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Undercurrents

Latest episodes

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Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 9min

Richie McGinniss: What happened to the Resistance?

Richie McGinniss, an author known for his book 'Riot Diet,' discusses the struggle of the left to create effective resistance during Trump's second term. He reflects on his experiences covering significant events like the antifa protests, Kyle Rittenhouse's actions, and January 6th, shedding light on political polarization. The conversation addresses the impact of disillusionment among youth, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the complexities behind recent protests, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding amidst political chaos.
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Feb 10, 2025 • 18min

Shelby Talcott: Trump’s Super Bowl visit was a victory lap

Shelby Talcott, White House correspondent at Semafor, shares inside intel on Trump's Super Bowl visit, describing it as a strategic media win. She discusses polling trends indicating Trump's approval among younger voters and his unwavering support for Elon Musk. Talcott also delves into the future of political figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard, while highlighting the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party and the impact of returning federal workers.
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Feb 7, 2025 • 9min

Democrats rage at DOGE outside Education Department

Democrats staged a dramatic protest outside the Department of Education, demanding greater transparency. Tensions escalated as lawmakers sought to confront the Acting Secretary over critical reform discussions. The conversation shifted to the controversial Doge initiative and its potential influence on education policy. Challenges arose in forming a united opposition amidst changing public sentiment and the pressures of Project 2025 reforms. Emotions ran high as political stakes continued to rise.
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Feb 7, 2025 • 26min

Jason Willick: Donald Trump smashed the status quo in Israel

Jason Willick, a foreign policy columnist for The Washington Post, joins to dissect Donald Trump's recent proposal for U.S. control over Gaza. The conversation enhances understanding of the new dynamics in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Trump's unique negotiation strategies. Willick analyzes how Trump's trust among Israeli leaders contrasts with Biden's approach and discusses the implications for U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding Iran. He explores the transactional nature of Trump's relations, particularly with countries like China.
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Feb 6, 2025 • 43min

Ioan Grillo: How MAGA’s good intentions could worsen cartel violence

Ioan Grillo, a seasoned journalist based in Mexico, explores the unintended consequences of U.S. immigration policies on cartel violence. He delves into the intricate links between narco-corruption and U.S.-Mexico relations during Trump's tenure. Grillo discusses how cartels adapt to shifting dynamics at the border, the risks of U.S. military intervention, and the ripple effects of aggressive crackdowns in Latin America. His insights highlight the complexities of sovereignty and security amid escalating cartel activity.
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Feb 5, 2025 • 30min

Michael Toscano: Will Trump conquer the Big Tech oligarchs?

Michael Toscano, the Executive Director of the Institute for Family Studies, dives into the intertwining of conservative politics and Big Tech. He discusses Trump's resurgence with Silicon Valley support and how conservatives should navigate tech regulation. Toscano emphasizes a moral framework for technology that prioritizes human well-being. He also explores key initiatives like age verification and the ethical challenges posed by AI and deepfakes, advocating for a balanced relationship between family dynamics and technological advancements.
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7 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 25min

Christian Parenti: Elon Musk is right to dismantle USAID

Christian Parenti, a professor of economics and author known for his expertise on USAID, dives deep into the agency's controversial history. He argues that figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump are justified in their criticism of USAID, framing it as a tool for regime change rather than a benevolent entity. Parenti reveals the complex ties between USAID and U.S. foreign policy, highlighting its dubious operations that often destabilize nations. He calls for a complete dismantling of the agency, advocating for accountability and transparency in global affairs.
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Feb 3, 2025 • 17min

BONUS: Trump gets big win in Mexico trade war

The discussion reveals a surprising pause on Trump's proposed 25% import tariff after Mexico agrees to bolster border security. The implications of this deal ripple through North America, particularly impacting Canada. Analysis uncovers the economic motivations behind these tariffs and how they may affect farmers in the U.S. The conversation also dives into the shifting landscape of trade policies, highlighting the need for clarity in negotiations during these protectionist times.
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Feb 3, 2025 • 35min

Leor Sapir: Gender medicine has suffered a crushing defeat

Join Leor Sapir, a Fellow at the Manhattan Institute and a keen critic of trans ideology, as he dissects the current state of gender medicine. Discover how Trump's executive order may signal the decline of federal support for pediatric gender transition efforts. Sapir navigates the historical context and ethical concerns shaping today’s healthcare policies. He critiques fundamental research in gender medicine and addresses ongoing controversies, emphasizing the need for accountability and the shifting political landscape.
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Jan 31, 2025 • 30min

Mark Hemingway: I’ve never seen anything like RFK Jr. and Kash Patel

Mark Hemingway, a senior writer at Real Clear Investigations and seasoned conservative journalist, dives into the evolving political landscape. He discusses how Republicans are shifting support from traditional institutions to figures like RFK Jr. and Kash Patel. The conversation highlights Kennedy's controversial confirmation hearings and the implications of Patel's FBI nomination. Hemingway also reflects on a newfound unity in the Republican party, exploring how young conservatives are redefining loyalty amidst shifting allegiances. A fascinating look at modern political dynamics!

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