Left, Right & Center
KCRW
Left, Right & Center is KCRW’s weekly civilized yet provocative confrontation over politics, policy and pop culture.
Is ‘cancel culture’ cancelled?
An inquiry from the Wall Street Journal into a social media account linked to a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer led to the employee’s resignation from the Elon Musk-led agency. Following an impromptu Twitter poll from Musk and support from Vice President JD Vance, the employee was welcomed back into DOGE. Is the re-hiring a blow against “cancel culture,” or is an empowered right playing a similar game but with new rules?On the first day of Donald Trump’s second term,
Feb 14, • 50:34
Trump and Musk play disruptor
This week, Trump lobbied for the United States military to oversee the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and turn it into the “riviera of the Middle East.” He forced a brief trade standoff with Canada and Mexico, paused foreign aid, and tried to freeze federal funding for public loans, grants, and other financial aid. American voters seemed to want Trump’s particular brand of disrupting the status quo, but could that backfire?KCRW discusses some of the possible motivations behind Trump’s
Feb 7, • 50:34
Is there a right time to push policy after tragedy?
A massive crash between a commercial airline jet and a military helicopter this week, which reportedly killed 67 people, drew a pointed response from President Donald Trump. He said the FAA’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies played a role in the collision. Was it appropriate for the president to focus on policy following a tragedy?Trump also zeroed in on Americans’ anger when he visited SoCal following the recent wildfires. He criticized LA Mayor Karen Bass’ cautious appro
Jan 31, • 50:34
Can the president do that? Should he?
This week, President Donald Trump got right to business on Inauguration Day, following several additional speaking engagements. He signed executive orders and pardoned over 1,500 people charged with crimes relating to the January 6th insurrection. The use of pardons by Trump on his way in — and Joe Biden on his way out — have raised questions about its potential abuse. Could this set a dangerous precedent?Trump has moved to end birthright citizenship in the U.S., though attorneys genera
Jan 24, • 50:34
Trump’s Inauguration Day 2.0 is all about tone
Inauguration Day is President-elect Donald Trump’s chance to set the tone for the next four years. Currently, his favorability is the highest it’s ever been. He’s already started political action, including brokering a potential Israel-Gaza ceasefire. Will his second inauguration speech continue to ramp up his new coalition or will it alienate the American people? KCRW also answers audience questions on what this new moment could look like. How serious is Trump about expanding the U.S.
Jan 17, • 50:34
So long, Scranton Joe
Joe Biden will wrap up over 50 years of public service when his presidential term ends later this month. How we define the administrations of former presidents often takes time. But as Biden exits the White House, some moments could be etched into his legacy: the way he handled inflation and its impact on Americans, and the fallout of his decision to pull U.S. troops out of Afghanistan. KCRW spends the full hour reflecting on Biden’s domestic and foreign policy record.
Jan 10, • 50:33
The ballad of the one-term Democrats
Nomination hearings for President-elect Trump’s Cabinet are scheduled to begin next week. Senate members on both sides of the aisle have signaled they may challenge some controversial picks. The toughest fights could surround important national security nominees like Pete Hegseth (defense secretary) or Kash Patel (FBI director). As investigations into several violent New Year’s terrorist attacks continue, is there an increased sense of urgency to get those positions filled?One of Presid
Jan 3, • 50:34
So long 2024!
Earlier this month, Disney reached a settlement with President-elect Donald Trump’s defamation case against ABC News. ABC News will pay $15 million to Trump after anchor George Stephanopolous made an on air claim that Trump had been found civilly liable for rape. Trump was in actuality, found liable for sexual abuse. Shortly after, Trump also sued a local Iowa newspaper and pollster Ann Selzer for reporting Kamala Harris had a large lead in the days leading up to the election. Trump’s b
Dec 27, 2024 • 50:34
Why are health officials worried about RFK’s ‘MAHA’ moment?
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has spent this week on Capitol Hill in hopes of securing the necessary Senate votes to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. As Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” platforms gain popularity, senators and health experts raise concerns over Kennedy’s stances against vaccines and certain public health policies. As President-elect Donald Trump continues to flesh out his second term vision, immigration reform remains one of the biggest policies on his age
Dec 20, 2024 • 50:34
Is democracy in Syria’s future?
Bashar al-Assad’s reign over Syria ended this week after 13 years of contentious civil war. Rebel forces captured the capital city of Damascus, freed prisoners from detention facilities, and ousted Assad from his palace. As Syrian citizens celebrate the end of Assad’s regime, President Biden has reaffirmed the need for a “Syrian-led” political transition. What’s next for Syria? Should the United States get involved to uphold international democracy?Political violence struck in New York
Dec 13, 2024 • 52:19
Will Trump take advantage of Hunter Biden pardon?
President-elect Donald Trump has long spoken about his plan to put America first instead of acting as the world’s policeman. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law this week, but the nation’s parliament quickly overturned it. Syrian rebel forces entered the city of Aleppo for the first time in nearly a decade. President Biden is funneling additional resources into Ukraine. All the while, the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah hangs delicately in the balance.
Dec 6, 2024 • 50:34
What’s the right way to cover a second Trump term?
“Morning Joe” co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski are facing significant pushback for a recent visit to Donald Trump’s Mar-A-Lago estate. The MSNBC commentators told their audience they wanted to hear from Trump directly as he prepares for his second presidential term. Was the meeting good reporting, or simply self-serving? United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy believes America is experiencing a “loneliness epidemic,” which hits young people especially hard. He talks a
Nov 29, 2024 • 50:29
Voters feel less polarized post-Trump win, can Democratic Party follow suit?
Georgetown University released their annual “Battleground Civility Poll” this week, which found that voters believe national polarization decreased following Trump’s win. Voters gave polarization a 66.5 out of 100, the lowest score since 2019. While Kamala Harris scored higher on likability and hope for the future, Donald Trump scored higher on who could inspire results. Republicans won full control of Congress, but voters anticipate across-the-aisle compromise. Are people settling into
Nov 22, 2024 • 50:30
A cabinet full of characters
President-elect Donald Trump announced a handful of buzzworthy cabinet appointments over the past few days. Trump has already announced his picks for the secretaries of State, Homeland Security and Defense. Those picks - Marco Rubio, Kristi Noem and Pete Hegseth, respectively - were controversial enough before Trump announced his choice of Florida senator Matt Gaetz for Attorney General. Gaetz’s selection has drawn scrutiny from both sides of the aisle. Was the media meltdown over Gaetz
Nov 15, 2024 • 50:34
What went right for Trump, what went wrong for Harris?
