Honestly with Bari Weiss

Megyn Kelly, a former Fox News and NBC journalist turned political podcaster, shares her journey from mainstream media to independence. She discusses the evolving landscape of journalism and the importance of trust in reporting. Kelly examines controversial figures and the challenges of covering contentious topics while advocating for honesty. She also addresses her experiences with harassment, the implications of misinformation, and societal issues surrounding minors and gender identity. Through it all, she emphasizes the power of personal connections in media.

Eli Lake, a seasoned journalist and author, dives deep into the alarming parallels between the decline of the Roman Republic and contemporary American politics. He discusses the rising political violence, exemplified by recent assassination attempts against Trump. Lake unpacks how aggressive tactics and polarization threaten democratic institutions. Drawing on Tiberius Gracchus's story, he warns of the consequences of deviating from political norms and emphasizes the urgency of recognizing the fragility of our republic as tensions escalate.

In this engaging conversation, Senator Rand Paul, a Kentucky libertarian and fiscal hawk, shares his unique perspective on the American political landscape. He delves into his refusal to endorse Trump, citing concerns over the staggering $1.9 trillion deficit. Paul argues for cuts in military and social spending, challenging both parties’ sacred cows. He also critiques the rising protectionist sentiments and loyalty to populism, advocating for accountability in government finances while navigating the complexities of U.S. foreign policy.

Dexter Filkins, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and seasoned journalist for The New York Times and The New Yorker, dives into the chaos following a series of explosions linked to Hezbollah's communication devices. He unpacks how this unprecedented operation hints at Israeli intelligence, likely Mossad's doing. The conversation also addresses the broader shadow war between Israel and Iran, analyzing the ongoing threats posed by Hezbollah and how recent escalations have pushed the region toward a dangerous brink. Filkins provides a compelling overview of the intricate and perilous dynamics at play.

In a lively discussion, economist Emily Oster, known for her data-driven parenting insights, teams up with Tyler Cowen, an economist and blogger, and Katherine Mangu-Ward, editor of Reason magazine. They’re joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning David Leonhardt and socialist Bhaskar Sunkara. The panel dives into the fragility of the American Dream, tackling issues like student debt and economic inequality. They debate whether hard work still guarantees success and explore the evolving definition of opportunity in today’s society.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, an insightful political commentator, joins David Faris, an astute political analyst, and Peter Savodnik, a keen observer of current events. They dissect the recent chaotic presidential debate where Trump bizarrely claimed immigrants are stealing and eating pets, leading to a fact-checking moment. The discussion dives into the candidates' contrasting performances, their appeal to voters, and the absurdity of the claims that emerged. Insights into the evolving political landscape and the impact of debates on voter sentiment add depth to the conversation.

Victor Davis Hanson, a classicist and historian known for his works on military history, delves into contentious historical narratives surrounding World War II. He challenges traditional views, controversially reinterpreting figures like Winston Churchill while exploring the complex morality behind wartime decisions. Hanson also discusses the rise of anti-Semitism in modern political discourse, the impact of social media on historical understanding, and the intricate relationship between contemporary conservatism and historical revisionism.

Eli Lake, a Free Press columnist and expert on campus activism, delves into the turbulent landscape of American universities today. He discusses the chaos surrounding recent protests, particularly those targeting Jewish students, and historical parallels with radical movements like the Weathermen. Lake highlights how dedicated individuals can drive escalating violence within student protests and examines the financial influences backing these movements. The conversation sheds light on the dangerous potential of youthful fervor morphing into militant action.

David French, an evangelical conservative and opinion columnist, teams up with Sarah Longwell, a political strategist and founder of the Republican Accountability Project. They discuss the surprising trend of Republicans endorsing Kamala Harris, highlighting how Trump's presidency has reshaped conservatism. The duo explores the evolving political landscape and the internal conflicts among conservatives, emphasizing the importance of character in politics. They reflect on voter dynamics, moral alignments, and the challenges traditional values face in today's fragmented political environment.

In this discussion, Matt Taibbi, an intrepid journalist known for uncovering the Twitter Files and government censorship, dives into the alarming rise of global threats to free speech. He highlights recent authoritarian crackdowns in France, the UK, and Brazil, shedding light on the chilling effects on free expression. Taibbi also explores how perceptions of misinformation are reshaping attitudes toward free speech in the U.S. He argues against the futility of censorship and emphasizes the necessity of diverse viewpoints in fostering credible discourse.