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
Oct 8, 2025 • 54min
Words Matter: The Big Reason Trump and MAGA Must Be Held to Account
David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein tackle the Democrats' need for a more aggressive stance against Republican tactics. They dissect the failures of Senate oversight and call for accountability in the face of rising healthcare costs and economic challenges. The discussion also warns of potential voter intimidation tactics and the impact of Trump's actions on U.S. credibility. The hosts propose leveraging the current political landscape to hold Republicans accountable and exploit vulnerabilities in healthcare policies for strategic gains.
Oct 8, 2025 • 20min
DSR Daily October 8: Pam Bondi’s Fiery Hearing
A fiery Senate hearing features Pam Bondi refusing to answer questions about serious probes. Local politicians clash with the administration over National Guard deployments, raising concerns about voter intimidation. Meanwhile, Israel intercepts another Gaza-bound flotilla, sparking debates over humanitarian issues. Plus, flight delays are on the rise due to air traffic controller shortages linked to the government shutdown. The Pope also calls on U.S. bishops to address the treatment of immigrants, emphasizing the pressing need for compassion.
Oct 8, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Marjorie Taylor Greene Just Wrecked Trump’s Entire Shutdown Strategy
In this discussion, veteran congressional scholar Norman Ornstein offers sharp insights on the political fallout from Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene's explosive tweet. Her criticism of the GOP's lack of a plan for expiring ACA subsidies exposes deep fractures within the MAGA coalition. Ornstein highlights how this disruption undermines Trump’s narrative and shifts blame dynamics. The conversation also delves into how Democrats can leverage this turmoil to strengthen their healthcare messaging and capitalize on Republican disarray.
Oct 7, 2025 • 49min
AI, Energy and Climate: Data Center Water Use: Alexis Abramson, Julio Friedmann and Angela Yuan
In this discussion, Alexis Abramson, Dean of the Columbia Climate School; Julio Friedmann, Chief Scientist at Carbon Direct; and Angela Yuan, a Master's candidate at the University of Cambridge, explore the environmental impact of data center water use. They highlight how traditional cooling methods can consume substantial water, especially in stressed regions. The trio advocates for innovative liquid cooling technologies that require less water and emphasize the importance of community engagement. They also discuss the role of renewable energy in reducing water consumption linked to data centers.
Oct 7, 2025 • 19min
DSR Daily October 7: Another Stopgap Funding Bill Fails
Another funding bill hits a deadlock as both parties struggle to find common ground on crucial subsidies. Trump's potential use of the Insurrection Act raises eyebrows, with experts examining its constitutional implications. The conversation shifts to Bill Pulte's controversial referrals and the increasing weaponization of agencies under Trump's leadership. Mark Carney's meeting with Trump brings up tariff relief amidst ongoing trade tensions. Lastly, a Supreme Court case on the ban of conversion therapy for minors ignites a debate over free speech and regulation.
Oct 7, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Own Tweet on Portland Backfires as Judge Deals Him Harsh Loss
Dan Rayfield, Oregon's Attorney General and architect of the state’s legal challenge against federal deployment of the National Guard, shares insights on a pivotal court ruling. He discusses how Trump's own tweet about Portland being 'war ravaged' backfired in court, showcasing the importance of constitutional law over executive power. Rayfield emphasizes the risks of expanding military use domestically and the urgent need for bipartisan support to defend civil liberties, as well as the implications for future federal actions.
Oct 6, 2025 • 23min
DSR Daily October 6: Judge Blocks National Guard Deployment to Oregon
A federal judge has blocked the deployment of National Guard troops to Portland, raising questions about presidential emergency powers. The ongoing government shutdown remains a hot topic, with significant political implications. Bari Weiss's new role at CBS sparks discussion on media direction. Meanwhile, the U.S. military conducts naval strikes near Venezuela, prompting a critique of presidential messaging. In Europe, France faces governmental turmoil, while Japan celebrates its first female leader of a major party amid rising regional nationalism.
Oct 6, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Trump Press Sec Seethes as Fresh Polls Show Him Losing Shutdown Badly
Amanda Marcotte, a columnist and political commentator at Salon, joins to dissect the shifting political landscape as new polls show President Trump and the GOP facing significant blame for the government shutdown. Marcotte analyzes the faltering MAGA messaging, debunking myths surrounding healthcare for undocumented immigrants. She highlights the growing divide in the Trump coalition, the significance of healthcare issues over authoritarian policies, and how Democrats are seizing the moment to organize and advocate for their positions.
Oct 5, 2025 • 23min
DSR Weekly Wrap-Up: Trump Targets Democrat-Backed Agencies
The discussion dives into the administration's strategic cuts to Democrat-backed federal agencies, exploring the potential political fallout. Attention turns to a disturbing terrorist attack at a U.K. synagogue, highlighting rising anti-Semitism. Trump's controversial memo declaring armed conflict with drug cartels raises questions about legal implications. Additionally, mass strikes in France against budget cuts stir up public activism, and a journalist's deportation raises alarms about press freedom. Listeners are encouraged to take civic action amid these pressing issues.
Oct 3, 2025 • 38min
Words Matter: Welcome to a Government Shutdown Only A Mussolini Could Love
In this riveting discussion, political scholar Norm Ornstein breaks down the unprecedented government shutdown, labeling it both illegal and indecent. He analyzes how Trump’s approach targets blue states and critical projects, while Republican leaders remain complicit. Ornstein highlights the Supreme Court's role in enabling abuses and raises alarms about voter suppression tactics. Emphasizing the importance of government services and public education, he warns of the threats to free elections. Tune in for an insightful look at these critical issues.