President-elect Donald Trump is on track to be the first Republican to win the popular vote in 20 years. He won all the battleground states, knocking down the previous blue wall. Was this a referendum on the style of leadership the country desires? Trump outperformed his 2020 candidacy, while Kamala Harris underperformed in states President Joe Biden previously won.Donald Trump did better than anticipated with Latinos, Black men, and blue-collar workers. That success with key demographi
Nov 8, 2024 • 50:34
Will late campaign gaffes trash either candidate’s chances?
Polling shows the election is gridlocked in a tie. With both candidates preaching existential threats if they lose, and promising to save the country if they win, is fear or vibes a greater force in this election? Even after an assassination attempt, a sitting president stepping down, and felony convictions, neither side shows a strong lead. Whose charisma will prevail?Comedian-podcaster Tony Hinchcliffe stirred up controversy when he referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of gar
Nov 1, 2024 • 50:34
Undecided voters and abortion rights could sway election
With days left in the race, some say the onus is on Vice President Kamala Harris to distinguish herself from Joe Biden’s previous not-Donald Trump strategy. At a CNN town hall on Wednesday, she walked back former progressive policies and hammered in working across the aisle. Is her strategy of playing the middle enough to win?Polls suggest that nearly half of voters in the U.S. intend to cast their ballots early. Tens of millions have already done so, but in this tight a race, the fate
Oct 25, 2024 • 50:25
A hurricane of conspiracies
A new front has opened in the culture wars: meteorology. Rampant disinformation spread across the Southeast after Hurricanes Helene and Milton left thousands in need of disaster relief. While some conservative lawmakers have been trying to manage the devastation, others including Donald Trump have platformed dangerous conspiracy theories. What does the GOP’s relationship with disinformation mean for the party’s future, and where does it go after Trump?Nebraska is one of two states that
Oct 18, 2024 • 50:34
Gender, class … and fracking?
Teamsters President Sean O’Brien recently announced that the influential union wouldn’t be endorsing a presidential candidate. Meanwhile, other major unions are supporting Kamala Harris, but she’s struggling to secure the working-class male vote. Have Democrats lost the ability to connect with this bloc, or is something else at play? And what do we mean when we say “working class” these days?There was a lot of attention on Kamala Harris’ previous stances on fracking when she joined the
Oct 11, 2024 • 55:19
Cordial VP debate was a throwback to a bygone era
Tim Walz and J.D. Vance took to the debate stage Tuesday night on CBS News. Vance addressed his previous comments on Trump, Walz settled in after a shaky start, and both candidates walked away with higher favorability ratings. In a political era defined by catty, entertainment-driven television, was Tuesday’s policy-oriented debate a welcome relief? The Left, Right, and Center panel examines how the expectations around debates have changed in the Trump era.On Tuesday, Iran launched arou
Oct 4, 2024 • 50:34
Where does modern conservatism leave Trump ahead of Nov. election?
The “never Trump” sentiment has long existed in the media. But there is a growing divide between what it means to be conservative, Republican, and pro-Trumper — they are not all one and the same. Established Republicans, including Liz Cheney, endorsed Kamala Harris in this election due to concerns that Trump has taken over the GOP. This week’s Left, Right, and Center panel consists of three conservatives breaking down what it means to be a “never Trump” Republican.Both Trump and Harris
Sep 27, 2024 • 50:29
Where does Brazil’s X ban leave free speech in US?
U.S. politicians have focused on China for the last few years, specifically data concerns with TikTok and A.I. Last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson said Republicans are working on several bills to counter Xi Jinping’s Communist Party. The legislation package received overwhelming bipartisan support. Did the House come together on this issue, or are Democrats trying to keep pace with the GOP’s “tough on China” image?Meanwhile, as Congress takes on TikTok, Brazil’s government banned X (f
Sep 20, 2024 • 51:54
Do debates have winners — or just losers?
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump met for the first time in Pennsylvania at the presidential debate on Tuesday. ABC moderators, David Muir and Linsey Davis, notably live fact-checked both candidates on topics of immigration, the economy, and foreign policy. Harris was pushed to address her shift on fracking and gun buybacks. Meanwhile, Trump was put on the spot about his plan to end the war in Ukraine. The Left, Right, and Center panel examines where the candidates stand in voter’s minds p
Sep 13, 2024 • 50:29
How has ‘Make America Great Again’ evolved in Trump era?
The phrase “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) has grown more popular over the last decade thanks to Donald Trump’s campaign. But Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton both used that messaging. How has the slogan’s meaning changed from its origin to now? This election, both parties are focusing on the fight against poverty. While Donald Trump championed his 2017 tax cuts as an economy-boosting tool, Kamala Harris wants the government to help Americans pay for food and housing. Which campaign i
Sep 6, 2024 • 50:25
Can Democrats' shift toward patriotism win them the election?
In Kamala Harris’ economic plan, which rolled out this month, she promises to fight price gouging, the idea that companies are charging whatever they want to maximize profits, especially when many families are struggling. Last weekend, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) defended legislation to ban the practice. States like Florida and Texas have laws to address the issue too. However, can lawmakers effectively stop price gouging? Some economists argue that intervening could cause harm.Sinc
Aug 30, 2024 • 50:29
Are Democrats more unified after DNC?
Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic presidential nomination during the final night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The week-long event included speeches from former President Barack Obama, celebrities endorsing the Harris/Walz ticket, and even rumors of Beyonce and Taylor Swift appearances. The open convention ended with Harris’ speech focused on freedom, which is a shift from the gloomy narrative of the Biden and Trump race. Did the DNC boost the Harris/Walz ticket
Aug 23, 2024 • 50:30
Will a lack of detailed policy hurt Harris?
Kamala Harris is expected to reveal her campaign’s policy over the next week in the run-up to the Democratic National Convention. Questions from the media and GOP about a lack of detailed policy have been growing. Donald Trump is taking the opportunity to accuse Harris of flip-flopping on policy positions from her 2020 primary campaign, especially related to fracking and immigration. Is it important to hold candidates accountable for earlier positions, or should voters accept that peopl
Aug 16, 2024 • 50:29
Is Tim Walz the right choice as Kamala Harris’ running mate?
With less than 90 days until November 5, leading Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris named Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Donald Trump got the VP opponent he wanted, and Republicans already began digging up dirt. The panel discusses what’s next as both tickets are complete: Harris/Walz and Trump/Vance. When Joe Biden was still campaigning, he painted Trump as a threat to democracy. At the same time, Trump and his supporters pushed an image of society colla
Aug 9, 2024 • 50:29
Trump’s comment on Harris’ race: Calculated or ‘weird?’
