The Socialist Program with Brian Becker

A fast-paced preview exploring attacks on the legacy of the Civil Rights movement and why powerful interests fear mass democracy. It traces how protests, strikes, and direct struggle reshape political ideas and fuel education. The show examines Project 2025’s plans to reshape government and cultural life. It ends with a call for organized nationwide resistance to defend civil rights gains.

Richard Wolff, economist and co-founder of Democracy at Work, explains the recent Minnesota and nationwide shutdowns as a historic U.S. general strike. He explores turnout, union solidarity, and how strikes can block state power. He reflects on workers’ councils, historical lessons, and the political stakes amid rising right-wing backlash.

A mass general strike against ICE and the reaction to ICE violence in Minneapolis are described. The rapid spread of a nationwide shutdown and broad celebrity and union support are highlighted. The mechanics of how a general strike works, coordination challenges, and how withholding labor can shift power are explored. Discussion also covers ICE funding, private prisons, and political responses.

Hussain Karimi, labor reporter and former organizer who reports from the ground, describes a statewide general strike that shut down Minneapolis in protest of large-scale ICE operations. He captures the electric mood in the streets. He outlines the operation that sparked the action and how unions, community groups, and faith leaders coordinated a day of no work, school, or shopping.

In this engaging discussion, Richard Wolff, co-founder of Democracy at Work and a prominent economist, dives into the implications of Trump's controversial Greenland proposal. He draws parallels between imperialism now and in the early 20th century, highlighting competitive pressures reminiscent of past world wars. Wolff explores the declining power of the U.S. and how military threats are increasingly seen as necessary. The risks of nuclear brinkmanship and the deteriorating U.S.-European alliances add urgency to this critical analysis of global dynamics.

In Minneapolis, a wave of resistance is rising against aggressive ICE operations as locals rally for change. Discussions revolve around Trump's threats to invoke the Insurrection Act, creating fears of military action against protesters. The show highlights Elon Musk's controversial endorsement of martial law. There are calls for a general strike reminiscent of the historic 1934 labor actions. The hosts emphasize that grassroots mobilization is crucial in combating authoritarianism and corporate complicity in state repression.

Manolo de los Santos, executive director of The People's Forum, dives into the U.S. military aggression in Venezuela and the potential threat to Cuba. He highlights Cuba's unwavering solidarity with Venezuela amid global protests and the historical ties between the two nations through ALBA. The discussion touches on Cuba's readiness to defend against U.S. interventions, civil defense training, and its inspiring role in internationalism. Manolo also calls for a revival of anti-imperialist organizing in the U.S. to counter war policies.

Richard Wolff, an economist and co-founder of Democracy at Work, dives into the current political turmoil triggered by Trump’s aggressive ICE policies. He analyzes the desperation reflected in Trump's tactics and outlines the dangerous trend of scapegoating immigrants. Wolff argues for a strategic response through a general strike, emphasizing its potential to mobilize resistance and challenge the status quo. The discussion draws compelling historical parallels, making a case for unionized action amidst rising tensions.

Masked ICE agents are rampaging across the U.S., raising serious concerns about policing and state power. The unlawful killing of Renee Good sparks calls for an independent investigation and immediate prosecution of the responsible agents. Nationwide protests emerge, challenging the government's narrative and questioning the portrayal of victims. Brian Becker critiques the reliance on electoral remedies, advocating for urgent state action to protect communities from aggressive federal tactics. A deep dive into skepticism of official accounts highlights the intersection of domestic policy and imperialist narratives.

Manolo de los Santos, Executive Director of The People's Forum and an activist commentator, discusses the resilience of Venezuela amidst ongoing U.S. interventions. He highlights the mass mobilization following recent attacks and the country's 25 years of resistance against imperialism. The conversation delves into the complexities of hybrid warfare tactics used against Venezuela and Cuba's role in supporting the revolution. Manolo emphasizes the importance of maintaining popular power and calls for a stronger anti-war movement in the U.S. to oppose the blockade.