

The Reason Roundtable
The Reason Roundtable
Every Monday, the libertarian editors of the magazine of “Free Minds and Free Markets”—Matt Welch, Nick Gillespie, Katherine Mangu-Ward, and Peter Suderman—discuss and debate the week’s biggest stories and what fresh hell awaits us all.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 12min
How the Epstein Files Turned MAGA Against Trump
Joining the conversation is Eric Boehm, a reporter at Reason, known for his sharp insights into political and economic issues. He dives into Trump's surprising shift on the Epstein files, revealing the GOP's pressure tactics that may indicate Trump's faltering grip on the party. The discussion also covers Trump's tariff rollbacks and their implications on inflation, alongside skepticism about a proposed tariff dividend. The panel further explores rising military tensions in Venezuela and considers how to shift health care towards a private model. A thought-provoking listen!

65 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 1h 24min
Did Democrats Blow It on the Government Shutdown?
Join Jerusalem Demsas, editor in chief of The Argument, as she delves into the aftermath of the government shutdown and its implications for Democrats. The discussion touches on the renewed focus on healthcare and Obamacare subsidies, scrutinizing both parties' lack of a cohesive health vision. Demsas also explores the significance of Zohran Mamdani's victory in New York, highlighting tensions between the abundance agenda and progressive politics. The conversation wraps up with a provocative debate on whether healthcare reform should prioritize expanding physician supply or redesigning insurance.

57 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 1h 8min
Will a Mamdani Victory Push the Democrats Further Left?
The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into what a Zohran Mamdani mayorship could mean for New York and beyond. The hosts explore the potential leftward shift in Democratic politics and its implications. Gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey are analyzed for signs of centrist strength. The impact of SNAP funding during a government shutdown is also scrutinized. Insights into the Supreme Court's involvement in Trump's tariff powers and a thought-provoking listener question about libertarians in defense round out the conversation.

38 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 1h 17min
Javier Milei's Libertarian Policies Win Shock Election
Liz Wolfe, associate editor and writer for Reason Roundup, dives into the recent election victory of Argentine President Javier Milei and his bold libertarian reforms. She discusses how Milei’s strong support persists despite economic challenges and the lessons his policies offer to other nations grappling with inflation. The conversation also touches on Trump’s escalating trade war with Canada, potential U.S. actions in Venezuela, and the rise of socialist Zohran Mamdani in New York—highlighting significant political implications across the globe.

35 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 1h 13min
Does Argentina's Bailout Prove Libertarians Wrong?
The podcast dives into Argentina's massive $20 billion bailout and its implications for President Milei's libertarian ambitions. The hosts debate whether foreign aid contradicts a free market approach and analyze the growing executive power during the government shutdown. They discuss the nationwide 'No Kings' protests against Trump, examining his controversial use of executive authority. The legality of bombing alleged drug boats off Venezuela also sparks a lively debate, raising questions about intervention and checks in a libertarian society. Tune in for insights and cultural recommendations!

86 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 9min
Trump's Art of the Deal for Peace in the Middle East
The discussion kicks off with the release of hostages linked to Trump's Israel-Gaza deal, sparking debate on its potential for lasting peace. The hosts evaluate Trump's foreign policy success versus his chaotic domestic record. They dive into the implications of new tariffs on China and the broader economic consequences. Amidst a looming government shutdown, they examine Congress's waning power and the judiciary's role in curbing executive authority. Finally, they reflect on the Democratic Party's struggle with candidate quality and the future of political leadership.

57 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 7min
Reason Versus National Review: Is Mass Immigration Good for America?
Katherine Mangu-Ward, Editor-in-chief of Reason, argues passionately for the benefits of mass immigration, citing historical contributions and economic dynamism. Opposing her, Rich Lowry from National Review raises concerns about social cohesion and fiscal implications. Alex Nowrasteh from the Cato Institute supports open immigration policies, warning against harsh enforcement. Meanwhile, Steven Camarota emphasizes the risks associated with low-skilled immigration and public service impacts. A heated debate ensues, leaving listeners to ponder the future of immigration in America.

69 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 1h 12min
Does Bari Weiss Prove Woke Media Is Collapsing?
Eric Boehm, a reporter for Reason, joins to dissect significant media shifts, such as Bari Weiss's rise to editor at CBS and the impact of her previous sale of The Free Press. The panel debates if platforms like Substack signal a renaissance in journalism or fuel media chaos. They also tackle Trump's controversial troop deployments, constitutional implications, and leaked violent fantasies from a Virginia AG candidate. Discussions even venture into the challenges facing libertarians amidst Argentina's economic turmoil.

103 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 1h 8min
Will a Shutdown Finally Shrink Government?
The impending government shutdown is sparking debate on whether it can effectively shrink the federal bureaucracy. Past shutdowns suggest it often fails to deliver real cuts. The panel examines James Comey's indictment, questioning if it's driven by political retribution or genuine legal issues. They also analyze Trump's controversial deployment of federal troops to Portland. A dive into cyclical theories of history prompts discussion on the relevance of frameworks like The Fourth Turning in understanding today's political landscape.

70 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 9min
Free Speech Means You Can Criticize Anyone
The discussion kicks off with President Trump's controversial stance on free speech regarding criticism, highlighting his pressure on media figures like Jimmy Kimmel. The topic of corruption surfaces with revelations about Trump’s border czar and immigration policies, emphasizing their economic implications. The panel then tackles the risks of U.S. military actions against Venezuelan drug boats and the potential for escalating foreign conflicts. Finally, a listener query provokes a lively debate on perspectives perceived as least libertarian among the hosts.


