Politicology

In the two weeks since Hamas began their terrorist attacks in Israel, many people around the globe have, stunningly, taken to the streets to cheer on the assault. Ron Steslow calls Yascha Mounk (Author of The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time), to explain the people cheering Hamas on, the identity synthesis that is driving their action, the failure of major news organizations pushing out Hamas’s press releases, and the elite institutions that have chosen deafening silence in this moment. Note: We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed and about the events of the war every day. We may not know the full extent of the terrorist attacks for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Against a backdrop of American and Israeli flags, President Joe Biden told Israel that as long as the United States stands, Israel will never be alone. On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) discuss the Biden’s trip, Hamas’s lie that Israel bombed a hospital, the major news sources, including the New York Times that published Hamas’s lie, and the information war Then they break down the House GOP’s struggle to find a new Speaker. After we recorded, the House Republican conference scrapped their plan to install Patrick McHenry as an interim Speaker. Segments this week: (02:04) Biden’s trip to Israel (38:40) The Speaker election drags on [Politicology+] The Donald Trump legal battle that’s flying under the radar—and that could keep him off the ballot in 2024. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow ​​ https://twitter.com/madrid_mike Follow Mike on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mykemadrid Related reading: Segment 1: AP—President Biden wraps up his visit to wartime Israel with a warning against being 'consumed' by rage White House —Remarks by President Biden on the October 7th Terrorist Attacks and the Resilience of the State of Israel and its People: TEXT | VIDEO The Free Press—When the Misinformation Comes From Inside the House | The Free Press Axios—Gaza hospital blast: Initial U.S. intel assessment is Israel "not responsible" Segment 2: CNN—Jim Jordan loses second vote for House speaker amid steep GOP opposition | CNN Politics Axios—Bipartisan talks gain steam as Jim Jordan struggles with speaker vote Jake Sherman—NEW -- HOW HOUSE DEMS THINK ABOUT EMPOWERING SPEAKER PRO TEM Axios—GOP scrambles for escape hatch as Jim Jordan falls short again Politico—Jim Jordan’s allies tried strong-arming his GOP critics. It backfired. - POLITICO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hamas’s attack on Israel has heightened concerns about safety and security for Jewish people around the globe. Ron Steslow calls Michael Masters, National Director and CEO of the Secure Community Network, to discuss the threats to Jewish communities in the United States and what organizations and individuals can do to increase their safety We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed every hour, including confirmation from the Israeli government details about the brutal murder of babies. We may not know the full extent of their barbarism for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services. Learn more about United Hatzalah: https://israelrescue.org/ Learn more about NATAL: https://www.afnatal.org/ Learn more about the Secure Community Network: https://www.securecommunitynetwork.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Internet is awash in horrifying images and videos coming from inside Israel and Gaza. Ron Steslow calls Catherine Sanderson, Ph.D. (Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College), to discuss what you can do to mind your mental health when consuming disturbing media. Note: We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed and about the events of the war every hour, including the blast at the hospital Catherine talked about during this call. We may not know the full extent of the terrorist attacks for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During Hamas’s rampage in Israel last weekend, they kidnapped an estimated 150 people, including women, children, and the elderly. Ron Steslow calls Danielle Gilbert, Ph.D. and Assistant Professor of Political Science at Northwestern University (and Liz Gilbert Cohen’s sister), to discuss the Gaza hostage crisis, how hostage taking tactics developed and why this situation is different. They discuss Hamas’s vow to use hostages as human shields and what the conditions for hostages might be, and what types of negotiations we may see. We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed every hour, including confirmation from the Israeli government details about the brutal murder and beheading of babies. We may not know the full extent of their barbarism for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services. Read Danielle’s article in Good Authority: https://bit.ly/3ZWkNIf Learn more about Dr. Gilbert: http://www.danigilbert.com/ Read the Bellingcat guide on maintaining mental hygiene: https://bit.ly/3ZX6d3a Learn more about Hostage US : https://hostageus.org/ Learn more about the Bring Our Families Home Campaign: https://bit.ly/3FhQN0c Learn more about the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation: https://bit.ly/3tuAlXQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Israel is still reeling from an unprecedented and gruesome terrorist attack by Hamas last weekend. Over a thousand Israelis, including babies, children and the elderly, have been brutally massacred. On this weekly roundup, guest host Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Rina Shah (Former Senior Aide on Capitol Hill) reflect on the horrifying news. They discuss the morally repugnant pro-Hamas rally in New York City endorsed by the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America and the Democrats condemning the event. They break down President Biden’s address reaffirming U.S. support for Israel and the importance of the U.S. being a global leader in times of crisis. Next, they look at Republicans scrambling to elect a new Speaker of the House and what happens when performative politics meets a real world crisis Segments: (02:27) The terror attacks in Israel (35:17) The Speaker campaigns [Politicology+] Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announces his independent presidential run . Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow Mike and Rina on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mykemadrid https://www.threads.net/@rinaindc Follow Lucy on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell Related reading: Segment 1: NYT—Hamas Leaves Trail of Terror in Israel CNN—Children found ‘butchered’ in Israeli kibbutz, IDF says, as horror of Hamas’ attacks near border begins to emerge The Hill—The ghosts of Gaza | The Hill C-SPAN—President Biden Delivers Remarks on Hamas Attacks on Israel (Video) | Text WP—Democratic divisions over Israel resurface after ‘cease-fire’ comments - The Washington Post NYT—U.S. Envoy to NATO Says Aid to Israel Won’t Come at Ukraine’s Expense - The New York Times Segment 2: NYT—Hamas Leaves Trail of Terror in Israel CNN—Children found ‘butchered’ in Israeli kibbutz, IDF says, as horror of Hamas’ attacks near border begins to emerge The Hill—The ghosts of Gaza | The Hill C-SPAN—President Biden Delivers Remarks on Hamas Attacks on Israel (Video) | Text WP—Democratic divisions over Israel resurface after ‘cease-fire’ comments - The Washington Post NYT—U.S. Envoy to NATO Says Aid to Israel Won’t Come at Ukraine’s Expense - The New York Times Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ron Steslow calls Hagar Chemali to discuss the brutal terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in Israel, the massive intelligence failure, how the U.S. and Israel have responded, the reports Iran helped to organize and green light the attack, and why more leaders at home should be condemning the attacks. We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed every hour, including details about the brutal murder and beheading of babies. We may not know the full extent of their barbarism for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time in American history, the Speaker of the House of Representatives was ousted in a vote of no confidence. On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) discuss the Republican infighting, the reforms Matt Gaetz asked for, what it means, and where we go from here . Then they break down Robert F. Kennedy Jr. teasing a third party presidential run, who it could help and who it could hurt Finally, they look at the organized labor stories all over the headlines and what the renewed strength