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The second annual Few of Our Favorite Things episode has arrived! Friend of the Pod Justin Hentges returns, and we share personal stories and reflections on our cherished books, movies, music, and experiences from the past year. We aren't just highlighting new releases, but the gems that have brought us joy and comfort regardless of their release date. We also bring you a heartwarming Christmas story with Santa and magical snow globes, spreading hope and resilience to those feeling vulnerable in this uncertain times.
From Ronan Farrow's gripping "Catch and Kill" to Emmanuel Carrère's poignant "V13: Chronicle of a Trial," we discuss the year's most impactful books that have left us contemplating the dark corners of media and politics. We also explore the intriguing connections between business, government, and personal stories through the insightful narratives in Naomi Oreskes and Eric Conway's "The Big Myth" and Viola Davis's powerful autobiography "Finding Me." And, we curl up with our favorite TV series like Rowan Atkinson's "Maigret" and the heartfelt "Heartstopper." These stories serve as a reminder of the importance of diverse perspectives in enriching our understanding of the world.
Our conversation also takes some unexpected turns as we find joy in the children in our lives, and the sense of community that emerges during uncertain times. We reflect on the cultural impact across generations and the significance of empathy and compassion. As the holiday season approaches, we send you a heartfelt Happy Holidays!
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Deep Dive is on vacation this week, so we are re-running our most listened to After America episode. We'll be back next week with an all new holiday episode of Deep Dive.
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Can Christian nationalism coexist with American democracy, or is it a threat to the very foundation of our nation? This episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of Mike Johnson's rise to Speaker of the House and how his Christian nationalist views are shaping the legislative landscape. We discuss the erosion of the separation of church and state, exploring how Johnson's leadership might be steering the country towards authoritarianism.
We examine the historical intertwining of evangelicalism and conservative politics. From the televangelism boom driven by figures like Pat Robertson and James Dobson to the influential Moral Majority founded by Jerry Falwell, we trace the path that has aligned evangelical Christians with the Republican Party. We delve into the consequences of this alliance, from Reagan's judicial appointments to the overwhelming support for Donald Trump, illustrating how a desire for traditional values has paved the way for more authoritarian leadership.
Finally, we discuss the rise of militant Christian nationalism and its alarming impact on American society. We dissect the process of online radicalization, the normalization of extremist rhetoric, and the unsettling intersection of Christianity and right-wing extremism. We also examine the broader implications, including mass deportations and the undermining of democratic institutions.
Guests: Dr. Bernard Schlager, Dr. David Gushee, Dr. Tara Grove, Dr. Alice Marwick, Dr. Shalu Nigam
Credits:
Infados - Kevin MacLeod
Dark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from Pixabay
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Dr. Rachel Blum, an expert on political parties and factions, and author of the book How the Tea Party Captured the GOP: Insurgent Factions in American Politics, joins the pod to explore a bold transformation within the Republican Party. Can the rise of the MAGA movement be understood as a mere political shift, or does it signify a deeper change in American democracy? We discuss the movement’s historical lineage, from Barry Goldwater’s conservatism to its contemporary manifestations, and consider its profound implications on the GOP’s future and the broader democratic landscape.
Donald Trump’s indelible impact on American politics is undeniable, and we discuss the fascinating trajectory that has seen traditional Republican elites ousted in favor of a new MAGA-aligned core. What are the social and political repercussions of Trump's enduring influence, and how has his rhetoric redefined what is politically acceptable? We examine the psychological loyalty Trump inspires in his base, the dynamics of conservative Christian support, and the Democrats’ ongoing struggle to resonate with some Americans amid a fragmented media landscape.
Finally, we discuss with threats to democratic norms, including erosion of trust in election integrity and heightened polarization, posed by the MAGA movement. From potential authoritarian tendencies in a second Trump term to the Democrats’ strategic response to evolving identity politics, we consider how these factors might reshape America’s political future.
