Lever Time

In this riveting discussion, investigative journalist Julie K. Brown, known for exposing the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, shares shocking insights from newly released documents. Trump’s name appears extensively in Epstein's emails, suggesting a troubling connection. Ro Khanna, a U.S. Congressman advocating for transparency, explains the urgency of revealing all Epstein files and the challenges of congressional action. They address elite accountability and question whether powerful figures like Larry Summers can truly evade scrutiny.

Larry Lessig, a Harvard Law School professor and leading voice in campaign finance reform, delves into the legal fight against Super PACs. He discusses the pivotal Maine ballot measure aimed at limiting Super PAC contributions and the district court's unusual ruling that acknowledged corruption risks but barred regulation. Lessig believes the Supreme Court can uphold state limits without overturning Citizens United. He emphasizes the urgent need to address corruption to improve democracy, expressing newfound optimism in the fight for reform.

Adam Bonica, a Stanford political scientist and expert on political dynamics, joins to discuss the shifting landscape of American politics. He highlights how recent electoral victories signal a move towards populism as the new centrism. Bonica critiques mainstream media narratives on moderation and analyzes the impact of billionaire money in politics. He also emphasizes the role of public financing in empowering anti-oligarchy candidates and explores how nationalized elections affect political outcomes. Their conversation invites a fresh perspective on political labels and campaign strategies.

This episode features Karen Wharton, Democracy Coalition Coordinator for Citizen Action of New York, and Jillian Gilchrest, Connecticut state representative and congressional candidate. They delve into the transformative power of public campaign financing. Wharton discusses how NYC's system amplifies grassroots donations, while Gilchrest shares experiences from Connecticut’s public financing and its role in enabling her campaign. Together, they explore how public money counters the influence of corporate cash, improves representation, and fosters grassroots engagement.

In a compelling discussion, Graham Platner, a military veteran, oyster farmer, and first-time Democratic U.S. Senate candidate from Maine, dives into his grassroots campaign aimed at challenging Susan Collins. He addresses past controversies, including problematic social media posts, emphasizing his growth and commitment to change. Platner shares insights on political violence, the necessity of labor-focused policies, and how grassroots messages resonate with working-class voters, posing crucial questions about the future of the Democratic party.

Tom Moore, a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and a key strategist behind the Montana Plan, dives into the battle against the Supreme Court's Citizens United ruling. He discusses how the Montana ballot initiative aims to ban corporate political spending and redefine corporate powers, potentially revolutionizing political finance. Moore sheds light on the historical context of corporate influence in Montana and outlines strategies for enforcing new restrictions. He also explores the possibility of other states adopting similar reforms.

U.S. Representative Joe Neguse from Colorado's 2nd district joins to discuss the fight against the Citizens United decision. Neguse shares insights on how dark money distorts democracy and why he believes the independent expenditure loophole is a legal fiction. He outlines his Citizens Over Corporations Act, aiming to restore campaign finance control to states. The conversation delves into bipartisan opportunities for reform and examines how industry spending shapes Congressional behavior, while also proposing a lobbying ban to rebuild public trust.

Dive into the controversial world of campaign finance and the implications of Citizens United v. FEC. Explore J.D. Vance's alarming efforts to deregulate the system and legalize bribery. Discover how the Supreme Court may expand corporate influence in politics, potentially leading to a kleptocracy. Unpack recent cases challenging anti-bribery laws and learn about the historic trends that shaped this landscape. Plus, find out what everyday issues like healthcare and housing have to do with corruption. A gripping analysis of money's power in politics!

Join investigative reporter Luke Goldstein, who exposes Ticketmaster's hidden arbitration clauses, and David Seligman, a workers' rights attorney, as they unravel the ticketing giant's monopolistic practices. They discuss how recent changes strip consumers of their rights to sue and join class actions. Goldstein traces Live Nation's rise to power, while Seligman highlights the implications of forced arbitration, illustrating how it shields corporations from accountability. Together, they shed light on the urgent need for reform in this controversial industry.

The podcast dives into the conservative takeover of media, spotlighting Bari Weiss's controversial rise at CBS News. It explores the historical influence of the Powell Memo, which urged corporations to dominate public discourse. The discussion highlights how media consolidation has stifled diverse viewpoints, risking democracy. Listeners are called to support independent journalism as a bulwark against oligarch-fueled narratives. Key takeaways include the need to break up media monopolies and the implications of recent corporate media maneuvers.