The News Agents - USA

Join journalist Ross Barkan, a longtime friend of Zohran Mamdani, as he shares insights into the groundbreaking New York mayoral candidate. They discuss whether Mamdani's rise is due to luck or a real shift for Democrats. Key topics include Mamdani's bold policies like free bus fares and universal childcare and how his radical ideas in the U.S. context resonate deeply. Barkan also examines Mamdani's personal qualities, the impact of Trump's critiques, and how a potential victory could reshape the Democratic Party's future.

Former Republican congressman George Santos opens up about his rapid release from prison after being convicted of fraud and identity theft. He discusses his guilty plea and defends his actions, including allegations of stealing from GoFundMe campaigns. Santos shares the surprising emotional impact of his commutation by Trump and reflects on his ambitions turning to greed. He hints at future advocacy work, including prison reform. The conversation shifts to the implications of his commutation and broader political narratives surrounding clemency.

Bill McKibben, an environmental activist and co-founder of Third Act, joins to discuss the upcoming No Kings protests against Trump's administration. He rebuts claims labeling the movement as 'Hate America,' emphasizing its grassroots aim to oppose executive overreach. McKibben highlights the importance of nonviolent protest and the use of humor to convey messages effectively. He also addresses the significance of local organizing, as millions gear up for what could be the largest mass demonstration in modern U.S. history.

Andrew Weissmann, former General Counsel of the FBI, dives deep into the legal intricacies surrounding James Comey's indictment. He discusses the procedural irregularities and claims of vindictive prosecution, casting doubt on the whole endeavor. Weissmann also shares insights on the politicization of the DOJ under Trump and how it alters the justice landscape. Later, the spotlight shifts to JB Pritzker, who issues a bold challenge to Trump, further igniting the political firestorm.

Miles Taylor, former Chief of Staff at the Department of Homeland Security and a vocal critic of Trump, shares his harrowing experience after being labeled a traitor for speaking out. He discusses the intense personal fallout from an executive order against him, including constant fear for his safety and difficulties with legal support. Taylor reflects on the alarming implications of Trump urging military loyalty over constitutional duty. He also addresses why his warnings about Trump were ignored, emphasizing the dire need for civic responsibility.

U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson, a Democrat from Georgia and ranking member on the House Judiciary Committee, engages in a spirited discussion about free speech amid the recent Jimmy Kimmel controversy. He highlights the alarming shift towards authoritarianism in America and connects it to broader political suppression. Johnson emphasizes the importance of grassroots resistance against political overreach and suggests that public pushback may signal limits to Trump's influence. The conversation underscores the vital role of comedy as a tool for challenging power.

Anthony Gardner, former US Ambassador to the EU, shares insights on the escalating rhetoric surrounding free speech in the wake of the Charlie Kirk killing. He discusses the tools the White House might use to silence dissent while revealing contradictions in their stance on free speech. Stan Aaron, an independent journalist, delves into the intriguing world of online meme culture, explaining the significance of bullet inscriptions linked to far-right messaging and the context behind them. Their conversations unravel how political discourse and extremist narratives intertwine in today's America.

Doug Heye, a Republican strategist and former communications director for the RNC, dives deep into Trump's foreign policy missteps. He questions Trump's ineffectiveness in influencing leaders like Netanyahu and Putin, labeling him the 'TACO president.' The discussion also revisits Trump's denial of his links to Epstein, scrutinizing how these controversies shape public perception. Heye critiques the coherence of Trump’s strategies amidst shifting U.S. international relations and explores the implications for American diplomacy.

Dr. Mandy Cohen, former director of the CDC, dives into the political turmoil surrounding RFK Jr.'s controversial leadership and his anti-vaccine stance. She explains the fallout from the firing of public health officials and its implications for vaccination rates in America. The conversation reveals how trust in institutions like the CDC has eroded amidst rising skepticism. Cohen also discusses broader themes, including the political strategies affecting public perception of health and the challenges faced by communities amid changing immigration enforcement.

Patrick Gaspard, Obama’s 2008 national political director and former ambassador to South Africa, shines a light on Trump’s alarming power grabs, including the firing of economic leaders like Lisa Cook. The conversation dives into the erosion of checks and balances in American politics and examines how Democratic governors are countering this trend. They also tackle the potential for authoritarianism in the U.S. and the dynamics of the New York mayoral race, showcasing the urgency for change amid rising societal frustrations.