Left, Right & Center
KCRW
Left Right & Center is for listeners who feel like people on the other side of the political divide are on Mars. David Greene pieces together the big picture by inviting people from the left and the right to unpack their ideological differences, not to smooth them over, and look at what’s truly at stake. The show offers a rare kind of clarity. It doesn’t ask you to agree. It asks you to look more closely at what’s happening and to challenge your assumptions. You might not always agree – you might even get angry – but you’ll know why you feel the way you do. No knee-jerk reactions or name calling. This show doesn’t promise easy answers or warm fuzzies; it promises more clarity for the chaotic political era we’re all living through.
Episodes
Mentioned books
50 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 51min
Will MAGA fractures push Trump to pressure Israel?
Antonia Ferrier, a veteran communications strategist with experience working for notable GOP lawmakers including Mitch McConnell, discusses the shifting dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations amid rising humanitarian concerns in Gaza. She highlights Trump's unusual pressure on Netanyahu regarding starvation in the region and the emerging calls for Palestinian statehood by global leaders. The conversation also delves into Texas's contentious congressional redistricting efforts and the implications of cultural controversies, including a new Superman film that ignites debates on representation.
40 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 51min
Trump vs. the media
Mo Elleithee, Executive Director at Georgetown University's Institute of Politics and Public Service, and Mike Dupke, a veteran GOP communications strategist, dive into Trump's tumultuous relationship with the media. They discuss his $20 billion defamation lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal and its implications for press freedom. The conversation explores the use of masked ICE agents, raising concerns about accountability and the impact of Trump's aggressive immigration policies. Expect humor and reflections on nostalgia amidst the serious political debates.
6 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 4min
When you become the news
Funding cuts are threatening the future of public radio, particularly KCRW. The conversation emphasizes the critical role public stations play in connecting communities and providing timely information. There's a heartfelt appeal for listener support to help sustain these essential services in challenging times. The hosts delve into the broader implications for media and public discourse, making a compelling case for why supporting public radio matters now more than ever.
45 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 51min
Is the MAGA crowd losing faith in its leader?
The podcast dives into Trump's shifting relationship with his MAGA base, especially after his DOJ's refusal to release controversial files like those on Epstein. It questions whether the tourism decline in America is linked to his policies and examines his recent changes in stance on Ukraine, sparking discontent among supporters. Additionally, it reflects on the internal divisions within the GOP and the significance of maintaining voter trust in his leadership. The discussion highlights how personal principles can shape political identities.
37 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 51min
Democrats sought accountability after deadly Texas floods. Was it too soon?
Mike Dubke, a veteran GOP communications strategist and former White House director of communications under Trump, teams up with Rebecca Pearcey, a Democratic strategist and political director for Elizabeth Warren's campaign. They discuss the fallout from Texas floods and the blame game between parties over disaster funding. The conversation explores whether it’s too soon for accountability. The duo also delves into educational challenges post-pandemic, contrasting successes in red states with a broader debate on political distractions. Finally, they touch on Elon Musk's political ambitions and their implications.
