The Opinions

Bret Stephens, a New York Times columnist and conservative commentator, dives into the intricacies of political loyalty in today's divided landscape. He shares mixed feelings about Trump's policies, acknowledging some successes while critiquing reckless actions. Stephens discusses the risks of politicizing anti-Semitism in academic settings and the complex reasoning behind Jewish voter support for Trump. He also reflects on the future of conservatism in the Trump era, balancing hope for democratic values with challenges faced by younger conservatives.

Larry Summers, a renowned Harvard economist and former U.S. Treasury Secretary, offers his insights into the ramifications of President Trump’s economic policies. He discusses the inherent dangers and instability stemming from aggressive trade policies, particularly high tariffs on China. The conversation highlights the fading perception of the U.S. as a reliable financial power and draws parallels between historical economic missteps and current challenges. Summers emphasizes the need for more strategic approaches to ensure accountability and support for American workers.

In this engaging conversation, Sarah Schulman, an accomplished author and activist known for her work on the AIDS crisis and contemporary political issues, discusses the challenges of solidarity in today's politically charged environment. She emphasizes the importance of direct action and emotional maturity in activism. Schulman also explores how art can serve as a refuge against political fear and intimidation, drawing parallels between historical struggles and modern movements striving for unity amidst division.

Binyamin Appelbaum, the Economics editor for the New York Times opinion section and a critical voice on Trump's economic plans, joins Patrick Healy for an engaging discussion. They dissect the implications of Trump's controversial tariffs on China and their potential fallout on America's global standing. The conversation highlights the complexities of re-industrialization and questions whether tariffs truly advance U.S. interests or merely complicate diplomatic relations with China. They also explore the challenges Congress faces in shaping effective tariff policies amidst ongoing conflicts.

Rory Stewart, a former British politician and author, joins columnist David French to discuss the political alienation in the US and UK. They explore how conservatism has shifted post-Brexit and the aspects of resilience needed to face today’s populist challenges. The conversation also touches on the evolving ideologies in politics, the psychological toll of public criticism, and the moral imperative of active citizenship in turbulent times. It's a thought-provoking dialogue on maintaining hope amidst chaos.

Steve Rattner, a contributing writer for Times Opinion and former head of President Obama's Auto Industry Task Force, brings his economic expertise to the discussion. He analyzes how Trump's tariffs are already disrupting global markets and warns of potential trade war fallout. Rattner delves into the business community's concerns, noting a shift from initial support to rising anxiety over inflation. He also critiques the administration's narrative on tariffs, highlighting growing economic discontent and the challenges of negotiating in today's landscape.

Alexandra Gliskoniska-Grabius, a Polish law professor and author, dives into Poland's remarkable journey to reclaim its constitutional order from the grips of right-wing populism. She highlights the grassroots movements that educated citizens about their democratic rights and discusses the resilience required to combat ongoing threats. The vital role of public education in nurturing civic engagement is emphasized, showcasing how community solidarity can empower democracy against populist tides. Gliskoniska-Grabius offers an inspiring playbook for defending democracy.

Ben Rhodes, former speechwriter and deputy national security advisor to Obama, joins Michelle Cottle to discuss the Democratic Party's current struggles. They explore why the party has failed to launch effective opposition, emphasizing a desperate need for generational change and grassroots engagement. Highlighting the disconnect between leadership and public concerns, they advocate for diverse and authentic leaders to revitalize the party. They also stress the importance of collective action over outdated strategies, urging the need for a movement-focused approach to counter rising autocratic trends.

Comedian Alex Edelman, known for his solo show "Just for Us," joins Susannah Meadows to discuss his unique experiences navigating identity and humor. He shares insights from attending a neo-Nazi meeting, highlighting the complexities of his Jewish background. Edelman reflects on the significance of his performances, especially in a polarized political climate, stressing the importance of engaging in tough conversations to foster understanding. The discussion reveals how humor can bridge divides and challenge societal norms.

David Leonhardt, an insightful writer on higher education for Times Opinion, joins Patrick Healy to dissect the political pressures facing universities, especially under Trump’s influence. They explore the struggles of institutions dealing with intimidation and funding cuts while emphasizing the importance of asserting their value in society. Leonhardt also discusses how current campus debates, particularly around Israel and anti-Semitism, impact student safety. The conversation advocates for university accountability and necessary reforms in a changed political landscape.