The Majority Report with Sam Seder

In this discussion, Adam Becker, a science journalist and astrophysicist, unpacks the alarming influence of right-wing tech oligarchs on our future. He critiques the ideological underpinnings of their vision, likening it to a new techno-religion. Becker explores the juxtaposition of optimistic AI predictions against potential dystopian scenarios. He emphasizes the dangers of neglecting current issues in favor of unregulated tech fantasies, shedding light on how these trends impact democracy and societal well-being.

David Dayen, Executive editor of The American Prospect, dives into Donald Trump's trade failures and their impact on the global economy. The conversation touches on stalled trade negotiations with China and the administration's dubious deregulation practices, leading to a 'golden age of scams.' They also explore the implications of Trump's tariffs and the ongoing legal debates surrounding them. With a mix of serious analysis and light-hearted banter, the discussion uncovers the messy entanglements between politics, finance, and corporate mischief.

Taylor Lorenz, a tech journalist and author, explores how COVID-19 has reshaped American politics and public trust in the government. She discusses the ramifications of governmental responses to the pandemic and its influence on voter behavior. The conversation also highlights the rise of politically charged memes and collective responsibility in healthcare. Lorenz critiques the economic policies and cultural perceptions sparked by the crisis, while weaving in humor and personal insights from the changing political landscape.

We have The Lever's Luke Goldstein on today to talk about the GENIUS Act & its implications, including that oligarchs might be able to issue their own private currency if it's signed into law. Check out Luke's piece here: https://www.levernews.com/get-ready-to-pay-in-zuckbucks/ Then Sam talks to members of United Food and Commercial Workers will be picketing in Worcester, Mass tomorrow as they negotiate a new contract before the current one expires in just over a week. If you want to show support and get a free MR T shirt, head to their picket at UMass Memorial in Worcester with a pizza and send us a pic to Majority Reporters (at) Gmail. Also, contact Mass Memorial directly to tell them you support UFCW's members: https://www.massgeneral.org/contact And / or send them some love on their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/ufcwlocal1445/ And tell the local paper in Worcester to cover this story: https://help.telegram.com/contact-us In the Fun Half, Piers Morgan finally uses the G word when describing what's happening in Gaza. Republicans are getting an assist of sorts from Senate Democrats to push through Trump's Big Beautiful Bill, though Schumer and co. certainly don't want you to see it that way. Here's David Dayen's reporting on how Senate Dems could do something to stop it should they want to: https://prospect.org/politics/2025-05-28-senate-democrats-stop-big-beautiful-bill/ And finally, theoretical physicist Sean Carroll absolutely mops the floor with Eric Weinstein's physics musings. Become a member at JoinTheMajorityReport.com: https://fans.fm/majority/join Follow us on TikTok here!: https://www.tiktok.com/@majorityreportfm Check us out on Twitch here!: https://www.twitch.tv/themajorityreport Find our Rumble stream here!: https://rumble.com/user/majorityreport Check out our alt YouTube channel here!: https://www.youtube.com/majorityreportlive Gift a Majority Report subscription here: https://fans.fm/majority/gift Subscribe to the ESVN YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/esvnshow Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! https://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: https://majority.fm/app Go to https://JustCoffee.coop and use coupon code majority to get 10% off your purchase! Check out today's sponsors: LIQUID IV: Get 20% off your first order at LIQUIDIV.COM Use code MAJORITYREP at checkout BLUELAND: Right now, get 15% off your first order by going to Blueland.com/majority • JUST COFFEE: Go to https://JustCoffee.coop and use coupon code MAJORITY for 10% off your purchase! Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter: @SamSeder @EmmaVigeland @MattLech @RussFinkelstein Check out Matt’s show, Left Reckoning, on Youtube, and subscribe on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/leftreckoning Check out Matt Binder’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/mattbinder Subscribe to Brandon’s show The Discourse on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/ExpandTheDiscourse Check out Ava Raiza’s music here! https://avaraiza.bandcamp.com/ The Majority Report with Sam Seder – https://majorityreportradio.com/

The discussion dives into Trump's controversial billionaire enhancement act and the government's role in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Listeners hear about political dynamics affecting elected officials like Chuck Schumer and AOC as well as the troubling aid distribution amidst escalating violence. The hosts critically analyze recent legislative changes impacting social safety nets and healthcare, touching on the consequences for marginalized groups. Humor and community engagement add a lively touch to the serious topics at hand.

Ryan Grim, co-founder of DropSite News and co-host of Breaking Points, dives into the harsh realities of the GOP’s recent bill, revealing who benefits and who suffers. He discusses a surprising alliance between a Democratic senator and Republicans against the EPA, and sheds light on the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza. The conversation also touches on the impacts of Trump's aggressive fiscal policies on healthcare and rural communities, and the intriguing dynamics shaping political strategies in Michigan.

David Hearst, co-founder and editor in chief of Middle East Eye, dives into the evolving dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, arguing that Israel may have already lost the ideological battle despite its military strength. Meanwhile, Benjamin Fogel, a South African journalist, shares insights on Donald Trump's bizarre diplomatic interactions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. They also discuss the shifting international sentiment toward Israel and the complexities of South Africa’s political landscape and governance challenges.

Singrid Steinmetz, an ICU nurse advocating for better working conditions, discusses the urgent need for patient safety as nurses at Long Beach Medical Center prepare to strike. George Joseph, an investigative reporter for The Guardian, reveals shocking findings about UnitedHealthcare's financial practices, including secret payments to nursing homes that impact Medicare enrollees. They explore the implications of these corporate actions on healthcare quality and the challenges nurses face amidst systemic issues in the industry.

Donald Trump is pushing a controversial bill that may leave working-class families at a disadvantage. The hosts critique a government official's baffling ignorance of habeas corpus while discussing generational shifts in politics. They also dissect the potential consequences of proposed food assistance cuts on vulnerable populations and grocery prices. Rounding things off are insights into the skyrocketing Pentagon budget and the murky waters of recent legislative maneuvers. Humor and political commentary blend seamlessly throughout the discussion.

Quinn Slobodian, a professor of International History and author of 'Hayek's Bastards,' discusses the alarming evolution of neoliberalism and its ties to far-right ideologies. The conversation shines a light on how race science and economic theories intertwine with the political rise of figures like Trump. He also addresses the implications of these ideas on societal organization and meritocracy. The episode dives deep into the troubling marriage between neoliberalism and populism, revealing its disturbing impact on current politics.