The DSR Network

President Trump’s allies are suddenly raging over the October 18th “No Kings” protests. MAGA Mike Johnson and MAGA-fied Representative Steve Scalise are angrily sliming expected attendees as America-haters, antifa, Marxists, and terrorists. Other GOP figures have done the same, with one hinting that the National Guard should crack down on them. This unanimity of messaging about terrorists means it’s all almost certainly being coordinated by Stephen Miller. Yet it’s backfiring: Democrats and rally organizers are using it to galvanize attendance, which will likely succeed. Robert De Niro amplified the call to turn out, inspiring more anger on Fox News. Indeed, the GOP demonization of legitimate protests itself ratifies the “No Kings” message. We talked to Jill Lawrence, who writes well for The Bulwark on Trump’s hatred of blue America. We discuss why large legitimate protests infuriate Trump-MAGA, why the correct response to their smears is to turn out in force, and why that’s likely to happen.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The podcast dives into the newly established ceasefire in Gaza and the significant humanitarian challenges ahead. It also covers the indictment of Letitia James, raising alarms about the justice system being manipulated. Congress recently repealed the 2002 Iraq War Authorization, prompting discussions on presidential war powers. Additionally, legal developments hinder Trump's attempts to deploy the National Guard in certain cities. The hosts react to the Nobel Peace Prize announcement, highlighting its implications for democracy and authoritarianism.

When it comes to peace in Gaza, the art of the deal might be a lost one. While reaching a ceasefire is a commendable, we have to wonder what the remaining 19 points in Trump’s 20 point plan will actually look like. Experts Kim Ghattas and Shibley Telhami join David Rothkopf to express their skepticism over the long-term implications of the ceasefire in Gaza and why nefarious actors in the region aren’t likely to grow a conscience any time soon.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barbara McQuade, a law professor and former federal prosecutor, joins to dissect the challenges facing the rule of law in America. She highlights the erosion of DOJ independence and alarming trends in domestic policing. Students across the political spectrum are expressing concern over norm-breaking behaviors. McQuade also discusses the implications of politicized prosecutions and critiques the Supreme Court's emerging doctrines that expand presidential power. Her insights spark a crucial conversation about safeguarding democracy.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker joins the discussion, shedding light on the alarming federal actions in Chicago. He describes chilling details of militarized ICE raids, like children being pulled from homes and a priest shot during chaos. Pritzker emphasizes the erosion of democracy and challenges misinformation from officials, urging a united stand against rising authoritarianism. His frustrations over inadequate federal communication are palpable, raising concerns about Trump's mental state and the increasing climate of political violence.

Alon Pinkas, a former Israeli diplomat, offers insights into Israeli politics, while Steven Cook, a Middle East analyst, shares his expertise on regional dynamics. They discuss the implications of the newly reached Gaza ceasefire, including the political maneuvering of Trump and Netanyahu. The guests delve into the tough hurdles of achieving lasting peace, such as disarmament and governance challenges. They also consider potential fallout if the agreement falters, painting a stark picture of the future and the political landscape in Israel.

Representative Adam Smith, a key figure on the House Armed Services Committee, joins host David Rothkopf to delve into pressing global issues. They discuss the recent Gaza ceasefire and its implications, regional power dynamics in the Middle East, and the U.S. strategic focus on China and Taiwan. Smith warns against the militarization of domestic issues and the rise of authoritarianism, advocating for a bipartisan approach to national security. He outlines a strategy for Democrats to connect with voters by addressing their concerns while warning about the dangers of authoritarianism.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas takes center stage, highlighting the complexities of post-war governance. James Comey enters a not guilty plea, raising questions about political motivations. Concerns grow as FBI agents are reassigned to immigration enforcement. Tensions escalate with U.S. strikes on Caribbean vessels, drawing criticism from Colombia and raising congressional eyebrows. Additionally, the push for redistricting in Indiana ignites debates among Republicans amidst Trump's influence.

In a compelling discussion, former federal prosecutor Kristy Parker, now at Protect Democracy, unpacks the alarming trends in Trump's legal threats against perceived enemies. She reveals insider doubts about the prosecution of James Comey and resistance within the DOJ regarding weak cases against figures like Letitia James. Kristy emphasizes the normalization of authoritarian threats and how professional ethics in law can serve as a vital check against politically motivated prosecutions, shedding light on the deepening concerns of lawlessness.

Rosa Brooks, a law professor at Georgetown University with expertise in civil-military relations, and David Sanger, a national security reporter for The New York Times, delve into alarming military shifts under Trump. They highlight the risks of using military rhetoric domestically and potentially authoritarian tactics. Discussions on global implications reveal that unpredictability may embolden rivals like China. The pair also caution about the impact on alliances and the need for future legal reforms to curb military power abuses.