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
Dec 23, 2024 • 30min
FTS: The Daily Blast: Krugman - Trump Has Duped MAGA Voters With an "Amazing" Scam
Paul Krugman, a New York Times columnist and Nobel laureate in Economics, sheds light on the surprising loyalty of Trump's MAGA supporters despite potential cuts to Social Security and repeals of the Affordable Care Act. He discusses the disconnect between economic reality and voter perception, illustrating how Trump's policies may undermine his base. Krugman also critiques the Democratic Party's evolving stance on trade and manufacturing, emphasizing the need for clearer communication to highlight Biden’s economic successes.
Dec 22, 2024 • 26min
FTS: The Daily Blast: Let’s just say it - What if Trump is weaker than he looks?
Julia Azari, a political science professor at Marquette University, dives into the complexities of Donald Trump's political strength. She discusses how his 2016 victory still distorts current perceptions, masking his vulnerabilities, especially among independents. The conversation also critiques media narratives about suburban voters and highlights the ongoing implications of Trump's legal challenges. Azari urges a reassessment of electoral dynamics, revealing how alternative candidates might thrive in critical battleground states.
Dec 21, 2024 • 34min
FTS: The Daily Blast: Meet the Lonely Republicans Who Think Trump is Disqualified from Running
Marc Racicot, former Republican governor of Montana and chair of the Republican National Committee, shares his bold stance on Donald Trump’s disqualification under the 14th Amendment. He discusses the growing divide within the GOP, highlighting the dwindling number of anti-Trump conservatives. Racicot also delves into the implications of the oath of office and the crucial role it plays in safeguarding democracy. As he reflects on the party's future and the necessities of leadership accountability, he calls for increased citizen engagement to restore core values.
Dec 20, 2024 • 33min
How Can the Trump Administration Strengthen US AI Leadership?
Paul Scharre, Executive VP at CNAS and author of "Four Battlegrounds: Power in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," discusses the U.S. AI landscape as political transitions approach. He highlights bipartisan support for AI advancements while delving into differing views on safety and regulation. Scharre examines the intensifying U.S.-China technology competition and emphasizes the importance of strengthening the U.S. chip manufacturing infrastructure. He also addresses the complexities of navigating AI policies amid evolving political dynamics.
Dec 20, 2024 • 20min
The DSR Daily for December 20: House Votes Down Republican Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown
This discussion dives into the soaring U.S. deportation rates, the highest in a decade, and critiques the feasibility of large-scale deportations. Attention then shifts to a recent House vote rejecting a Republican bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown, highlighting the political turmoil and lack of bipartisan support. The complexities of negotiating peace in Ukraine are explored, with a focus on Putin's challenging role. Lastly, the conversation touches on Elon Musk's controversial endorsement of a far-right party in Germany.
Dec 20, 2024 • 27min
The Daily Blast: Trump-Musk Fiasco Worsens, Exposing How Badly MAGA Voters Got Scammed
Paul Waldman, co-author of 'White Rural Rage', delves into the chaotic political landscape as lawmakers scramble to avert a government shutdown. He reveals how the Trump-Musk alliance threatens to betray rural voters with harmful spending cuts. Waldman discusses the internal rifts within the Republican Party and the dangerous implications for Trump's support base. He also explores the growing disconnect between rural voters and the evolving policies they loyally support, highlighting the challenges ahead as Trump gears up for a potential second term.
Dec 19, 2024 • 30min
DSR Year-End Special: A Look Ahead at 2025
Joining the discussion are Rosa Brooks, a national security and foreign policy expert at Georgetown, and David Sanger, Chief Washington correspondent for The New York Times. They explore what Trump's return to power means for American democracy and political dynamics, highlighting concerns over authoritarianism. The conversation also delves into critical foreign policy issues, including U.S.-China relations and the situation in Gaza, while maintaining a thread of optimism about the resilience of American civil society.
Dec 19, 2024 • 19min
The DSR Daily for December 19: Johnson’s Musk Problem
Elon Musk’s criticism of a vital funding bill creates a stir for Speaker Mike Johnson, showcasing intraparty tensions. A light-hearted holiday segment contrasts with serious discussions on health concerns like H5N1 outbreaks and Putin's military comments on Ukraine. As the Supreme Court gears up for TikTok hearings, the potential for a ban looms large. Meanwhile, ambitious climate goals face skepticism as political dynamics shift, raising questions about their feasibility amidst changing administrations.
Dec 19, 2024 • 26min
The Daily Blast: Shocker from Chris Murphy: We May Not Have a Democracy for Much Longer
In a gripping discussion, Senator Chris Murphy, a stalwart advocate for democracy and gun control from Connecticut, issues a stark warning about the current political landscape. He highlights the troubling influence Donald Trump is exerting on institutions like the FBI, potentially leading to the persecution of political opponents. Murphy emphasizes that the media could face suppression, calling for Democrats to act swiftly to protect democratic values before it’s too late. The conversation underscores the urgent need to confront these threats head-on to preserve the integrity of American democracy.
Dec 18, 2024 • 31min
DSR Year-End Special: A Look Back at 2024
David Sanger, a seasoned journalist from The New York Times and a national security expert, joins the discussion to reflect on 2024. He shares insights on President Biden's foreign policy, highlighting both achievements and shortcomings while offering grades on his leadership. The conversation dives into U.S.-China relations and the fluctuating fates of global leaders like Netanyahu and Putin. With a mix of humor and critical analysis, the guests assess the role of luck in politics and ponder the challenges that lie ahead.