Donald Trump made a visit to Chicago during the National Association for Black Journalists’ (NABJ) conference for a panel that included ABC Senior Congressional Correspondent Rachel Scott. When asked about presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris’ credentials, Trump said she “happened to turn Black” for political gain. Harris, who is the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, called Trump’s remarks the “same old show,” emphasizing that the “American people deser
Aug 2, 2024 • 50:29
Despite lost time, can Kamala Harris gain ground on Trump?
Days after dropping out as the Democratic presidential nominee, Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office, pledging his commitment to finishing his term and restating his support for Vice President Kamala Harris as his replacement on the November ballot. A whirlwind of donations and support for Harris has re-energized Democrats — does that effort qualify as “grassroots?”Both Trump and Harris spoke following the candidate change. Trump called for Harris to be “fired,” while she
Jul 26, 2024 • 50:29
Is Trump’s GOP departing from traditional conservatism?
At a Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, rally on July 13, former President Donald Trump narrowly dodged an assassination attempt. The moment left both parties reeling as they came to terms with a landscape that prioritizes extremes and is ripe for political violence. Just 48 hours later, the Republican National Convention kicked off in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump, with a bandage over his ear, pushed for unity within his party and across the country. But did his speech on the last day of the con
Jul 19, 2024 • 50:33
Did Biden’s NATO presser save his candidacy?
This past week, President Biden ended the NATO three-day summit with a solo press conference. Since the first presidential debate, Americans have questioned his ability to fulfill another term in the White House. Journalists brought up this issue again to Biden during today’s press conference — did he smooth over concerns?The Republican National Committee’s party platform hones in most on the “migrant invasion.” Trump’s slogan, “Make America Great Again,” opens the 20-item agenda, which
Jul 12, 2024 • 50:29
What’s the long-term impact of SCOTUS’ presidential immunity ruling?
On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that Trump’s actions during his presidency were within constitutional power. The prosecution of his role in the January 6, 2021 insurrection will be delayed until after the election this November. The Left, Right, and Center panel discusses concerns about presidential power and what this would mean after the election. In Oklahoma, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters released a memo saying the Bible will be taught from grade
Jul 5, 2024 • 50:30
No spinning this one: Analyzing Trump, Biden debate performances
This week in Atlanta, Georgia, a current and former president debated each other for the first time in U.S. history. But the highly anticipated clash between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump may have left many viewers with more questions than answers. Biden’s weak performance sparked panic among Democrats — will his campaign overcome this? Will the bluster and falsehoods of Donald Trump stick with voters? Plus, what impact did CNN’s moderators and a new set of debat
Jun 28, 2024 • 50:30
Will presidential candidates fare better than what polling suggests?
How voters feel about the presidential candidates — and what issues are most important to them — are the focus of a new PBS/Marist poll. The economy is their top priority, and democracy comes in second. Hot-button subjects like abortion and foreign policy are noticeably absent. Meanwhile, how much impact will culture wars and tribalism have on winning over voters?In North Dakota this week, voters approved a ballot measure that set an age limit on the state’s members of Congress. It says
Jun 21, 2024 • 50:30
Are Trump’s claims for political revenge more than rhetoric?
Following his felony conviction, Donald Trump has spent the last week talking about revenge on his political enemies, such as throwing the president’s wife in jail. Some voters are concerned about the dramatics and inflammatory terminology, particularly Project 2025, the conservative playbook for realigning the federal government. How realistic are those ideas, and what are the safeguards to maintain the balance of prosecutorial power?Over the weekend, an IDF operation led to the rescue
Jun 14, 2024 • 50:28
Will Americans believe in Biden’s ability to lead?
Hunter Biden’s trial on federal gun charges got underway this week. He faces an embarrassing and revealing court case, plus possible prison time if he’s found guilty. According to Sarah Isgur, senior editor of The Dispatch, the best thing for both Hunter and his father’s re-election campaign would be a plea deal, as she wrote for The New York Times. How would the president have to respond if a guilty verdict does come down? And what do the troubles facing Joe Biden in his son’s case rev
Jun 7, 2024 • 50:29
With Trump’s trial over (for now), what’s next?
A New York jury found Donald Trump guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records. It is the first time a former president has been convicted of a crime. The case was rooted in Trump’s attempt to keep a damaging story about himself and actress Stormy Daniels out of the news during the 2016 election. With any potential punishment still far out, the focus now is on how the conviction will impact politics in the upcoming weeks and months. Will Trump or Joe Biden find the best way to capitalize
May 31, 2024 • 50:29
How AI and deepfakes could affect this election
The renewed bill — to address the ongoing border crisis — fails to advance from the Senate following a 43-50 procedural vote. The bipartisan legislation would have provided more money for border security and tightened asylum restrictions, among other provisions. Republican detractors viewed this latest push as a political stunt, while some progressives argued that it was too punitive. With immigration consistently rising as a top issue for voters, how might this latest congressional fai
May 24, 2024 • 50:29
Will debates give Biden or Trump an edge?
President Biden is trailing Donald Trump in several battleground states, according to new polling from the New York Times and Siena College. While polling this far out from an election often doesn’t represent final results, it can reveal trends that candidates should seriously consider, says Mo Elleithee, executive director at Georgetown University's Institute of Politics and Public Service. In Biden’s case, the polls indicate less support among young voters, nonwhite voters, and blue c
May 17, 2024 • 51:47
Why Netanyahu’s latest move is a threat to a free press
The government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shuttered the Israel offices of news network Al Jazeera this week. The country blocked the network’s website, and Israeli police raided their studios, confiscating broadcast equipment. Americans would expect this move from an authoritarian leader, not a democratic ally. Will the United States’ relationship with Netanyahu’s country change how it views the threat to press freedom? South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is under fire
May 10, 2024 • 50:29
Is the media focus on student protests missing the mark?
Pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses have taken over national headlines recently. Clashes between protestors and counterprotestors, as well as law enforcement, are top of mind for political leaders. Have the student-led demonstrations shifted the focus away from the actual conflict on the ground in Gaza? When it comes to states enforcing Title IX, the Biden administration recently announced new guidelines, which include extending discrimination protections to groups who previously weren’
May 3, 2024 • 50:30
Foreign aid bill passes US House. What’s next for Speaker Johnson?
