On with Kara Swisher

Mark Chiusano, author of "The Fabulist," joins Preet Bharara to dissect the outlandish tale of George Santos, a politician notorious for his web of lies. They discuss Santos's rise to power and the failures of the vetting process that enabled his deceitful career. The conversation also touches on the psychological factors behind such political dishonesty and how it mirrors broader trends in American politics, raising concerns about the implications for public trust and accountability.

Randy Rainbow, a four-time Emmy and Grammy-nominated musical comedy sensation, shares his journey of using humor to challenge anti-LGBTQ+ figures and political absurdities. He discusses how his South Florida upbringing and familial influences shape his creative expression. Rainbow describes the blend of live performance and digital content, revealing his thoughts on humorous political discourse and its role in bridging divides. He even teases what an 'Elon the Musical' would sound like, showcasing his knack for satire across political landscapes.

Rajiv Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation and former head of USAID, dives into big bets on climate change and global challenges. He explores whether world hunger and pandemics are truly fixable or just manageable. Shah shares insights from the recent UN Climate Conference in Dubai, emphasizing the dominance of fossil fuel interests. He also argues for revamping global institutions like the World Bank and IMF, questioning the efficacy of billionaire philanthropy. Ultimately, he highlights the need for ambitious, collaborative solutions to benefit vulnerable communities.

Tim Alberta, a staff writer for The Atlantic and author of "The Kingdom, The Power, and the Glory," dives deep into the evangelical church's profound influence on American politics. He shares insights from his upbringing as a pastor's child and how that shaped his understanding of faith and politics. Alberta discusses the dynamics of evangelical support for Trump, the tension within families over this allegiance, and the emerging cautious voices among younger Christians. His reflections uncover the moral complexities and shifting landscapes of today's evangelical movement.

Mark Esper, former Secretary of Defense under Donald Trump, dives deep into today's global threats, from the Gaza conflict to rising tensions with China and Iran. He reflects on his transformation from cabinet member to critic, discussing key controversies, including his opposition to the Insurrection Act. The conversation highlights the moral dilemmas of military actions and the challenges facing U.S. foreign policy. Expect insights into military contracts and the urgency of Taiwan's defense, along with political anxieties as the 2024 elections approach.

Liz Cheney, the former Wyoming Congresswoman, serves as a vocal critic of Donald Trump and a staunch advocate for democracy. In a compelling discussion, she reveals her mission to counter Trump’s influence, even considering a third-party run. Cheney shares insights from her book 'Oath and Honor' while reflecting on her experiences during the January 6th hearings. She also discusses the personal toll of her political stance, her alliance with Democrats, and her concerns about the future of the GOP under new leadership.

Rep. Mike Gallagher, a prominent Republican lawmaker from Wisconsin and chair of the House Select Committee on the CCP, passionately argues for a tougher U.S. stance on China. He discusses the implications of TikTok on political discourse, highlighting concerns over data privacy and national security. Gallagher critiques the current administration's approach to U.S.-China relations, emphasizing the need for innovative defense strategies regarding Taiwan. He also explores the balance between American corporate interests and human rights within China, advocating for a principled economic strategy.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova, known for her incredible 59 major titles and outspoken views, dives into the contentious debate over transgender athletes in professional sports. She discusses her unexpected stance that has ruffled feathers within the LGBTQ community. Pay equity in tennis also takes center stage, along with her own health challenges. Martina reflects on her legacy while pondering future endeavors that might involve high-profile figures like Elon Musk, all while advocating for fairness and inclusion in the world of sports.

Caster Semenya, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, shares her compelling journey in the world of athletics. She discusses the ongoing legal battles with World Athletics over regulations surrounding testosterone levels, questioning who defines womanhood in sports. Semenya reflects on the challenge of societal labels and the importance of self-identity, urging for inclusivity and better representation in sports. Her new book, 'A Race to Be Myself', delves deeper into her experiences and the fight for equity in athletics.

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, talks about the significant partnership between his company and OpenAI in the wake of leadership changes at the AI organization. He shares insights on Microsoft’s strategic plans for innovation and talent retention amidst the recent turmoil. The conversation also highlights how mixed and virtual reality technologies are transforming workplace practices and the importance of balancing AI’s potential with responsible development.