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What drives the deepening political divide in rural America? In this episode, Dr. Nicholas Jacobs from Colby College, and co-author of the book The Rural Voter: The Politics of Place and the Disuniting of America discusses the cultural and economic threads that intertwine to bolster Donald Trump's appeal among rural voters. We examine the evolution of historically Democratic regions as they increasingly align with Republican ideologies, challenging the conventional narrative of rural resentment and highlighting the unique stories and perceptions that have taken hold.
We look at preliminary data from the 2024 election showing how demographic shifts, including a surge of first-time Latino Trump voters, are shaking up traditional voting patterns in rural areas. We discuss Kamala Harris's struggles to resonate with rural voters in key swing states, analyzing how the Democratic Party's approach may have missed the mark in addressing their core concerns. We also talk about the longstanding trends that have cemented Republican loyalty among non-college-educated and working-class voters.
Finally, we unpack why rural voters might support Democratic policies but balk at Democratic candidates. From the effectiveness of federal programs to the disillusionment with long-celebrated reforms like the Affordable Care Act, we explore the disconnect between political accomplishments and voter expectations. We close by discussing the broader implications of this urban-rural divide on the future of American democracy and how both Bernie Sanders and Trump have tapped into the sentiment of a broken system.
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If some of the last 2024 presidential election polls were pointing to a decisive Kamala Harris win, then why did it become clear so early in the evening that Harris would, in fact, lose? Were the polls wrong...again? In this episode, Dr. W. Joseph Campbell discusses how polls work, the history of polling errors, and why it matters. He also takes on Selzer's Iowa poll that showed Kamala Harris's unexpected surge in Iowa days before the election, only for Donald Trump to secure a decisive win, echoing the shockwaves of 2016. We dissect the historical miscalculations that have shaped voter trust and question whether inherent biases, flawed methodologies, or media narratives are distorting the truth.
Harry Truman's stunning 1948 victory and the unexpected triumph of Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton in 2016 are some examples of polling error that we discuss. These moments show how fragile the balance is between the pursuit of precision in polling and the pillars of free speech. We talk about how these errors have an impact on voter engagement and democratic processes, and how challenging it is to read and engage with potentially faulty polls in an entrenched electoral culture.
Finally, we discuss the reasons why Trump's support has historically been underestimated and the implications for media narratives in shaping electoral momentum. Polling is an art and a science. It's not going away, so we should temper our expectations.
Recommended:
Lost in a Gallup: Polling Failure in U.S. Presidential Elections
Better But Not Stellar
Polls Were Largely Accurate in Anticipating Trump-Harris Race
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Could the American system of checks and balances crumble under a second Trump presidency? In this episode Berkeley Law Professor Daniel Farber, co-director of the Edley Center on Law and Democracy, joins the pod to discuss the complexities of executive authority in the U.S. government. From emergency powers initially crafted for crisis management to the potential overreach encouraged by figures such as Mitch McConnell and Mike Johnson, we explore how these dynamics could fundamentally alter the balance of power established by the Constitution.
We examine the constitutional framework intended to keep presidential power in check, focusing on the evolving roles of Congress and the judiciary. And, we focus on how party loyalty often clashes with institutional accountability, and how mechanisms like congressional funding and public opinion serve as crucial, yet sometimes faltering, counterbalances to executive overreach. Through critical historical examples and current events, we examine the pressing need for strengthening these checks and balances to prevent authoritarian tendencies.
In this episode, we also scrutinize the strategies presidents might employ to extend their influence through appointments and executive orders, challenging the Senate's advisory role. The ease with which democratic norms can be undermined by unchecked presidential actions raises significant concerns about the erosion of civil rights and the potential rise of authoritarianism. And, how the system might respond, and even fail, under the pressures of a President Trump determined to consolidate power.Counterpoint Podcast
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Trump has won. He has plans.
Dr. Maria Cristina Garcia joins me for a deep dive into the intricacies of immigration policy and its far-reaching effects on American society. We discuss the disinformation clouding public perception and policy debates. Staring down a second Trump presidency, we reflect on historical mass deportations and the dire economic and social consequences that could follow.
