Slate News

Mark Joseph Stern, a Slate senior writer known for his legal expertise, and Wendy Weiser, vice president for democracy at the Brennan Center for Justice, dive deep into the Trump administration's legal turmoil surrounding voting rights. They discuss the contradictory legal claims made by Trump lawyers, the potential Supreme Court involvement in the Alien Enemies Act, and a troubling executive order that threatens voter integrity under the guise of preserving it. The conversation underscores the urgent need for civic engagement amidst growing challenges to democracy.

Azeem Khan, an advisor to UNICEF’s crypto fund and co-creator of the blockchain Morph, joins the discussion on the quirky world of memecoins. They dive into the creation of their own memecoin, BuenWim, navigating the absurdity and humor behind investing in crypto with no real value. The conversation highlights the chaos of the crypto market, personal experiences of novice traders, and the importance of community engagement. They also stress the risks involved, urging caution against scams in this playful yet volatile landscape.

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.