The Dispatch Podcast

Megan McArdle, a Washington Post columnist known for her political and economic insights, and journalist Mike Warren engage in a compelling discussion about the alarming rise in antisemitic violence. They explore the complexities of the pro-Palestinian movement, the troubling behaviors of young activists, and the role of influencers like Tucker Carlson in today’s political landscape. Personal encounters with antisemitism are shared, highlighting a sense of insecurity in Jewish communities and the urgent need for respectful engagement in political discourse.

Megan McArdle, a columnist for the Washington Post known for her insights on economics and public policy, discusses the critical need for America to seize the lead in the A.I. race. She reflects on the early days of Trump's presidency, elaborating on its unpredictable nature. McArdle also touches on the evolving job market due to A.I., emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills. Additionally, she explores how A.I. not only reshapes productivity but also creates new opportunities while posing significant challenges for the workforce.

Grayson Logue, a staff writer for Dispatch, dives into the legal battles surrounding Trump's Liberation Day tariffs. He discusses the significant court rulings challenging the president's authority and potential implications for the economy. The conversation also touches on the controversial pardons issued by Trump, raising questions about corruption and the rule of law. Additionally, Logue explores Trump's complex relationship with Putin within the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions, providing insights into the current political landscape.

Matti Friedman, a seasoned journalist and author known for his analysis of Israeli society, discusses Israel's complex leadership crisis amid its conflict with Hamas. He examines the precarious balance between military objectives and the return of hostages, emphasizing public dissatisfaction with the government. The conversation highlights perceptions of American leadership and the looming threat of Iranian nuclear ambitions. Friedman also reflects on the absence of cultural icons like Leonard Cohen during wartime, questioning what we lose when art and politics intertwine.

Join Capitol Hill reporter Charles Hilu as he unpacks the implications of the House's recent 'big beautiful bill' and its controversial tax provisions. The discussion dives into President Biden's cognitive decline and how it's portrayed in the media, highlighting the perceived biases in political reporting. The roundtable also tackles the accountability of journalists and the impact of AI on entry-level job markets, raising vital questions about the future of employment in an evolving landscape.

Spencer Cox, the Republican Governor of Utah and former chairman of the National Governors Association, joins Michelle Lujan Grisham, the Democratic Governor of New Mexico and former Congresswoman, to explore bipartisan cooperation. They dive into the significance of mutual respect and healthy conflict in politics. Highlights include humorous anecdotes from past political events, the importance of community ties over political identity, and strategies for engaging diverse perspectives to strengthen civic unity and enhance discourse.

Jay Nordlinger, a former writer at National Review and music critic at the New Criterion, delves into the MAGAfication of the GOP. He discusses the ideological paradox surrounding Trump, accountability in politics, and the ethical dilemmas of foreign policy. The conversation explores American identity, the evolution of conservatism, and the influence of past figures like Bill Buckley. Nordlinger also reflects on the resilience of American institutions and the future of conservative journalism amidst changing political landscapes.

Grayson Logue, Deputy Editor of the Morning Dispatch, joins to discuss the complex dynamics of Trump’s foreign policy, especially his recent trip to the Middle East. The conversation revolves around the implications of the trade pause with China and critiques of Trump's approach to international relations. They analyze U.S.-Gulf State ties and the challenges in negotiating Iran's nuclear ambitions. Additionally, there's a thought-provoking look at the discourse around drug pricing and the motivations behind Yale professors relocating to Canada.

Harvey Mansfield, a longtime Harvard professor known for his conservative views, joins Jamie Weinstein to discuss the clash between the Trump administration and Harvard's campus culture. They delve into the challenges faced by Jewish students and the implications of elitism in a democracy. Mansfield reflects on the evolution of student activism and the impact of protests on academic freedom. He also shares insights on the characteristics of successful students and discusses the importance of viewpoint diversity in academia.

David French joins Jonah Goldberg and Sarah Isgur for a lively discussion on the economic pitfalls of current tariffs and the struggles of 'Abundance Democrats.' They tackle the challenges in translating political promises into real results, the negative impacts of immigration policies, and the shifting ideologies in the tech industry. The conversation also humorously dives into the debate over Alcatraz's legacy and the idea of renaming prisons, blending serious political discourse with light-hearted banter.