The Political Scene | The New Yorker

The Democratic strategist Lis Smith joins the guest host Clare Malone, a New Yorker staff writer, to discuss the state of the Democratic Party, and how a decade of reliance on anti-Trump rhetoric has left Democrats reactive and directionless. They consider why groups that Democrats once counted on—from young people to communities of color—are shifting rightward, and what new strategies politicians from Gavin Newsom to Zohran Mamdani are testing to prove that the Democratic Party stands for more than opposition to Trump.This week’s reading “The Trump Administration’s Efforts to Reshape America’s Past,” by Jill Lepore “How Former Biden Officials Defend Their Gaza Policy,” by Isaac Chotiner “The Endless August Recess,” by Antonia Hitchens “The Enormous Stakes of Trump’s Effort to Fire the Fed Governor Lisa Cook,” by John Cassidy “What’s Life Like in Washington, D.C., During Trump’s Takeover?,” by Margaret Talbot Tune in to The Political Scene wherever you get your podcasts. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Dexter Filkins, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for his insights on warfare and geopolitics, discusses the evolving landscape of military power. He reveals how Ukraine's innovative drone technology is reshaping conflict dynamics and challenging traditional military strategies. Filkins warns that the U.S. could face serious threats from advanced Chinese weaponry and emphasizes the Pentagon's sluggish response to these changes. He also delves into the ethical complexities of using artificial intelligence in military operations, particularly in recent conflicts.

Jeffrey Rosen, President and C.E.O. of the National Constitution Center and professor at George Washington University Law School, delves into the Founding Fathers' efforts to prevent tyranny in America. He draws parallels between Donald Trump's leadership style and Julius Caesar's, exploring the consequences of powerful figures on democracy. The discussion also highlights the Supreme Court's role in balancing executive power and raises alarms about historical insights from Rome, questioning the health of civic education and the rule of law in contemporary politics.

David D. Kirkpatrick, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for his deep dives into political finance, shares his insights on how Donald Trump has financially benefited from his presidency, amassing a staggering $3.4 billion. They explore whether Trump's practices signify typical political corruption or a dangerous move toward kleptocracy. The conversation also touches on the implications for American democracy and the ethical dilemmas of intertwining personal profit with public service.

Mohammed R. Mhawish, a Palestinian journalist from Gaza City, shares his harrowing experiences during Israel's invasion following the October 7th attack. He recounts narrowly escaping death when his home was targeted and the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones. Mhawish highlights the resilience of mental-health workers striving to help traumatized communities, despite their own suffering from the aftermath of war. His insights illuminate the human cost of violence and the vital role of storytelling in fostering hope amid despair.

Jonathan Blitzer, a Staff Writer for The New Yorker focused on immigration, delves into the troubling shift in immigration policy under Trump. He discusses alarming tactics of ICE's interior deportations, including separating families and restricting legal representation, highlighting the emotional burdens faced by those affected. Blitzer critiques the inadequate Democratic response and considers how public outrage might mitigate the administration’s aggressive measures. With personal stories and insights, he casts a stark light on the human cost of these policies.

Ruth Marcus, a legal issues writer for The New Yorker, and Jeannie Suk Gersen, a Harvard law professor, dive deep into the legal controversies surrounding Trump. They tackle birthright citizenship, examining the Supreme Court's recent rulings and the potential erosion of voting rights. The duo debates the legality of ICE practices and the challenges naturalized citizens face. With contrasting views on judicial authority, they explore how politics clash with the rule of law in these unprecedented times and invite listeners to ponder future legal complexities.

Roy Wood Jr., host of CNN's satirical program "Have I Got News for You" and a former correspondent on The Daily Show, dives into the current landscape of political comedy. He discusses CBS's cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and its implications for comedic expression. The conversation touches on a recent "South Park" episode that parodies Trump, showcasing how humor confronts political tension. Wood emphasizes that while the administration may attempt to intimidate comedians, this won't silence their voices in the face of critique.

Karen Bass, the Mayor of Los Angeles and a former member of Congress, dives into the city’s role as a sanctuary for immigrants amid federal crackdown efforts. She discusses the deployment of troops under the Trump Administration and the recent legal battle to challenge unconstitutional raids. Bass describes L.A. as a 'petri dish' for federal overreach, reflecting on community fears and the impact of immigration policies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of urban deployment and the ongoing struggles with housing and climate change.

In a fascinating conversation, Katie Drummond, Global Editorial Director of Wired, shares insights on the political maneuvering of Silicon Valley in the Trump era. She discusses how Elon Musk's influence has prompted tech leaders to embrace new power dynamics in Washington. The dialogue shifts to AI's inevitable rise and its dual narrative, exploring both its societal implications and the challenges posed to education and employment. Drummond makes a compelling case for tech companies' responsibilities amid these transformative advancements.