Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews

Matt Taibbi, a renowned journalist known for his sharp insights into political controversies, returns to discuss newly uncovered details about Russiagate. He questions the credibility of the intelligence assessments regarding Russian interference, highlighting inconsistencies influenced by a select few CIA analysts. The conversation dives into the complexities of the DNC hack and the challenges of identifying hackers. Taibbi also critiques the Durham Report, shedding light on overlooked figures and the manipulation of information that shaped public perception during this tumultuous era.

Tony Aguilar, a former Green Beret and special forces soldier, shares his harrowing insights from his time as a contractor for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. He recounts chilling observations of war crimes committed against civilians by the IDF. Discussing the complex humanitarian challenges in Gaza, Aguilar contrasts the chaos he witnessed with official narratives. He also reflects on the moral implications of military actions and the ethical dilemmas faced by those who dare to speak out about the conflict.

Trita Parsi, Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute, shares his insights on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He discusses how recent military actions have emboldened Iran's nuclear ambitions, making it tougher to contain their efforts. Parsi challenges common misconceptions surrounding the conflict, emphasizing the heavy toll on both nations and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. He also highlights the intricacies of Israel's military strategy and the potential for instability in the region.

Journalist Aaron Maté, host of Pushback for The Grayzone, sheds light on the origins of Russiagate and its lasting significance. He reveals that U.S. intelligence harbored doubts about Russian election interference, challenging the mainstream narrative. The conversation navigates historical events, cybersecurity challenges, and the geopolitical fallout from allegations of meddling. Maté also discusses how the investigation impacted U.S. foreign policy towards Russia and Ukraine, alongside the implications for free speech and national discourse.

Kyle Anzalone, news editor at the Libertarian Institute and co-host of Conflicts of Interest, delves into the escalating crisis in Gaza. He discusses the collapse of U.S.-Israel ceasefire talks amid dire humanitarian conditions. The conversation reveals the troubling state of Hamas and the implications of unexploded Israeli bombs, which may inadvertently empower the group. Anzalone highlights the dangers faced by civilians accessing food, shedding light on the human tragedy amidst the ongoing violence.

Daniel Davis, a Senior Fellow at Defense Priorities and veteran of multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, provides a sharp analysis of the current situation in Ukraine. He discusses the precarious state of Ukraine's military and the tragic human cost of the ongoing conflict. Davis critiques the implications of U.S. involvement and the risks of broken promises to allies. He warns of the looming threat of global conflict, especially regarding nuclear warfare, urging a reevaluation of military strategies amidst rising tensions in both Ukraine and Taiwan.

Dan McKnight, a U.S. Marine Corps Reserves veteran and founder of Idahoans to Bring Our Troops Home, dives into the ongoing struggle to pass the Defend The Guard legislation. He sheds light on this initiative aimed at curbing presidential powers over National Guard deployments. McKnight shares his transformation from patriotic service member to advocacy leader, emphasizing the critical need for accountability in military engagements. He also discusses the desperate tactics of the Defense Department to halt this movement and the importance of local legislative support.

Auron MacIntyre, a columnist and author focused on political theory, dives deep into the failures of liberal democracies in his discussion. He explores the cost of empire and the implications of mass migration on cultural identity. The conversation touches on the impact of American foreign policy and critiques the neoconservative influence, particularly regarding the Iraq War. MacIntyre also emphasizes the need for decentralization and local governance to enhance freedoms, while addressing the tensions within the Republican Party over foreign allegiances.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Williams, an Australian military analyst and Afghan war veteran, shares his insights on global military tensions. He delves into the likelihood of conflict over Taiwan and Australia's military readiness against threats like China. The conversation touches on nuclear proliferation risks, the hypocrisy of war crimes, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Williams also reflects on his journey in the Australian Army and the moral complexities soldiers face in high-pressure environments. His unique experiences illuminate the intersection of personal narrative and international relations.

Kyle Anzalone, news editor of the Libertarian Institute and co-host of Conflicts of Interest, dives into the current state of American foreign policy. He discusses the stalled negotiations for peace in Ukraine and a new Iran nuclear deal. Anzalone also sheds light on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the severe impact of ongoing violence and military tactics. The conversation critiques U.S. involvement and highlights the complexities of international diplomacy, offering a thoughtful perspective on these pressing issues.