The Socialist Program with Brian Becker

In this engaging conversation, economist Richard Wolff, co-founder of Democracy at Work and expert on capitalism, delves into the intricacies of U.S. foreign policy regarding Venezuela. He clarifies the false narrative that the U.S. is managing the country and highlights the severe impact of sanctions. Discussing the historical context, Wolff draws parallels to past U.S. interventions, emphasizing a long-standing pattern of imperialism. He also reflects on global resistance to colonialism and how declining American dominance fuels aggressive rhetoric.

Nicolás Maduro faced a U.S. court following his controversial capture. Trump’s dealings with oil monopolies before the attack on Venezuela sparked outrage. The military operation raised serious questions about legality and civilian casualties. Global reactions poured in, with China and Russia condemning U.S. actions. Protests erupted in the U.S., pushing back against imperialism. The hosts link historical U.S. interventions to current events while highlighting Wall Street's interest in Venezuela’s future, urging grassroots mobilization against war.

Brian and Layan review the year of 2025 under the Trump regime – including his lies about being a ‘peace president’ – and what to expect in 2026. 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.

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.