Slate News

Join Jason Zinoman, culture critic for The New York Times, and Slate's Nadira Goffe for a dive into 50 years of SNL's cultural influence! They explore memorable moments from the iconic sketch show and discuss QuestLove's documentary on its musical legacy. Goffe also reflects on Kendrick Lamar’s powerful Super Bowl halftime performance, analyzing its blend of artistry and social commentary. The conversation wraps with thoughts on the animated film 'Flo' and its unique storytelling, revealing insights into modern cinema's evolution.

Chris Hayes, MSNBC news anchor and author of "The Siren's Call," dives into the complexities of modern attention in a world rife with distractions. He discusses the superficial nature of social media interactions and their impact on meaningful engagement. Hayes explores how technology influences our social dynamics and highlights the human thirst for recognition amidst the chaos. He emphasizes the need for deep focus and critical reflection to navigate the challenges posed by our attention-driven culture.

The discussion kicks off with Trump's controversial suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and its implications for bribery. They dive into FEMA's alarming fund transfer in New York City, raising questions about public trust in government financial moves. Inflation takes center stage, particularly the surprising surge in egg prices, linked to a bird flu outbreak. The hosts reflect humorously on urban farming trends amid economic instability, while also celebrating female representation in cinema and examining shifts in cultural norms across various fields.

Harry Litman, a former U.S. attorney and creator of the Talking Feds podcast, and Sam Bagenstos, a law professor at the University of Michigan and former general counsel for HHS, delve into the chaos of federal governance. Litman discusses the fallout from the 'Thursday Night Massacre' and the impact on the Department of Justice's integrity. Meanwhile, Bagenstos warns of the dangers of Elon Musk's disruptive influence on government functions, emphasizing the need to rethink our understanding of a constitutional crisis amidst shrinking federal capabilities.

David A. Fahrenthold, an investigative reporter from The New York Times, explores the intriguing dynamics between Elon Musk and Sam Altman over Musk's $97.4 billion bid for OpenAI. Is it a genuine offer or just a chance to troll? The conversation dives into the implications of their rivalry on AI development, the ethical shift of OpenAI from nonprofit to for-profit, and how Musk's potential acquisition could reshape governance in the tech landscape. This engaging discussion highlights the power struggle shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

This discussion dives into the brewing constitutional crisis as President Trump clashes with the courts over his actions. The hosts analyze the implications of chaotic governance, highlighting the shift in power dynamics between Congress and the presidency. They also critique the complexities surrounding NIH funding and its impact on biotechnology. Plus, they delve into workplace political polarization and the principle of 'disagree and commit.' Finally, they touch on the potential threats posed by AI and share insights on notable TV shows highlighting contemporary issues.

Michael Schulman, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'Oscar Wars,' dives deep into the controversy surrounding the film Emilia Pérez. He critiques its bizarre mix of a trans narrative and cartel themes, raising concerns about artistic execution and stereotypes. Schulman discusses the polarizing reception of the film, which has scored 13 Oscar nominations but faces harsh criticism. He also highlights the complexities of Oscar campaigning, especially regarding representation and the implications of recent controversies in the awards race.

Sasha Buchert is the Counsel and Nonbinary and Transgender Rights Project Director at Lambda Legal, while Geirid Morgan serves as a Trans Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy. They engage in a compelling discussion about the impact of the Trump administration’s ban on transgender service members. Sasha delves into the legal challenges against this ban, highlighting constitutional issues. Geirid shares her personal journey of serving in the military as a transgender individual, revealing the emotional toll of shifting policies and the resilience of the trans community.

Chris McGreal, a seasoned writer for The Guardian US, shares his insights on South African politics and history. He discusses Trump's controversial executive orders regarding South Africa, particularly the focus on white Afrikaners and land reform. McGreal critiques Trump's simplistic views versus the complex realities of post-apartheid issues. The conversation also explores the role of figures like Elon Musk in shaping these narratives, including their business interests and the implications for economic equity in South Africa.

Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate focusing on courts and law, dives into the political theatrics surrounding election integrity in North Carolina. He discusses Republican strategies to contest election results, emphasizing Jefferson Griffin's aim to disqualify ballots from Democratic areas. The conversation highlights the implications for electoral democracy and the firsthand experiences of those impacted. Stern also connects these tactics to wider trends of partisan influence in judicial settings, raising alarms about the future of voter rights.