Honestly with Bari Weiss

Haviv Rettig Gur, journalist for The Times of Israel, provides a gripping analysis of the escalating tensions in the Middle East. He discusses the dire situation following a Hezbollah rocket attack that tragically killed 12 children, raising fears of an all-out war. Gur explores Israel's strategic dilemmas amid threats from Hezbollah and Iranian proxies, evaluating the impact of U.S. policy and upcoming elections. He also delves into the complexities of the Druze community and the significance of the Abraham Accords in shifting regional alliances.

Kat Rosenfield and River Page bring an entertaining lens to the political landscape, focusing on Kamala Harris's unexpected rise as a Gen Z icon, dubbed 'brat.' They explore how internet culture, memes, and informal political announcements have reshaped public personas, blending humor with serious engagement. The duo examines the evolving dynamics of political communication in the age of social media and the implications for upcoming elections. They also debate the characteristics that define various public figures within this new cultural framework.

Seneca Scott, a labor leader and community organizer, debates urban safety alongside Michael Shellenberger, founder of Public News. They argue that criminal justice reforms have led to increased crime in cities like San Francisco. Kmele Foster, a commentator, and Lara Bazelon, a criminal justice professor, advocate for nuanced approaches to reform. Topics include the impact of decarceration, the relationship between policing and public safety, and the need to address root causes like homelessness and education in creating effective justice strategies.

Dean Phillips, a Minnesota congressman who dared to challenge Joe Biden in the primaries, joins Batya Ungar-Sargon, Deputy opinion editor at Newsweek and author of 'Second Class,' to discuss Biden's shocking withdrawal from the 2024 race. They dive into the power struggles within the Democratic Party, highlighting the influence of elite donors. The conversation also addresses the media's contradictory portrayals of Biden's abilities and the significant role of civic engagement in shaping political landscapes. A captivating exploration of what comes next!

A.K. Kamara, a Black Republican from Minnesota, shares his journey navigating political identities and the backlash he faces from his community. Tomiko Hope, a GOP committee woman from Chicago, discusses economic hardships that drive her support for Trump. They explore the surprising increase in Black voter support for Trump and contrast it with traditional Democratic expectations. The conversation highlights the complexities of political affiliation, urging a deeper understanding between the Republican Party and Black communities.

In this lively discussion, guests Tara Palmeri, a senior political correspondent at Puck News, and Batya Ungar-Sargon, Newsweek's opinion editor, share their insights on Biden's media tensions and the chaotic election landscape. Anna Khachiyan adds her sharp commentary on political narratives, while legendary pollster Frank Luntz offers valuable voter sentiment data. Reihan Salam analyzes the evolving GOP, focusing on J.D. Vance's ideological shifts, and journalist James Pogue discusses foreign policy impacts. The group tackles the contrasting enthusiasm levels of Trump vs. Biden supporters.

In this engaging conversation, Yuval Levin, a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and an expert on American political life, discusses the recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump. He explores the implications for national politics and the deepening divisions in the country. Levin emphasizes the need for accountability among political leaders and advocates for constructive dialogue. The discussion also touches on the erosion of trust in public institutions and the responsibilities shared by citizens and leaders to uphold democracy amidst rising populism.

Salena Zito, a reporter for the Washington Examiner and contributor to The Free Press, witnessed the shocking shooting incident at a rally where Donald Trump was present. She shares her harrowing experience standing just four feet away when the gunfire erupted. Zito discusses the immediate chaos that ensued, the bravery displayed by those around her, and reflects on the troubling normalization of political violence in America. The conversation also touches on the media's polarizing reactions and the importance of responsible coverage in such crises.

In this lively discussion, historian Niall Ferguson and Jonah Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Dispatch, dive into the provocative comparison between modern America and the late Soviet Union. Ferguson argues that societal decay and elite disconnect mirror the past, while Goldberg counters that America’s challenges arise from an excess of freedom and not totalitarianism. Their debate touches on public health crises, political transparency, and the erosion of values, making for a thought-provoking examination of America’s current state and future potential.

In this lively discussion, guests Bethany Mandel, a mother of six, Elon Gold, a comedic take on marriage and family, and Mary Katharine Ham, a mother of four, share their nuggets of wisdom with Bari and Nellie as they prepare for their new addition. They delve into the dynamics of birth order, the delicate balance between marriage and parenting, and the joys of raising a large family. Personal anecdotes and humor make the conversation relatable and insightful, providing invaluable advice for navigating the wild journey of expanding a family.