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
Feb 12, 2025 • 42min
Good News: We’re Not Quite in a Constitutional Crisis Yet!
A bizarre encounter in the Oval Office with Elon Musk raises questions about the state of political decorum. The hosts tackle the idea of a constitutional crisis sparked by the Biden administration's contentious relationship with the courts. They also discuss the military's recruitment struggles against a backdrop of questionable Pentagon decisions. With humor, they navigate serious global issues while critiquing the chaotic dynamics of power and the disturbing implications of recent leadership appointments.
Feb 12, 2025 • 23min
The DSR Daily for February 12: Trump and Musk’s No Good, Very Weird Meeting
The hosts dive into President Trump’s recent executive order easing anti-corruption laws, stirring debate over its effect on global business ethics. They explore the odd meeting between Trump and Musk, revealing concerns over governance amidst inflation. Additionally, Jordan's king strongly opposes Trump’s controversial resettlement plan for Palestinians, highlighting regional tensions. The episode wraps up with critical discussions on election security and the government’s handling of misinformation, advocating for greater accountability in political discourse.
Feb 12, 2025 • 18min
The Daily Blast: Pro-Trump GOPers Shocked to Learn Their Own Voters Are Fuming at Musk
Elizabeth Saunders, a political science professor and author, delves into the surprising backlash from Republican voters against Elon Musk's initiatives that threaten the federal government. She discusses the nervousness among congressional Republicans as their constituents resist Musk's influence. The conversation highlights the tension between party loyalty and accountability, the consequences of governmental disruption, and the challenges faced by GOP members trying to align with evolving voter sentiments amidst chaos.
Feb 11, 2025 • 21min
The DSR Daily for February 11: Trade Wars: The EU Strikes Back
Discover the EU's bold retaliation against U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, highlighting potential economic fallout. Delve into the controversial decision by the Justice Department to drop charges against a political figure, raising alarms about democracy's future. Explore the tense dynamics between OpenAI and Elon Musk, along with the discussion on the U.S. stance on AI regulation and the growing need for responsible leadership in technology. Each topic uncovers the intricate ties of politics, economics, and innovation.
Feb 11, 2025 • 24min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Rage at Canada Just Got Worse—and Putin Is Quietly Celebrating
Nicholas Grossman, an international relations professor and expert on U.S. foreign policy, dives into Trump's heated rhetoric towards Canada, suggesting a real shift in U.S. diplomacy that pleases Putin. He discusses how Trump's threats of tariffs might weaken Western alliances and embolden authoritarian regimes. The conversation also highlights the dangerous implications of viewing Canada as a potential '51st state,' warning against the serious risks to established democratic values and global norms.
Feb 10, 2025 • 23min
The DSR Daily for February 10: CFPB Ordered to Stop Work
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau faces a halt in operations due to budgetary constraints, raising questions about consumer rights. Decisions to stop penny production highlight economic concerns, while a court blocks the deportation of Venezuelans to Guantanamo Bay. Insights on the chilling effects of foreign aid freezes on accountability in Ukraine signal deeper political implications. The Super Bowl's halftime show garners mixed reactions, with critiques on the lack of political statements from artists amidst pressing social issues.
Feb 10, 2025 • 21min
The Daily Blast: Elon Musk’s Threats Get Darker as Trump Legal Losses Trigger MAGA Fury
Norman Eisen, Chair of Democracy Defenders Action and a prominent litigator against Trump, joins the conversation to dissect the escalating threats from Trump allies and Elon Musk. They discuss Musk's alarming suggestion to defy court rulings and analyze the implications of political backlash against recent judicial decisions. Eisen shares insights on successful legal strategies defending democracy and the hopeful resilience emerging from ongoing litigation. The dialogue highlights the pivotal role of the courts amid rising authoritarian tactics.
Feb 7, 2025 • 27min
The DSR Daily for February 7: Trump Sanctions ICC
The hosts dive into the implications of Trump's sanctions on the ICC, stirring up debates on international justice and U.S. foreign policy. They dissect the severe humanitarian crisis stemming from cuts in foreign aid, particularly in famine relief efforts. Legal challenges surrounding workforce reductions further complicate the political landscape, as does the Senate's confirmation of a key budget director. They lighten the mood by introducing 'Cat's Night,' a quirky new tradition to celebrate the absurdity of the movie 'Cats' with friends.
Feb 7, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Angry Rant at USAID Instantly Undercut by Surprise Rubio Video
Jeremy Konyndyk, a former senior USAID official and current president of Refugees International, dives into President Trump's recent tirade against USAID and the ensuing clash with Marco Rubio's supportive stance. He discusses the worrying implications of misinformation on vital global health initiatives, including HIV vaccine trials, and the humanitarian crises in places like Darfur. Konyndyk underscores the critical role of USAID in U.S. foreign aid and its impact on global stability, warning that political shifts could jeopardize humanitarian efforts worldwide.
Feb 6, 2025 • 38min
Screw Your Feelings, Time to Figure Out How to Fix This Mess
Norm Ornstein, a leading expert on Congress and American politics, joins David Rothkopf to dissect the current political chaos. They tackle how Trump's influence and misinformation are destabilizing traditional governance, while Democrats seem to be inactive. The conversation also navigates the Senate's procedural challenges, revealing Republican obstruction tactics and discussing how the opposition can effectively respond. Additionally, they highlight how everyday issues, like rising egg prices, illustrate the impact of political decisions on daily life.
