Slate News

Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatrician in NYC and author of "Booster Shots," discusses the alarming measles outbreak in Texas, where cases skyrocketed from two to 48. He sheds light on the challenges of combating vaccine misinformation and the importance of community vaccination rates. Dr. Ratner emphasizes how historical vaccination successes are under threat from rising exemptions, especially post-COVID-19. The conversation highlights the urgent need for public education to counter misinformation and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations.

Lizzie O'Leary, a business journalist and host of What Next: TBD, dives into the concerning decline of accessible government databases and their crucial role in the economy. She discusses the alarming loss of essential economic and demographic data, particularly impacting public health. O'Leary highlights challenges in maintaining trust in government statistics amid political changes, and explores the growing importance of private sector data as a more reliable alternative for economic insights. It's an eye-opening conversation on the future of data in America.

Jay Willis, Editor-in-Chief of Balls & Strikes, dives into the controversial decision by the Justice Department to drop charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. The conversation reveals a web of political maneuvering, suggesting potential quid pro quo implications. Willis discusses the mass resignations of federal prosecutors and the ethical dilemmas faced in the Justice Department. He explores how political loyalties and the integrity of legal processes are intertwined, raising questions about accountability and the future of justice in America.

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.