Impolitic with John Heilemann

In this engaging discussion, Karen Hao, a former Wall Street Journal correspondent and author of 'Empire of AI,' delves into the evolution of OpenAI from altruism to a $300 billion powerhouse. She highlights the skepticism surrounding claims of superhuman AI, questioning the narratives spun by tech leaders that serve their egos. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas of AI's rapid advancements and how they intersect with corporate interests and politics. Hao’s insights challenge listeners to rethink the implications of this technology.

Miles Taylor, former DHS chief of staff and author of the NYT op-ed under the pen name Anonymous, shares his intense battle against an executive order aimed at investigating him. He discusses the personal and professional fallout from being labeled a traitor for standing up to Trump, the legal strategies he's considering, and the broader implications for democracy. Taylor reflects on the moral dilemmas of whistleblowing within a politically charged environment and underscores the urgent need for accountability and unity in facing political power abuses.

Robert Wolf, former CEO of UBS Americas and influential Democratic donor, shares his insights on Elon Musk’s tumultuous departure from politics and Donald Trump’s economic antics. He humorously likens Wall Street's view of Trump to the 'TACO' meme – hinting at his tendency to backtrack on trade issues. Wolf also details how the current economic climate is more fragile than it seems, while reflecting on his support for Biden’s re-election amid growing skepticism about his leadership abilities.

David Hogg, a Parkland survivor and gun control activist, shares his bold vision for the Democratic Party. He reveals plans to allocate $20 million through his PAC to galvanize younger candidates who challenge the status quo. Hogg discusses the backlash from party leaders resistant to change and emphasizes the necessity of grassroots activism for future political reform. He also outlines generational divides in addressing issues like gun safety, drawing parallels between past and present societal threats, making a compelling case for a refreshed Democratic strategy.

Mark Whitaker, former editor in chief of Newsweek and author of "The Afterlife of Malcolm X," explores the enduring relevance of Malcolm X. He delves into the mysteries surrounding Malcolm's assassination and his immense influence on modern social justice movements, notably Black Lives Matter. The discussion also highlights how Malcolm's legacy continues to resonate through hip-hop culture and inspire conversations about equity today. Whitaker emphasizes the complex relationship between Malcolm and Martin Luther King Jr., showcasing Malcolm's lasting impact on American identity.

Jake Tapper, CNN's Washington anchor and author of 'Original Sin', joins Alex Thompson, Axios's national political correspondent, to dissect Biden's presidency and the controversies in their new book. They discuss the cover-up surrounding Biden's declining health and the rising conspiracy theories following his prostate cancer announcement. The conversation dives into the Democratic Party's struggles with transparency and the implications of Biden’s age on the 2024 election, revealing internal dynamics and media scrutiny amid growing public skepticism.

Pablo Torre, an ESPN and MSNBC commentator and host of the award-winning video podcast Pablo Torre Finds Out, discusses the electric intersection of sports, culture, and politics. He dives into the controversy surrounding Wayne Gretzky's ties to Donald Trump and Pete Rose's reinstatement debates, highlighting how fame shapes narratives in sports. Pablo also shares gripping insights on the wrongful conviction case of Charles Flores, emphasizing the ethics of justice in the sports realm. The conversation weaves humor with serious themes, offering a rich tapestry of contemporary sports culture.

David Jolly, a former Florida Republican congressman now eyeing a gubernatorial run as a Democrat, shares his thoughts on the ethical dilemmas surrounding Trump’s recent trip to the Middle East, including a controversial $400 million jet from Qatar. He highlights the chaos within House Republicans regarding key legislation and reflects on his political transformation and the evolving dynamics of Florida’s Democratic landscape. Jolly dives into the implications of foreign policy influenced by corporate interests, raising critical questions about American values.

Davis Guggenheim, an Oscar and Emmy Award-winning documentarian, shares insights from his latest film, 'Deaf President Now!'. He discusses the groundbreaking 1988 protests at Gallaudet University, shedding light on the civil rights movement that many are unaware of. Guggenheim connects his past works, like 'An Inconvenient Truth' and 'Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie', emphasizing the importance of storytelling in advocating for marginalized communities. He also recounts a transformative experience with Denzel Washington that shifted his career perspective.

Ashley Parker and Michael Scherer, both staff writers at The Atlantic with extensive experience covering Donald Trump, dive into his surprising political comeback. They discuss Trump's quirky remarks about Canadian statehood and his unique diplomatic style. The conversation also touches on his trade dilemmas, with a critical look at his promise-versus-reality approach. Additionally, they explore his humorous commentary on Alcatraz, dissecting its cultural significance and Trump's knack for distraction in the political arena.