The Remnant with Jonah Goldberg

Hal Brands, a professor of global affairs at Johns Hopkins and author of The Eurasian Century, dives into the shifting dynamics of global alliances. He discusses the material interests driving China and Russia while examining the convoluted path toward a nuclear deal with Iran. Brands provides insight into the Biden administration's foreign policy challenges, particularly in the Middle East, and offers a provocative take on U.S. ambitions regarding Greenland, blending nationalism with global strategy.

James P. Sutton, a reporter for The Dispatch specializing in California wildfires, joins Jonah Goldberg to dissect the catastrophic wildfires engulfing Los Angeles County. They explore the interplay of human error and political missteps, delving into disastrous insurance policies and community responses. The duo scrutinizes climate change's role in igniting these crises and discusses the historical evolution of wildfire management in California. Sutton highlights the urgent need for better infrastructure and credible information amid rampant rumors surrounding the fires.

Join a lively discussion that hops from the allure of Dutch art to the intricacies of modern storytelling in 'Stranger Things.' Explore the fascinating world of Tudor history through a visit to the Tower of London, led by captivating Beefeaters. Delve into the complexities of historical figures like Thomas More, while unraveling today's political and cultural narratives. The conversation takes a sharp turn as it critiques democratic governance failures and the urge for accountability in a time of corruption and mismanagement.

The hosts dive into the implications of Donald Trump's New York indictment, exploring the intersection of law and politics. They dissect the complexities surrounding Trump's guilty verdict, including appeals and potential judicial conflicts. The discussion highlights how these legal challenges may actually bolster Trump's standing among GOP candidates. A detailed analysis of the classified documents indictment reveals its significance in public perception. Finally, the conversation reflects on how legal troubles could shape Trump's future political strategies.

Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and best-selling author, discusses his book Cross Purposes, which argues that democracy thrives on strong Christian institutions. He probes the decline of religious affiliation and its ties to hyper-partisanship and loneliness in America. Rauch emphasizes the need for a balance between Christianity and secular thought, exploring how diverse identities can stabilize society. He also highlights the civic engagement strategies of the LDS Church as a model for promoting democratic values.

In a playful discussion about winter in Alaska, anecdotes set the stage for deeper topics. Key debates ignite over Orwell’s views on political language and the pitfalls of oversimplifying political comparisons like 'Trump is Hitler.' A closer look at Eva Perón reveals the complex legacy of Peronism, while the chaotic nature of personality-driven politics highlights shifts within the Republican Party. The concept of the 'deep state' is unpacked, examining the nuances of political power in Washington, D.C.

Join a thought-provoking discussion as Chris Stirewalt and Jonah dive into the ethical conundrums of 'country style' cooking and its portrayal in media. They dissect the year's biggest political blunders and assess the growing influence of popularism in campaigns. The conversation shifts to inflation's real solutions and the ongoing debates around immigration's role in shifting voter behavior. With a blend of humor and keen analysis, they navigate the intricate relationship between past and present political conflicts and aspirations for effective governance.

Virginia Postrel, a renowned journalist and author, discusses the intersection of technology and culture with Jonah Goldberg. They delve into the complexities of the H-1B visa debate, exploring the battle between innovation and populism. The conversation critiques nostalgic views of America while analyzing the influence of technocracy and the philosophical implications of technological progress. Postrel emphasizes the need for reforms in immigration and housing, advocating for community-driven solutions amidst the evolving landscape of American politics.

As the new year kicks off, there's a delightful mix of schadenfreude over MAGAworld's struggles with immigration. Tech influencers ponder whether they hold the key to solving deep-rooted issues. Intriguing debates arise within the MAGA community about skilled immigration, revealing cultural tensions. There's also a critical look at the contradictions in conservatism, particularly regarding labor policies. Finally, a spotlight on America's resilience highlights how immigrant contributions fuel economic growth, challenging narratives of decline.

In this episode, Richard Reinsch, Editor in Chief of the Civitas Outlook at the University of Texas, delves into the reimagining of conservatism. He discusses the importance of reforming institutions from within, especially in the face of progressive ideologies in higher education. The conversation explores the historical context of conservative thought, the impact of electoral outcomes, the nature of politics and free speech, and the pressing need to balance idealism and realism for the future of the Republican party.