President Biden signed off on a $95 billion foreign aid package approved by Congress this week. It includes military funds to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. While Democrats were happy to work with the Republican leadership to get the bill done, a more conservative wing of the GOP was less than thrilled. Will the package cost another speaker of the House their job? And how are U.S. allies feeling about the drawn-out fight to get a deal done? New polling from NBC shows a shift in support f
Apr 26, 2024 • 50:29
Trump’s criminal trial takes center stage
The embattled leadership of the Republican Party came together in a show of solidarity this week. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump was joined by House Speaker Mike Johnson for a press conference at Trump’s Mar-A-Lago compound. Trump backed the speaker in the face of mounting pressure from conservative members of the House to remove Johnson from the role. This show of support came amid another legal challenge for the former president. Jury selection in Trump’s trial over al
Apr 19, 2024 • 50:30
Trump’s abortion position? Leave it up to the states
This week, former President Donald Trump took credit for leaving decisions about abortion bans up to individual states, while pledging to maintain that choice for states if he’s re-elected. Can we expect the lack of federal guidance on individual rights to continue? And will Republican supporters hold any ill will for his lack of commitment to a classic conservative value? President Biden openly criticized Benjamin Netanyahu’s deadly campaign in Gaza following last week’s attack on Wor
Apr 12, 2024 • 50:29
Will congressional candidates suffer from voters’ fatigue with Biden, Trump?
Donald Trump and Joe Biden aren’t the only ones preparing for a tight race this year. With every House seat and a third of Senate seats up for grabs in November, both Democrats and Republicans are hoping to take control of Congress. But will congressional candidates be able to overcome the unique situation that Trump and Biden’s policies and personalities present? More Americans than ever believe religion’s influence in politics is dwindling. Evangelical voters have pointed to Presiden
Apr 5, 2024 • 50:29
What’s behind the recent wave of Congressional exits?
Two dozen Democrats and over 20 Republicans plan to retire from Congress this year. Several members of the House have chosen to end their terms early, making the situation especially difficult for an already tight GOP majority. The most recent examples include Wisconsin Representative Mike Gallagher and Texas Congressman Ken Buck. In interviews prior to his exit this month, Buck called out a lack of professionalism in the current Congress. How serious is this wave of exits? And what are
Mar 29, 2024 • 50:29
What’s driving the divide between Netanyahu and the White House?
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer upset critics on the right when he called for an election in Israel to remove Benjamin Netanyahu as prime minister. Schumer’s counterpart, Mitch McConnell, called the move “disrespectful” of Israeli democracy and sovereignty. Many think Netanyahu’s administration is on the path to peace in Gaza, but a planned offensive in the southern city of Rafah could worsen the situation. Despite Schumer’s perceived overstep, was he right about the need for leadership to
Mar 22, 2024 • 50:17
This election season, will media learn from past mistakes?
An election rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump became official after the two clinched the nominations for their respective parties this week. Media outlets have experience reporting on the two of them, but the stakes seem higher this time around. Will covering 2024 like a traditional election create the same pitfalls journalists have fallen for in the past? Some of the flaws the media will have to confront were on full display following Special Counsel Robert Hur’s congressional testimon
Mar 15, 2024 • 50:30
Voters, not courts, to decide 2024 election
In a 9-0 decision, the Supreme Court found that Colorado did not have the power to remove Donald Trump from the state’s primary ballot. Though the justices had a difference of opinion on how the ruling was decided, their overall agreement was that individual states should not have the power to decide who would be eligible to run for president. That may be the best-case scenario for the 2024 election, according to panelist Mo Elleithee. “For anyone on the left, anyone who’s worried about Trump,
Mar 8, 2024 • 50:30
How Mitch McConnell changed the courts and US politics
Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell announced that he would step down from his role as Senate minority leader this November, though he’ll still be a senator through the end of his term. McConnell had been the head of the Senate’s Republican members since 2006. What motivated the leadership exit? The 82-year-old pointed to personal concerns and the changing politics of his party. What should we remember about the longtime Republican figurehead, and what could the end of his time as a Senate leader l
Mar 1, 2024 • 50:28
Will Navalny’s death motivate the US to act in Ukraine?
Mourning continues after the death of Alexei Navalny, a Russian opposition leader and one of Vladimir Putin’s most vocal critics. Navalny, who returned to Russia in 2021 following an attempted poisoning, died in a remote prison last Friday. His widow Yulia vowed to take up his cause and urged the international community to join her as she seeks justice for her husband’s death. Will Putin tightening his hold on power in Russia motivate more direct support for Ukraine from the United States? Crime
Feb 23, 2024 • 50:29
Are we failing to put Trump and Biden concerns into proper context?
Donald Trump made waves with a speech at a campaign rally in South Carolina last week. The former president recalled an encounter with a leader of a NATO country, where he threatened to withhold U.S. protection from Russia if the country didn’t make adequate financial contributions to the alliance. Is it an example of the leading Republican candidate’s flair for the dramatic? Are there more serious concerns about the United States’ credibility with its allies? Special Counsel Robert Hur complete
Feb 16, 2024 • 50:28
Republicans’ horrible, no good, very bad week in Congress
A tumultuous week in Congress centered around the failure of a comprehensive immigration and national security bill. Democrats in the Senate compromised on demands by Republicans for tighter border measures. The hope was that it would help secure more military assistance for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. However, the legislation failed to make it past a procedural vote after pressure from Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Johnson faced issues in his own chamber as well, with the failure
Feb 9, 2024 • 50:33
Who’s in charge at the border?
A drone attack on a United States military base in Jordan killed three servicemembers. President Biden announced that a decision had been made on responding to the attack, though details weren’t shared. The White House did say Iranian-backed militias responsible for several other attacks on U.S. troops in the Middle East can expect to be targeted. Will that be enough to deter the growing threat of a wider conflict with Iran? The United States sued for the right to take down a nearly three-mile s
Feb 2, 2024 • 50:29
How can Biden, Trump can get voters to believe in their visions?
A rematch of the 2020 presidential election seems unavoidable. Most voters may be disappointed by the choice between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, whose victory in the New Hampshire Republican primary made his nomination a near certainty. President Biden and Donald Trump will have to craft clear messages about their visions for 2024. “It’s not really … a solution to an American problem that they’re trying to pitch to voters,” says Sarah Isgur, senior editor at The Dispatch. She argues that winnin
Jan 26, 2024 • 50:29
What did Trump’s Iowa victory reveal about the political landscape?
