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Congressional Republicans are trying to extend Trump’s first-term tax cuts, appease GOP budget hawks and increase defense spending—all in a single budget. Can it be done?Guest: Jim Newell, senior politics writer at Slate.Want more What Next? Join Slate Plus to unlock full, ad-free access to What Next and all your other favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, Ethan Oberman, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Alex Kirshner, Lindsay Gibbs, and Ben Lindbergh dive into the inclusion and implications of robotic officiating in the NFL and MLB. They also discuss the retirement of basketball all-time great, Diana Taurasi. Finally, they talk about a right-wing proposal for a steroid-fueled sports league. For Afterballs, Alex remembers the careers of Czech hockey superstar Jaromir Jagr as well as the beloved voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Mike Lange, who died last month.On the bonus episode available exclusively for Slate Plus members, the panel discusses the popular NBA parody Twitter account, NBACentel.Robo Refs (3:15): Robots will be used to scrutinize calls in both baseball and football.Diana Taurasi (21:49): The basketball icon steps away after twenty-plus years.Let 'em Juice (37:46): The bizarre proposal from Donald Trump Jr. and friends for a steroid-acceptable sports league.(Note: time codes are only accurate for Slate Plus members, who listen ad-free.)Want more Hang Up and Listen? Subscribe to Slate Plus to immediately unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page, or visit slate.com/hangupplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this insightful discussion, Rachel Louise Snyder, a journalist and author of 'No Visible Bruises', dives into the grim realities faced by women incarcerated for homicide—20% of whom killed their abusive partners. She unpacks the failures of self-defense laws and the urgent need for reform that acknowledges the complexities of domestic violence. By sharing poignant stories, including Anita Ford's, Snyder emphasizes the emotional turmoil of victims and the systemic changes necessary to protect women in abusive situations.

Isaac Butler, the insightful author of "The Method" and a host at Criterion Channel, joins Oscar heavyweight Bill Kramer, CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. They dive into the emotional impact of the film 'I'm Still Here,' showcasing its narrative depth and societal relevance. The duo discusses the evolving dynamics of film distribution, particularly the Oscars' relationship with streaming platforms, and the importance of preserving cultural institutions and artistic expression amidst political challenges.

Join Dr. Jada Thompson, an associate professor at the University of Arkansas specializing in agricultural economics, as she dives into the egg crisis that's captured national attention. Discover why egg prices skyrocketed from $2 to over $9 due to a bird flu outbreak and the challenges within the poultry industry. She also discusses biosecurity measures, the controversial practice of culling flocks, and how vaccination strategies may shape the future of egg prices. A fascinating journey into the economics of one of nature's most essential foods!

In this discussion, guest Kyle Chayka, a Staff Writer at The New Yorker and author of 'Filter World,' dives into the alarming parallels between technocracy and authoritarianism, linking modern tech figures like Elon Musk to historical 'techno-fascists.' The conversation critically analyzes Trump's controversial 'gold card' citizenship proposal, revealing the political and economic implications. They also hilariously debunk the exaggerated fears surrounding black plastic kitchen utensils, showing how misinformation can warp consumer behaviors.

Asha Rangappa, a former FBI special agent and legal contributor for ABC News, shares her insights on the state of law enforcement integrity. She discusses troubling incidents such as the recent firings at the Pentagon and questionable appointments within the FBI. Asha warns about the dangers of individuals in power who manipulate the law for their own ends. The conversation also highlights the radicalization in the military and the alarming role of private security in democratic spaces, raising critical questions about authority and accountability.

Ryan Mac, a tech reporter from the New York Times and co-author of “Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter,” dives into the resignations of federal workers protesting DOGE leadership issues. He discusses the chaos within federal agencies, sparked by Musk's controversial directives. The podcast explores the emerging resistance against tech leaders and the implications for future government interactions. Additionally, Mac addresses how generative AI is reshaping communication and highlights the political backlash surrounding this evolving landscape.

Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-chief of The Economist, delves into the shifting dynamics of the transatlantic alliance, highlighting Europe's changing view of the U.S. as a potential adversary. The conversation touches on Ukraine’s security threats and Europe's need for unity amid rising populism. They also analyze the controversial House GOP budget resolution and its implications on essential services, alongside the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party. Finally, they discuss the Trump administration's aggressive tactics against the press, raising alarms about media freedom.

Yair Rosenberg, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of the Deep Shtetl newsletter, dives deep into the emotional complexities of the Gaza ceasefire. He discusses the grim realities facing hostages and their families, shedding light on the trauma involved. The conversation explores the challenges of negotiating Gaza’s future amidst ongoing hostilities. Personal stories reveal the impact of the conflict, while negotiations around the terms of the ceasefire highlight the intricate web of political and humanitarian issues still at play.