The Dispatch Podcast

Dive into the latest geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia, Ukraine, and Israel. Discover the intriguing influence Liz Cheney has on Kamala Harris' strategy. Enjoy a discussion on the dynamics of spousal voting and how it’s shaped by personal relationships. Explore the complexities of political identity and the impact of abortion stances. The conversation wraps up on a lighter note with fun takes on Halloween candies and costumes, weaving personal anecdotes into political discourse.

David Frum, a respected Staff writer at The Atlantic and former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, shares his insights on why he's supporting Kamala Harris in the upcoming election. He discusses how the Republican Party has shifted away from conservative values under Trump, highlighting Trump as a 'unique danger' to democracy. Frum also delves into U.S. foreign policy comparisons, particularly regarding Israel, and reflects on emerging Canadian leaders amid housing crises. His viewpoint provides a fascinating look into the evolving political landscape.

Megan McArdle, a columnist known for her keen economic and political insights at The Washington Post, joins the discussion on Kamala Harris' proactive media strategy, including her notable Fox News interview. They analyze whether Harris is truly ready for media scrutiny and tackle the complex intersection of sexism and partisanship in political reporting. The conversation also explores shifting voter dynamics and the intriguing concept of 'steel manning,' emphasizing the importance of understanding opposing arguments to enrich political discourse.

Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian-American activist and senior fellow at The Atlantic Council, shares his insights on life in Gaza. He discusses the complexities of public opinion under Hamas's control and the contrasting governance between Hamas and the PLO. The conversation delves into Palestinian aspirations for peace, exploring whether this sentiment is shared widely among Gazans. Alkhatib also addresses the humanitarian implications of the Israeli blockade and the challenges of negotiating a two-state solution amidst rising extremism.

Tevi Troy, a former official in the George W. Bush administration and presidential historian, dives into the intersection of business and politics. He discusses the intriguing dynamics between CEOs like Elon Musk and U.S. presidents, focusing on shifting political loyalties and the risks involved. Troy explores the selective enforcement of policies and asks whether Republicans are indeed anti-business. He also shares strategies for improving government engagement and emphasizes the vital role of CEO-president relationships in shaping effective policies.

The discussion dives into the political ramifications of recent hurricanes and critiques disaster response strategies. It examines the failures of hurricane prediction and the resilience of affected communities. The team also tackles the challenges of media ethics, focusing on a controversial CBS interview, and questions the reliability of journalism in today's polarized environment. With a lighter note, they engage in a humorous debate over bottled water brands, showcasing the quirks of consumer choices.

In this discussion, Dan Senor, author of 'The Genius of Israel' and podcast host, delves into the aftermath of October 7, sharing poignant personal reflections. He highlights Israel's evolving military strategies and economic resilience, along with the impact of recent events on its international standing. Senor also explores future governance challenges in Gaza, the significance of Hezbollah's leadership changes, and the urgent threat posed by Iran's nuclear ambitions. Despite ongoing tensions, he remains optimistic about Israel's trajectory and its relationships with Gulf states.

Adam, the Editorial Director of The Dispatch and a native Israeli, shares powerful insights on the psychological impact of the October 7 attacks. Jonah Goldberg, a contributor, discusses how these events resonate with American Jews and the alarming rise of antisemitism. Charlotte offers a firsthand account from her reporting in Israel, capturing the emotional chaos that day. The panel reflects on the broader implications for Israeli society and the complex role of political leadership in navigating this tumultuous landscape.

Join Mike Pesca, host of The Gist and insightful commentator, as he dives into the intricacies of recent political debates. He discusses J.D. Vance's strategy of crafting a likable persona to attract voters and examines the skepticism surrounding expert advice in public discourse. The conversation shifts to the Supreme Court's future, probing how current political dynamics could influence judicial decisions. Amidst tensions, they reflect on the urgent call for clarity and credibility in expertise, especially in navigating complex international issues.

David Rubenstein, co-founder of The Carlyle Group and author, joins Jamie to dive into presidential legacies from Lincoln to Biden. They explore the unpredictable paths to the presidency and ethical dilemmas, like Truman's atomic bomb decision. Topics also include the impact of Trump’s unique legacy, Biden's reflections, and the significance of Jewish identity amid rising anti-Semitism. Rubenstein sheds light on America’s debt crisis and the role of business leaders in governance, offering insights into the complexities of political narratives.