Donald Trump’s path to the GOP nomination kicked off with a win in the Iowa caucus this week, which some media outlets announced early. One key to his victory was outperforming among demographics he struggled with in the 2016 primary. Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley are looking to regroup before New Hampshire, but will they be able to overcome the trends that emerged from the decisive results we saw in Iowa? Israel’s war against Hamas passed the 100-day milestone. New dangers have emerged along th
Jan 19, 2024 • 50:30
Democracy is on the ballot (and the docket) in 2024
Donald Trump is appealing the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling that his role in the January 6 Capitol riots classifies as engaging in insurrection and thus disqualifies him from appearing on the state’s Republican primary ballot. The Colorado judges’ ruling relies on language in the 14th Amendment, which bars any public official engaging in insurrection from seeking public office. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments next month. Will the nine justices rule against Trump, and what impact cou
Jan 12, 2024 • 50:34
Can Haley, Desantis keep the spotlight after Iowa?
The Iowa caucus is two weeks — and one Republican debate — away. The crowded GOP field has narrowed down to three. Is there a miracle in store for Ron Desantis or Nikki Haley that would allow them to overcome Donald Trump’s commanding lead? Or are the two remaining contenders setting themselves up for a run in 2028? An approaching election means maps covered in red and blue should be popping up any day now. But is the makeup of modern parties more complex than the binary framework around our pol
Jan 5, 2024 • 50:32
What 2024 could mean for trust in the judiciary, journalism
As 2023 comes to a close, speculation about what the government will look like this time next year is running wild. The nation will be readying for a second term of either Donald Trump or Joe Biden as president. But are the foundations of the nation’s democracy ready for whatever shake ups are on the horizon? David Greene, Sarah Isgur and Mo Elleithee examine the erosion of trust in the judiciary, police and journalism. Is the shift towards political extremes hurting citizens’ belief in these in
Dec 29, 2023 • 50:34
Why Colorado court’s ruling (probably) won’t spell an end for Trump
The Colorado Supreme Court determined, by a vote of 4-3, that Donald Trump was ineligible to be on the state’s ballots. The court found the former president engaged in insurrection against the United States — a charge he hasn’t been found guilty of in any other court. Now, the case rests in the hands of the U.S. Supreme Court. What could be the lasting impact of the court’s decision? For our 50 States segment, we turn to the state of Texas and the lawsuit of Kate Cox. Cox filed a lawsuit seeking
Dec 22, 2023 • 50:34
Biden calls out Bibi
President Biden’s steadfast support for Israel since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack is looking less steadfast this week. At a donor event, Biden warned, “They’re starting to lose [international] support by indiscriminate bombing that takes place.” Our panel takes on the practical and philosophical questions around Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. The 2024 presidential primaries are just a month away. The outcome is hardly a mystery in either party, even though voters are dissatisfied with having to
Dec 15, 2023 • 50:34
Why is the House focusing on antizionism while addressing antisemitism?
A rise in antisemitism in the wake of Israel’s war with Hamas caught the attention of the House of Representatives this past week. Members of the House held a hearing with college presidents addressing antisemitic incidents on campuses. They also passed a resolution condemning antisemitism, including antizionism. The vote split Democrats, who raised questions about the choice to equate antizionism with antisemitism. Did Congress take advantage of a tense political moment to play a game of “gotch
Dec 8, 2023 • 50:33
Will Biden’s leadership hold under pressure?
A temporary pause on fighting in Gaza between Israel and Hamas was agreed upon with the help of President Biden and the Qatari government. It’s a volatile situation, relying on the continued trade-off of hostages and prisoners between the two sides. There aren’t many on the left or the right who have been pleased with Biden’s handling of the situation, even with the desired outcome of released hostages. Will the president’s commitment to nuance continue to withstand the political pressures he fa
Dec 1, 2023 • 50:34
Reading the tea leaves of early polling
With the primary season just around the corner, voters can expect an influx of polling data. Sorting through it all can be tricky. David Wasserman of the non-partisan Cook Political Report discusses what numbers we should be paying attention to, and explains why questions about poll reliability are valid. Joe Manchin's decision to not run for re-election in West Virginia has stoked suspicions around the senator’s possible third-party candidacy. Can the growing field of third-party cand
Nov 24, 2023 • 50:30
Congress avoids a shutdown — and doesn’t seem thrilled about it
Congress agreed to a new spending bill this week to avoid a government shutdown. The bill relies on the same type of structured deadlines that cost former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy his party’s support and eventually his job. New Speaker Mike Johnson chose not to fight for the spending cuts and border funding that Republicans sought in order to get the bill through the House. Will his willingness to compromise lead him down the same path? Israel’s war against Hamas has strong backin
Nov 17, 2023 • 50:34
Will Dems’ success this week boost Biden in 2024?
It was Election Day in several states this week. Voters hit the polls to decide on abortion as a constitutional right in Ohio. Kentucky and Mississippi made their choice for governor. And every state legislative seat in Virginia was up for grabs. Democrats saw favorable results across the board. Do those results tell us more about Biden’s chances in 2024, or the struggles Republicans must overcome to get their message across? Democrats and Republicans remain at a standstill on immigration policy
Nov 10, 2023 • 50:34
Regulating AI: What’s the government’s power?
President Biden signed a sweeping order focused on reinforcing safety, security, and trust in artificial intelligence. It creates federal guardrails for the continuously evolving technology, while advocating for its development. The government was slow to address calls for regulating social media. Will an aggressive federal approach on AI pay off? The foreign influence behind TikTok remains a major concern for U.S. lawmakers. Some congressional members continue to seek a ban on the pop
Nov 3, 2023 • 50:30
Democracy is back session
After an embarrassing three weeks of nominees and almost-elections, the House of Representatives finally chose a new speaker — Republican Rep. Mike Johnson, who tried to help Donald Trump overturn the 2020 election. Now, can Congress get to work on government funding and pressing national crises? In an Oval Office address to the nation, President Biden announced a request to Congress for $106 billion to boost national security. The package would include military aid for Israel, increa
Oct 27, 2023 • 50:30
What does a just response from Israel look like?
President Biden traveled to Israel this week to offer support, but warned against letting rage consume the response against Hammas. Plus, there’s been a lot of dehumanizing rhetoric around the conflict. What real world impact could that have?
Oct 20, 2023 • 50:30
What will Israel’s war with Hamas mean for Gaza?
After Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis in an attack at the Gaza border over the weekend, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised to respond with unprecedented force. That meant a wave of airstrikes over Gaza, killing more than 1,100 Palestians, reported the Gaza Health Ministry. Israeli forces are preparing a ground invasion as well. Israel is known for having one of the world’s most powerful militaries — supported by billions of U.S. dollars annually. So how was Hamas able to
Oct 13, 2023 • 50:28
How the House was lost and what could come next
For the first time ever, the House of Representatives voted to oust its speaker. This week, House Democrats joined forces with the small contingent of Republicans who wanted Kevin McCarthy gone. Was it the right call, and what’s next? Hunter Biden pleaded not guilty to three charges related to his purchase of a gun in 2018. He’s accused of lying about his drug use on the application he submitted in the purchase. His legal team and other critics say the charges are out of line with Depa
Oct 6, 2023 • 50:30
Can the party of Reagan right its course?
