The New Liberal Podcast

David Osborne, former director of the Reinventing America's Schools Project and filmmaker of the documentary 'Turnaround', dives into the remarkable transformation of New Orleans schools after Hurricane Katrina. He reveals the dire pre-Katrina conditions, the radical shift to charter schools, and the unique operational aspects that empower these institutions. Osborne discusses the measurable successes like improved graduation rates and the ongoing support from parents. He also tackles the complex dynamics with teachers' unions and the human costs of school closures.

Francis Fukuyama, a renowned political scientist and author, dives into the internet's impact on the surge of global populism. He argues that the web creates filter bubbles, enabling fringe ideas to gain traction. The conversation highlights how social media amplifies extremist views and discusses the risks of media ownership by billionaires, affecting political power dynamics. Fukuyama also advocates for local activism as a solution to counter polarization and encourages young liberals to engage in grassroots movements.

Alec Schierenbeck, the Executive Director of the New York City Charter Revision Commission, dives into the crucial ballot amendments aimed at unlocking more housing in NYC. He explains how the city charter functions as a governance guide and critiques the hurdles of the existing land-use review process, ULURP. From fast-tracking affordable housing projects to creating a digital map for efficiency, Alec outlines how these changes could streamline housing production. He also shares insights on political opposition and the importance of small multifamily projects for the city's housing future.

Congressman Ritchie Torres, representing New York's 15th District, dives into the current government shutdown and its impacts on healthcare, particularly the Affordable Care Act subsidies. He attributes the shutdown to Republican control and warns of the looming healthcare crisis without resolution. Torres also discusses the unity among Democrats to protect existing programs and the importance of grassroots mobilization to influence swing-district representatives. His insights reveal the broader implications of a shutdown on families and essential services.

Matt Gertz, a Senior Fellow at Media Matters for America, dives into the alarming rise of right-wing media influenced by Trump-aligned billionaires. He discusses how economic pressures lead to media takeovers, and details the shift of major outlets like CBS and CNN towards conservative priorities. Gertz explains the implications of billionaire purchases versus private equity cuts and outlines strategies that shape editorial direction. With a focus on social media's evolving landscape, he highlights risks of biased algorithms favoring right-wing content.

Sarah McLaughlin, a senior staffer at FIRE and author of "Authoritarians in the Academy," dives into the precarious state of free speech in America. She discusses the implications of Trump's administration on speech rights, unpacking the Jimmy Kimmel suspension and Pam Bondi's controversial comments on hate speech. McLaughlin explains the distinction between government and corporate censorship, warns of media consolidation risks, and emphasizes the importance of defending diverse expression. Their conversation offers a nuanced look at cancel culture and the chilling effects of intimidation tactics.

Sarah McLaughlin, a senior scholar at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and author of Authoritarians in the Academy, discusses the alarming ways China exerts influence over American universities. She highlights how Chinese authorities use surveillance to monitor dissent among international students and pressure institutions to cancel controversial speakers. McLaughlin also addresses the financial motivations behind universities capitulating to this censorship, emphasizing the urgent need for academic freedom and protective measures for students.

The assassination of a right-wing activist underscores the alarming rise of political violence in America. Historical roots reveal a disturbing connection to religious conflicts and the dangers of current political polarization. With over 300 mass shootings already in a year, the urgent need for meaningful gun control discussions is emphasized. The role of social media in promoting radical discourse and the complicity of political leaders are critiqued, raising serious concerns about the normalization of violence in society.

Congressman Josh Harder, a U.S. Representative from California's 9th district and founder of the Build America Caucus, shares insights on bipartisan solutions for U.S. infrastructure. He discusses the caucus's mission to cut bureaucratic hurdles for housing, energy, and infrastructure projects. Harder highlights the urgency of addressing rising living costs, the challenges of executing federal initiatives, and the significance of community advocacy in improving mass transit. His passion for effective governance and collaboration shines through as he calls for immediate action to enhance living conditions.

Dave Weigel, a political reporter at Semafor, dives into the strategic landscape of the 2026 midterms. He discusses how gerrymandering may impact electoral outcomes and the issues both parties are zeroing in on. Weigel poses critical questions about the effectiveness of party strategies, especially for Republicans navigating without Trump. He also analyzes the role of conservative media in shaping liberal perceptions and the significance of economic factors in voter decision-making.