The Realignment

Scott Anderson, a journalist and author known for his insights on foreign affairs, delves into the Iranian Revolution's legacy. He discusses the Shah's fall and how the rise of religious fundamentalism reshaped U.S.-Iran relations. Anderson critiques President Carter's misjudgments during the Cold War and examines the influence of past interventions on today's geopolitical landscape. The conversation also explores the complex interplay of national identity, conspiracy theories, and modern Iranian politics, revealing the lasting impact of history on current events.

Jon Lee Anderson, a renowned Staff Writer at The New Yorker and author of 'To Lose a War: The Fall and the Rise of the Taliban', delves into the complicated legacy of America’s 20-year war in Afghanistan. He discusses the shifting definitions of victory in modern warfare, critiques U.S. military strategies post-withdrawal, and reflects on the historical context of conflict in the region. Anderson also parallels America’s challenges in Afghanistan with foreign interventions elsewhere, highlighting lessons learned and unlearned in the fight for peace.

Sam D'Amico, Founder & CEO of Impulse Labs, is revolutionizing kitchen tech with his high-performance electric stove, while Noah Smith, a tech-savvy author, invests in this promising venture. They explore how the 'Electric Tech Stack' is set to transform industries from cooking to warfare. The discussion covers China's lead in electrification, the geopolitical stakes, and the shift from combustion to electric power. With electrification reshaping the future, they emphasize the need for a strong industrial policy to stay competitive globally.

Osita Nwanevu, author of The Right of the People and a writer for The Guardian and The New Republic, joins to challenge the current political landscape. He explores the idea of a 'new American founding,' calling for radical reforms in democracy, including legislative changes and civic education. Nwanevu emphasizes the urgent need for a cohesive vision to counter polarization and engage disillusioned voters. He reflects on historical crises that have led to transformation and critiques the fragmented nature of today's political movements.

Daniel Squadron, a former New York legislator and Co-Founder of the States Forum, discusses revitalizing the Democratic Party by focusing on state-level action. He highlights the importance of solid ideas over slogans to build a cohesive political identity. The conversation explores how state legislatures shape policy and argues for centering core American values like democracy and personal freedom. Squadron critiques the Democratic Party's fragmentation and advocates for a unifying ideology to effectively engage with contemporary issues like student debt.

In this discussion, political scientist Steve Teles from the Niskanen Center shares insights on the Democratic Party's evolution during the Trump era. He explores how Democratic factions, like reformers and 'Common Sense Democrats,' compare to the GOP's reform conservatism. Topics include the challenges of innovation after electoral losses, New York's dynamic primary elections, and the importance of authentic political messaging. Teles emphasizes the need for new ideas to reconnect with voters and why challenging party norms is essential for real change.

Sam Tanenhaus, an author and journalist known for his biography of William F. Buckley Jr., dives deep into Buckley’s lasting impact on American conservatism. He discusses how Buckley’s innovative debates and media presence shaped political discourse in the 1960s. Tanenhaus also explores the ideological clash surrounding race in America and the evolving political landscape post-2012. The conversation emphasizes the importance of developing coherent worldviews in today's complex political climate.

Oren Cass, Founder and Chief Economist of American Compass, returns to share insights on the shifting landscape of conservatism since 2016. He discusses the need for a new conservative framework that prioritizes worker welfare and redefines class politics. Cass critiques mainstream economic narratives, urging accountability and a better understanding of voter experiences. The conversation also delves into the interplay of policy and politics, stressing that modern strategies must adapt to the complex realities of today’s electorate.

Jeff Hauser, founder of the Revolving Door Project, and Paul Williams, leader of the Center for Public Enterprise, engage in a riveting debate about the abundance agenda. They dissect its potential benefits while identifying pitfalls, particularly its disconnection from public sentiment. The discussion spans the YIMBY movement's influence on housing policy and the complexities of federal permitting for energy development. They critique the balance between government and industry, advocating for mission-driven civil service and innovative reforms to enhance economic development.

Nancy Scola, a Contributing Writer at Politico Magazine, dives into the intricate dance of ideas in Washington. She discusses how mainstream and alternative media shape political landscapes, emphasizing their impact on the rise of new policies. Scola highlights Lina Khan’s influence in revitalizing antitrust debates and the unique challenges innovative voices encounter. With a focus on evolving trade policies post-COVID and the dynamics within the left, this conversation reveals how fresh ideas struggle to gain traction amid complex political currents.