The DSR Network
The DSR Network
This podcast will take you on a smart, direct, sometimes scary, sometimes profane, sometimes hilarious tour of the inner workings of American power and of the impact of our leaders and their policies on our standing in the world. Hosted by noted author and commentator David Rothkopf and featuring regulars Rosa Brooks of Georgetown Law School, Kori Schake of AEI, and Ed Luce of the Financial Times, the program will be the lively, smart dinner table conversation on the big issues of the day that you wish you were having...without the calories. Sometimes special guests will join the conversation and always the emphasis will be on providing the unvarnished perspectives others shy away from. Deep State Radio is the insider perspective on American national security and foreign policy that you can't find anywhere else.If you are enjoying this podcast, please consider becoming a member by visiting thedsrnetwork.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 7, 2025 • 33min
Siliconsciousness: Facing Up to Opportunities and Challenges Linked to Video Recognition AI
Jeff Boehm, COO of Wicket and a veteran in applied AI, dives into the fascinating world of facial recognition technology. He discusses the ethical implications and privacy concerns surrounding AI integration in daily life. Boehm emphasizes the importance of accuracy and consumer trust, highlighting Wicket’s opt-in model. With real-world examples, he contrasts responsible use in events against surveillance strategies. The conversation also touches on the potential for facial recognition to reshape payments and access, ultimately aiming for a seamless user experience.
Nov 7, 2025 • 21min
The Daily Blast: Unraveling Trump Accidentally Blurts Out Secret Plan to Rig 2026
Jessica Post, a seasoned campaign consultant and Democratic operative, dives deep into Trump's recent call to end the filibuster and his intentions behind restricting voting. She highlights how these moves aim to solidify Republican control ahead of the 2026 midterms. Jessica shares eye-opening examples of new barriers to voting, the underlying philosophies driving these policies, and potential Democratic counterstrategies. Furthermore, she discusses the implications of aggressive gerrymandering and why it could surprisingly backfire on the GOP.
Nov 6, 2025 • 27min
Words Matter: We Moved a Step Closer to the End of MAGA This Week
This week, the hosts celebrate significant Democratic victories in recent elections, exploring their potential impact on American politics. They reflect on Nancy Pelosi’s retirement and her substantial legacy in the Democratic Party. Key discussions include the implications of election outcomes on health care and potential Republican voter suppression strategies. The rise of women veterans in politics is highlighted, as well as the challenges new mayors will face regarding public safety and governance.
Nov 6, 2025 • 21min
DSR Daily November 6: Nancy Pelosi Will Not Seek Re-Election
Nancy Pelosi has announced she will not seek re-election, prompting discussions about her impact on the Democratic Party. There’s also a significant 10% reduction in flights at major airports due to staffing shortages amid a government shutdown. Economic indicators suggest rising job losses and falling housing prices, signaling a potential recession. Plus, the Supreme Court is examining the legality of Trump's tariffs, while tensions rise over nuclear test discussions between the U.S. and Russia.
Nov 6, 2025 • 26min
The Daily Blast: Angry Trump Snaps at GOPers as Scale of Losses Sinks In: “Dead Party”
In this insightful discussion, senior editor Alex Shephard from The New Republic delves into the recent Democratic victories and the shifting dynamics among working-class voters. He highlights how Trump's coalition is more fragile than it appears, attributing GOP losses to a backlash against his failures. The conversation also touches on the importance of affordability and anti-authoritarian messaging as keys to voter engagement, and how tangible policies can resonate strongly with diverse communities.
Nov 5, 2025 • 38min
Looking at the Election Results Through Rosa (and Ed) Colored Glasses
Rosa Brooks, a Georgetown law professor focused on national security, joins journalist Ed Luce to dissect recent election outcomes. They celebrate victories while urging caution about interpreting results too optimistically. Ed emphasizes these wins could energize Democrats and attract independents. Rosa warns Republicans may adapt and counterattack. They also discuss youth voter engagement and the urgency for Democrats to act, as well as the troubling rise of mainstream anti-Semitism on the right. Their insights highlight the ongoing political transformation in America.
Nov 5, 2025 • 27min
DSR Daily November 5: Democrats WIN BIG!
There's a buzz in the air following dramatic Democratic victories across key states like New York and Virginia. Zoran Mamdani's unexpected win in NYC showcases a powerful coalition that prioritized affordability. The podcast dives into the implications of California's Proposition 50 and Governor Newsom's redistricting plans. Abigail Spanberger's pragmatic approach in Virginia turns the governorship blue, while overwhelming wins in New Jersey emphasize a nationwide trend of Democratic gains. The hosts dissect Republican reactions, particularly Trump's downplaying of the losses.
Nov 5, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Angry Trump Tirade Forces Press Sec to Undercut Him in New SNAP Fiasco
David Dayen, the executive editor of The American Prospect, delves into the SNAP funding controversy and Trump's explosive threats over food stamp payments. He highlights the legal ramifications and the internal tensions within the White House, as Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt must clarify that Trump will comply with court orders. Dayen further explains how Trump’s threats impact his political capital, urging Democrats to be more proactive in their response to affordability issues and resist overreach in governance.
Nov 4, 2025 • 22min
DSR Daily November 4: Election Day!
Dive into the critical stakes of Election Day as hosts preview pivotal gubernatorial and mayoral races. They discuss how issues like affordability and healthcare influence voter priorities. The impact of Trump and Musk's endorsements on the New York mayoral race is analyzed. A serious look at SNAP funding reveals its political ramifications and the ongoing hunger crisis in America. The legacy of Dick Cheney is also examined following his death, highlighting key moments from his political career and leadership choices.
Nov 4, 2025 • 21min
The Daily Blast: MAGA Rages at Tucker Carlson after “Nazi” Shocker Reveals Too Much
David Austin Walsh, author and expert on the American right, delves into the fallout from Tucker Carlson's controversial interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes. He highlights the backlash within MAGA, noting fears that it exposes extremist views deeply intertwined with the movement. Walsh discusses the cultural influence of Groypers and the fractures within conservative coalitions over Israel. He emphasizes the longstanding failure of the right to effectively distance itself from extremists, shaping future leadership dynamics post-Trump.
