THE DAILY BLAST with Greg Sargent

In an extraordinary escalation of President Trump’s rage at Harvard University, the administration just threatened to block Harvard from receiving foreign students if the university doesn’t provide extensive information on students to the government. Trump also erupted at Harvard on Truth Social, making all kinds of other threats. On another front, GOP Senator Lisa Murkowski openly admitted to a sense of widespread terror of retaliation: “We are all afraid.” We talked to Jeffrey Sachs of Acadia University, a shrewd observer of authoritarianism. He walks us through the details of Trump’s new threat toward Harvard, how it can be challenged, the true nature of Trump allies’ long-term game plan, and whether our institutions will crumble in the face of it all. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Melissa Gira Grant, a staff writer at The New Republic and expert on Trump's immigration spectacle, dives into the legal chaos surrounding Trump’s deportations. A federal judge has flagged potential contempt charges over the removal of Venezuelans, signaling a brewing crisis. Grant elaborates on a senator's investigative hurdles in El Salvador and how recent polling indicates Trump may be misjudging public support for his immigration policies, setting the stage for significant backlash against his administration.

Jonathan Friedman, managing director of the Free Expression Program at PEN America, joins the discussion on Harvard's defiance against Trump's demands. They delve into Trump's threats to freeze funding, revealing a tactic of intimidation against academic institutions. Friedman argues that Harvard's pushback could inspire a collective response from other universities, highlighting the importance of institutional independence and the risks posed to free speech. This stance may be key in creating a united front to confront MAGA's political pressures.

Asawin Suebsaeng, a senior political reporter at Rolling Stone and adjunct journalism professor, delves into Trump’s alarming actions and rants following his meeting with El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele. They discuss Trump’s brazen defiance of the Supreme Court regarding deportations, labeling his intentions as 'horrifying.' Suebsaeng highlights the increasing embrace of far-right authoritarianism and the dangerous implications of proposed deportations of U.S. citizens, raising serious concerns about the state of democracy.

Leah Litman, a law professor and author of "Lawless," delves into the alarming implications of Trump's escalating threats and manipulations within legal circles. She discusses how law firms are capitulating under pressure, marking a concerning trend in the erosion of the rule of law. Alina Habba's investigations into New Jersey officials symbolize a dark shift, showcasing the chilling effects of political prosecutions. Litman emphasizes the urgent need for public resistance and solidarity to combat this authoritarian drift and protect democratic integrity.

Nicole Hemmer, a historian and author specializing in right-wing media, dives into the surprising realities behind Trump’s tariff strategies. She highlights how Fox News' narratives attempt to spin economic woes as triumphs, even as the truth emerges from within their ranks. The conversation reveals Trump’s increasing vulnerability as his cabinet’s flattery escalates, showcasing the deepening anxieties among MAGA supporters. Hemmer also examines how Trump's influence is reshaping right-wing media dynamics and the potential shifts in viewer loyalty amid growing economic concerns.

Representative Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic leader, dives into the chaos of Trump's fluctuating tariffs, revealing the political vulnerabilities they expose for Republicans. He discusses House Speaker Mike Johnson's controversial maneuvers to maintain unilateral tariff power and how these actions could backfire. Jeffries also outlines strategic opportunities for Democrats in red districts, particularly concerning Medicaid cuts. The conversation sheds light on the urgent need for accountability in governance and the broader implications of Trump's economic policies.

In this engaging discussion, Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a Senior Fellow at the American Immigration Council, sheds light on the troubling deportations of Venezuelans under the Trump administration. He breaks down the Supreme Court's recent decisions, revealing the precarious situation of individuals like Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported by mistake. Reichlin-Melnick highlights Justice Sonia Sotomayor's powerful dissent, warning against government overreach and stressing the critical need for accountability in immigration enforcement.

Economist and commentator Kathryn Anne Edwards discusses the chaotic fallout from Trump's tariff policies, predicting a recession driven by his misguided decisions. She explores Trump's erratic responses to both China and Republican dissent, illustrating the widening cracks in GOP support. Edwards delves into the challenges presented by Trump's trade wars and the implications for American manufacturing versus essential services. Her insights reveal the deeper incoherence of Trump's narrative and the risks of ignoring economic realities.

Tom Schaller, co-author of "White Rural Rage," dives into the harsh realities facing farmers due to Trump's trade wars. He reveals how tariffs have led to a shocking loss of support among rural voters. Farmers, previously loyal, now express fears of economic disaster without government bailouts. Schaller discusses the intricate ties between urban and rural economies and highlights the challenges Democrats face in connecting with these disillusioned voters. The conversation uncovers the larger implications for rural America's future.