The Opinions

Howard French, a former New York Times foreign correspondent and author, dives into Africa's future and its waning global significance. He highlights the continent's anticipated population boom and warns of the risks if global powers pull back in aid and investment. French discusses Kwame Nkrumah's vision for Black self-reliance and the importance of diaspora solidarity. He emphasizes migration's potential to reshape perceptions of Africa in the U.S. and urges for enhanced regional cooperation among African leaders for a prosperous future.

Cecilia Muñoz, a seasoned immigration policy expert who shaped strategies during the Obama administration, shares her personal immigrant story and insights on current immigration challenges. She discusses the balance of enforcement and legal immigration under Obama and criticizes the Democratic shift post-2010. Cecilia highlights Biden's policy changes leading to a surge in immigration, advocates for expanding legal pathways, and calls for humane asylum procedures. She remains optimistic about reform, drawing inspiration from Ted Kennedy's legacy.

Jamelle Bouie, a political analyst known for his insights on electoral trends, and David French, a commentator recognized for his take on conservative politics, dive into the aftermath of recent elections. They discuss how Trump's dual nature—his ability to mobilize versus his detrimental impact on GOP candidates—shapes the future. The pair explore the Democrats’ success through affordability campaigns, and analyze shifting voter dynamics, particularly among Latino voters. They also anticipate potential Republican infighting as the party reevaluates its strategies.

Oren Cass, founder of American Compass, and Harvard economist Jason Furman dive deep into the recent trade truce between the U.S. and China. They debate the significance of this ceasefire and whether it merely preserves the status quo. Oren advocates for decoupling from China, while Jason highlights the need for resilience rather than severing ties. They explore economic implications, the failures to support American workers, and the complexities behind tariffs. Their engaging discussion challenges existing trade paradigms and sheds light on future U.S.-China relations.

In a compelling conversation, Bernie Sanders, a longtime U.S. Senator and champion of economic justice, joins David Leonhardt to tackle the challenges of working-class politics. Sanders critiques the Democratic Party's shift towards corporate interests and emphasizes the need for inclusivity in political discussions. He argues that economic inequality is tied to the rise of oligarchy and advocates for comprehensive immigration reform. Highlighting the importance of affordability and grassroots victories, he promotes a patriotic nationalism rooted in democracy and shared prosperity.

Jamelle Bouie, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times focusing on politics, and David French, a commentator on constitutional issues, dive into the current chaos in Congress. They discuss how executive power undermines legislative authority, the abdication of Congress to the presidency, and how this crisis affects governance. Bouie highlights the dangers of a weakened Congress, while French emphasizes the need for reforms to limit executive overreach. They explore potential strategies for Congress to reclaim its power amidst a tumultuous political landscape.

Marianne Hirsch, a professor emerita at Columbia University and a prominent scholar of Holocaust memory, discusses the complexity of Holocaust education in light of contemporary events. She critiques the misuse of Holocaust narratives in politics and emphasizes the importance of teaching empathy alongside contextual history. Hirsch also advocates for including the Nakba in Holocaust education, addressing both Israeli and Palestinian histories. Furthermore, she shares her experiences of challenges in teaching and the evolving nature of memory in relation to trauma.

Jessica Grose, an Opinion writer focused on family and relationships, and Glynnis MacNicol, an author exploring singlehood and cultural shifts, dive into the evolving views on marriage. They discuss rising female discontent with traditional relationships and how financial independence reshapes dating. The guests highlight the impact of COVID on household dynamics and the visibility of single life, which reduces stigma around being single. They also examine the role of dating apps in creating superficial connections, illustrating how partnership is becoming a choice rather than a default.

Jill Lepore, a Harvard historian and bestselling author, dives into the art of amending the Constitution and the stagnation in American politics. She discusses how citizens have become passive, waiting for change instead of driving it. Lepore argues for local civic engagement to reclaim a hopeful national narrative and critiques the left's anti-Trump focus. She emphasizes the need for determination in long-term movements and evaluates essential reforms like abolishing the Electoral College and addressing campaign finance.

Join David Brooks, a New York Times columnist, and E.J. Dionne Jr., a political analyst, as they delve into the dynamics of American politics. They discuss the No Kings protests and their implications for patriotism and broader anti-authoritarian movements. Brooks critiques Democrats for lacking a cohesive cultural narrative against Trump, while Dionne counters with insights on activism. The conversation also touches on Zohran Mamdani's impact, the complexities of gerrymandering, and the economic concerns that resonate with voters today.