of organized labor could mean for our elections. Segments to look forward to: (02:28) McCarthy loses the Speaker’s gavel (33:45) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. flirts with a third party presidential run [Politicology+] The realignment in working class voters and rising organized labor Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Listen to Will Baude on Advisory Opinions: https://bit.ly/3LN5snH Listen to William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on America’s Constitution with Akhil Amar: Part 1: https://apple.co/48IK7W6 | Part 2: https://apple.co/48IKiRg Check out Hands Off my Rewards: https://handsoffmyrewards.com/ Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/stranter https://twitter.com/madrid_mike Related reading: Segment 1: NYT—Behind Kevin McCarthy’s Extraordinary Downfall as House Speaker - The New York Times CNN—October 3, 2023 - Kevin McCarthy ousted as Speaker of the House The Hill—5 takeaways from the ouster of Kevin McCarthy as Speaker | The Hill NYT—Gaetz’s Ouster of McCarthy Draws Attention to His Ethics Issues - The New York Times WP—Months of bad blood between McCarthy and Democrats help sink his speakership Segment 2: NYT—Robert Kennedy Jr. Hints Strongly at Third-Party Presidential Bid - The New York Times Politico—Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s super PAC preps for him to run for president as an Independent - POLITICO The Dispatch —RFK JR. Could Play Spoiler, but Not for Biden - Chris Stirewalt - The Dispatch Echelon Insights Verified Voter Omnibus Nate Silver —RFK Jr. probably won't hurt Biden. He might even help him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Claire Wardle (co-founder and co-director of the Information Futures Lab, and Professor of the Practice at the Brown School of Public Health) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the challenges( and failures) in improving our information landscape (02:12) Claire’s background and how it led to her research (05:52) Why terms like “misinformation,” “disinformation,” and “malinformation” have become less and less useful (08:45) How the real world doesn’t fit the framework of “misinformation” and “disinformation” (10:50) Why we share stories online and how that shapes the information environment (21:40) The problems that arise from research silos (25:13) How platforms can include users in content moderation decisions (37:07) What role do troll farms actually play in information pollution? (39:44) How the focus on foreign actors stops researchers, academics, and government officials from reflecting sincerely on their failures (44:00) Why we share stories online and how that shapes the information environment (50:28) Improving community-led resistance (55:53) How viewing social media users as a product shapes content moderation decisions (1:01:30) How AI could impact the information landscape… Watch Operation InfeKtion from the New York Times: https://bit.ly/3IjJUxo Read Claire’s piece “Misunderstanding Misinformation”: https://bit.ly/3IlSFa1 Watch the video op-ed where the NYT turned Claire into Adele: https://bit.ly/3MzvNq5 Follow Ron and Claire on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/cward1e Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Donald Trump use the UAW strike to win over voters in Michigan? Did anyone need to hear Mike Pence tell a sex joke? Has a key member of the Senate been compromised by Egypt? On this weekly roundup, guest host Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) and guests Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Marc Polymeropoulos (Former CIA Official) dive into all of that and more. They break down Donald Trump’s speech outside Detroit and his return to the economic populism that fueled his 2016 campaign. Then they turn to the second Republican Presidential debate and the growing rifts in the party over support for Ukraine Next, they look at NJ Senator Robert Menendez’s indictment over allegations he aided the Egyptian government in exchange for cash Finally, they look at bombshell new reporting that Iran orchestrated an information campaign to influence how the West views Tehran Segments to look forward to: (02:10) Trump’s Speech and the Republican Debate (19:29) The Menendez Indictment (42:57) The Iran Experts Initiative [Politicology+] The whistleblower testimony alleging the CIA tried to cover up its own assessment that Covid-19 likely came from a lab leak. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Check out Hagar’s show Oh My World on YouTube: https://www.ohmyworld.tv/ Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/HagarChemali https://twitter.com/DelPercioS https://twitter.com/Mpolymer Related reading: Segment 1: NYT—Trump Tries to Court Blue-Collar Workers at a Nonunion Factory WP—Opinion | Vivek Ramaswamy has a China problem — and a Hunter Biden problem WP—Candidates’ differences on Ukraine reflect stark divide within GOP - The Washington Post Segment 2: SDNY—U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, His Wife, And Three New Jersey Businessmen Charged With Bribery Offenses | United States Department of Justice NPR—Senate Democrats to Bob Menendez: Resign : NPR NBC News—Sen. Bob Menendez pleads not guilty to bribery charges as resignation calls grow louder Just Security—The Ongoing National Security Threats Posed by Senator Bob Menendez Segment 3: Semafor—Inside Iran’s Influence Operation | Semafor Iran International —Inside Tehran’s Soft War Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men. (02:04) The toxicity of “toxic masculinity” (08:00) The “right” at war and the “left” in denial (13:00) How negative partisanship only increases the problem (15:00) The differences in funding and institutional support for men and women (23:00) Redshirt the boys (28:00) The criticism Richard has faced for his writing on boys and men You can order the book here: https://www.brookings.edu/book/of-boys-and-men/ Follow Ron and Richard on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/RichardvReeves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men. (02:13) Richard’s work and how it led to studying boys and men (04:00) The risks if the problems are not addressed (07:30) The gendered education gap (0z8:20) How economic shifts have impacted men (11:20) Intersectionality in the research on gender (30:30) Recognizing these problems as structural and not individual (34:40) Weighing the biological differences between women and men You can order the book here: https://www.brookings.edu/book/of-boys-and-men/ Follow Ron and Richard on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/RichardvReeves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While lawmakers argued over the federal budget, our national debt passed $33 trillion dollars this week. On this week’s roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP), Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica), and Romina Boccia (Director of Budget and Entitlement Policy at the Cato Institute) discuss why it’s significant and break down the fighting within the Republican party as they argue over a budget. Then they break down how the auto worker strike has Joe Biden caught between two key democratic constituencies They also discuss the migrant crisis in New York City and how it’s growing rifts in the Democratic party Finally, they look at Biden’s defiance in the wake of a Federal Appeals Court ruling that said his Administration likely violated the First Amendment and his campaign’s alarming move to combat what it’s calling “political misinformation.” Segments to look forward to: (02:40) The Debt and the Budget fight (31:31) The United Auto Workers Strike (46:00) New York City Migrant Crisis [Politicology+] The Biden 2024 campaign’s alarming move to combat what it’s calling “political misinformation.” Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/LPDonovan https://twitter.com/AndyKroll https://twitter.com/RominaBoccia Related reading: Segment 1: NYT—U.S. National Debt Tops $33 Trillion for First Time Cato—Don’t Let the Government‐​Shutdown Charade Distract You From the Debt Crisis Axios—GOP defectors sink McCarthy's push to advance Pentagon funding NYT—Right-Wing House Republicans Derail Pentagon G.O.P. Bill, Rebuking McCarthy - The New York Times The Hill—McConnell: Government shutdowns are ‘a loser for Republicans’ | The Hill Segment 2: WP—Biden aides try to quell tension with UAW as Trump plans Detroit trip - The Washington Post Politico—‘Trump scooped us’: Dems sound alarm on Biden’s handling of the auto worker strike - POLITICO Politico—Autoworkers lash out at Biden in the UAW president’s hometown - POLITICO Segment 3: NYT—In Escalation, Adams Says Migrant Crisis 'Will Destroy New York City' WSJ—Why Biden’s Border Policies Aren’t Working - WSJ WP—Opinion | On immigration, Democrats should admit they are wrong - The Washington Post NYT—Suing. Heckling. Cursing. N.Y.C. Protests Against Migrants Escalate NBC—Concern rises in the Biden administration that New York has fumbled its migrant problem, U.S. officials say Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even after historic civil rights progress over the last sixty years, there’s no denying that certain groups of people still face real, serious, and even systemic discrimination. In pursuit of justice, many well-meaning activists have made identity central to their cause—arguing, for example, that in order to right wrongs, rules and laws must treat people differently, not equally, depending on the groups to which they belong. Whatever you think of the term “wokeness,” this new ideology has spread like wildfire through academia, journalism, entertainment, governments, and corporations, radically changing politics, policy, and our public discourse. But what if they have missed the mark? What if crusading identitarianism is doing more harm than good? What if it’s actually chipping away at some of the bedrock principles of our liberal democracy? If we want honest answers, we have to take these ideas seriously. In this two-part series, host Ron Steslow and Yascha Mounk break down his new book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time.” In this first episode, they discuss the rapidly changing meanings of words like “woke” and why Yascha coined the term “identity synthesis” to replace it. They look at the spread of the identity synthesis and how quickly it is changing our politics. They dive into the intellectual underpinnings of the identity synthesis and why Yascha decided to write the book now. Segments to look forward to: (04:21) Yascha’s background (06:50) Why he decided to write this book (16:30) Why Yascha uses the term “trap” (21:40) The philosophical underpinnings of the “Identity Synthesis” Get the book: Order a hardcover copy: https://amzn.to/3PKN6pR Get the audiobook: https://amzn.to/3Ps7CKe Get it on Kindle: https://amzn.to/3rpAB9B Follow Ron and Yascha on X (previously Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/Yascha_Mounk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even after historic civil rights progress over the last sixty years, there’s no denying that certain groups of people still face real, serious, and even systemic discrimination. In pursuit of justice, many well-meaning activists have made identity central to their cause—arguing, for example, that in order to right wrongs, rules and laws must treat people differently, not equally, depending on the groups to which they belong. Whatever you think of the term “wokeness,” this new ideology has spread like wildfire through academia, journalism, entertainment, governments, and corporations, radically changing politics, policy, and our public discourse. But what if they have missed the mark? What if crusading identitarianism is doing more harm than good? What if it’s actually chipping away at some of the bedrock principles of our liberal democracy? If we want honest answers, we have to take these ideas seriously. In this two part series, host Ron Steslow and Yascha Mounk break down his new book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time.” In this second episode, they discuss how the identity synthesis moved from college classrooms, to Tumblr, to newsrooms and workplaces. They discuss the common “with us or against us” attitudes the identity synthesis produces and the infighting at progressive institutions over identity issues. They discuss the impact that “cancel culture” can have over trust in scientific research and why the identity synthesis isn’t compatible with liberal democracy. Segments to look forward to: (01:14) How the identity synthesis moved from college classrooms, to Tumblr, to the workplace (10:40) The “with us or against us attitude” that dominates institutions overtaken by the identity synthesis (16:00) The crippling infighting at progressive institutions over identity issues (16:50) The identity synthesis and cancel culture (26:32) How cancel culture erodes trust in research and institutions (36:21) Why the identity synthesis is incompatible with liberal democracy (44:00) How to handle backlash Get the book: Order a hardcover copy: https://amzn.to/3PKN6pR Get the audiobook: https://amzn.to/3Ps7CKe Get it on Kindle: https://amzn.to/3rpAB9B Follow Ron and Yascha on X (previously Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/Yascha_Mounk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Ron Steslow and guests Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight), Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education, and Politics at Third Way) , and Jim Swift (Senior Editor at The Bulwark) break down the intra-party politics around the Biden impeachment inquiry and what it could mean for the electoral dynamics in 2024. They also discuss the piece by one of Joe Biden’s favorite columnists urging him not to run in 2024. Finally, they break down the ruling from the 5th Circuit court of appeals ruling that the White House and some government agencies likely violated the first amendment in their communications with social media companies about content moderation Segments to look forward to: (02:41) Biden Impeachment Inquiry (22:12) Should Joe Biden Run in 2024? (33:10) What’s the line between coercion and persuasion when government agencies push for content moderation? [Politicology+] “What Mitt Romney Saw in the Senate,” and why he won’t seek reelection next year. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/JimSwiftDC https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson Related reading: Segment 1: WP—Kevin McCarthy directs House committees to open Biden impeachment inquiry - The Washington Post Vanity Fair—Marjorie Taylor Greene: Impeach Biden Now or I'll Shut Down the Government | Vanity Fair NYT—Trump Privately Encouraged Republican Lawmakers to Impeach Biden - The New York Times NBC News—Far-right Republicans tell McCarthy his impeachment inquiry won't soften their spending demands Politico—How Donald Trump’s DOJ gave Biden a major assist in the coming impeachment probe - POLITICO Segment 2: Axios—Biden's words fuel impeachment push WP—Opinion | President Biden should not run for reelection in 2024 - The Washington Post Segment 3: WP—5th Circuit finds Biden White House, CDC likely violated First Amendment The FP—The Government Censored Me and Other Scientists. We Fought Back—and Won. | The Free Press Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation now at https://www.jonwardwrites.org/ Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, “Christian Trumpism,” and his new memoir. (03:28) Why Jon wrote the book (08:10) Being a “border-stalker” (14:36) The Jesus Movement (21:07) Understanding the different motivations (abortion and race) for Evangelicals joining the Republican party (23:00) The insular church community and how it impacted his worldview (30:00) How Christian belief in the end times impacts action (32:50) The connection between being a spiritual warrior and a political warrior (36:15) Spiritual ecstasy as a sign of devotion to God (and the burnout it caused) (41:41) How anti-intellectualism reinforced the social bubble Order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation—https://www.jonwardwrites.org/ Follow Ron and Jon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/jonward11 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation now at https://www.jonwardwrites.org/ Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, “Christian Trumpism,” and his new memoir. (06:05) Why Sarah Palin resonated with so many Christians (10:36) What having difficult conversations can teach you engagement and defensiveness (20:00) Evangelicals showing more fear than faith (28:50) How the structures in evangelical communities enabled Trump to distort reality (31:06) Right Makes Might vs Might Makes Right (36:32) How can outsiders engage positively with Evangelicals on reforming the movement Pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation—https://www.jonwardwrites.org/ Follow Ron and Jon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/jonward11 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) spill the tea on No Labels’ irresponsible presidential gambit and examine the very real need for structural reform in our political system. Then they dive into rising concerns among parents about their kids’ anxiety, an award-winning essay from a high schooler’s perspective, the record low trust in public schools, and the ‘family feud’ in the GOP that presents a political opportunity for Democrats—but does the will exist to meet it? Segments to look forward to: (02:13)The No Labels’ presidential blunder (29:09) The GOP’s ‘family feud,’ rising concerns among parents, how our public school system is failing high-achievers and struggling students alike, and a political opportunity for Democrats [Politicology+] MAGA Republicans in Wisconsin attempting to oust a State Supreme Court Justice who was just elected in a landslide because their gerrymandered maps hang in the balance. