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 6, 2025 • 26min
The DSR Daily for February 6: Trump Signs Executive Order Banning Transgender Women From Women’s Sports
The discussion kicks off with President Trump's executive order banning transgender women from women’s sports, raising questions about its political motivations. The hosts then explore the controversial plan for relocating Palestinians from Gaza and its humanitarian impact. Legal battles surrounding birthright citizenship are also examined, alongside the effects of government restructuring on marginalized communities. Finally, the conversation shifts to Panama's rejection of U.S. fee demands related to the Panama Canal, highlighting ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Feb 6, 2025 • 23min
The Daily Blast: Trump’s Scam on Tariffs Wrecked in Surprise Moment from Stephen Miller
Adam Isacson, an expert at the Washington Office on Latin America, discusses the surprising internal concerns of Stephen Miller regarding Trump's tariff strategies on Mexico. He reveals that these tariffs threatened to hamper Mexico's actions to control migration, challenging Trump's narrative of coercion. Isacson explains Mexico's proactive measures regarding immigration, highlighting how Biden’s diplomatic efforts have reshaped U.S.-Mexico relations and undercut the previous administration's claims.
Feb 6, 2025 • 29min
A Look at the "Sudden Disassembly in Flight" of the US Government
Rosa Brooks, a Georgetown Law professor and expert on US politics, teams up with Kori Schake, a Stanford research fellow focused on foreign policy, to unpack the government's rapid disassembly under the Trump administration. They delve into the chaos within institutions like USAID and the CIA, and discuss the implications for national security. With a call for civic engagement, they emphasize the importance of grassroots advocacy and reform to counter the erosion of democracy and ensure robust political discourse in America.
Feb 5, 2025 • 29min
The DSR Daily for February 5: Trump Proposes Gaza Strip Takeover
In a fiery discussion, the hosts delve into Trump's controversial proposal to take over the Gaza Strip, igniting debates about its global implications. They also examine the latest round of USAID staff layoffs and the potential fallout for international aid. The show highlights the first deportation flight to India and the moral dilemmas posed by strict immigration policies. Listeners are encouraged to engage in civic action as they navigate the challenges posed by government budget cuts on crucial services.
Feb 5, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Jamie Raskin’s Brutal Takedown of Elon Musk Shows Dems Are Waking Up
Andy Craig, an election law expert and fellow at the Institute for Humane Studies, dives into the urgent concerns over Elon Musk's influence on government operations. He discusses Representative Jamie Raskin's bold challenge to Musk regarding financial disclosures and conflict-of-interest rules. Craig highlights the alarming lack of accountability and ethical governance associated with Musk's role. He emphasizes the importance of public resistance against such power grabs and how lawmakers can effectively advocate for transparency and uphold constitutional principles.
Feb 4, 2025 • 48min
AAI: A View from Northern Europe, with former DDIS senior officer Jacob Kaarsbo
Jacob Kaarsbo, a former senior officer of the Danish Defense Intelligence Service, shares his expertise on European security and geopolitical dynamics. He discusses Greenland's strategic significance amid international rivalries and critiques U.S. foreign policy narratives. Kaarsbo highlights Europe's dependency on American defense support while emphasizing the need for a robust European response to threats like Russia. Their candid conversation balances serious topics with personal anecdotes, reflecting on military encounters and passions for sports.
Feb 4, 2025 • 19min
The DSR Daily for February 4: Trump Pauses Mexico Canada Tariffs
The discussion kicks off with Trump's suspension of tariffs on Mexico and Canada, linked to border security pledges. The broader economic and political consequences of these decisions are analyzed, particularly in light of China's fentanyl production changes. Concerns arise over unqualified individuals in key health roles, raising serious public safety risks. Additionally, the potential nominations of Tulsi Gabbard and RFK Jr. spark debate, alongside growing threats faced by Congress amid a deepening political divide.
Feb 4, 2025 • 25min
The Daily Blast: Illegal Trump-Musk Power Grab at USAID Suddenly Becomes Bigger Scandal
Don Beyer, a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia, weighs in on the brewing scandal involving Trump and Musk at USAID. He discusses the legality of Musk's actions, including locking employees out of systems and the push to dismantle the agency. Beyer emphasizes the role of international development in global health and security, warning against cutting foreign aid. The conversation also touches on accountability concerns regarding Musk's informal influence in U.S. aid and the potential implications for Congress's power.
Feb 3, 2025 • 37min
Siliconsciousness: At the Crossroads of AI, Trade, and International Policy
Dr. Susan Ariel Aaronson, a research professor specializing in international affairs at George Washington University, discusses the significant implications of AI beyond tech circles. She critiques the Biden and Trump administrations' AI policies, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations and international cooperation. The conversation dives into the complexities of data governance and trade policy, touching on concerns about surveillance and the political landscape. Aaronson highlights the importance of treating AI as a public good for equitable global advancement.
Feb 3, 2025 • 40min
The DSR Daily for February 3: World Braces for Trump Tariffs
The world is bracing for Trump's impending tariffs, raising concerns about job losses and economic strain. Tensions are escalating between the U.S. and Panama over Chinese influence in the Panama Canal, which could alter diplomatic relations. Serious questions arise regarding government accountability, particularly involving figures linked to Elon Musk. On a lighter note, frustration with the Grammys highlights a disconnect between entertainment and pressing social issues, leading to a call for political mobilization amid the national crisis.
