America This Week

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsElite America responded with sympathy to the revelations of Hurricane Katrina. Is it the same this time? Also, "My First Goose," by Isaac Babel

A nostalgic dive into the changing vibe of Las Vegas, blending humor with reflections on its past. The conversation shifts to how gambling culture intersects with societal challenges and modern geopolitical issues. It scrutinizes Russia's nuclear strategy, exploring its historical impacts and implications for global tensions. The discussion also critiques the political landscape surrounding Ukraine and questions the media's narrative control, particularly regarding Trump's influence on American perceptions and policies.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsDonald Trump and Hillary Clinton combine to move us several steps closer to Walter's prediction of the first drone assassination for a tweet. Plus, "The Blood of the Martyrs," by Stephen Vincent Benét

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsRemembering 9/11, the architects of the War on Terror, and the state of emergency just renewed this week. Plus, "Goodbye, My Brother" by John Cheever

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsWalter calls a scandal. Russiagate is exhumed again. Walter explains weasels, both the human and actual kind. Also, "Sredni Vashtar," by Saki.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsUpside-down world keeps spinning as the blues campaign on a border wall. Also, a fascinating inspiration for a pop culture classic: "In Dreams Begin Responsibilities" by Delmore Schwartz

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsSir Keir Starmer goes full Minority Report; White House Misinformation Kids caught talking shop. Plus, "The Egg" by Sherwood Anderson

Walter Kirn, a sharp analyst known for his insights into media and culture, discusses the Tim Walz rollout with humor and depth. He examines the unique Midwestern political landscape, comparing figures like Walz and J.D. Vance. The conversation delves into generational dynamics and media portrayals, alongside critical reflections on the TSA’s 'Quiet Skies' surveillance program. Kirn also questions the authenticity of joy in political rhetoric, drawing parallels with American literature and urging a more genuine political engagement.

Tulsi Gabbard, a former U.S. Congress member and political activist, discusses the bewildering surveillance she faces from Air Marshals under the Quiet Skies program. The conversation dives into privacy violations, government overreach, and the implications for civil liberties in a post-9/11 world. Gabbard highlights the media's failure to address critical political issues and warns about the dangers of biased narratives. The talk also touches on the evolving role of vice presidential candidates and challenges in discerning truth amidst a politically charged atmosphere.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.racket.newsJust like porn sites, political parties quickly identify your thing and send you to the right room. Also, "The Overcoat," by Nikolai Gogol