The Socialist Program with Brian Becker

Richard Wolff, an author and co-founder of Democracy at Work, dives into the startling statistics that reveal 75% of Americans no longer believe in the American Dream. He discusses the widening wealth gap and its implications on economic security for working-class families. Wolff challenges the myth that hard work leads to success, highlighting systemic barriers faced by marginalized groups. The conversation emphasizes a shift from individualism to a collective understanding of responsibility in addressing inequality and advocating for social justice.

Manolo De Los Santos, Executive Director of The People’s Forum, talks about the rapidly escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela. He highlights how millions of Venezuelans are rallying together in military drills to defend against perceived threats from U.S. warships. The conversation dissects the Trump Administration's rhetoric around narcotics trafficking, presenting it as a pretext for aggression aimed at controlling Venezuela's vast oil reserves. De Los Santos sheds light on how criticisms of the Maduro government are uniting citizens in the face of U.S. imperialism.

Massive ICE raids at auto and food production facilities have ignited a stir in U.S.-South Korea relations. These harsh enforcement actions impact both workers and executives, emphasizing the urgent need for a united labor movement. Protests against the detentions showcase solidarity between the working class and immigrant communities. Meanwhile, a significant military parade in China, attended by leaders from Russia, Iran, and North Korea, signals a growing coalition opposing U.S. hegemony amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Richard Wolff, an influential author and co-founder of Democracy at Work, discusses the recent launch of Trump’s $5 billion memecoin and how it highlights systemic corruption in capitalism. He critiques government bailouts, like the support for Intel, arguing they hinder true economic growth. Wolff also emphasizes the vital role of public services over profit-driven entities, calling for a reassessment of their importance. Ultimately, he urges listeners to recognize the exploitation inherent in capitalistic structures and mobilize for justice.

The Wall Street Journal provides evidence that the Ukraine war is a proxy war between the US and Russia. The Trump Administration’s attempt to takeover DC is part of the attempt to end the semblance of bourgeois democracy in the United States. Don’t we need socialized healthcare, not “Medicare for All”? What do we do to stop the federal takeover of more U.S. cities? Do protests even work? How can we as socialists help merge, and lead, the labor and mass movements? Why is Russia not an imperialist country? These are just some of the topics that Brian Becker and producer Nicole Roussell discuss in today’s patrons-only Q&A seminar.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 keep this show on the air.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem claimed that 1.6 million immigrants have left the United States since Trump took office due to the reign of terror the administration has perpetrated. Trump has also sued the Maryland federal judiciary for making him follow proper deportation procedures. Professor Richard Wolff & Brian Becker discuss the terror against immigrants, the military in the streets, and how the world is reacting. Professor Richard Wolff is an author & co-founder of the organization Democracy at Work. You can find his work at rdwolff.com.

Donald Trump met with Vladimir Putin on August 15th. 3 days later, with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with the leaders of the major NATO countries. Trump promised that his personal intervention would lead to a quick end to the war, but he has badly misjudged the situation. Brian Becker and Layan Fuleihan discuss the latest, and explain why the war in Ukraine is not ending, at least not anytime soon.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 keep this show on the air.

In this discussion, Richard Wolff, an author and co-founder of Democracy at Work, talks about the Trump administration's potential 10% stake in Intel. He highlights how this move reflects deeper issues in the U.S. economy and the ongoing competition with China. They explore the historical interplay between capitalism and government intervention, examining the consequences for American workers. Wolff also discusses how industrial policy intertwines with military strategy in a declining empire, posing critical questions on national security and economic inequality.

Global opposition against Israel's actions is on the rise, with even mainstream media figures speaking out. The dangerous targeting of journalists in Gaza is highlighted, showcasing their bravery amid escalating violence. Protests against these war crimes are planned, reflecting a shift in media narratives. Discussions also reveal Trump's militarization decree as a coup-like maneuver impacting marginalized communities. Lastly, the political implications of the upcoming Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska are explored, particularly in relation to the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Richard Wolff, author and co-founder of Democracy at Work, delves into Donald Trump's declaration of a police state in D.C. He highlights the irony of this move amid low crime rates and critiques the real intentions behind it. Wolff connects the militarization of policing to broader issues of civil liberties and authoritarianism. The conversation also touches on the historical significance of leftist movements, racial dynamics in society, and the contentious symbolism of Confederate statues, illuminating America’s ongoing social divisions.