Jen Rubin's Green Room

Jen and Mark Jacob discuss the challenges facing the media industry and the need for more responsible and informative journalism. They highlight the importance of fact-checking and fact crusading, as well as the need for historical context in reporting. They also discuss the negative impact of polls and the obsession with entertainment in news coverage. The conversation touches on the decline of local news and the polarization of media outlets. Mark emphasizes the importance of a balanced news diet and the need to listen to different perspectives. https://www.stopthepresses.news/ https://x.com/MarkJacob16 Babbel:  Learn a new language and start traveling with Babbel.  Get 60% off when you go to Babbel.com/greenroom

Jen Rubin and Matt Bennett discuss the selection of Tim Walz as the vice presidential nominee and his potential impact on the ticket and the country. They highlight Walz's relatability, his understanding of rural and urban issues, and his ability to bridge the rural-urban divide.  They also discuss the strengths of the Harris campaign, including their ability to generate momentum and their strategic choices. They touch on the importance of authenticity, the need to address issues like crime and immigration, and the potential pitfalls for Democrats, such as complacency and identitarianism. They also discuss the political map and the states that Democrats should focus on.

Peter Pomerantsev discusses Delmer's strategies, highlighting their relevance to modern disinformation challenges, particularly regarding Russia's actions in Ukraine. Pomerantsev stresses the need for engaging media campaigns to counter authoritarian propaganda effectively. Peter's book is about Sefton Delmer, a British journalist during World War II, used subversive propaganda tactics against the Nazis. He created fake radio stations like 'Death Chef' to expose Nazi corruption and secrets. Delmer's goals were to: 1. Challenge Nazi emotional control 2. Provide factual information 3. Promote alternative identities 4. Encourage individual agency And it worked, what lessons can we learn from Sefton.

Jen and Kim Wehle discuss the current state of the Constitution and the Supreme Court. They highlight the recent Supreme Court rulings that have redefined the power of the president and altered the foundational structure of government. They also discuss the implications of these rulings on the rule of law and the potential for abuse of power. Kim emphasizes the need for civic literacy and understanding of the Constitution among the American public. She suggests potential reforms to strengthen democracy and protect constitutional rights. Support Our Sponsor: Zbiotics: Get back into action after a night out with 15% off your first order of Zbiotics when you go to zbiotics.com/greenroom and use code: GREENROOM

Jen Rubin is joined this week by Adam Hochschild to discuss his book 'American Midnight: Fear, Magic, and the Reconstruction of Race in America'. He explores the parallels between the early 20th century and the present day, highlighting the rise of nativism, paranoia, and conspiracy theories.  Adam delves into the factors that fueled fear and prejudice during World War I, including the conflict between nativists and immigrants, racial tensions, and the conflict between business and labor. He also discusses the role of figures like Louis F. Post and J. Edgar Hoover, as well as the lasting impact of the Immigration Act of 1924.  Jen & Adam chat about how we all  learn from history to prevent the repetition of such events.

Jen, Malcolm and Yair explores the concept of centrism and the need for political moderation in the face of populism and extremism.  The guests discuss their book, 'The Center Must Hold,' which brings together voices from around the world to advocate for centrism. They emphasize the importance of shared values, compromise, and humility in politics. They also discuss the role of institutions, such as compulsory voting and preferential voting, in promoting centrism.  Touching on the challenges of media polarization and the need for fact-based journalism. They highlight the value of national service and bridging social capital in fostering unity and understanding. Amazon Link for the book: https://a.co/d/0j04MrWe Miracle Made: For 40% off high-quality self-cooling sheets plus an extra 20% off with 3 free towels, use promo code GREENROOM when you go to trymiracle.com/greenroom

Ben Wikler, Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, discusses the grassroots organizing efforts that have made Wisconsin a key battleground state. He highlights the importance of neighbor-to-neighbor organizing and building a unified operation. Wikler also emphasizes the significance of issues like reproductive rights and democracy in motivating voters. He praises Vice President Kamala Harris for her ability to connect with voters and make the stakes of the election clear. Wikler believes that Democrats can replicate the success of Wisconsin's organizing efforts in other states by focusing on key fights and giving people a way to be part of something bigger than themselves. Babbel:  Learn a new language with Babbel and get 55% off when you go to Babbel.com/greenroom

Jen Rubin discusses the upcoming debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden. She predicts that Trump will come out aggressive and lie repeatedly, as he is immune to facts. She suggests that Biden should provoke Trump by bringing up his ridiculous stories and his history of losing in court. Jen also highlights the importance of Biden addressing issues such as abortion, the economy, Trump's foreign policy, and the potential dangers of a second Trump term. She emphasizes that Biden should showcase his wit and intelligence during the debate. Jen concludes by reminding listeners that the debate is just one event in a long election campaign, and that much can change in the coming months. Support Our Sponsor  IPVanish: Keep your financial details, personal information, and online activity safe from digital threats with 83% off a 2-year subscription to IPVanish VPN when you go to ipvanish.com/greenroom

Amy McGrath discusses Donald Trump's attitude towards the military and the perception of it within the military. She highlights the concerns about Trump's treatment of veterans and his disrespectful comments about fallen soldiers. Amy and Jen also discuss the potential dangers of a second Trump administration, including the lack of guardrails and the potential for misuse of presidential power. She emphasizes the importance of civilian control of the military and the potential challenges if the president issues unlawful orders.  Amy also talks about the need for leaders with national security experience in Congress and the value of national service. She addresses the disconnect between young people and politics and the importance of civics education. McGrath emphasizes the connection between American prosperity and international leadership, and the risks of isolationism. She encourages support for pro-democracy candidates and organizations. Democratic Majority Action- https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dmaction-em Honor Bound PAC- https://secure.actblue.com/donate/honor-bound-pac Jennifer Rubin Opinion Column The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/04/22/johnson-military-aid-damage-ukraine/ IPVanish: Keep your financial details, personal information, and online activity safe from digital threats with 83% off a 2-year subscription to IPVanish VPN when you go to http://ipvanish.com/greenroom

Jen Rubin and Nicole Bibbins Sedaca delve into the global phenomenon of democratic backsliding, exploring the erosion of democratic norms, the role of civil society, and the connection between financial corruption and political power. They also highlight the importance of individual responsibility and collective action in safeguarding democracy. Please Support This Week’s Sponsor Babbel:  Learn a new language with Babbel and get 55% off when you go to Babbel.com/greenroom Get More From Jennifer Rubin Twitter | Threads | WaPo | Author of “Resistance: How Women Saved Democracy From Donald Trump”