The Dispatch Podcast

Explore the current dysfunction across the U.S. government's branches, where Congress struggles while the judiciary surprisingly holds strong. The conversation dives into the economic shift from manufacturing jobs to tech roles and questions the nostalgia surrounding lost jobs. Delve into the challenges of executive powers and the role of Congress amid political polarization. And just for laughs, hear a hilarious parenting tale involving cheese slices as a quirky tool to soothe crying kids!

Senator Tom Cotton, a prominent figure from Arkansas and chair of the Intelligence Committee, dives deep into pressing issues regarding China in this insightful discussion. He highlights the underestimated military threats China poses to Taiwan and the need for increased defense spending. Cotton also critiques the Republican Party's divided views on foreign policy and explores the implications of China's global trade influence. The conversation underscores the challenges facing U.S. strategies in the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Join a lively discussion as experts dive into the implications of new tariffs, exploring their potential to inflate prices and the misguided narrative around them. They humorously critique the absurdity of taxing uninhabited islands and reflect on the economic divides highlighted by recent elections. With surprising Democratic gains in traditionally Republican areas and debates over presidential term limits, the conversation reveals the shifting landscape of American politics. Trump’s influence on norms and hypocrisy in today’s political climate also takes center stage.

John Bolton, former U.S. Ambassador to the UN, shares his hawkish insights on Trump's immigration tactics, describing deportations as 'performance art.' He discusses the erosion of American prestige on the global stage and critiques Trump's approach to allies. The conversation also delves into Greenland's strategic importance and America's complex role in maintaining global order. Bolton reflects on the challenges former Republicans face in a changing political landscape and emphasizes that U.S. actions are often driven by national interest rather than altruism.

Dive into a lively discussion about national security realignments and the implications of military communication mishaps. Discover the tightrope reporters walk when dealing with classified materials, and critique political hypocrisy over data security. Explore the fraught state of U.S. alliances and the impact of partisanship on military professionalism. Plus, navigate the storm of modernizing classics like Snow White and the cultural consequences of performative activism. Join a nuanced conversation where accountability and integrity take center stage.

Jim Kessler, Executive Vice President for Policy at the Third Way think tank, dives into the challenges facing the Democratic Party. He critiques the Biden administration's handling of government funding and the party's disconnect with voters. Kessler discusses where Trump might falter and how issues like transgender athletes and young voter engagement impact Democrats. With a focus on pragmatism, he emphasizes the need for centrist strategies to regain trust and connect with the working class, all amidst shifting political dynamics.

Sarah Isgur hosts a lively roundtable with Megan McArdle, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist, Jonah Goldberg, and Steve Hayes. They dive into the emerging 'Abundance Democrats' pushing for supply-side economics within a party historically focused on redistribution. The discussion navigates Chuck Schumer's leadership challenges and the troubled ties between political elites and average voters. They also dissect the potential impact of Trump’s foreign policy amid international crises and hilariously critique the bland 'sad beige' aesthetics in modern home design.

Political analyst Juan Williams joins Jamie Weinstein to discuss his new book, New Prize for These Eyes, which argues that America is experiencing a second civil rights movement, distinct from the first. He explores the impact of Barack Obama’s presidency on race relations, the backlash that followed, and the emergence of movements like Black Lives Matter.The Agenda:—Barack Obama’s 2004 speech: a pivotal moment—The use of race in presidential campaigns—Diversity taking care of itself—Black Lives Matter, the movement and the grift—Is a post-racial America possible?The Dispatch Podcast is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch’s offerings—including members-only newsletters, bonus podcast episodes, and regular livestreams—click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of The Dispatch Podcast, Sarah Isgur, Michael Warren, Steve Hayes, and David French discuss the battle for the First Amendment. Should Columbia University student protester Mahmoud Khalil be deported over speech?The Agenda:—Mahmoud Khalil’s arrest raises 1A concerns—Shout F.I.R.E and deport Charlie Cooke—How much economic pain will Trump tolerate?—Steve Hayes hardest hit from Spanish wine tariffs—De Gaulle was right—NWYT: secret videotaping and crying childrenShow Notes:—Trump's Polk painting—Jonah Goldberg: Free Speech Rites—Nick Catoggio: Lesser EvilsThe Dispatch Podcast is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch’s offerings—including members-only newsletters, bonus podcast episodes, and regular livestreams—click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brianna Wu, a former Democratic organizer and executive director of Rebellion PAC, shares her journey from leftist activism to navigating cultural and political turmoil. She discusses the fallout from Gamergate and its effects on gaming and politics. Wu confronts rising antisemitism and highlights the complex landscape of transgender politics and healthcare, advocating for thoughtful discourse. She emphasizes the need for centrist voices to bridge the divide in today's polarized climate, promoting the importance of defending liberal values and compassionate dialogue.