Republican presidential candidates faced off in another primary debate this week. As they stated their case to voters, they aligned themselves with Ronald Reagan’s vision for the Republican Party. But is the party of Reagan a thing of the past? Donald Trump and Joe Biden both made their way to Michigan in support of striking auto workers. What are working voters looking to see and hear from the presidential front runners? Former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson’s new book, Enough, is drawing
Sep 29, 2023 • 50:30
Biden v. Trump: Who will win over more auto workers amid strike?
The United Auto Workers union initiated a partial strike after failing to reach a new contract with automakers General Motors, Ford and Stellantis. Thirteen thousand workers hit the picket lines outside of plants in Michigan, Missouri and Ohio. As the president and GOP candidates weigh in, whose response will resonate most with the workers? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a stark warning for other world leaders as he addressed the United Nations General Assembly this week. T
Sep 22, 2023 • 51:13
Dems at odds over support for asylum seekers
New York City Mayor Eric Adams says the city is struggling to support 110,000 migrants who have arrived there in the last year. He’s called for support from the federal government. Republicans have taken a victory lap as the Democratic mayor’s comments have caused a rift on the left. Will politics or policy win in the search for a solution? A recently elected state Supreme Court judge in Wisconsin is being threatened with impeachment just a month after being sworn in. Republicans in th
Sep 15, 2023 • 50:30
Biden’s race for re-election approaches new hurdle
The choice between Joe Biden and Donald Trump is a toss-up nationally. Will a possible rematch turn emerging polling trends into a new political reality? The effects of climate change were on full view this summer. The insurance industry claims that protecting Americans from those effects is growing too costly, forecasting some hefty costs for homeowners without an appropriate response. A scandal reverberates throughout Spanish soccer. Plus, hear another installment of our Changed My Mind audio
Sep 8, 2023 • 50:29
Will ‘Trump Lite’ leave voters wanting more?
Vivek Ramaswamy had a strong performance in the first Republican primary debate. It’s too early to tell how it will translate in the polls. Can he connect the party’s base with the next generation of voters? Nikki Haley drew heat for saying Americans should be afraid of a possible Kamala Harris presidency. Critics say the comment is a dog whistle for racist and sexist voters who oppose the vice president. Is she out of bounds, or are the VP’s supporters being overprotective? Last week
Sep 1, 2023 • 50:34
GOP candidates fight to fill Trump’s absence
The first primary debate of the 2024 presidential election took place in Milwaukee this week. Eight Republicans took the stage. Who left their mark? Donald Trump was invited but chose not to attend. His presence continues to linger over the participants and the identity of his party. Will the GOP’s traditional conservative ideals take hold, or will voters follow their hearts back to Trump and his acolytes? The response to Maui’s raging wildfires left plenty of room for criticism of emergency and
Aug 25, 2023 • 50:30
Georgia On My Mind
A fourth indictment was filed against Donald Trump this week — in the state of Georgia. Fulton County D.A. Fani T. Willis presented a sprawling document charging Trump and 18 others for conspiring to reverse the state’s results in the 2020 presidential election. Will an elected official pursuing a legal case against Trump hurt what is an otherwise strong case? The first Republican primary debate is less than a week away. With several candidates jostling for second place behind Donald Trump’s bi
Aug 18, 2023 • 50:29
Buckeye State bucks ballot initiative
Ohio voters turned out in droves to reject a ballot measure that would change the state’s amendment process. An upcoming vote on abortion rights lingered in the background of the special election. What role could abortion play in national voter turnout next November? Hunter Biden’s business partner testified before Congress last week. A collapsed plea deal on tax charges means a potential trial for the president’s son could be around the corner. Could further investigation into Hunter’s legal tr
Aug 11, 2023 • 50:34
Adding indictments to injury
Donald Trump was indicted this week for several charges related to the events of January 6. U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith presented a strong legal case against the former president. Will litigating the Capitol riots help mend the political divide, or set a strict precedent for the executive branch? President Biden’s administration says it’s doing everything it can to solve a broken immigration system. The policies put in place so far haven’t garnered much support from either side of the politi
Aug 4, 2023 • 50:29
McCarthy’s on the Hunt(er)
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy thinks it may be time to open an impeachment inquiry to get more information on President Biden’s involvement in his son Hunter’s questionable business dealings. Congress can pursue impeachment at its own discretion, but is now too soon? Also, Mark Zuckerberg narrowly missed being held in contempt of Congress after initially withholding internal communications between the White House and Facebook. The House Judiciary Committee says he may not be so lucky next time. I
Jul 28, 2023 • 50:29
Who’s afraid of the big bad Trump?
Conservative groups and the Donald Trump campaign are collaborating to expand executive powers if Trump secures a second White House term. At the heart of the plan is a legitimate debate about the scope of government —- and legitimate fears about what Trump would do with all that control. The independent group No Labels held a town hall unveiling its plans to present a third party option to a Biden-Trump rematch. Can they present anything to independent voters that’s worth a spot on the ballot n
Jul 21, 2023 • 50:29
Tuberville blocks nominees — will US military lose its might?
Both the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the National Institutes of Health need a chief. Some senators are blocking confirmation of those nominees — so what will it take to win them over? Meanwhile, Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama is feeling heat for his comments defending white nationalism. Why does the GOP still feel the need to reach a controversial wing of voters? The increased popularity of artificial intelligence means tech could play a bigger role this upcoming election season.
Jul 14, 2023 • 50:29
Voters believe in Biden’s policy. Do they believe in the man?
President Biden is putting the spin on “Bidenomics.” The administration is hoping they can capture voters with improved messaging on popular policies, but will it work? We’re a week removed from the end of the Supreme Court’s most recent term. What are the big takeaways from the slate of decisions from the court, and lessons about the newest justice? America celebrated its independence once again this past week. But after a tumultuous last few years, confidence in institutions is down
Jul 7, 2023 • 50:29
What’s next for diversity efforts as SCOTUS strikes down affirmative action?
