The Dispatch Podcast

Batya Ungar-Sargon, a contributor to the Free Press and author of 'Second Class,' is a self-proclaimed “MAGA lefty” who defends Donald Trump's policies. She discusses her journey from leftist ideals to MAGA, emphasizing how Trump's early administration promoted working-class values. They explore the impact of tariffs likening them to a Swiss army knife for economic challenges, and touch on immigration policies and their repercussions. Batya's insights highlight the interplay between populism, the elite, and the working class in today's political landscape.

Join Mike Pesca, a clever host and author, and Jesse Singal, a thoughtful contributor and podcaster, as they delve into the identity crisis facing the Democratic Party. They explore the rising influence of young activists like David Hogg and dissect the challenges of balancing ideological loyalty with broader public appeal. The conversation also touches on the complexities surrounding immigration and transgender policy, emphasizing the need for genuine connections with voters. A lively discussion filled with insights and humor!

Amy Howe, a seasoned reporter and expert on the Supreme Court, joins the conversation to discuss the recent acquisition of SCOTUSblog. She shares insights on its evolution into a vital resource for legal coverage. The dialogue touches on the rising role of the judiciary in politics and the importance of unbiased reporting. They analyze a significant upcoming Supreme Court case involving nationwide injunctions and reflect on the complexities of Supreme Court dynamics, especially in the digital age.

Josh Barro, an insightful economic commentator and co-host of Serious Trouble, joins the discussion to dissect the implications of Trump’s tariff policies. He highlights the uncertainty these tariffs bring, complicating market stability and investor confidence. Barro also addresses concerns about America’s debt crisis and the future of the U.S. dollar as a reserve currency. The conversation covers the need for a reevaluation of trade alliances and fiscal strategies, revealing the political and economic consequences of current policies.

Join David French, a prominent attorney and commentator, alongside Sarah Isgur, Steve Hayes, and Jonah Goldberg as they dive into the intricacies of Trump's foreign policy toward Ukraine and Russia. They explore the challenges of Ukraine's negotiations, Pence's influence compared to Vance's radicalism, and the bizarre rise of lunar conspiracy theories in political discourse. The conversation reveals how mistrust in institutions shapes beliefs and the psychological dynamics within the Republican Party, all while mixing humor and deep insight.

In this discussion, sociologist Larry Diamond, a Senior Fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution, dives into the troubling dynamics of American democracy. He highlights signs of a democratic crisis, focusing on the weaponization of government and the impact of Trump's leadership style on democratic norms. Diamond contrasts Trump's early days with his current trajectory, stressing the dangers of political violence seen during January 6th. He calls for vigilance against authoritarianism, urging lawmakers to protect democratic values as we move toward pivotal elections.

Mike Warren joins the discussion, bringing insights as a political analyst with a focus on re-election dynamics. The group dives into the concept of political capital and how it affects decision-making for presidents like Trump and Bush. They explore the legal complexities of Trump’s tariffs and the potential economic fallout. The conversation also touches on the impact of political uncertainty on bond markets, and a segment critiquing tricky Iran negotiations adds depth to the dialogue. Fascinating parallels between governance and family dynamics round out the discussion.

Ryan Peterson, CEO of Flexport and logistics expert, joins to discuss the fallout from President Trump's tariffs and their devastating impact on businesses. He shares insights on how Walmart and others are maneuvering through trade wars and shifting supply chains. The conversation dives into the effects of high tariffs on small enterprises and the urgent need for contract renegotiations. Additionally, Peterson touches on the dangers posed by geopolitical tensions, notably the Houthi attacks on shipping routes, highlighting the complexities of global trade today.

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.