On the Media

Vittoria Elliott, a reporter for Wired, explores the lingering influence of the DOGE task force in government. Despite being deemed disbanded, she reveals that its operatives have embedded themselves in various agencies. Elliott discusses the impact on workforce cuts, deregulation, and tech-style employee testing at the IRS. She warns of potential risks in data sharing, particularly regarding Social Security, and highlights how DOGE's policies are reshaping federal priorities, with real consequences for employees and public services.

Charlie Warzel, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of the Galaxy Brain newsletter, dives into the revealing new location feature on X, previously known as Twitter. He discusses how many influential MAGA accounts are connected to foreign countries, shedding light on the dynamics of disinformation and engagement on social media. Warzel also highlights the consequences of fake accounts and their impact on real political discourse. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of transparency, despite flaws in the new tool.

Jesse Thorn, the founder of Bullseye and the Maximum Fun network, celebrates 25 years of creating insightful conversations with artists. He discusses the origins of his unique college radio show and recounts memorable early interviews, including a cringe-worthy experience with Dustin Diamond. Thorn emphasizes the importance of in-person interviews and reveals his mission to explore the creative processes of artists. He shares how he transitioned to a worker-owned model for Maximum Fun, prioritizing sustainability and audience connection over venture capital.

G. Elliott Morris, a journalist and statistician known for his data-driven analysis, shares insights on how moderation might not be the electoral magic bullet some believe. Matt Bennett, co-founder of Third Way, discusses the political implications of progressive candidates' wins, emphasizing tone and authenticity to appeal to voters. Arizona state senator Annalise Ortiz reveals her innovative community strategies, including using TikTok for outreach and advocating for local engagement to win over constituents and even moderate voters.

Adam Bonica, a political scientist from Stanford University and author of the Substack newsletter On Data and Democracy, dives into the chaotic world of Democratic Party fundraising tactics. He reveals the overwhelming flood of insistent donation emails that utilize alarming language and celebrity names to compel giving. Bonica discusses the unethical tactics of urgency and deception, likening them to scams targeting seniors. He advocates for a shift towards treating donors as partners and highlights successful candidates embracing more respectful fundraising strategies.

May Mailman, a former senior policy strategist for the White House, dives into the controversial 'Trump compact' aimed at reshaping university relationships with the government. She discusses its implications for academic freedom, including tracking ideological views and alterations in admissions policies. Mailman also highlights how settlements with institutions like Columbia signal a shift in power dynamics, raising concerns about future abuses. Throughout, she defends civil rights enforcement as a pathway to elevate academic quality amidst political pressures.

Zack Beauchamp, a senior correspondent for Vox, delves into the rising tensions within the Republican Party, sparked by Nick Fuentes' controversial interview with Tucker Carlson. He explains how Carlson's soft approach to Fuentes normalized extremist views, creating a rift among conservatives. Beauchamp also discusses the appeal of Fuentes to disaffected youth and the complex interplay between anti-cancellation norms and antisemitism in the GOP. Additionally, he highlights the unique role of Jewish and Christian Zionist influences on Republican attitudes toward Israel.

Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford professor and former NIH director, alongside Camila Naksarova, a Harvard Medical School researcher, dive into the turmoil caused by frozen federal grants impacting vital research. They explore the dramatic conflict between Bhattacharya and Harvard's president, Alan Garber, who was once his mentor. Conversations reveal how COVID-19 reshaped their careers, the controversial Great Barrington Declaration, and the dire consequences for academia's future, urging a reevaluation of funding priorities and the implications for scientific progress.

Elliott Morris, a journalist and statistician behind the newsletter Strength in Numbers, dives into the electoral impacts of moderation in politics. He discusses the recent New York City mayoral win by Zohran Mamdani, emphasizing how divided party support reflects the broader debate on moderation. Morris critiques traditional analyses, arguing factors like incumbency and district dynamics are more pivotal than ideological centrist positions. He also highlights how group identity now supersedes policy preferences, reshaping electoral strategies for both parties.

Ryan Enos, a political scientist at Harvard, shares insights on campus politics and the faculty's fight against government pressures. Genetics professor Kamila Naxerova highlights the impact of federal funding cuts on her cancer research lab. Kit Parker, a bioengineering professor and Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, discusses the challenges of academic freedom and the importance of conservative voices in campus debates. Together, they navigate the intricate dynamics between politics, funding, and educational integrity at Harvard.