Slate News

Gus Walz, son of Minnesota's governor and advocate for neurodivergent children, gained attention at the DNC, sparking important conversations about parenting in the face of public scrutiny. The discussion covers emotional connections for those with nonverbal learning disorders and how these dynamics challenge societal norms around masculinity. Topics include balancing a child's independence with safety, humorous family moments, and the role of community in fostering personal growth. Walz's insights resonate deeply with parents navigating similar journeys.

Sam Adams, a senior editor for Slate's Culture department, dissects J.D. Vance's awkward public appearances and his struggles with humor in political discourse. He explores the backlash from Vance's 'childless cat ladies' quip and the disconnect between his digital persona and actual campaign interactions. The discussion highlights Donald Trump's successful use of humor and celebrity dynamics, contrasting it with Vance's approach. They delve into the power of political humor and its role in shaping public perceptions and connections.

Nadira Goffe, a culture writer, teams up with Jonquilyn Hill, former host of Vox’s The Weeds, to explore Kamala Harris’s vibrant internet history. They discuss her transformation from California Attorney General to Vice President, highlighting the K-Hive and the memes that shaped her image. Expect laughs as they dissect awkward viral moments and the interplay between social media and public perception. They also emphasize the crucial role of community support, especially among Black voters, in bolstering her campaign.

Ana Vanessa Herrero, a Washington Post correspondent based in Venezuela, offers a gripping insight into the country’s tumultuous political landscape. She dives into the chaos surrounding the recent presidential election, detailing claims of electoral fraud and the resulting protests. Herrero sheds light on the impact of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who resonates with voters amidst a backdrop of mass emigration. The discussion reveals the oppressive atmosphere journalists face while exploring how citizens strive for integrity in a volatile democracy.

On today’s episode of Hear Me Out: PSL (not the drink).Claudia de la Cruz cannot, mathematically, win the presidency. But she’s running anyway… because the two-party system doesn’t lend itself to real representation or the public interest.Claudia joins us to make the case for voting socialist, because the parties with all the power aren’t as different as they want you to think.We’ll also share an important update about the future of Hear Me Out at the end of the episode. After that, please feel free to email the show: hearmeout@slate.comPodcast production by Maura Currie.Want more Hear Me Out? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Or, visit slate.com/hearmeoutplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since becoming the nominee, Kamala Harris has renounced some of her more progressive policy goals from her 2020 campaign, tacking closer to the Biden administration line and political center. So far, though, it hasn’t cost her progressive support.Guest: Pramila Jayapal, U.S. representative for the 7th congressional district of Washington. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do Georgia’s new “electoral integrity” laws create more faith in the voting process—or just make it more restrictive?Guest: Sam Gringlas, politics reporter at WABE in Atlanta.Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. James R. Jones, an author and professor known for his insightful work on racial issues in government, joins the discussion on the persistent racism and lack of diversity within Congress. They dive into the experiences of Black staffers, illustrating the parallels between plantation dynamics and present-day Capitol Hill. Factors influencing workplace culture, such as political events and personal testimonies, are explored. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for systemic change and greater representation of diverse voices in legislative spaces.

Dr. Rajiv Ratan, executive director at the Burke Neurological Institute, shares expert insights on recovering from strokes. He discusses the often-overlooked long-term effects of stroke and emphasizes the importance of nutrition for survivors. The conversation delves into innovative therapies and the role of technology in enhancing recovery strategies. Dr. Ratan also highlights the brain's resilience and the critical need for research and supportive public health policies to improve rehabilitation outcomes for patients.

Rachael Myrow, a senior editor at KQED's Silicon Valley news desk, dives into the heated debate over California's SB 1047, a proposed AI regulation bill. She explores why key politicians, like Nancy Pelosi, are siding with AI companies against safety regulations. The conversation unveils the intense lobbying from tech giants and the complexities of balancing innovation with public safety. Myrow also touches on the EU's AI Act and the challenges of regulating such an influential industry, shedding light on Silicon Valley's intricate political landscape.