The Majority Report with Sam Seder

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.

Jeet Heer, a national affairs correspondent for The Nation, delves into significant political developments. He discusses the Supreme Court's handling of Trump's controversial birthright citizenship executive order, raising questions about judicial authority. The conversation also covers Trump's recent foreign policy moves in the Middle East and the GOP's struggles with spending bills. With a mix of humor and sharp analysis, they touch on Kid Rock's eccentric comments and the complexities of U.S. immigration policies, all while keeping the dialogue engaging and thought-provoking.

Greg Grandin, a Yale historian and Pulitzer Prize winner, shares insights from his latest book, exploring the violent history of America's conquest and its complex legacy in Latin America. Brian Merchant, a technology reporter, dives into the looming AI job crisis, revealing how automation threatens various professions and discussing the urgent need for regulations. The conversation interweaves themes of human rights, healthcare, and the unique social rights developments in Latin America, providing a thought-provoking look at history and technology's impact on society.

Ezra Klein, a New York Times columnist and host of The Ezra Klein Show, dives into his book, Abundance. He tackles the Republican cuts to Medicaid, revealing their implications for vulnerable populations and healthcare access. The conversation spans housing affordability, the influence of corporate interests on urban development, and the clash of governance strategies. Klein emphasizes the need for policies promoting equity while critiquing the power dynamics shaping today's political landscape.

In this conversation, investigative reporter Jeremy Scahill sheds light on Trump's shifting diplomacy with the Middle East, including his recent interviews with leaders of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. They discuss the implications for Gaza amidst evolving U.S. foreign policy and analyze the complex dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations. Scahill emphasizes the need for nuanced understanding of Hamas, combating mainstream media portrayals. The discussion also critiques Trump's financial connections and the impact of these developments on political alliances.

Mark Blyth, a professor at Brown University and co-author of 'Inflation: A Guide for Users and Losers,' dives into Trump's unpredictable tariff policies and their inflationary impact. He explains how these tariffs create economic volatility, affect investor confidence, and contribute to broader issues like income inequality. The discussion also touches on the GOP's efforts to cut Medicare and Social Security, revealing the shifting political landscape and its implications for everyday Americans amidst rising costs.

Heather 'Digby' Parton, a progressive writer for Salon, and comedian David Feldman join the discussion on the implications of Trump's tariffs. They tackle the moral complexity of immigration policies and the cruel impact on communities. The conversation dives into the disconnect between political rhetoric and economic realities, illustrated by JD Vance's worry about American-made guns. They're also critical of the Biden administration's struggles with public perception, including concerns about his cognitive ability, all while analyzing the ethical dilemmas around military actions and immigration.

Irfan Nooruddin, a Georgetown professor specializing in Indian politics, dives into the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. He unpacks the historical context of their feud, emphasizing how domestic politics and military strategies drive both nations toward dangerous confrontations. Nooruddin also highlights the implications of their nuclear capabilities and the stalemate that comes from it. A rich discussion that blends deep analysis with urgent relevance, shedding light on an ongoing crisis.