Slate News

The hosts dive into Trump's new tariffs, questioning the bizarre math behind them and the stock market's harsh response. They discuss the potential fallout from Trump's clash with major law firms, drawing parallels to the erosion of America's global standing. The surprising drop in the dollar's value prompts analysis of the complex relationship between tariffs and currency strength. With humor and insight, the conversation navigates through quirky trade policies and the economic impact on sectors like insurance amidst growing climate challenges.

Simon Sandoval-Moschenberg, an immigration law expert, reveals the shocking story of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, wrongfully deported to El Salvador due to a government error, exposing severe flaws in the U.S. deportation system. Mark Joseph Stern joins to discuss the legality of Trump’s controversial tariffs, questioning whether they will withstand judicial scrutiny under the major questions doctrine. The conversation highlights systemic failures, human rights implications, and the necessity for judicial accountability in immigration and tariff policies.

Makena Kelly, a senior writer for WIRED, dives into the controversial intersection of Dogecoin and politics. She reveals how DOGE's push for cutting government jobs at the Department of Health and Human Services raises questions about efficiency and job security. Kelly highlights the potential harm to public health services as thousands face layoffs. The discussion also tackles the philosophical shift of viewing citizens as consumers, exploring the implications this has for governance and accountability in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

The hosts dive into the significant Democratic win in Wisconsin and consider its broader implications. They discuss Trump's hefty tariffs and their potential economic fallout, including impacts on lower-income individuals and international relations. Immigration controversies also take center stage, with deep concerns about due process and wrongful deportations. The conversation includes the detrimental effects of aid cuts on women's access to contraception. Light-hearted discussions about books and media offer a balance to the heavy topics.

Jonathan Blitzer, a staff writer at The New Yorker and expert on immigration, joins Nick Miroff from The Atlantic, who reports on deportation practices. They discuss the alarming deportation of 238 men to a controversial facility in El Salvador, exposing deep flaws in U.S. immigration policy. The conversation highlights the dehumanization faced by detainees, including the gripping story of Andrei, a Venezuelan seeking asylum. They also delve into cases of wrongful deportations, underscoring the emotional toll on families and the systemic injustices within the immigration system.

Ian Millhiser, a Senior correspondent at Vox specializing in legal issues, dives deep into the looming Supreme Court case, Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. He discusses how the political landscape influences judicial decisions, particularly regarding Medicaid funding for essential healthcare. Millhiser highlights the far-reaching implications this case could have on abortion rights and women's health in America. With Planned Parenthood's viability at stake, the conversation tackles the intersection of law, politics, and reproductive rights, all under the Supreme Court's scrutiny.

In this Money Talks: Amidst the Trump administration’s continued attacks on the press, David Enrich’s new book, Murder the Truth: Fear, the First Amendment, and a Secret Campaign to Protect the Powerful, feels incredibly timely. He joins Elizabeth Spiers to discuss his reporting on increasing efforts to exploit the legal system to protect the rich and powerful from being held accountable, creating an incredibly fraught landscape for journalists and news outlets.Want to hear that discussion and hear more Slate Money? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Slate Money show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/moneyplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Jessamine Molli and Cheyna Roth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aymann Ismail, a staff writer at Slate, sheds light on the alarming detention of Tufts student Rumeysa Ozturk by federal agents. He discusses the broader challenges faced by international students, particularly Muslims, in a climate of surveillance and repression. The conversation highlights the troubling intersection of free speech and activism as organizations like Canary Mission influence public perception, leading to targeted actions against dissenters. Ismail emphasizes the chilling effects this has on student safety and academic freedom.

Joel Beall, a Senior Writer at Golf Digest and author of "Playing Dirty," dives into the contentious saga between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s LIV Golf. He discusses the failed negotiations and geopolitical implications of Saudi investment in sports. The conversation also touches on March Madness, focusing on the dominance of No. 1 seeds, and highlights Alex Ovechkin's quest to eclipse Wayne Gretzky's NHL goal record. The discussion captures the evolving landscape of competitive sports and the ethical dilemmas that arise.

In this discussion, John Nichols, an associate editor at The Capital Times and electoral politics expert, dives into Wisconsin's unprecedented Supreme Court race. He examines how Elon Musk's staggering $19.3 million contributions have transformed a traditionally nonpartisan election into a high-stakes battle for control. Nichols discusses Musk's influence on voter behavior and the ethical implications of money in politics. He also highlights the contrasting ideologies of the candidates and the race's broader impact on voting rights and gerrymandering in Wisconsin.