The Realignment

Historian H.W. Brands dives deep into the historical tug-of-war between interventionism and isolationism in American politics. He draws parallels between FDR's and Charles Lindbergh's clashing views on WWII and today's debates over Taiwan and Ukraine. Brands explores the roots of the 'America First' movement and discusses Lindbergh's complex legacy, revealing lessons on humility in politics. The conversation evolves into how historical narratives shape current foreign policy, warning against oversimplifying the past in today's context.

Gary Winslett, a Senior Advisor at the Chamber of Progress and Professor at Middlebury College, delves into the critical issue of rising living costs, highlighting voter concerns about housing, energy, and healthcare. He advocates for an 'abundance agenda' that emphasizes supply-side reforms to tackle these challenges. Winslett discusses the importance of bipartisan cooperation and regulatory changes that can enhance housing availability and support renewable energy. He also touches on the transformation of the hearing aid industry and the need for collaborative policy-making across various government levels.

Max Boot, a Washington Post columnist and Reagan biographer, dives into the evolving legacy of Ronald Reagan in the context of today's political landscape. He explores whether Reagan would endorse Trump and discusses the decline of his ideals within the GOP. The conversation examines the rise of populism stemming from Reagan's policies, alongside insights on the disconnect between economic data and public perception today. Additionally, Boot reflects on Reagan’s charisma from Hollywood and the lessons it holds for today's leaders.

Teddy Schleifer, a New York Times reporter on tech, teams up with analyst Samo Burja to dive deep into Silicon Valley's surprising rightward turn since the Trump era. They explore how tech leaders are embracing conservative values, the potential lost ties with the Democratic Party, and the impact of independent media on political discourse. The discussion also touches on the migration of tech talent from San Francisco and the public's renewed political enthusiasm as the 2024 election approaches, signaling a shift in engagement and ideology.

Ro Khanna, a representative from California's 17th District and author of 'Progressive Capitalism,' discusses revitalizing American manufacturing. He highlights declining sectors since the '80s and advocates for innovative solutions beyond just semiconductors. Khanna emphasizes the need for collaboration among businesses, education, and labor to create equitable economic growth. He also shares insights into the political landscape, advocating for aspirational governance amidst an electorate weary of conflict.

In this discussion, the hosts dive into the pro-life movement's challenges within the GOP, highlighting electoral risks as public sentiment evolves. They assess Trump's political navigation amid the abortion debate and January 6th's aftermath. The conversation emphasizes how the party must recalibrate strategies to resonate with voters, especially moderates. There's also a critical look at recent political performances and the necessity for robust leadership to steer the narrative against Democrats. Questions from the audience add further depth to the analysis.

Jamil Jaffer, a national security expert, Josh Steinman, a defense strategist, and Megan Reiss, a geopolitical analyst, engage in a thought-provoking discussion about adapting to a multipolar world. They explore the implications of China's influence, the challenges posed by emerging adversaries, and the need for a fresh approach to foreign policy. The guests emphasize balancing innovation with regulation in tech, fortifying the American economy against global competition, and the importance of decisive leadership in navigating geopolitical tensions.

Stephanie Baker, a Bloomberg News reporter and author of "Punishing Putin," discusses the economic sanctions against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. She explains why initial assessments of these sanctions were overstated and explores the long-term effects on Russia's military capabilities. Baker also delves into the complex dynamics of global trade, particularly with China, and how these sanctions could influence future geopolitical conflicts, including potential tensions over Taiwan. A fascinating look at the evolving landscape of economic warfare!

Matt Grossmann, Director of the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research, delves into how the growing diploma divide has transformed American politics. He discusses the polarization between highly-educated Democrats and populist Republicans, each with contrasting views on expertise and institutions. The conversation highlights the ongoing culture wars, where every aspect of culture has become politicized over the decades. Grossmann also explores how corporate behavior interacts with political narratives, reflecting broader societal changes and tensions.

Conor Dougherty, a New York Times reporter and author of "Golden Gates: The Housing Crisis and a Reckoning for the American Dream," discusses America's escalating housing crisis. He highlights how this issue has transformed from localized struggles to a national concern. Dougherty critiques the role of Wall Street and urges for a balanced approach between supply and demand. He also explores innovative urban planning concepts like California Forever, envisioning new cities as part of the solution to the crisis.