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 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.
Nov 3, 2025 • 19min
DSR Daily November 3: Supreme Court to Rule on Trump’s Tariffs
The discussion focuses on an upcoming Supreme Court ruling on the legality of Trump's tariffs and the potential consequences for executive power. A political stalemate fuels the ongoing government shutdown, affecting federal workers and food aid. In a controversial move, a senior FBI official is ousted amid accusations of politically driven firings. The hosts also critique Trump's foreign policy, particularly his hesitance to supply Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, raising concerns over NATO's role and international geopolitics.
Nov 3, 2025 • 48min
NTK: Trump is America's New Nuclear Nightmare
Join Joe Cirincione, a seasoned nuclear policy expert, and Jon Wolfsthal, a former government nuclear specialist, as they dissect the alarming decision to resume nuclear testing after three decades. They explore the potential risks of reigniting the arms race, the implications of U.S. policy shifts, and why nations like Russia and China aren't currently testing. The duo also critiques the film "A House of Dynamite" for its portrayal of nuclear scenarios and reflects on the cultural impact of nuclear-themed movies. A riveting blend of expertise and insight!
Nov 3, 2025 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Angry New Tirades Push Mike Johnson into Awkward Clean-Up Mode
Guest Maura Quint, an organizer with Fair Share America, dives deep into the chaotic political landscape stirred by Trump's recent tirades demanding Republicans end the Senate filibuster. She explores how these outbursts reveal GOP disarray and undermine their messaging around the government shutdown. With a focus on the growing disillusionment among Trump supporters and the implications for independent voters, Maura emphasizes the challenges Democrats face in reaching those affected by expiring ACA subsidies. The discussion highlights a pivotal moment in American politics.
Nov 2, 2025 • 17min
DSR Weekly Wrap-Up October 31: Trump Slashes Refugee Cap
On the DSR Weekly Wrap-Up for October 31, we cover the administration’s shocking new refugee cap, Trump calling for the Senate to scrap the filibuster, the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
