The Intercept Briefing

Rick Loessberg, an urban historian and former planning commissioner for Dallas County, Texas, discusses the haunting echoes of America’s past with respect to policing and civil unrest. He highlights how today’s protests mirror the 1967 riots, driven by systemic racism and economic disparity. Loessberg emphasizes the political nature of protests, advocating for understanding them as significant movements rather than mere expressions of frustration. The conversation also touches on the importance of language in activism and the interconnected societal issues exacerbated by racial discrimination.

Chris Hedges, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and former Middle East Bureau Chief for the New York Times, sheds light on the dire situation in Gaza. He discusses the horrific impact of Israel's blockade and military actions, which have pushed the region towards famine. Hedges critiques the international community’s inaction and explores the complexities of media narratives surrounding the conflict. Personal experiences from Gaza unveil the harsh realities of starvation as a weapon, reinforcing the urgent need for global intervention and advocacy.

Discover how the Supreme Court's right-wing supermajority is transforming executive power dynamics. Delve into the implications of their recent decisions that bolster Donald Trump's actions, signaling a potential era of unchecked authority. The discussion touches on the fallout from January 6th and the broader consequences of this legal shift. Tune in for insights from legal experts that challenge traditional checks on presidential power.

Leah Litman, a law professor at the University of Michigan and co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, along with Jessica Washington, a politics reporter at The Intercept, dive into the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions. They discuss how the court's right-wing supermajority is paving the way for executive overreach, specifically shielding Trump from prosecution. Topics include the transformation of the court into a conservative agenda-driven body, the impact on reproductive rights, and the legal challenges facing lower courts in curtailing unlawful policies.

Summer Lee, US Representative for Pennsylvania's 12th congressional district, discusses her efforts to ban super PACs and fight corporate greed. She critiques a new law that transfers wealth from working people to the elite, triple-funding border enforcement while cutting crucial healthcare for millions. Lee highlights the struggle against harmful political narratives and emphasizes the importance of campaign finance reform to support marginalized voices. The conversation sheds light on the urgent need for equitable policies and genuine representation in today's political landscape.

Talia Lavin, journalist and author of "Wild Faith," joins Jessica Washington, a politics reporter at The Intercept, for a thought-provoking discussion on the Christian right's influence in American politics. They delve into how religious ideologies drive Donald Trump’s agenda and the historical resurgence of the Christian right. The guests examine the violent legacy of the anti-abortion movement and the need for protecting secular democracy against these rising nationalistic forces. Their insights reveal a complex landscape where faith and politics intertwine.

This episode dives into the recent ceasefire between Israel and Iran, exploring the complex repercussions of U.S. military actions. The discussion highlights how such aggression can undermine diplomatic relations and stall peace efforts. Insightful commentary from Iranian American author Hooman Majd sheds light on Trump's influence in escalating tensions. The nuances of diplomacy in the Middle East are scrutinized, leaving listeners to ponder whether true negotiation can withstand the strain of conflict.

Hooman Majd, an Iranian-American writer and author, joins the discussion on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran. He argues that diplomacy should have taken precedence over military strikes, highlighting the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the region. Majd delves into the failures of past negotiations and the dangers of intervention, as well as the implications for Iran's alliances. Personal reflections on his immigrant experience also surface, emphasizing the broader narratives of belonging and identity amidst geopolitical turmoil.

Explore how disinformation skews public perception of key events, like political violence and immigration. The discussion reveals how narratives around the assassination of a Minnesota lawmaker are manipulated, with right-wing figures deflecting blame. Journalists uncover the tactics that distort reality and the implications for societal understanding. Tune in for keen insights into the thriving chaos-driven ecosystem of misinformation.

Taylor Lorenz, an independent journalist known for her insights into tech and online culture, joins Akela Lacy, senior politics reporter, to dissect the aftermath of a political assassination. They delve into how right-wing figures distorted the narrative to blame the left, despite the perpetrator’s ties to radical anti-abortion beliefs. Lorenz emphasizes the pervasive disinformation machine that skews public understanding of violence, while Lacy highlights the alarming prevalence of right-wing political violence, questioning the accountability of those propagating false narratives.