Jonathan Blitzer, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of "Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here," dives deep into the implications of Donald Trump's mass-deportation plans. He discusses how the new administration could use military resources and legal loopholes to implement aggressive immigration policies. Blitzer highlights the shift in I.C.E. policies, predicting arrests in schools and hospitals, creating a climate of fear. He also reflects on the humanitarian challenges posed by these strategies, urging a reconsideration of public narratives around undocumented immigrants.

The panel dives into Trump's 'shock and awe' strategy for his 2025 return, discussing the implications of his controversial Secretary of Defense pick. They tackle the media's role in vetting his nominees, highlighting serious allegations against appointees. The conversation shifts to internal conflicts and Trump’s retribution themes as elections near. They also analyze public perceptions of Biden and Trump, voter apathy, and the erosion of democratic norms globally, ultimately sharing personal reflections and hopes for the new year.

Jeannie Suk Gersen, a Harvard Law professor and New Yorker contributor, delves into the profound impacts of Donald Trump's indictments on American law and politics. She discusses how these legal battles tested the concept of presidential immunity, reshaping the future of political candidacy. Gersen explores the balance between accountability and democratic integrity, raising questions about public perception and the implications for upcoming elections. The conversation also touches on the ethical challenges surrounding executive pardons, particularly in the context of Biden's actions.

Ketanji Brown Jackson, the 116th Supreme Court Justice, reflects on her historic nomination by President Biden and the challenges that followed. She discusses her powerful dissent in the affirmative action case and the need for accountability regarding judicial ethics, emphasizing trust in the Court. Jackson highlights the importance of collegiality among justices, sharing how they maintain tradition despite political pressures. Her memoir, "Lovely One," offers deep insights into her journey and family background, adding a personal touch to her impressive legal career.

David Cole, former legal director of the ACLU and law professor, dives into how America is gearing up for Trump's potential second term. He discusses effective strategies like litigation and grassroots mobilization to protect civil liberties. Cole emphasizes the importance of historical awareness in navigating today's political landscape and highlights the roles of community engagement and local activism. The conversation offers a thought-provoking look at how checks and balances can serve as vital guardrails for democracy amidst rising tensions.

The New Yorker staff writers Dexter Filkins and Clare Malone join Tyler Foggatt to examine Donald Trump’s appointments of former congressman Matt Gaetz and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., to his Cabinet.Gaetz, who has been nominated for Attorney General, is one of Trump’s most vociferous defenders and the former subject of a sex-trafficking investigation run by the Department of Justice. (Gaetz has denied all allegations.) Trump has chosen Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, giving one of the world’s most prominent anti-vaccine activists broad powers over public health. How would these men reshape the legal and medical infrastructures of our federal government? And will they even be confirmed?This week’s reading: “How Far Would Matt Gaetz Go?,” by Dexter Filkins “R.F.K., Jr.,’s Next Move,” by Clare Malone  “Why Is Elon Musk Really Embracing Donald Trump?,” By John Cassidy  “Trump’s Cabinet of Wonders,” by David Remnick “The Most Extreme Cabinet Ever,” by Susan B. Glasser To discover more podcasts from The New Yorker, visit newyorker.com/podcasts. To send feedback on this episode, write to themail@newyorker.com. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, Harvard political scientists and authors of "How Democracies Die," discuss the alarming rise of authoritarianism in the U.S. They assert that it's not the voters' job to defend democracy, as they often prioritize personal concerns over abstract principles. Exploring the implications of Trump’s presidency, they highlight the dangers of minority-supported leaders and advocate for institutional reform to combat democratic backsliding. Both scholars emphasize that civic engagement and elite accountability are crucial to safeguarding democratic norms.

Join Chris Hayes, an insightful author and MSNBC host, as he dissects the shifting political landscape after Trump’s potential return. He discusses the alarming decline of support for Democrats among the working class and the impact of post-COVID inflation. Hayes also explores how the attention economy shapes modern political discourse and urges Democrats to adapt their strategies to resonate with diverse voters while confronting rising populism and authoritarianism in America.

A roundtable discussion reveals how Donald Trump's unexpected electoral success raises eyebrows amidst his legal troubles. The conversation dives into the Democratic Party's struggle to resonate with younger and Latino voters, influenced by economic inequality. With Trump’s authoritarian rhetoric looming, there are concerns about the impact on U.S. democracy and judicial appointments. The normalization of extremist views is alarming, as the political landscape continues to shift, highlighting the media's role in this turbulent era.

Clare Malone and Jay Caspian Kang, both staff writers at The New Yorker, dive into the implications of Donald Trump’s surprising return to the presidency. They discuss the significant demographic shifts that helped him secure victory, especially among Black and Latino voters. The duo critiques the Democratic Party's messaging and highlights Kamala Harris’s campaign challenges. They delve into the complexity of voter dynamics, particularly around abortion, and explore the uncertain future of the Democratic Party in a rapidly changing political landscape.