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/madrid_mike https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell Related reading: Segment 1: WP—No Labels preps playbook to select presidential candidates, broaden support - The Washington Post The Dispatch—Democrats Are Making a Risky Bet A With Biden CBS—Larry Hogan says he has "not closed the door" to running for president under a No Labels ticket - CBS News Third Way—No Labels’ Magic Polling Asterisks Segment 2: Politico—What Republicans’ ‘Family Feud’ Gets Wrong About Parenting in America - POLITICO The Free Press—A Constitution for Teenage Happiness | The Free Press Politico—California kids may get personal finance 101 - POLITICO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Picture this: It’s the middle of the Israeli summer and the sun is blazing down. Crowds of people are in the streets, banners aloft, voices raised. Protests have erupted over extremely controversial reforms—reforms that sound alarm bells about the very foundations of Israeli democracy. Switch scenes to Chicago, Illinois. A Democratic congresswoman calls Israel a 'racist state.' Fairly swiftly, her colleagues in Washington, DC disavow her words, reaffirming the extraordinarily close but complex U.S.-Israel alliance. In this episode host Ron Steslow and Avi Mayer (Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post) break down the judicial reforms in Israel, the tinderbox of recent protests, that incendiary “racist state” comment, and the legislative maneuvering that followed—Congress's reaffirmation that yes, we “will always be a staunch partner and supporter of Israel.” Segments to look forward to: (02:00) The importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship for both nations (09:00) Basic overview of how Israel’s political system works (13:30) The aggressive push for controversial judicial reform in Israel (24:34) How some of the proposed reforms would limit the power of the Supreme Court (28:20) The crisis that could arise from a standoff between the Knesset and the Supreme Court (31:00) What compromise might look like (35:18) Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s remarks that Israel is a “racist state” (42:00) The House of Representatives’ resolution reaffirming support for Israel (44:44) Anti-Semitism from across the political spectrum Follow Ron and Avi on X (previously Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/AviMayer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What will BRICS expansion mean for the United States? Is your pension paying for China’s aircraft carriers? How did China spend four years conducting an influence campaign on the biggest social media platforms before they were caught? Why do Republican voters think Donald Trump has the best chance at beating Joe Biden in 2024? Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores the latest political news with this week’s guests: Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN). Segments to look forward to: (02:44) The BRICS Summit and expansion (08:01) Breaking down the biggest news about the U.S. China Relationship (12:44) China’s real estate market crisis (22:40) Is your pension fueling the Chinese military and surveillance state? (35:30) Meta executes its largest ever removal of accounts linked to a four-year-long Chinese influence campaign (:50) Why Republicans Don’t want to be saved by Donald Trump [Politicology+] How Artificial Intelligence will shape our elections and be a tool for bad actors on the world stage. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/madrid_mike https://twitter.com/HagarChemali You should check out Oh My World on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ohmyworldwithhagarchemali Related reading: Segment 1: CBS News—The 4 biggest moments from this week's BRICS summit — and why they matter - CBS News CNN—BRICS expansion is a big win for China. But can it really work as a counterweight to the West? | CNN CNN—China's Xi unexpectedly skipped a key BRICS event. No one is saying why CNBC—China's property giant Evergrande files for bankruptcy protection in Manhattan court WP—Opinion | Rep. Mike Gallagher: U.S. investment in problematic Chinese companies has to stop - The Washington Post NYT—Meta’s ‘Biggest Single Takedown’ Removes Chinese Influence Campaign - The New York Times SCMP—Republican candidates talk ‘tough on China’ as Trump skips first debate Segment 2: NYT—The Thing Is, Most Republicans Really Like Trump - The New York Times Jonathan Last—Joe the Plumber and Partisan Schadenfreude The Atlantic—The Fourteenth Amendment Fantasy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hagar Chemali, Mike Madrid, and Ron Steslow discuss how Artificial Intelligence will shape our elections and be a tool for bad actors on the world stage. What we read: Bloomberg—Opinion: We Need AI Arms Control to Keep the New Cold War From Turning Hot Scientific American—How AI Could Take Over Elections--And Undermine Democracy - Scientific American The Guardian—The Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman review – AI, synthetic biology and a new dawn for humanity | Computing and the net books | The Guardian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College) joins Ron Steslow to discuss emotional intelligence and how it impacts success in the workplace, politics, and our everyday lives (01:40) What emotional intelligence is and how we measure it (03:55) Why emotional intelligence is important (07:03) How self-awareness impacts emotional intelligence (10:15) How you can build self-awareness (13:05) How regulating your emotions shapes your emotional intelligence (16:20) Ways you can improve how well you manage and regulate your emotions (21:19) The importance of grit in emotional intelligence (24:43) Emotional intelligence and being a moral rebel (39:39) The “dark side” of emotional intelligence (41:39) Why emotional intelligence needs a moral backbone (50:53) How you can improve your emotional intelligence You can measure your emotional intelligence using this test: http://bit.ly/3DPYxpX Follow Ron and Catherine on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/SandersonSpeaks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ron Steslow calls Molly McKew to discuss the plane crash that killed Yevgeny Prigozhin, why Putin decided to kill his former henchman, and what it means for the war in Ukraine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did anyone land a successful punch at the Republican Debate? (And did it matter?) Our reactions to Trump’s interview with Tucker Carlson, and the new song that catapulted a relatively unknown country singer to conservative folk hero and progressive hate object status Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores the most important political news with guests Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP) and Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention). Segments to look forward to: (02:18) A deep dive into the first Republican primary debate, who won and who lost, Nikki Haley’s swipe at Donald Trump, and Vivek Ramaswamy’s annoying performance that could endear him to MAGA voters (31:50) Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson counterprogramming the debate with a pre-taped interview where they discussed whether Trump’s political rivals would try to kill him and whether we’re heading toward a civil war. (41:40) The little known Virginia country singer who was catapulted to conservative folk hero and progressive hate object status for the song “Rich Men North of Richmond” [Politicology+] The continued legal troubles for Hunter Biden and how Joe Biden can respond to the Republican attacks. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/LPDonovan https://twitter.com/DelPercioS Related reading: Segment 1: Politico—How Fox’s Republican debate moderators are thinking about the Trump question - POLITICO NYT—Debate Live Updates: Republican 2024 Candidates, but Not Trump, to Face Off - The New York Times Segment 2: X—Tucker Carlson Interview with Donald Trump CNN—Trump already taped interview with Tucker Carlson that will air on GOP debate night | CNN Politics The Hill—Tucker Carlson asks Trump: Are you worried ‘they’re going to try and kill you?’ | The Hill Segment 3 YouTube—Oliver Anthony Rich Men North of Richmond AZ Lyrics—Oliver Anthony - Rich Men North Of Richmond Lyrics | AZLyrics.com NY Post—What people are getting wrong about 'Rich Men North of Richmond' NYT—How ‘Rich Men North of Richmond’ Reached the Top of the Charts Intelligencer—Oliver Anthony and the Incoherence of Right-Wing Populism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine a world where candidates no longer need to pander to the extremes, where minor candidates don’t tip elections one way or another, and where your vote can truly represent your values. Sounds like a dream, right? States like Alaska and Maine are already proving it's possible. And they’re doing it with Ranked Choice Voting. In this episode host Ron Steslow and Deb Otis (Director of Research at Fair Vote) break down ranked choice voting, how it works, the way it’s changing politics in states like Alaska and Maine, and what it could mean for other campaigns and how it could help us reign in extremism. Segments to look forward to: (02:12) How Deb started working on Ranked Choice Voting reform (03:05) What Ranked Choice Voting is and how it differs from our current system (07:40) Different forms of Ranked Choice Voting (12:00) How Ranked Choice Voting pushes candidates to appeal to more of the electorate (14:36) Ranked Choice Voting in partisan primary elections (17:30) The impact on extremist candidates like Sarah Palin in the 2022 Alaska House Race (20:50) How Ranked Choice Voting helped Lisa Murkowski hold off a primary challenge from her right (22:01) The repeal effort in Alaska (28:48) How Ranked Choice Voting has changed the way states are governed (31:51) Ranked choice voting in New York City primaries (35:35) Why Democrats are fighting Ranked Choice Voting in Nevada (43:37) What other states can learn from Alaska and Maine (47:47) Using Ranked Choice Voting in Presidential Primary elections. Learn more about Fair Vote: https://fairvote.org/ Learn about how Ranked Choice Voting is being used in presidential primaries: https://bit.ly/3QXWwz0 Follow Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, Donald Trump was hit with his fourth criminal indictment of the year this time by a Grand Jury in Fulton County, Georgia. What are the allegations in this newest indictment? How is the District Attorney, Fani Willis, using a law designed to fight organized crime to prosecute Trump’s plot to steal the 2020 election? What will the timeline for these cases be? Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores these questions Michael Zeldin (former federal prosecutor). Segments to look forward to: (01:23) An overview of the current criminal cases Donald Trump is facing (12:40) Why prosecutors will need to prove criminal intent in the Washington, D.C. case (and why they won’t in the Mar-a-Lago documents case) (16:00) How a Grand Jury returns a true bill of indictment in Georgia (22:00) What the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act is and how it’s used in Georgia (28:50) How normally legal activity can be charged when it’s part of a criminal enterprise. (35:00) How the RICO charges will allow prosecutors to show the full story of the plot to steal the election in Georgia (40:00) Whether defendants will have to serve prison time if convicted (44:00) Why Mark Meadows wants to move the case to federal court (56:58) Why the Georgia case and the indictment in Washington, DC can have overlap (1:07:40) The differences between Willis’s and Smith’s strategies. (1:15:34) What the timeline of these trials might look like (1:23:05) Whether Doanld Trump should be pardoned if convicted of a federal crime Read more about the differences between Georgia and Federal law about lying to officials: The Two Big Questions Answered by Trump's Georgia Indictment Follow Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Check out Micahel’s Podcast That Said: https://apple.co/3qAaPz6 Related reading: The full indictment NYT—Trump Georgia Indictment: Read the Full Text, Annotated - The New York Times (Video) ABC News—Fulton County, GA District Attorney Fani Willis announces indictment against Trump NYT—The Two Big Questions Answered by Trump's Georgia Indictment AJC—Who's who in the Georgia Trump indictment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law (01:25) History of laws protecting creativity (09:20) What IP lawyers do (12:50) What led Géraldine to fashion IP (20:50) Fashion as political (35:50) How politicians send messages through fashion choices (41:41) Fashion as a signifier of political groups Follow Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Follow Géraldine on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designedbylaw/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law (01:26) Fashion in Politics (05:36) Iteration, interpretation, and inspiration (09:47) The need for time in fashion and democracy (14:24) Environmental impact of fashion (26:42) The impact of AI on fashion Follow Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Follow Géraldine on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designedbylaw/ Can you leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts? It’s a big help 🙏 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should Donald Trump be pardoned if he’s convicted? Why are state legislatures trying to consolidate power and limit ballot referenda? What do spending decisions have to do with the Gerontocracy? Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores these questions with guests Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight). Segments to look forward to: (02:00) Why the election subversion case against Trump is harder to prove than the documents case and whether Trump should be granted clemency if convicted. (21:21) Ohio voters defeat a measure to make amending the Constitution harder and what it says about the balance between direct democracy and the legislative system. (38:38) Breaking down the Medicaid maintenance after Covid protections end, the challenge of reigning in deficits without political backlash, and how this relates to the gerontocracy. [Politicology+] The lawsuit against Lizzo and “the narcissism of singular personalities.” Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell Related reading: Segment 1: NYT—https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/08/us/politics/trump-indictment-fake-electors-memo.html The Dispatch —The New Trump Indictment Is Less Clear Cut - The Dispatch NYT—Opinion | The Trial America Needs - The New York Times Segment 2: NYT—Ohio Voters Reject Constitutional Change Intended to Thwart Abortion Amendment Axios—Ohio referendum win for abortion rights sets stage for fights in other states Politico—Ohio’s Abortion Ban Is Rekindling a Century-Old Battle Over Direct Democracy - POLITICO Segment 3 Politico—Biden's health care wins are being undone — and at the worst possible time Bloomberg—US Treasury Boosts Quarterly Borrowing Estimate to $1 Trillion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus What does it take for a mid-west mayor to become a viable presidential candidate? What’s it like to be a crisis communications expert in the eye of New York City Tabloids? What does it take to go from a field organizer to one of the most well respected communications strategists in American politics? Lis Smith (former senior advisor to presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her career working on twenty-something political campaigns, and her new memoir, Any Given Tuesday: A Political Love Story (01:25) Why “Any Given Tuesday?” (02:56) What drew her to politics? (07:48) Candidates as people, not two-dimensional characters (10:57) What can losing campaigns teach you? (14:45) Being in the eye of a tabloid news story (29:32) How not to use Twitter (and how you can use it well) (37:50) Tailoring comments on cable news (45:11) Candidate Pete’s communications strategy (56:21) The Gay Talk Express You should read Any Given Tuesday: https://bit.ly/3AimMu7 Follow Lis and Ron on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3AimMu7 https://twitter.com/Lis_Smith https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What will Donald Trump’s third indictment mean for his presidential campaign? How does the breakdown of Hunter Biden's plea deal impact President Joe Biden? How will New York City's migrant crisis shape national politics? Join our guest host, Susan Del Percio, as she explores these questions with guests Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education, and Politics at Third Way) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica). Segments to look forward to: (02:42) Understanding the latest indictment of Donald Trump for his attempts to subvert the 2020 election 24:20) Analyzing the collapse of Hunter Biden’s plea deal, the testimony of his business partner before Congress, and the potential implications for Joe Biden (34:34) Unraveling the crisis unfolding in New York City as it grapples with a surge in migrants [Politicology+] The hot button topic of California's new math framework, the drive for equity in math education, and the critical need to support high achieving students. