The Socialist Program with Brian Becker

Aaron Leonard, historian and author of "Menace of Our Time," dives deep into the U.S. history of anti-communist repression. He reveals how early events like the 1919 Palmer Raids set a precedent for decades of state-sanctioned violence against leftist groups. Leonard discusses pivotal moments such as the Smith Act prosecutions and the chilling effects on dissenting voices, highlighting the echoes of past repression in today's political climate. Tune in to explore how history informs our understanding of modern socialism and anti-communism.

Donald Trump and the Pentagon are at war, once again, this time against Venezuela, and this war is widening. As the year 2025 comes to an end, Donald Trump is taking to the airwaves to talk about his “wonderful achievements.” But what really happened in 2025? And what’s next for the Trump administration and the people’s movement for social justice?This is a preview of a patrons-only episode. Subscribe at https://www.patreon.com/TheSocialistProgram to hear the full episode, get access to all our patrons-only content, and help make this show possible.

Manolo De Los Santos, the Executive Director of The People's Forum, dives into the implications of Trump's 'total blockade' against Venezuela, calling it an 'act of war.' He emphasizes Venezuela's resilient stance against colonization and highlights its historical struggle for independence. The discussion also reveals the misinterpretations of U.S. threats toward Venezuelan sovereignty and outlines the economic impacts of sanctions. De Los Santos urges grassroots mobilization to defend against imperialism and promote Latin American solidarity.

Economist Richard Wolff, renowned for his critiques of capitalism, joins to dissect Trump’s revived Monroe Doctrine and its implications for Latin America. He argues that this strategy aims to counter Chinese influence but is doomed to fail, reflecting the limits of American empire. Wolff also critiques the narrative shift in U.S. foreign policy and its ties to rising xenophobia and domestic repression. He compares current U.S. tactics to past colonial practices, cautioning against ignoring history's lessons.

The U.S. seizes Venezuelan assets, including an oil tanker destined for Cuba, raising eyebrows over foreign policy. Trump boasts an outrageous “A+++++” for the economy, even as millions face losing healthcare. Heavy military presence in U.S. cities is critiqued, highlighting the disconnect between defense budgets and social needs. Discussions reveal how the National Defense Authorization Act enriches weapon industries while cutting health subsidies. The implications of Trump's recent interview on healthcare and foreign relations add to the intrigue.

Manolo De Los Santos, Executive Director of The People's Forum and an activist, discusses the recent Nationwide Day of Action for 'No War on Venezuela.' He argues that the seizure of an oil tanker by the Trump administration exemplifies piracy and an act of war, violating international law. The conversation reveals that U.S. motives extend beyond drug enforcement, aiming to control Venezuela's vast oil reserves. De Los Santos also highlights the beneficial role of Citgo in U.S. communities and the threat posed by opposing Venezuela's socialist model.

The latest National Security Strategy has sparked global reactions and debate. Media responses vary, with some misinterpreting key points. The discussion includes the Trump Corollary, which upholds historic doctrines of U.S. dominance in the Western hemisphere. Democratic critiques on human rights are scrutinized as superficial. The hosts highlight that U.S. foreign policy is rooted in power dynamics rather than democracy. They caution against misreading Trump’s stance and challenge the myth of a multipolar world as a solution to imperialism.

The discussion kicks off with Trump's incendiary comments against Somali Americans, coinciding with alarming ICE raids in major cities. Insights into the Somali community in Minnesota reveal their demographics and political struggles. Historical context includes a look at the 1992 U.S. invasion of Somalia and its lasting impact on refugees. Geostrategic motives behind American military actions are unpacked, leading into reflections on potential new U.S. military interventions in Venezuela, underscoring the ongoing consequences of U.S. foreign policy.

Economist Richard Wolff, co-founder of Democracy at Work and a prominent voice on Marxian economics, joins to challenge a controversial Washington Post article that suggests lower prices may not be beneficial. He critiques this notion, emphasizing the importance of price stability and the economic distortions caused by rising prices. Wolff further explores the role of corporate profit motives in price-setting and debunks myths linking price declines to recessions, highlighting that productivity can lower prices without negative economic consequences.

The podcast delves into Trump's controversial responses following a shooting involving National Guard members in DC, linking immigration rhetoric to the event. It discusses his declaration of Venezuela as an off-limits zone for airlines in the context of escalating U.S. military threats. The conversation also touches on Israeli military actions in the West Bank and the complexities surrounding Ukraine's peace efforts. A lively analysis of these global tensions reveals a critical view of current U.S. foreign and domestic policies.