The Truth of the Matter

Peter Bergen, Vice President at the New America Foundation and CNN national security analyst, dives into the foreign policy nuances of the 2024 presidential candidates. He contrasts Biden’s approach with Trump’s strategies, particularly regarding China, Taiwan, and Israel. The conversation uncovers the surprising continuity between the two administrations while addressing pressing issues like NATO, Gaza reconstruction, and immigration. Bergen also highlights Kamala Harris’s evolving stance and her appeal to younger voters, making for a compelling analysis of the current political landscape.

J. Stephen Morrison, a senior vice president and director of the CSIS Global Health Policy Center, delves into the latest Covid-19 surge and new variants. He discusses the KP3.1 variant and the challenges posed by declining vaccination rates and misinformation. Morrison highlights the need for effective public health communication amidst political polarization, especially with the 2024 election looming. He also addresses the effects of Covid fatigue on public perception and the importance of focusing on ongoing health threats beyond just Covid-19.

Ryan Berg, a specialist in electoral fraud and Venezuelan politics, joins to dissect Nicolas Maduro's controversial re-election claims. They uncover alarming irregularities highlighted by the opposition and the National Electoral Council. The conversation shifts to the international response, revealing divergent views on Venezuela’s election legitimacy. Berg also discusses Maduro’s waning power amid systemic corruption and citizen mobilization against repression. The episode emphasizes the delicate balance of pushing for democracy while navigating a complex political landscape.

J. Stephen Morrison, a senior vice president at the CSIS Global Health Policy Center, sheds light on the recent outbreak of a deadlier Mpox variant in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He discusses the virus's origins and its mislabeling, delves into the challenges of public health responses amidst political hysteria, and outlines urgent interventions needed as cases rise in Africa. Morrison emphasizes the importance of vaccinations and international health coordination to combat this growing concern.

Seth Jones, a defense and national security expert, and Eric Edelman, a former U.S. Ambassador with rich experience in international relations, delve into vital national defense strategies. They discuss the recent bipartisan report to Congress and the pressing need to tackle threats from China and Russia. The duo emphasizes the importance of strengthening alliances and rethinking military procurement strategies to enhance U.S. capabilities. They also touch on the critical necessity for timely defense funding and greater awareness among lawmakers regarding national security issues.

Norm Rule, a former CIA officer with 34 years of expertise in Middle Eastern affairs, provides keen insights into the complex geopolitical landscape of Iran and its responses to recent tensions. He discusses Iran's strategic military maneuvers in retaliation for Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination, highlighting the significant role of proxies and the implications for Israel. Rule also dives into the shifting dynamics within Hamas leadership and the ongoing humanitarian crises affecting Lebanon, underscoring the daunting challenges of achieving diplomatic resolutions in this volatile region.

Frank McCourt, chairman of McCourt Global and founder of Project Liberty, joins the podcast to discuss his new book, Our Biggest Fight: Reclaiming Liberty, Humanity, and Dignity in the Digital Age, as well as Project Liberty’s mission and the evolution of the internet.

Livia Shmavonian, Director of OMB’s Made in America Office, Heather Boushey, Chief Economist of the Investing in America Cabinet, and Navin Girishankar, President of CSIS’s Economic Security and Technology Department, delve into the vital Made in America Initiative. They discuss strategies for rebuilding the economy and boosting domestic production, emphasizing infrastructure, job growth, and federal investments. The trio highlights the synergy between workforce development and manufacturing, while stressing the importance of fair competition and global partnerships in fostering economic resilience.

Former CIA officer Norman Roule discusses Iran's recent elections, potential threats in Africa, and Houthi activities in the Red Sea. Topics include Iran's stability, influence in Africa, Houthi attacks on shipping, Gaza ceasefire negotiations, and Hamas's military strategies.

CSIS's Max Bergmann joins the podcast to discuss the main goals of the upcoming NATO summit in Washington, Finland and Sweden joining the alliance, NATO's role in Ukraine, and more.