The Opinions

Bryan Stevenson, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, is a powerful voice against racial injustice and a champion for historical truth. In this conversation, he critiques the political battle over America's narrative, particularly around institution like the Smithsonian. Stevenson emphasizes the need for honest history about slavery and segregation to truly heal, arguing that celebrating achievements should not come at the cost of recognizing past wrongs. He also highlights the dangers of recent legal shifts and calls for leaders to openly confront bigotry for progress.

Michelle Goldberg, a Times columnist known for her insights on politics and immigration, joins David Leonhardt for a thought-provoking discussion. They explore how Biden's immigration policies may have backfired and the public's growing discontent with deportation tactics. Goldberg passionately argues that America's identity should center on its immigrant roots. She highlights the advantages of diversity for the future and discusses the urgent need for a cohesive national narrative that promotes inclusivity. Individual stories reveal the human impact of harsh policies, emphasizing the necessity for reform.

Join David French, a law and politics columnist from New York Times Opinion, and Jamelle Bouie, a progressive politics analyst, as they dissect the tumultuous year under Trump. They call out the falsehoods from Trump's speeches, discuss the implications of his administration's policies, and analyze the damage done to civil service and healthcare. Amidst the chaos, they spot silver linings like changing voter sentiments and Republican defiance. Tune in for a mix of serious analysis and lighter cultural reflections!

This discussion features David Brooks, an Opinion columnist known for his cultural and political insights, and E.J. Dionne Jr., a political analyst focusing on civic life. They dive into Trump’s political landscape, assessing his waning influence and moderates' exodus over affordability concerns. The trio explores the national mood of anxiety, the duality of AI's potential, and the ongoing housing crisis. They also address rising anti-Semitism and its implications, before wrapping up with cultural highlights that bring them joy.

Bret Stephens, a New York Times Opinion columnist and conservative commentator, discusses the Republican Party's drift away from traditional conservatism. He shares his concerns about Trump’s impact, contrasting Reagan’s optimistic vision with today’s pessimism. The conversation highlights the need for sensible immigration policies and the importance of humility among Republicans. Stephens also speculates on future party dynamics, suggesting that centrists could bridge divides. He concludes with a hopeful perspective on democracy's resilience.

Michelle Cottle, an opinion national politics writer, and Jamelle Bouie, a political commentator, dive deep into the challenges Republican women face within their party. They discuss how figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene are rebelling against traditional patriarchal norms. Cottle highlights how Trump's masculine stance on leadership has impacted the perception of women in the GOP. Bouie further explores the generational divides and resentment men feel towards women's progress, questioning whether this misogyny will hurt the party's future with modern families.

Thomas L. Friedman, a New York Times columnist and three-time Pulitzer Prize winner, shares his intriguing 'Polycene' thesis, describing a new era of accelerated change in technology, politics, and society. He discusses the complexity of modern diplomacy and the ongoing struggle between nostalgia for past simplicity and the chaos of the present. Friedman emphasizes the need for deep listening to resolve divides and insists that ethical governance is essential in the age of AI. David Brooks joins the conversation, exploring the intersection of culture and technology.

M. Gessen, an accomplished journalist focusing on authoritarianism, and Michelle Goldberg, a keen observer of social movements, dive deep into the moral imperative of resistance. They explore the bravery of Israeli dissidents and grassroots organizers in the U.S. protesting ICE enforcement. Discussing the balance between local actions and larger movements, they question the effectiveness of small-scale resistance. Both emphasize the role of community in activism while grappling with the personal thresholds for leaving one's homeland when protests feel futile.

David French, an insightful opinion columnist known for his expertise in law and national politics, joins Jamelle Bouie, a keen political analyst focused on electoral trends. They delve into the shifting dynamics within the GOP, revealing skepticism towards Trump as party members worry about midterm prospects. The panel critiques a Tennessee special election that exposes deep-rooted fractures in Republican support. They also dissect the controversial boat strikes, raising legal concerns and questioning Trump's decreasing influence.

Bret Stephens, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times known for his insight on politics, and Frank Bruni, a contributing writer and author, dive into the evolving landscape of Trump's influence. They dissect the gap between Trump's priorities and voter concerns, exploring what Trumpism might look like without Trump. The duo also debates whether centrism can be charismatic enough to rally support and analyzes North Carolina's political dynamics. Additionally, they tackle U.S. foreign policy, focusing on Venezuela and the implications for global order.