The Dispatch Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Matt Lewis, a prominent podcaster and columnist for The Daily Beast, dives deep into the shifting landscape of conservatism. He explores the influence of Trumpism on various policies, critiques Donald Trump's foreign policy successes, and assesses the implications of Governor Gavin Newsom's social media strategy as he gears up for 2028. The conversation also covers the contentious crime situation in D.C. and the potential use of the National Guard, balancing public safety with the risks of authoritarianism.

Megan McArdle, a columnist for The Washington Post, and David French, a senior editor at The Dispatch, join the discussion on the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict. They analyze America's geopolitical strategies and the implications of rising national debt, which has skyrocketed from $22.7 trillion to $37 trillion. The conversation delves into the motivations behind key players in the conflict, the facade of diplomacy, and the looming financial crisis. With humor, they also touch on the relatable frustrations of parking, adding a lighthearted twist to serious topics.

Tim Mak, a seasoned journalist and founder of The Counteroffensive, discusses life in Kyiv amidst the war. He highlights residents' resilience despite nightly air raids and the psychological toll of conflict. The conversation delves into Trump and Putin's recent summit, questioning its diplomatic effectiveness. Mak reflects on Europe's fragmented approach to Russian and Chinese threats, emphasizing the need for cohesive strategy. He also shares compelling human-interest stories that bring the realities of the war to life, connecting listeners to those affected in Ukraine.

Megan McArdle, a Washington Post columnist specializing in economics, and Mike Warren, a political writer, join the discussion. They delve into the evolving crime narrative in D.C. and its implications for public safety. The conversation takes a turn towards Trump's shifting stance on capitalism and state intervention, questioning whether the GOP still champions free markets. Anxiety looms over Trump's meeting with Putin regarding Ukraine, raising concerns about geopolitical stability. The speakers also share amusing anecdotes about state fair foods, blending politics with culinary adventures.

Dive into the shifting landscapes of right-wing views on U.S.-Israel relations. Explore why some conservatives are turning against unconditional support for Israel amid rising tensions with Iran. Discover the complexities of Israeli politics and their military actions toward neighbors. The discussion touches on the legacy of foreign policies like the JCPOA and controversial figures like Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein. Unpack the interplay between history, geopolitics, and public sentiment surrounding long-standing conflicts.

Join Megan McArdle, a Washington Post columnist known for her incisive economics commentary, along with political analyst Chris Stirewalt and conservative columnist Kevin Williamson, as they dive into the political chaos of Texas. They tackle contentious redistricting tactics and debate the impact of gerrymandering on elections. McArdle expresses her frustration over the recent BLS firing, raising concerns about data integrity in politics. The group also humorously reflects on the quirks of political maneuvering and personal travel experiences.

Bernard Goldberg, an Emmy-winning journalist and bestselling author known for his book Bias, shares insights on the evolution of conservative journalism. He discusses the shifting nature of media, emphasizing how political interviews are evolving. Goldberg highlights the alarming rise of anti-Semitism and critiques the media's coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, pointing out biases in reporting. He also reflects on the challenges within CBS and the necessity for diverse voices in journalism, questioning the delicate balance between inclusivity and editorial integrity.

Megan McArdle, a columnist at The Washington Post focusing on economics and public policy, joins a lively discussion with Steve Hayes, Jonah Goldberg, and Sarah Isgur. They tackle the impact of Trump’s trade policies on the economy, examining both benefits and drawbacks for consumers. The conversation dives into the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, media narratives, and shifting political support. They also explore the complexities of modern political tribes and reflect on their favorite films, mixing humor with insightful analysis.

General H.R. McMaster, a retired military leader and former National Security Advisor, dives into the weakened state of Iran’s military and its implications for global politics. He discusses the devastation of Iran's nuclear program and reveals insights on U.S.-Israel coordination. McMaster also analyzes the evolving dynamics of modern warfare through the lens of the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the role of advanced technologies. Furthermore, he addresses the potential for a new political order in Palestine and the necessity of U.S. engagement in the Middle East.

Megan McArdle, a columnist for The Washington Post, joins colleagues John McCormack and Grayson Logue for a lively discussion. They dive into President Trump's trade deal with Japan, highlighting its implications for American automakers. The conversation shifts to the current housing market challenges and economic resilience despite rising prices. They also tackle the ongoing Epstein saga with caution and delve into the complex narratives surrounding political scandals. Finally, they reflect on the decline of late-night television and its cultural impact.