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DelPercioS https://twitter.com/AndyKroll https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson Related reading: Segment 1: CNN—Takeaways from the indictment of Donald Trump for efforts to overturn his 2020 election defeat | CNN Politics NYT—Trump Faces New Charges in Mar-a-Lago Classified Documents Case - The New York Times NYT—Can the Race Really Be That Close? Yes, Biden and Trump Are Tied. NYT—Trump Faces New Charges in Mar-a-Lago Classified Documents Case - The New York Times NYT—Biden Shores Up Democratic Support, but Faces Tight Race Against Trump Segment 2: NYT—Hunter Biden Plea Deal Put on Hold as Judge Questions Its Details - The New York Times CNN—Takeaways from the stunning Hunter Biden hearing and what happens now | CNN Politics WP—Opinion Why the Hunter Biden plea fiasco will be a drag on Democrats CNN—Devon Archer: Former business partner says Hunter Biden sold 'illusion' of access | CNN Politics FOX News—Biggs says Archer didn’t know anything about a bribe Segment 3 ABC7—Calls for federal action as asylum seekers wait in line outside Roosevelt Hotel NYT—Migrants Will Sleep Outdoors Because ‘There Is No More Room,’ Adams Says - The New York Times Politico—NYC Mayor Adams warns Biden about spiraling migrant crisis - POLITICO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the full and ad-free version of this episode, subscribe to Politicology+ at https://politicology.com/plus In our digital age, people have grown to see social media platforms as mere tools and applications. Marcus Collins, the award-winning marketer, former digital strategist for Beyoncé, and author of "For The Culture", argues otherwise. Join host Ron Steslow as he sits down with Marcus to unravel the deep-seated influence of culture on social media and our daily choices. Marcus elaborates on his assertion that "social media is people" and why understanding this fundamental idea changes our approach to digital platforms. He also delves into the crucial role of culture in hyperpolarization and how it weaves into the fabric of our society. Segments to look forward to: (01:20) How Marcus came to study culture: "I feel like I'm at my best when I'm helping people realize the best version of themselves…” (04:26) The connection between marketing and psychology (08:42) The importance of purpose in advertising: "Start with what you believe and when you start with what you believe people who see the world the way you do go, 'Finally, someone said it. That's my person.'” (17:02) The influence of culture on consumer choice (20:40) The connection between culture and politics (24:00) Case study: How Patagonia leveraged culture to build their brand You Should Read For the Culture: https://amzn.to/3QjLDaH Check out Predictably Rational by Dan Ariely: https://amzn.to/3rPeWHL Follow Ron and Marcus on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/marctothec Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was originally released on October 12, 2022 Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Ruy Teixeira (Nonresident Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute), Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to discuss the erosion of support for Democrats among Hispanic voters (03:01) Ruy’s background (17:00) The trend of Hispanic voters moving away from the Democratic party (34:10) Joe Biden’s low approval rating among Hispanic voters (35:40) What factors are driving the trend (38:11) The Latino vote taking on the characteristics of the American electorate (50:48) How Democrats could win back more Hispanic voters (58:02) The tension between working class voters and voters concerned about environmental issues To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus Follow Mike, Scott and Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/madrid_mike https://twitter.com/stranter https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus Some of the most vexing political controversies, policy questions, and cultural crises of our current moment trace their orbit around the singular legal and cultural gravity of our 1st Amendment—and the radical, enlightenment wisdom enshrined in it. What has really been going across college campuses—and what’s at stake for wider society outside the confines of higher education? Is the colloquial public square, practically speaking, now privately held by a handful of tech titans? How has the idea of “free speech” become so shockingly misunderstood that one of our major political parties can persuade a large swath of the country that a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol is “legitimate political discourse?” Greg Lukianoff (President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE)) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss FIRE’s fight to protect free speech on—and, now, off—campus. (02:15) Greg’s background and FIRE’s role in protecting the First Amendment (5:15) The Coddling of the American Mind (10:30) The state of free speech on college campuses (30:20) What’s driving the complaints on college campuses (39:55) FIRE moving off campus to create a culture of free speech (41:05) Why they decided to take on off campus speech issues (50:31) Limits to protected speech (59:10) Free speech and Big Tech (1:04:25) Creating a culture of free speech Visit FIRE’s Website: thefire.org Follow Greg and Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/glukianoff https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Molly McKew joins Frank Salder, Andy Kroll, and Ron Steslow to discuss Russia's decision to halt Ukraine's Black Sea grain exports and its ramifications on the conflict and the rest of the world—especially Africa. She also addresses the US running out of the ammunition it pledged to Ukraine. What we read: Bloomberg—US Suspends Wuhan Institute of Virology’s Access to Federal Funding - Bloomberg Newsweek—Pentagon Making Race-Specific Bioweapons to Target Citizens, China Says NYPost—RFK Jr. says COVID may have been 'ethnically targeted' to spare Jews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump has a plan to consolidate even more power if he wins in 2024. So, where’s the political will to constrain such a power grab while there’s time? Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he and guests Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) delve deep into these pivotal discussions. Segments to look forward to: (2:11) We dive into Donald Trump’s announcement that he's the target of the grand jury investigation into 2020 election subversion, and other Republican candidates' reluctance to confront him. (12:23) We then examine Trump's re-election agenda to reshape the executive branch for more control over independent agencies, explore the 'unitary executive theory,' and consider the implications of Congress’ failure to check growing executive power. (We'll also delve into Julian Assange's indictment for leaking classified materials.) (42:12) We inspect the Health and Human Services' move to halt funding for the Wuhan Institute of Virology, probe the handling of the COVID-19 origin investigation, and discuss how failures in dominant media breed uncertainty. [Politicology+] Molly McKew joins the panel for this week’s Politicology+ episode to unpack Russia's decision to halt Ukraine's Black Sea grain exports and its ramifications on the conflict and the rest of the world—especially Africa. She also addresses the US running out of the ammunition it pledged to Ukraine. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/AndyKroll Related reading: Segment 1: CNN—Donald Trump says he's a target of special counsel's criminal probe into 2020 election aftermath | CNN Politics NBC News—Trump lashes out after target letter from special counsel leading Jan. 6 probe CBS News—16 Michigan residents face felony charges for fake electors scheme after 2020 election - CBS News Segment 2: NYT—Trump Plans to Expand Presidential Power Over Agencies in 2025 - The New York Times Rolling Stone—Biden's DOJ Is Pressuring Journalists to Help Build Its Case Against Assange Segment 3 Bloomberg—US Suspends Wuhan Institute of Virology’s Access to Federal Funding - Bloomberg Newsweek—Pentagon Making Race-Specific Bioweapons to Target Citizens, China Says NYPost—RFK Jr. says COVID may have been 'ethnically targeted' to spare Jews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the last 100 years, we have streamlined the process of food production. A hundred years ago, 99% of people were engaged in the agricultural process in some way. Today, that number is 1%. As a result, our relationship with food has become desperately impersonal. But what are the consequences of all that efficiency? Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of our food systems with Jeff Tkatch (CEO of the Rodale Institute) and host Ron Steslow. In this captivating conversation, we dig deep into the living soil beneath our feet, our disconnection from nature, and the mechanisms driving our extractive farming systems. Jeff provides a comprehensive understanding of the difference between soil and dirt, explaining why one gives life while the other is lifeless. He shares his personal journey towards regenerative agriculture and elaborates on the role Rodale Institute plays in shaping the future of farming. Segments to look forward to: (2:10) Understanding the difference between soil and dirt: "If soil could talk to us, what would it be saying right now? Feed me. Rest me. Water me. Feed me. Rest me. Water me. I'm a living, breathing organism just like you. And by the way, you depend on me for life." (03:30) Jeff's journey into regenerative agriculture and the role of the Rodale Institute (13:30) How we became disconnected from nature and our food (15:30) Who feeds the world? (16:20) A deep dive into the extractive farming system and the need for sustainable agricultural practices (19:50) Unraveling the incentives that have shaped our agricultural system (23:00) The various faces of agriculture: sustainable, regenerative, and organic regenerative (27:35) The cost of organic food and the unseen cost of not eating organic (30:00) “Agriculture is the great healer of our time” (37:15) Policy changes that could revolutionize farming and an overview of the Pennsylvania State Farm Bill (40:52) The challenge of organic food fraud (51:10) How changing our understanding of food production could reduce polarization: “It starts with gratitude...when we begin to see our brother and sister through food, we're creating a metaphorical table. We're actually sitting down at a table every moment of every day here in this country and hopefully around the world." Learn more about the Rodale Institute: https://www.rodaleinstitute.org/ Get involved and connect with local farmers near you. As Jeff says, "Everybody should get to know a farmer." Follow Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shouldn’t we hold our leaders like President Biden to higher standards than the ones Republicans set for Donald Trump? Join our host Ron Steslow, as he discusses this and more with Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN). We'll learn why Susan still holds onto financial disclosure forms from two decades ago and Hagar explains how the Barbie movie is impacting geopolitics. Segments to look forward to: (02:44) Unpacking ongoing investigations concerning the Biden family (24:50)This week's NATO summit and what it could mean for the on the war in Ukraine (48:50) Exploring the movement in eastern Oregon to shift state borders and align with Idaho and what it says about our hyperpartisan times [Politicology+] Tune in as we dive into Meta's latest venture, Threads, whether it can really challenge Twitter, and the escalating dispute between tech titans Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/DelPercioS https://twitter.com/HagarChemali What we read: Segment 1: NYT—Competing Accounts of Justice Dept.’s Handling of Hunter Biden Case - The New York Times NYT—U.S. Attorney in Hunter Biden Case Defends Investigation to House Republicans - The New York Times NYT—David Weiss Rebuts I.R.S. Official’s Account of Request in Hunter Biden Case - The New York Times NYT—The G.O.P. Backed Gal Luft on Hunter Biden Claims. Now He’s Indicted. - The New York Times WP—Indictment of GOP’s ‘missing’ informant becomes conspiracy fodder WP—Opinion | Millions flowed to Biden family members. Don’t pretend it doesn’t matter. - The Washington Post Segment 2: BBC—Turkey backs Sweden's Nato membership - BBC News NYT—Despite Successes at NATO Summit, Divisions Remain - The New York Times WP—Zelensky slams NATO’s declaration on Ukraine membership - The Washington Post UnHerd—Fiona Hill: Pax Americana is over - The Post Segment 3 Idaho State Journal—Greater Idaho movement wins over another Oregon county | Local | idahostatejournal.com Idaho Statesman—Greater Idaho Movement claims 12th Oregon county to vote in favor of moving the state line NYT—Opinion | Are Your Neighbors Mostly Democrats or Republicans? - The New York Times Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus How does murder during a robbery-gone-wrong become an international conspiracy theory? What even is a true crime story in the post-truth era? Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica, former DC Bureau Chief for Rolling Stone) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss his new book, A Death on W Street: The Murder of Seth Rich and the Age of Conspiracy. (01:34) What drew Andy to the Seth Rich story (08:48) The facts of the Seth Rich case (12:44) How conspiracy theories have changed in the 21st Century (21:08) Russia, the DNC leak, and the need for a scapegoat (24:22) The intersection of conspiracy theories (29:06) The conspiracy theory economy You should read A Death on W Street: https://andy-kroll.com/ Follow Andy and Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndyKroll https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder), Tom Nichols (Staff Writer at The Atlantic) and host Ron Steslow discuss some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape: (05:38) The Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action (27:00) The short-lived rebellion in Russia and the invasion of Ukraine (40:34) America’s relationship with war and the difference between patriotism and nationalism [Politicology+] The Federal Court ruling restricting the Biden administration's communications with social media platforms. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/RadioFreeTom https://twitter.com/madrid_mike What we read: Segment 1: NPR—Supreme Court guts affirmative action, effectively ending race-conscious admissions WSJ—Can Colleges Be Racially Diverse Without Affirmative Action? Experience Suggests No WP—Biden faces renewed pressure to embrace Supreme Court overhaul - The Washington Post NYT—Opinion | On Race and Academia - The New York Times Segment 2: CNN—Ukraine warns Russia might attack the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. How worried should we be? NYT—After Armed Rebellion, Putin Tries to Reinforce His Defenses CBS—U.S. could decide this week whether to send cluster munitions to Ukraine - CBS News Insider—Russia has 'lost nearly half' of its combat effectiveness since invading Ukraine, UK defense official says Segment 3 Atlantic—Reclaiming Real American Patriotism - The Atlantic Politico—Opinion | It's Time For Progressives to Reclaim the Fourth of July - POLITICO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katty Kay (veteran reporter and four-time NYT bestselling author) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her new book The Power Code: More Joy. Less Ego. Maximum Impact for Women (and Everyone), co-written with Claire Shipman. (02:12) Katty’s background and why she started looking at power (07:07) Women are passing men in college degrees, but not the boardroom (13:10) Why women have been more likely to avoid power (16:10) “Power over” vs “power to” (20:20) How reframing power changes how women approach power (25:57) The connection between power and status (33:04) Your brain on power (38:30) Does power corrupt? (54:30) What can you do to improve your power code? Get The Power Code: https://www.kayandshipman.com/books Follow Ron and Katty on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/KattyKay_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Susan Del Percio ((MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention), Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight) and host Ron Steslow unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape: (02:20) The President’s bold bet on “Bidenomics” (16:20) How Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is appealing to voters (45:2 0) Liz Cheney: “We’re electing idiots” [Politicology+] Canada’s