The Political Scene | The New Yorker
WNYC Studios and The New Yorker
Join The New Yorker’s writers and editors for reporting, insight, and analysis of the most pressing political issues of our time. On Mondays, David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker, presents conversations and feature stories about current events. On Wednesdays, the senior editor Tyler Foggatt goes deep on a consequential political story via far-reaching interviews with staff writers and outside experts. And, on Fridays, the staff writers Susan B. Glasser, Jane Mayer, and Evan Osnos discuss the latest developments in Washington and beyond, offering an encompassing understanding of this moment in American politics.
Episodes
Mentioned books
18 snips
Jan 25, 2025 • 45min
A Spirit of Vengeance in Trump’s First Week
Explore the whirlwind of President Trump’s first week in office, where he made headlines by signing an unprecedented number of executive orders. The discussion dives into his sense of grievance and vengeful instincts, as well as the implications of his controversial immigration policies. Key moments from his inaugural address are unpacked, along with the influence of radical ideologies on governance. Additionally, the podcast examines shifting dynamics in U.S. foreign policy and the delicate balance between personal vendetta and political power.
18 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 35min
David Remnick on the Dawn of Trump’s Second Term
Donald Trump's second term kicks off with executive actions that shake the political landscape. His speeches reflect a bold confidence and a deepening influence over the Republican Party. The chaotic implications of his decisions, including a controversial stance on Ukraine, raise concerns about democracy. The discussion also underscores the intersection of performative politics and corporate interests, hinting at an inevitable chaos ahead. As storytelling and media evolve, the reflection on the past fuels anticipation for what lies ahead in this tumultuous era.
62 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 36min
Big Money and Trump’s New Cabinet
The discussion dives into the confirmation hearings for Trump's Cabinet, spotlighting potential military strategies in a second term. It critically examines Biden's stark warnings about emerging oligarchies amid the elite's key role in politics. Concerns about concentrated power and incompetence in governance are highlighted, alongside contrasting leadership styles from presidents like Biden and Carter. The evolving alliances between wealthy elites and Trump reveal a troubling shift towards prioritizing winning over ethics in contemporary political engagement.
35 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 30min
How the Blazes in L.A. Got Swept Into the Culture War
Jay Caspian Kang, a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the chaos surrounding the devastating fires in Los Angeles. He discusses how these disasters have become a political battleground, with figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump deflecting blame. Kang highlights the implications for federal disaster relief in a politically charged climate, exploring criticisms of California’s leadership amidst rising dissatisfaction among residents. The conversation sheds light on the intersection of disaster response and cultural warfare shaping local perceptions and politics.
14 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 35min
Representative Ro Khanna on Elon Musk and the Tech Oligarchy
Ro Khanna, a progressive U.S. Representative from California's Silicon Valley, shares his insights on the risks of a tech oligarchy led by billionaires like Elon Musk. He believes this consolidation of power threatens democratic integrity and working-class trust. Khanna also discusses the need for Democrats to reconnect with these voters by advocating economic solutions that celebrate entrepreneurship while addressing social welfare. His vision of progressive capitalism seeks a balanced approach to innovation and equity.
19 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 33min
What the End of Meta’s Fact-Checking Program Means for the Future of Free Speech
Mark Zuckerberg’s decision to end Meta’s fact-checking program raises questions about misinformation in the digital age. The conversation dives into how this impacts truth and free speech, particularly as Trump returns to the political scene. There’s a critical look at the contradiction between conservative support for free speech and actions that threaten it. The challenges facing journalism against rising authoritarianism and how affluent demographics shape media’s future also take center stage, making for a thought-provoking discussion.
34 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 29min
Will Justin Trudeau’s Resignation Lead to the MAGA-fication of Canada?
Adam Gopnik, a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the seismic shift in Canadian politics with the resignation of Justin Trudeau after nearly ten years in office. He analyzes the factors behind Trudeau's plummeting popularity, including housing crises and pandemic fallout. Gopnik discusses the rise of Pierre Poilievre and how his far-right rhetoric mirrors Trump's MAGA movement. They explore the implications for Canadian identity and the potential radical shift in the country's political landscape.
15 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 44min
From Critics at Large: The Modern-Day Fight for Ancient Rome
The hosts explore the captivating ties between ancient Rome and modern cinema, focusing on Ridley Scott’s "Gladiator II." They discuss the enduring influence of Roman narratives, from power dynamics to spectacle, in films like "Ben-Hur" and "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum." The conversation probes the complexities of moral themes in these portrayals, revealing how ancient imagery resonates with contemporary politics and identity. They also critique the ongoing fascination with Rome, advocating for a deeper understanding beyond mere analogies.
8 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 34min
Why Banning TikTok Could Violate the First Amendment
Jay Caspian Kang, a staff writer at The New Yorker known for his sharp insights into social media, joins to tackle the ongoing debate over TikTok's potential ban. He argues that social media serves as today's public square, making any regulatory efforts a First Amendment concern. The discussion delves into the balance between protecting children online and preserving civil liberties, as well as how user experiences on TikTok have shifted from cultural excitement to frustrations with political content and privacy issues.
16 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 45min
Remembering Jimmy Carter, a “President Out of Time”
Lawrence Wright, a New Yorker staff writer and playwright who spent considerable time with President Carter, reflects on the life of the former president after his passing at 100. Wright discusses Carter's unique blend of faith, politics, and commitment to civil rights, emphasizing his prescient views on renewable energy. He explores how public opinion shifted about Carter post-presidency, particularly regarding his pivotal role in the Camp David Accords. The conversation reveals the complexities of Carter's leadership amidst a changing America.