The Supreme Court ruled against long-standing affirmative action practices for public and private universities. Is there any chance this could improve how colleges try to increase diversity on campuses, or will it set back the clock in the push for racial equity? After last week’s short-lived mutiny, plenty of questions remain about the strength of Vladimir Putin’s regime in Russia. What can we take away from how he’s handled the aftermath? How has it impacted support for Putin at home
Jun 30, 2023 • 50:46
Biden’s uphill battle, and a year post-Roe
President Biden is hitting the campaign trail to tout his first-term accomplishments, gain support, and refill his war chest. But in the face of sagging poll numbers, can he convince voters to grant him a second term? It’s now been one year since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. What’s changed in the absence of federal abortion protections, and what else has the court ruled on in its most recent term? Can it maintain public credibility amidst political polarization? A storm is brewing
Jun 23, 2023 • 50:29
Trump’s been indicted — again
Donald Trump has broken another record. Already the first former president ever indicted on criminal charges, he’s now the first ever indicted twice. He faces 37 felony counts stemming from his improper withholding of top secret documents at Mar a Lago. He stored them, among other places, in the bathroom. Trump cries witch hunt, but what defense will he employ in federal court? And then there’s the court of public opinion, where Trump holds defiant rallies and the usual cast of Republi
Jun 16, 2023 • 50:29
‘He’s boring as hell’: Mike Pence jumps into presidential race
Mike Pence is officially running for president — against the former president who made him vice president. He’s trying to evoke Reagan conservatism, but does the Trump-dominated GOP actually want to go retro? And does Pence have the charisma to bring voters with him? The Ukrainian military may or may not have launched its much-anticipated counteroffensive in the wake of a horrific dam break that flooded the front lines. If Russia was responsible, could it be a dangerous sign of things to come in
Jun 9, 2023 • 50:29
House debt ceiling vote: Winner, loser, bipartisan outlier?
The months-long battle to raise the limit on how much money the federal government can borrow cleared its biggest hurdle: the Republican-controlled House, led by Speaker Kevin McCarthy. “We didn’t do it by taking the easy way,” McCarthy said. “We decided that we had to spend less, and we achieved that goal. Is it everything I wanted? No. But sitting with one House, with a Democratic Senate, and a Democratic Senate who didn’t want to meet with us, I think we did pretty dang good for the
Jun 2, 2023 • 50:30
An embarrassing start as DeSantis announces 2024 presidential bid
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis finally announced his bid for president. He did it on Twitter with Elon Musk, the platform’s controversial owner, and it did not go well. After 25 minutes of silence and delays, DeSantis finally gave his speech. Will the rocky start marr his campaign, or does it not matter? Then, it’s the third anniversary of George Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police officers. His death sparked an important movement in the U.S. and around the world. But what was not well-known abo
May 26, 2023 • 50:29
Are Democrats doomed to lose their gains in Senate?
Democrats are worrying about the Senate map as 23 seats are up for reelection, as compared to 10 on the Republican side. Many of these seats are in swing states or red states. What should Democrats do to ensure some wins? Then, Biden is set on partnering with Vice President Kamala Harris again in 2024, despite her low approval ratings. Will this impact his electability? Researchers have stated that past vice presidents have not moved the needle on votes for a president. But is it different this
May 19, 2023 • 50:32
Same old Trump in CNN town hall: Sign of what to expect in 2024 race?
Trump took the stage again for a New Hampshire town hall hosted by CNN, and it was like going back in time to 2016. He rehashed the stolen election claim and hurled insults, and more. Is the U.S. bound to repeat political history? Then, with another round of mass shootings and the public growing weary, can politicians agree on legislation, or must Americans accept gun violence as unavoidable? And Bud Light entered the cultural wars by featuring a transgender model in a recent ad campaign, which
May 12, 2023 • 50:32
Should Biden have ordered 1500 troops to US-Mexico border?
Biden seemed to take a page out of Trump’s playbook this week by ordering 1,500 active duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. He stated it was meant to help the National Guard and Border Patrol deal with the surge of migrants as the pandemic-era Title 42 expires. But were soldiers the right response to a humanitarian crisis? Then, fighting in Sudan has created a humanitarian disaster after only two weeks. Did the U.S. overestimate the situation by pushing for democracy? And did we embolden the t
May 5, 2023 • 50:30
Biden and Trump likely to face off again in 2024 presidential bid
President Biden has made it official: He’s running again. And there is yet to be a serious challenger to Donald Trump. Is the upcoming race full of undesirable candidates? Then, politicians seem to agree that that TikTok should be regulated or banned in the U.S. as concern increases over China using the app to spy on Americans. How serious is this threat, and how will people react if it’s prohibited? And music has an ability to bring us together, and country musician Ketch Secor from Old Crow Me
Apr 28, 2023 • 54:57
Dianne Feinstein is pressured to resign. Is it sexism?
Two senators are back at work this week after taking time off for health reasons. One other, Senator Dianne Feinstein, is still recovering. Many democrats are calling for her to step down so the Senate Judiciary Committee can replace her and do its job of voting in new judges. But some prominent women are saying this is sexism. Also, Republicans and Democrats are at a stalemate on the debt ceiling. What’s it going to take to resolve and stop the country from defaulting on its loans? Plus, Supr
Apr 21, 2023 • 50:29
Why did the GOP kick 2 Tennessee lawmakers out of their jobs for protesting?
Two Tennessee lawmakers are expelled after Republicans in the House reacted to a breach of decorum. Their districts reinstated them, but was this the right reaction to protests from the left? Then, President Biden passed proposed changes intended to protect transgender athletes in schools, but no one is happy. Why wasn’t it a good compromise for those in the middle? And, the 15-minute city is a seemingly innocuous urban planning idea, but it’s sparked fear and backlash. But what could be bad a
Apr 14, 2023 • 50:31
Should the media give Trump so much airtime?
Donald Trump was arraigned this week on 34 counts of falsifying business records, making him the first U.S. president to be criminally indicted. Is the media caving to temptation once again and giving Trump too much airtime? Also, Wall Street Journal Reporter Evan Gershkovich was taken into custody in Russia and accused of espionage. After decades of Russian authorities never targeting American journalists, Vladimir Putin has escalated matters and all bets appear to be off. Are we heading for a
Apr 7, 2023 • 50:29
Biden publicly calls out Netanyahu. What to expect next?
President Biden made an unusual move this week: publicly called out Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu for attempting to alter Israel’s judiciary. Netanyahu tweeted back: Israel doesn’t respond to pressure from abroad. What consequences might this tension have? Also, the most expensive race for a state Supreme Court seat in U.S. history is taking place in Wisconsin. Electing judges is not unique – many states do it. But is it dangerous when politics get infused into the process? And Baratunde Th
Mar 31, 2023 • 50:22
Are the charges against Trump enough to indict him?
Donald Trump is facing a possible indictment over the alleged hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. What will happen if Trump is arrested? Plus, climate deniers aside, are liberals and conservatives really that far apart in terms of climate solutions? We talk to a conservative environmentalist who has spent decades in the field. And, a physician talks about whether voters should take age into account when deciding on a president.
Mar 24, 2023 • 50:28
Can private companies no longer avoid political fights?
The debate over abortion rights has entered a new phase. Last year’s Supreme Court decision to strike down the federal right to the health procedure and leave it up to states is now playing out with private companies. The country’s second-largest pharmacy chain, Walgreens, is facing criticism from both sides of the aisle after announcing it would not ship or sell mifepristone in 21 states. The medication is used to terminate a pregnancy or treat a miscarriage. This came after Republican attorn
Mar 17, 2023 • 50:29
Will the lawsuit against Fox News burden other media outlets?
Dozens of incriminating texts and email chains between leadership and top anchors at Fox News were revealed this week as part of the defamation lawsuit Dominion Voting Systems brought against the news station. The filings show that Fox hosts and executives knew former President Donald Trump had lost the 2020 election and that claims of voter fraud were false. But they promoted this narrative on-air because it was what their audience wanted and it was good for ratings. This is a rare case because
Mar 10, 2023 • 50:29
Was it harmful to label the COVID lab leak theory as conspiracy?
It’s been three years since the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread and completely shut down most of the world. But there are still many unanswered questions surrounding the virus, including where did COVID actually come from? The argument over the virus’ origins almost instantly became political. Democrats and many scientists suggested it likely emerged from nature. But Republicans insisted it emerged from a lab in Wuhan, China, which was labeled misinformation by the left. But this week, that d
Mar 3, 2023 • 50:29
Can Biden get Americans to support Ukraine long-term?
Host David Greene discusses with Mo Elleithee, executive director of Georgetown University’s Institute of Politics and Public Service, and Sarah Isgur, senior editor at The Dispatch. And special guest Evelyn Farkas, executive director of the McCain Institute and former deputy assistant secretary at the Department of Defense, shares her thoughts on the future implications of Biden’s Europe trip. Plus, the Supreme Court is weighing a case that could have major implications for online platforms. T
Feb 24, 2023 • 50:29
Are criminal charges coming for Trump allies over 2020 election probe?
The Fulton County, Georgia special grand jury investigating efforts by former President Donald Trump and his supporters to overturn the 2020 election released a portion of its final report this week. The grand jury interviewed 75 witnesses as part of its investigation and said it found no evidence of election fraud. The report also recommended prosecutors pursue indictments against witnesses they believe committed perjury during their testimonies. Though, the report did not list any names of th
Feb 17, 2023 • 50:30
Will war-torn Syria restrict aid after a devastating earthquake?
A 7.8 earthquake struck Turkey and Syria this week, leaving at least 20,000 people dead and tens of thousands injured or stuck under rubble. It was particularly devastating because many buildings were not built to withstand this level of disaster, and it hit a region already torn apart by war. It left millions of Syrians, who are already displaced by the war and neglected by the Assad regime, suffering with little way to access help. The Syrian regime’s relationship with countries like the U.S
Feb 10, 2023 • 50:31
Are personality politics distracting from the GOP’s agenda?
During his first month in Congress, Republican Representative George Santos from New York has been a giant distraction for the new House leadership. He was caught lying about parts of his job experience, education and even his heritage. He’s now facing multiple state and federal investigations into his personal and campaign finances. Members from both parties and the majority of his constituents want him to resign. And he announced this week he’s temporarily declining his committee assignments.
Feb 3, 2023 • 50:29
Can we change the gun reform conversation?
Monterey Park, Half Moon Bay, and Oakland, California are all reeling from mass shootings in their communities this past week that left at least 19 people dead. In Monterey Park, a city east of downtown Los Angeles, the shooter opened fire in a dance hall during Lunar New Year celebrations. The next day’s festival, which was set to draw thousands of people, was canceled. Special guest Elise Hu, journalist and host for NPR, was supposed to take her three young daughters to perform at the next day
Jan 27, 2023 • 50:28
What will it cost Dems to raise the debt ceiling?
The Biden administration and House Republicans are already in a potentially months-long standoff over raising the national debt ceiling. The Treasury Department started to enact “extraordinary measures” this week in order to keep paying the federal government’s bills after hitting the debt ceiling, or the borrowing cap set by law, at $31.4 trillion. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen must now suspend some investments and exchange other types of debt to keep the cash flowing, but she predicts that
Jan 20, 2023 • 50:28
Did Jan. 6 inspire Brazil’s rioters?
Brazil experienced what looked eerily similar to the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Rioters protested outside Brazil’s congress and stormed government buildings, bolstered by the false claim their recent election was stolen. The rally was organized online by far-right groups who supported former President Jair Bolsonaro. Similar to January 6, the disinformation campaign was brewing for months, but security still wasn’t able to prevent the surge. However, there were key differences to wha
Jan 13, 2023 • 50:29
Are House speaker negotiations good for the country?
It’s a new year but the incoming Congress has not been able to start work yet. With a slim House majority, California Republican Kevin McCarthy has faced failed vote after failed vote to try and become speaker of the House without success. This is the first time a bid for speaker has failed multiple times in more than a century. How high are the stakes to elect a speaker? McCarthy is facing a rebellion from around 20 Republicans, many of whom are backed by former President Trump including Flori
Jan 6, 2023 • 50:32
Rants and raves of 2022
In a special show to end the year, Left, Right & Center recaps some of the most important political moments of 2022, and what it all means as we head into the new year. The midterm elections revealed the declining support for former President Donald Trump amid losses for many of the candidates he backed. Is there a growing part of the electorate that’s craving less chaos? How are both parties responding to lessons learned? And the Democratic party found some success by donating money to Republi
Dec 30, 2022 • 50:29
Reforming immigration amid the end of Title 42
The controversial policy to turn away asylum seekers from crossing the country’s southern border, Title 42, is getting another life. At least for now. First invoked during the Trump administration in March 2020, Title 42 is a portion of the U.S. Public Health code that allows immigration officials to stop asylum seekers from entering America in the name of public health. The policy was set to end on Wednesday after a federal judge said in November the rule was unlawful. But Republican attorney
Dec 23, 2022 • 50:28
Did extremists and social media weaken our political parties?
In yet another alteration to the new balance of power in the Senate, Arizona’s Krysten Sinema announced she is leaving the Democratic Party and is now an Independent. Sinema claims this move will help her represent her constituents. But her approval ratings among Democrats in Arizona have been dropping for months because many voters feel she betrayed them for her own interests. She’s vulnerable to a primary challenge in two years if she runs. Was going Independent her only option? This change is
Dec 16, 2022 • 50:29