new law requiring social media companies to pay licensing fees for news stories shared on the platform and a bill in the U.S. Senate that could bring the same policy here… Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/ZackCz https://twitter.com/DelPercioS Follow Liz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizgilbertcohen/ What we read: Segment 1: Politico—Biden puts all his chips on the table with a push on ‘Bidenomics’ - POLITICO CNN—The 'Bidenomics' plan, explained | CNN Politics CSPAN—President Biden Delivers "Bidenomics" Speech in Chicago | C-SPAN.org Segment 2: The Free Press—What RFK Jr. Gets Right—and What He Gets Wrong | The Free Press NYT—Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Draws Support From Outside the Democratic Party - The New York Times WP—RFK Jr. is surging only in polls among Republicans - The Washington Post NYT—Go Ahead. Debate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Twitter—RFK Jr and Bill Maher Segment 3 WP—Liz Cheney on what’s wrong with politics: ‘We’re electing idiots’ - The Washington Post WP—House votes to send articles of impeachment against Biden to committees CNN—McCarthy attempts damage control after questioning Trump's strength as a candidate | CNN Politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frank Sharry (Founder of America’s Voice) and David Bier (Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute) join host Ron Steslow to discuss some of the biggest issues in immigration policy and what’s getting in the way of immigration reform (01:52) Why Frank and David started focusing on immigration policy (04:25) What the first principles of immigration policy should be (14:00) Areas of policy agreement on the center-left and center-right (28:20) The movement toward nativism on the far-right (33:21) Robert Kenney Jr’s trip to the border (36:32) A closed border vs Secure border (46:40) How difficult it is to legally immigrate to the U.S. (1:02:20) Seeing immigration as a problem to be managed vs opportunity to for country to grow (1:09:00) What meaningful immigration reform could look like Follow Ron, Frank, and David on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/FrankSharry https://twitter.com/David_J_Bier Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ron Steslow calls Molly McKew to discuss the escalating security crisis between Russia and the Wagner group, the private army that’s been fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and host Ron Steslow unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape: (02:04) Justice Samuel Altio’s private jet imbroglio and Senate Democrat’ push for court reform (30:33) China’s plans to build a joint military training facility in Cuba (39:13) Fed Chairman Powell’s appearance before the House Financial Services committee [Politicology+ Preview] Hunter Biden’s plea deal Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/madrid_mike https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell What we read: Segment 1: ProPublica—Justice Samuel Alito Took Luxury Fishing Vacation With GOP Billionaire Who Later Had Cases Before the Court WSJ—Justice Samuel Alito: ProPublica Misleads Its Readers - WSJ Segment 2: WSJ—Beijing Plans a New Training Facility in Cuba, Raising Prospect of Chinese Troops on America’s Doorstep - WSJ CNN—Blinken says he 'made very clear' US 'would have deep concerns' about Chinese military activities in Cuba | CNN Politics Segment 3 CNN—Key takeaways from Fed Chair Powell's testimony Politico—Fed poised for respite on rate hikes. Now the hurt begins. - POLITICO: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Evan Medeiros (Penner Family Chair in Asia Studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and Former Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the increasing tension in the United States’ relationship with China: (02:31) How Evan became interested in China (04:04) Biden’s meeting with Xi in 2011 (07:00) What Evan learned about Xi during that visit (09:39) CCP reform campaign (12:50) How the relationship changed as Xi became leader (16:50) How the invasion of Crimea changed who Xi viewed the west (20:10) China’s role in current invasion of Ukraine (22:10) China’s rejection of universal values (26:50) China’s ​​“Global Civilization Initiative” (28:18) How the Global Civilization Initiative could shape China’s relationship with the rest of the world (29:41) How Xi views Taiwan (30:52) Biden’s commitment to protect Taiwan (42:00) Reassessing our economic relationship Follow Evan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-medeiros-b36733/ Follow Ron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) and Amy Walter (Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Cook Political Report with Amy Walter) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape: (03:00) The reactions to Donald Trump’s indictment (36:36) The politics of privacy, including controversy over a federal program that allows the government to engage in surveillance [Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Supreme Court’s decision rejecting racially gerrymandered voting maps in Alabama that diluted Black voters’ power. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson https://twitter.com/amyewalter What we read: Segment 1: WSJ—Trump’s Indictment May Pull Us Back From the Brink - WSJ Politico—The Senate GOP's quiet but mighty Trump skeptics - POLITICO Politico—Biden orders DNC and reelect to remain silent about Trump’s indictment - POLITICO The Dispatch—‘But Her Emails’ Is Not the Defense of Trump His Supporters Would Like It to Be - Jonah Goldberg - The Dispatch NYT—Christie Attacks Trump in CNN Town Hall, Calling Conduct Detailed in Indictment ‘Awful’ - The New York Times CBS News—Trump delivered defiant speech after indictment hearing. Here's what he said. - CBS News CNBC—'Trump can't win': Koch network releases ads targeting ex-president Segment 2: WP—National security officials make case for keeping surveillance powers to skeptical Congress - The Washington Post CNN—FBI announces new curbs on controversial surveillance program as Congress considers whether to renew it | CNN Politics Forbes—Jon Ossoff Grills Top FBI Official Over Abuses Of Citizens' Civil Liberties Wired—The US Is Openly Stockpiling Dirt on All Its Citizens | WIRED Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

George Conway (conservative attorney and Lincoln Project co-founder) and Ron Steslow discuss Donald Trump’s indictment on federal charges over his mishandling of classified documents and obstructing the government's efforts to reclaim them. (01:38) Historical significance of charges (08:50) Outlining the charges (16:15) How this case is different from Biden and Pence cases (19:40) The significance of the tape of Trump admitting the documents were classified in 2021 (21:12) The impact that being on a “rocket docket” could have (25:40) How the jury makeup will (or won’t) impact the verdict (29:40) Trump’s potential defense strategy (42:00) Trump’s trouble getting a lawyer in Florida (54:14) What the best and worst case scenarios could look like (55:39) Judge Aileen Cannon being assigned the case Follow Ron and George on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/gtconway3d Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape: (02:06) The No Labels plan for a third party presidential run (26:44) The primary field gets more crowded as Chris Christie and Mike Pence enter the field (40:25) Jonathan Hadit’s proposal to keep phones out of school [Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Biden Administration’s proposed plans to ban certain household appliances. Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. Follow this week’s panel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/ThirdWayMattB https://twitter.com/AndyKroll What we read: Segment 1: Bulwark—The No Labels Delusion Third Way—Does No Labels’ Math and Map Get Them to the White House? – Third Way NYTimes—‘No Labels’ Eyes a Third-Party Run Against Biden and Trump. Is Joe Manchin Interested? - The New York Times CNN—New Hampshire GOP Gov. Chris Sununu says he will not run for president in 2024: CNN Exclusive NBC News—Maine election officials say No Labels may be misleading voters in its third-party push Segment 2: NYT—Pence Delivers Strong Rebuke to Trump in Campaign Announcement - The New York Times CNN—Chris Christie kicks off 2024 campaign with sharp attacks on Trump | CNN Politics Politico—Cornel West announces he's running for president - POLITICO NBC News—Ron DeSantis makes a surprise visit to the southern border Segment 3: The Atlantic —Get Phones Out of Schools Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices