Undercurrents

Become a supporter of the show - just $1 for the first month: https://unherd.com/undercurrents/Slavoj Zizek joins Emily to explain his position on the blowup between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky. Zizek argues it’s actually Trump who should be thanking Zelensky, not the other way around. Watch it on the Undercurrents website: https://unherd.com/undercurrents/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emily explains why Americans are right to be upset with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his allies who’ve criticized President Trump and Vice President Vance after their public fight at the White House. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Become a supporter of the show - just $1 for the first month: https://unherd.com/undercurrents/Daniel McCarthy joins Emily to argue that after his disastrous public meeting with Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky should no longer lead Ukraine. McCarthy weighs in on whether Zelensky should face voters at the ballot box or be forced to step down.Watch it on the Undercurrents website: https://unherd.com/undercurrents/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Batya Ungar-Sargon, a sharp journalist and commentator, dives into the drama between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, linking it to deeper themes of sex, class, and feminism. She explains how this feud reflects broader cultural conversations shaped by the Me Too movement and the influence of social media. The discussion includes the role of citizen engagement in reshaping narratives and scrutinizing Hollywood power dynamics, while also unpacking the media's biases in portraying this high-profile controversy.

David Leonhardt, a Senior writer at the New York Times known for his insights on immigration and economic policy, shares intriguing findings from his investigation into Denmark's immigration strategies. He discusses how Denmark's left has successfully navigated immigration issues, maintaining progressive policies while fostering community cohesion. Leonhardt also contrasts Scandinavian integration approaches with those in the U.S., analyzing the electoral strategies of the Democratic Party and the impact of public sentiment on immigration policies.

Elon Musk candidly discusses his past mistakes during a pivotal Trump cabinet meeting. The collaboration between Musk and Trump showcases a complex relationship amid criticism. The dynamics of loyalty and controversy within the administration reveal discrepancies between public alignment and private apprehensions. Additionally, the conversation dives into the influence of the private sector on politics, spotlighting the challenges of transparency in government actions.

Victor Davis Hanson, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution and host of his own show, shares insights on Trump's counterrevolution after his re-election. He discusses the challenges facing Trump as he attempts to reverse past policies, particularly regarding immigration and military initiatives. Hanson draws parallels between historical figures and modern leaders like Elon Musk, highlighting the influence of oligarchs in politics. He also analyzes the left's strategic responses and the changing political landscape, emphasizing the struggle for relevance in today's culture.

A major shift in press access is underway as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announces that the White House will now control reporter access instead of the Correspondents’ Association. This could reshape media representation and inclusivity in political reporting. The move sparks discussions about the potential for new voices to emerge, but also raises concerns about partisanship and the overall future of journalism. This announcement could change the dynamics of political briefings as we know them.

Katy Faust, Founder of Them Before Us, advocates for children’s rights and discusses the implications of Elon Musk's relationships, labeling his lifestyle as modern polygamy. She delves into Musk's complex family dynamics, raising concerns about how his choices may influence societal norms around marriage and child welfare. Faust critiques the moral hypocrisy in evangelical responses to leaders like Musk and addresses the ethical challenges posed by advanced reproductive technologies, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing children's well-being in family structures.

The podcast dives into Joy Reid's emotional reaction to her show being canceled, revealing the tumultuous journey of media personalities. It tackles MSNBC's credibility crisis, urging a rethink of narrative choices and the implications of misinformation. The discussion emphasizes the erosion of public trust in media, particularly during the Trump era. As the conversation unfolds, the evolving media landscape is scrutinized, hinting at possible shifts in Reid's future coverage, especially regarding Palestine.