Undercurrents

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.

Vinay Prasad, a hematologist and public health commentator, dives into Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s potential impact on America's healthcare system. He discusses how RFK Jr.'s controversial views could challenge Big Pharma's grip on policy. Prasad evaluates Kennedy's proposed reforms through a European lens, comparing healthcare practices and addressing misconceptions about European models. The podcast also examines corporate lobbying and the necessity for independent healthcare recommendations, highlighting calls for change amidst a flawed system.

James Billot, a New York correspondent, delves into the surprising shift of voters in New York towards Trump and the GOP. He examines rising support among Bronx voters, driven by local issues like housing and crime, alongside dissatisfaction with liberal governance. In Hispanic communities, Billot highlights concerns over immigration and crime as pivotal to this political change. The conversation also touches on how cultural identity influences voter loyalty and the internal struggles of the Democratic Party as they face evolving sentiments.

Charles Fain Lehman, a Fellow at the Manhattan Institute and author on marijuana legalization, joins the conversation to dissect the recent voter rejection of cannabis initiatives across the U.S. He explains the cultural and legal shifts influencing public opinion, revealing how the pandemic and crime rates have affected sentiments. Lehman discusses the dangers of rising marijuana potency, fiscal impacts of legalization, and the evolving political alliances that are reshaping the cannabis landscape, especially among conservative circles.

Tom Rogan, a foreign policy writer at the Washington Examiner, discusses President Biden's decision to authorize long-range missiles for Ukraine, calling it a pivotal moment in U.S.-Russia relations. He outlines the tactical advantages this brings to Ukraine and speculates on Vladimir Putin’s likely reactions. Rogan critiques Biden's North Korea policy and contrasts it with Trump's approach, emphasizing the need for a new diplomatic strategy. He also assesses the broader geopolitical implications of these decisions, especially regarding U.S. leadership.

Rod Dreher, author of "Living in Wonder" and a political and cultural commentator, discusses the transformative impact of COVID-19 on Christian spirituality. He explores the rise of 're-enchantment' in modern Christianity, highlighting a resurgence of supernatural themes and alternative spiritual practices. Dreher delves into the 'Benedict Option' as a strategy for navigating faith in a post-Christian world, emphasizing the importance of grounding beliefs in tradition. He also reflects on how the pandemic has reinvigorated spiritual engagement amidst contemporary societal challenges.

Dave Smith, host of the Part of the Problem podcast and an insightful commentator on American foreign policy, dives into Trump's controversial foreign policy appointments. He discusses the mixed signals from Trump's choices, analyzing figures like Marco Rubio and the implications of hawkish strategies. Smith highlights the tensions between interventionist ideologies and the cautious sentiments of Trump's voter base. They also touch on the complexities of negotiation with world leaders, emphasizing the intricate dynamics within the Trump administration.

Congressman Ro Khanna, representing California's 17th District, offers insights into the Democratic Party's future following Kamala Harris's loss. He discusses the critical need to address economic inequality to reconnect with working-class voters. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of bipartisanship in economic policies and innovative use of new media to engage younger audiences. Khanna critiques past electoral strategies and advocates for a unified economic message to navigate the evolving political landscape.