The Dig

In this discussion, Melinda Cooper, a sociologist and author, dives deep into her book on neoliberalism and its role in reshaping America’s fiscal landscape. She explores how this counter-revolution dismantled the gains of the 1960s, leading to class and racial hierarchies. Cooper highlights the significance of the 1970s fiscal crisis, the influence of Paul Volcker's policies, and the rise of asset appreciation over production. She also examines the politics behind property rights and the polarization within labor movements, shedding light on today’s economic disparities.

Alberto Toscano, a philosopher focused on fascism and race, and Stuart Schrader, a historian specializing in policing and immigration, dive deep into the authoritarian practices of the Trump era. They discuss how heightened police and ICE budgets strengthen repressive capacities, creating a future of unchecked state violence. The duo also examines the troubling role of police unions and the aestheticization of repression through media. They highlight grassroots resistance tactics in major cities, juxtaposing local activism with the challenges posed by the courts.

Alberto Toscano, a scholar of fascism and political theory, pairs with Stuart Schrader, a historian focused on policing and counterinsurgency, to explore the impact of Trump's intensified policing strategies on American society. They discuss the disturbing trend of federal-centralized law enforcement following 9/11 and the politicization of ICE as a tool of repression. The guests also analyze the carceral roots of fascization, connecting historical accounts of policing with contemporary authoritarian practices, revealing a chilling vision of America's governance.

Ian Gavigan, Executive Director of Higher Education Labor United and co-founder during his graduate days at Rutgers, sheds light on the fight against the neoliberal transformation of higher education. He discusses the importance of solidarity among campus workers and unionization efforts to reclaim academia as a public good. Gavigan addresses the ideological battles being waged in higher education and the impact of right-wing policies. He advocates for collective action in response to repression, stressing the need for equitable access and the preservation of the humanities.

Robin D.G. Kelley, a UCLA history professor and author known for his studies on social movements and radicalism, shares fascinating reflections on his interviews with 1930s Alabama sharecroppers. He emphasizes the significance of oral history in shaping collective memory and identity. Kelley also discusses the powerful grassroots activism of that era, highlighting the struggles of Black workers and the dynamics of labor movements amidst racial challenges. His insights reveal the enduring impact of community empowerment in shaping modern social movements.

Join Sarah Jaffe, an insightful author and columnist, as she delves into her book 'From the Ashes: Grief and Revolution in a World on Fire.' She passionately discusses how grief intertwines with capitalism, examining personal losses amidst systemic injustices. Jaffe shares her experience with grief and its political implications, the impact of deindustrialization, and the urgent need for compassionate activism. The conversation highlights the importance of community support in healing and addressing societal challenges, especially post-pandemic.

Asha Ransby-Sporn, a prominent Chicago organizer and writer; Jeanette Taylor, a dedicated Alderwoman and education activist; and Alex Han, executive director of In These Times, dive into Chicago's left political landscape. They discuss the implications of Mayor Brandon Johnson's election, the struggles against systemic pressures, and the tensions within political coalitions. The trio also explores the urgent need for community engagement in education, affordable housing initiatives, and the challenges faced during recent political efforts, revealing a complex web of activism and governance in the city.

Isabella Weber, a professor of economics, dives into political debates surrounding affordable housing and green energy, emphasizing urgent public welfare needs. Author Malcolm Harris critiques the tension between progressive populism and neoliberalism, while Paul Williams discusses the role of housing finance agencies in addressing affordability. Together, they explore how the concept of abundance can reshape political strategy and community engagement, pushing for critical dialogue over mere adjustments in policy.

Aslı Bâli, a Yale Law professor specializing in public international law, and Gabriel Winant, a history teacher at the University of Chicago, dive into the unsettling rise of authoritarianism in the U.S. They analyze the Democratic establishment's failures and the energetic resurgence of socialist movements. The discussion touches on racial dynamics, the militarization of foreign policy, and the implications of federal law enforcement post-9/11. The significance of tenant movements and community activism in driving change is also highlighted, painting a picture of a politically charged landscape.

Gustavo Gordillo and Grace Mausser, co-chairs of NYC Democratic Socialists of America, share insights into the historic victory of Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic mayoral primary. They discuss how a diverse coalition of working-class voters was mobilized through innovative grassroots strategies. The conversation highlights the significance of labor union endorsements and the evolution of political alliances in New York. Together, they reflect on the power of collective activism in reshaping the electoral landscape and the future of progressive politics.