Just Asking Questions

Ro Khanna, the progressive Representative from California's 17th district, tackles the pressing issue of war powers and the need for Congress to reclaim its authority. He challenges the current administration's military strategies in Iran, advocating for diplomacy over aggression. Khanna emphasizes the importance of bipartisan cooperation to curb executive war powers and the necessity for the Democratic Party to renew its anti-war identity. He also explores the role of trust in government and the push to eliminate corrupt money from politics.

Paul Pillar, a former CIA analyst with extensive expertise in military intelligence, delves deep into America’s complicated role in the Israel-Iran conflict. He warns of unsettling parallels to the Iraq War, emphasizing the dangers of misinformation. Pillar discusses the implications of recent Israeli military actions, the significance of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the potential for regime change. He critiques the oversimplified narratives surrounding Iran’s influence, advocating for careful diplomacy and bipartisan unity in U.S. foreign policy to navigate these tensions.

In this discussion, attorney Laura Powell, founder of Californians for Good Governance and a politically homeless former leftist, shares her take on the recent L.A. riots sparked by immigration raids. She argues that California's political leaders have exacerbated the unrest, while exploring the tensions between federal and state responses. Powell dives into law enforcement's struggles, the role of unions, and the implications of military deployment in civilian unrest. She underscores the need for political accountability and a shift in how immigration issues are handled.

Ruxandra Teslo, a Genomics Ph.D. student from the University of Cambridge, and Emma Waters, a bioethics policy analyst at The Heritage Foundation, dive deep into the controversial world of in vitro fertilization (IVF). They discuss the ethics of embryo selection and the societal implications of such advancements. Key topics include the moral status of embryos, the impact of reproductive technology on women's careers, and the need for accessible fertility treatments. Their engaging debate raises crucial questions about the future of reproductive health and technology.

David Stockman, former Director of the Office of Management and Budget under Ronald Reagan, dives deep into the alarming state of the U.S. national debt, now at $36 trillion. He critiques President Trump's claims as a 'fiscal hawk,' arguing that the GOP's new spending plan is a dangerous gamble. Stockman highlights the flawed logic behind tax cuts without spending reductions, the impact of inflation on welfare programs, and the potential for an economic crisis if drastic measures aren't taken. This insightful discussion on fiscal responsibility is both urgent and eye-opening.

Gary Winslett, an Associate Professor at Middlebury College, explores the surprising reasons behind the Rust Belt's manufacturing decline. Instead of blaming China or automation, he argues that the South's business-friendly policies drew industry away. The conversation highlights the implications of immigration, labor dynamics, and the resurgence of blue-collar work in Southern states. Winslett challenges nostalgic views, prompting a reflection on where the American dream truly lies today—perhaps now in places like Nashville and Raleigh.

Noah Smith, an economic commentator and Substack writer, reflects on his evolving views of libertarianism amid rising populism and authoritarianism. He critiques 'thin libertarianism' for failing to incorporate broader societal constraints on liberty. Smith discusses the impacts of tech censorship, the challenges of contemporary tariffs, and the role of industrial policy, especially in health initiatives like mRNA vaccines. He also addresses the positioning of libertarians in modern political discourse, emphasizing the need for deeper exploration of freedom in today's complex landscape.

In this discussion, comedian and libertarian commentator Dave Smith joins J.D. Tuccille, a Reason journalist known for his insightful takes on politics and culture. They revisit their decision to vote for Trump, citing fears of a Kamala Harris presidency. The conversation dives into Trump's immigration policies and their harsh implications on due process, along with the economic fallout from his tariffs. A thoughtful debate unfolds around the evolving nature of libertarianism within the MAGA landscape, reflecting on the complexities and trade-offs of their choices.

Join New York Times columnist Ross Douthat as he explores how digital life is reshaping society. He discusses the isolation fostered by AI and virtual distractions and their impact on family dynamics and trust in institutions. Douthat analyzes the troubling decline in birth rates and what this means for the future, while presenting neotraditionalism as a potential guiding path. He emphasizes the necessity of intentional relationships in an increasingly disconnected world, offering compelling insights into navigating modernity and tradition.

Glenn Greenwald, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and civil libertarian, joins the discussion on the alarming erosion of American liberties. He shares insights on the wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, highlighting executive power overreach and its implications for due process. The conversation challenges the normalization of anti-terrorism labels and scrutinizes the influence of political power on civil freedoms. Greenwald also addresses the chilling climate for free speech on college campuses and the moral responsibilities of leaders in preserving individual rights.