trust and officer accountability. The guests delve into the implications of such practices, especially how they impact perceptions of safety and authority. They also question claims of rising violence against ICE agents, examining the motivations behind masked operations and the evolving dynamics of immigration enforcement.

In this engaging discussion, Kate Conger, a technology reporter for The New York Times and co-author of "Character Limit," dives into the chaotic aftermath of Musk's Twitter takeover. She explores how his leadership has shifted the landscape of brand advertising, increase in hate speech, and advertiser hesitance. The conversation also sheds light on the FTC's startling involvement in merger regulations, addressing the complex dynamics between politics, advertising, and free speech in today’s digital ecosystem.