Slate News

This week features a wild discussion about the accidental leak of secret military plans from the Trump administration to a journalist. It dives into the troubling capitulation of law firms to political pressure, jeopardizing legal integrity. The hosts also chat about the adverse effects of these policies on higher education and the escalated scrutiny faced by universities. Plus, there's a nostalgic reflection on childhood antics, hilariously connecting it to today's meme coin trends. Tune in for some captivating insights!

Adam Kinzinger, former Republican Congressman and Air Force veteran, offers keen insights into a leaked Signal chat among Trump administration officials discussing military actions. He critiques the casual approach to sharing sensitive military details, raising concerns about national security. Kinzinger highlights the trust issues within the administration and the mixed reactions from military personnel regarding Trump's defense. He emphasizes the need for accountability in political actions and explores the enduring loyalty of Trump's supporters amidst shifting socio-economic landscapes.

In this conversation, Chris Molanphy, a Slate writer and host of the Hit Parade podcast, shares his insights on Lady Gaga's latest album, 'Mayhem,' exploring her musical evolution and powerful comeback. The discussion also dives into Netflix's 'Adolescence,' addressing its unsettling portrayal of incel culture and the societal pressures that lead to youth violence. Additionally, they touch on the political challenges facing higher education under the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of academic independence amidst external pressures.

Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, a higher education reporter at The Washington Post, dives into the chaos surrounding student loans amid changes in the Department of Education. She discusses the fallout from Trump's executive order aimed at dismantling the department, leaving over 40 million borrowers in limbo. The conversation highlights the challenges of repayment options, particularly the problematic SAVE plan, and explores the emotional toll on frustrated borrowers. Danielle underscores the urgent need for systemic reform to enhance educational access and support for future students.

David Weigel, a national political reporter at Semafor, dives into the electrifying rallies led by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders, discussing their 'Fighting Oligarchy' tour. He unpacks the Democratic Party's struggle to unify against rising populism and wealth inequality. Weigel contrasts the current landscape to the Tea Party movement, stressing the need for innovative strategies. The conversation highlights grassroots energy and the challenges progressive figures face as they navigate the shifting dynamics within the party.

Lee Bollinger, President Emeritus of Columbia University, dives deep into the challenges facing higher education today. He discusses how the Trump administration's funding strategies threaten academic freedom, pointing out the critical reliance universities have on federal support. Bollinger also addresses the delicate balance of free speech and accountability within campuses, especially regarding anti-Semitism. He shares insights on navigating the heated debates over affirmative action and strategies for universities to rally support amid political pressures.

The hosts dive into the new film featuring Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender, discussing its mix of espionage and romance. They analyze the humor and drama in the Hulu series 'Deli Boys,' where two siblings unexpectedly inherit a crime syndicate. Reflections on the impact of a famous memoir on writing and personal growth lead to lively debates about literary ambition. Finally, a passionate endorsement of 'A French Village' showcases its intricate storytelling set against a WWII backdrop, making it a must-watch.

Dana Mattioli, a Wall Street Journal reporter and author of "The Everything War," delves into Jeff Bezos's shifting political strategies. She discusses the fraught relationship between Bezos and Trump, revealing how past tensions are being replaced with attempts at collaboration. The conversation highlights Amazon's ambitions and challenges, including navigating antitrust scrutiny under the Biden administration. Through Mattioli's insights, listeners gain a keen understanding of how corporate power and politics dance in a changing landscape.

The discussion kicks off with the intriguing impact of DOGE on the Social Security Administration and a physical takeover of the US Institute of Peace. The conversation pivots to the complexities of identity verification for social security benefits amid bureaucratic changes. There's an eye-opening examination of authority disruptions, illustrated through Elon Musk's actions and their implications for governance. Finally, a spectacular sale makes the Boston Celtics the highest valued sports team, spotlighting the evolving landscape of sports ownership.

Quinta Jurecic is a governance expert at the Brookings Institution and a senior editor at Lawfare, while Mimi Marziani is a civil rights lawyer recently challenging Elon Musk. They discuss the alarming erosion of the rule of law during the Trump administration, including constitutional crises and conflicts between the judiciary and executive. Marziani shares insights on her legal strategies targeting the implications of political decisions, emphasizing the human cost and the essential role of civic engagement in defending judicial integrity.