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
Jan 13, 2026 • 25min
DSR Daily January 13: Minnesota and Illinois SUE Administration Over ICE
A lawsuit is underway to block the surge of ICE officers, raising concerns about political motivations and equal protection. The Supreme Court hears significant cases regarding transgender athletes in school sports, igniting debates about the politicization of gender issues. Trump’s recent announcement of tariffs on Iranian trade partners sparks discussions on the implications and credibility of such decisions made on social media. The hosts warn about authoritarian trends and the dangers of biased AI in military strategy, highlighting the need for vigilance.
Jan 13, 2026 • 17min
The Daily Blast: Trump Shooting Horror Takes Darker Turn as Damning Info on ICE Emerges
In this discussion, Tim Dickinson, a senior writer for The Contrarian and journalist covering anti-ICE protests, dives into the troubling aftermath of Renee Good’s killing by an ICE agent. He shares insights on Trump’s shocking justifications for the incident and the recent surge in federal agents firing into civilian vehicles. Highlighting the lack of oversight in law enforcement operations, Dickinson emphasizes how protesters are turning tragedy into activism, advocating for change amidst a landscape of hostility from the administration.
Jan 12, 2026 • 14min
DSR Daily January 12: DOJ Subpoenas Jerome Powell
The discussion centers on the DOJ's subpoena of Jerome Powell, raising concerns about Federal Reserve independence. Trump’s threats against GOP senators who supported a war powers resolution highlight party tensions. The hosts analyze the mass protests in Iran and the potential U.S. responses, indicating regional implications. They also touch on the DHS blocking lawmakers from ICE facilities, and the recent ban on Grok in Southeast Asia over deepfake issues. Finally, they explore Elon Musk's impact through Starlink and the necessity for government oversight.
Jan 12, 2026 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Rage at GOPers Explodes as Their Defiance of Him Visibly Grows
Amanda Marcotte, a journalist renowned for her insights on politics, dissects Trump's explosive fury over GOP defections, highlighting his fragile grip on power. They discuss how recent Senate votes reveal cracks in Trump’s authority and how his belief in unchecked power drives his erratic behavior. The duo explores the implications of Republican criticisms, the dangers of echo chambers in politics, and the vital role of citizen documentation in holding power accountable. Marcotte warns of Trump's increasing reliance on propaganda as a coping mechanism.
Jan 11, 2026 • 16min
DSR Weekly Wrap-up: Minnesota Officials Face-off with Trump Admin
Minnesota officials clash with the Trump administration over a fatal shooting involving ICE, raising political tensions. The House votes to extend Obamacare subsidies, showcasing bipartisan efforts amid ongoing health debates. Protests erupt in Iran, prompting a fierce crackdown and international scrutiny. An intriguing proposal surfaces about incentivizing Greenland's independence, but locals aren't impressed. Meanwhile, a Supreme Court case could significantly impact the Voting Rights Act and redistricting efforts.
Jan 9, 2026 • 36min
Words Matter: We Are Living in a Horror Movie...and the Monsters are in Charge
In this discussion, Norm Ornstein, a political scientist known for his insightful analyses of U.S. politics, joins David Rothkopf to address a week marked by tragedy and violence in Minneapolis. They delve into the chilling killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer, questioning the alarming lack of accountability from authorities. The pair also critique the rapid defenses offered by Trump officials, debate the need for protests, and explore the deeper implications of ICE's militarization. Ornstein urges stronger congressional action to counter executive overreach.
Jan 9, 2026 • 44min
Happy New Imperialism, Everybody!
This discussion features Ed Luce, an Opinion writer at the Financial Times, and Max Boot, a Senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. They dive into Trump's assertive foreign policy moves, questioning whether his actions reflect new imperialism or classical expansionism. Luce warns of potential legal erosion and the risks of military actions, while Boot draws historical parallels. They also explore the implications of Trump's power grabs domestically and the possible global reactions from rivals like China and Russia.
Jan 9, 2026 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Trump Shooting Fiasco Worsens as Dems Find Fresh Line of Attack on ICE
In this captivating discussion, U.S. Representatives Eric Swalwell and Daniel Goldman tackle the controversial ICE shooting of Renee Good. Swalwell shares insights on the urgent need to reform ICE and prosecute the shooter, emphasizing victims' rights. Goldman introduces the ICE Out Act, which aims to end qualified immunity for civil enforcement officers, allowing for easier legal action against abuses. Both guests express skepticism about an FBI investigation and advocate for significant changes to ICE's powers, including potential abolition.
Jan 8, 2026 • 22min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s ICE Agents Killed a Citizen. Then Damning New Details Emerged.
Felipe de la Ouse, a contributing editor at the New Republic focusing on immigration and ICE accountability, joins to dissect a shooting by an ICE agent in Minneapolis that killed a U.S. citizen. They explore how video evidence contradicts claims of self-defense, analyze the Trump administration's pre-written narrative, and discuss local leaders' condemnation. Felipe emphasizes the need for accountability, scrutiny of rogue federal agents, and the political dynamics limiting Democrats' responses to these issues.
Jan 7, 2026 • 14min
DSR Daily January 7: Europe Prepares for Potential US Move on Greenland
Listeners dive into Europe's strategic preparations for possible U.S. military actions in Greenland. The show also tackles the freezing of childcare funds in five Democratic-led states, highlighting its impact on families. A landmark decision by the Wyoming Supreme Court strikes down abortion bans, igniting discussions on constitutional amendments. Lighthearted banter also includes amusing takes on Trump's campaign antics and a playful conspiracy about Melania's potential film project.
