Undercurrents

Matt Taibbi, a seasoned journalist famed for his investigative work on the FBI, dives into the revolutionary plans of Kash Patel for the bureau. He discusses the transformative vision for the FBI, including plans to close the Hoover building and realign its workforce with local law enforcement. Taibbi critiques the historical surveillance abuses and the damaging relationship between the FBI and media, highlighting implications for civil liberties. Moreover, he underscores the legal risks journalists face when reporting on national security, advocating for principled reform.

Eli Lake, a Free Press columnist and foreign policy expert, joins to discuss the controversial smear campaign against Tulsi Gabbard. He argues there is no evidence to label her as a foreign asset, emphasizing the harmful impact of such accusations on democracy. The conversation dives into Gabbard's military service, her past meetings with Assad, and the media's role in perpetuating these narratives. Lake also touches on the need for increased government transparency and the implications for U.S. foreign policy as Gabbard approaches her confirmation hearing.

Lee Fang, an independent journalist known for his in-depth work on Hunter Biden, discusses the controversial pardon of Hunter by President Biden. He reveals why this pardon is more troubling than many acknowledge, examining its historical implications and potential shield against accountability. Fang delves into the dynamics of power and privilege, highlighting the ethical dilemmas intertwined with Hunter's personal struggles and political influence. He also draws parallels to past presidential pardons, questioning their long-term impact on legal practices.

David Harsanyi, a Conservative writer for the Washington Examiner and author of "The Rise of BlueAnon," discusses the evolving landscape of conspiracy theories in American politics. He explains why Democrats are less likely to blame Trump’s potential success on Russia this time around. Harsanyi explores 'Blue Anon' as a left-leaning counterpart to QAnon, examining the media's role in spreading these theories. The conversation touches on changes in voter demographics, media biases, and the implications for political discourse as conspiracy theories become more mainstream.

Daniel Turner, founder of Power the Future and a farmer, discusses the recent leadership changes at the EPA, including Chris Wright's appointment. He expresses optimism about potential deregulation under Trump, highlighting concerns over current green policies. Turner critiques Biden's energy strategies, evaluating their global impacts and stressing the importance of energy independence. The conversation also addresses the influence of corporate lobbying in the food and EV sectors, advocating for practices that encourage competition and sustainability.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to dive into political debates and religious discussions, contrary to popular belief. Meaningful conversations can actually strengthen family bonds, as most families prefer respectful dialogue over silence. Embracing these challenging talks fosters civil discourse and helps navigate our increasingly polarized world. Engaging in difficult conversations can break down barriers and promote understanding, making holiday gatherings more enriching and united.

Robert Wright, publisher of the Non-Zero Newsletter and former educator at Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania, shares insights on Biden's ceasefire deal with Israel and Lebanon. He critiques the deal's potential to enhance Biden's legacy and analyzes its implications in the context of escalating tensions in Ukraine. Wright explores the complex dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran and Russia, highlighting how perceptions shape international relations and the challenges Biden faces on the global stage.

In this engaging discussion, Krystal Ball, a former MSNBC host and co-host of Breaking Points, delves into the network's credibility crisis following controversial shifts in its narrative. She investigates the viewer exodus from Morning Joe after its hosts' visit to Trump. Ball also critiques the influence of Comcast on editorial choices, questioning whether old media can recapture audience trust amid rising left-populist movements. The conversation raises vital questions about authenticity and the evolving landscape of political journalism.

Sean McMeekin, a Bard College professor and Cold War expert, dives deep into the murky waters of government secrecy. He argues that Donald Trump has the chance to reform the intelligence community's secretive practices. The discussion touches on declassification efforts related to JFK and MLK, advocating for greater transparency and oversight by Congress. McMeekin critiques current U.S. policies compared to the UK and expresses the need for modernizing archival practices in the digital age, emphasizing how secrecy impacts public trust.

Josh Hammer, a conservative lawyer and senior editor at Newsweek, discusses Trump’s evolving stance on the DOJ without relying on Matt Gaetz. He advocates for significant reforms in the Department of Justice, emphasizing the need for change in leadership to protect civil rights. The conversation dives into Gaetz's controversial past and its implications for his political future. Hammer also addresses Trump's tumultuous relationship with the DOJ, exploring the impact of congressional subpoenas and the necessity for impartial law enforcement moving forward.