We discuss forced migration, driven by authoritarian regimes and climate change, with a focus on regions like Central America and small island states. These global challenges are not just far-off events—they have direct implications for American democracy and the political landscape. And we highlight the urgency for humane, effective immigration reforms, emphasizing the pivotal role of leadership in shaping public perception and policy. The evolving dynamics of Hispanic voter support for Trump is a particular point of interest, offering insights into shifting political alliances.
In the broader context of democratic backsliding and the rise of authoritarianism, this episode emphasizes the necessity for international cooperation to tackle pressing global issues like migration and climate change. Wealthier nations need to set a precedent in policy evolution, addressing new challenges such as climate displacement and gender-based violence.
Related: After AmericaCounterpoint Podcast
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What if state legislatures could override the popular vote, revolutionizing the American electoral system? What if Donald Trump contests each state election in bad faith? What if Trump demands Congress refuse to certify an election he lost? What if Trump wins and summons mobs into the streets as a show of force? And, how does the American electoral system allow for, even sometimes promote, this type of chaos? In this episode, Dr. Norman Williams, a distinguished law professor at Willamette University and expert on US election law, stops by to discuss the intricacies and vulnerabilities of the Electoral College, as well as other election laws and processes. We examine America's electoral mechanics and uncover why, despite its flaws, this system persists over a straightforward nationwide popular vote. Dr. Williams put the historical "misfires" of the Electoral College into some context, examining past elections where candidates secured the presidency without the popular vote, highlighting the significant political shifts these outcomes create.
We also explore the potential for transformative reform, focusing on initiatives like the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which seeks to align the Electoral College with the popular will. And, we consider alternative reforms and the challenges of overcoming entrenched political interests that favor the status quo. With state voting systems and election laws intricately linked to partisanship and race, we discuss how these elements shape electoral dynamics, emphasizing the Supreme Court's complex role in distinguishing between race-based and partisan-based laws.
Finally, we talk about the empowering act of voting and civic engagement. Understanding the weight of each vote becomes crucial in the face of restrictive election laws and voter purges. Highlighting the independent state legislature doctrine's potential impact, Dr. Williams and I reflect on its implications for federal elections and the enduring principles of democracy. Vote like democracy depends on it.Counterpoint Podcast
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Could America’s political polarization be paving the way for a return to a multipolar world? Dr. Charles Kupchan, Professor of International Affairs at Georgetown University and Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins us to explore this provocative question. With the possibility of Trump reelection looming, we discuss the repercussions of an isolationist America retreating from its leadership role on the global stage. Dr. Kupchan explains the historical context of America's foreign policy, drawing fascinating parallels with the early reluctance to form alliances and the modern-day 'America First' stance.
As the United States grapples with a diminished ability to single-handedly dictate global outcomes, we consider the necessity of partnering with both democratic and non-democratic nations. How does this shift alter the global balance of power, and can new alliances successfully tackle pressing issues like climate change and nuclear proliferation? Through the lens of Dr. Kupchan's experience, we discuss the complexities of a world where no single nation dominates, and consider whether this transition might not be as destabilizing as it seems.
Our converation also tackles the dual threats of political dysfunction and socioeconomic changes reshaping Western democracies. With liberal populism on the rise and traditional influences waning, this episode offers a piercing examination of the precarious international landscape. We reflect on the fate of countries like Ukraine and Israel amidst these shifting dynamics, while contemplating the future of American foreign policy and the potential for a renewed national dialogue.Counterpoint Podcast
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Dr. Sara Chatfield, a leading voice in gender politics from the University of Denver, and author of the book In Her Own Name: The Politics of Women's Rights Before Suffrage, joins Deep Dive to unpack the persistent gender gap in American politics—a divide that traces its roots back to the 1980s. We explore how shifts in male conservatism and Trumpism's focus on traditional masculinity have potentially steered more women toward the Democratic Party. As we look ahead to the 2024 election, this discussion reveals the intricate weave of political rhetoric, societal change, and how these elements continue to shape voter alignment in a rapidly evolving landscape.
In an election where reproductive rights are at the forefront of political discourse, we examine the Dobbs decision's fallout and its ripple effects on public opinion. The debate around abortion and reproductive health transcends identity politics, challenging preconceived notions and highlighting the fundamental nature of these issues. We also discuss JD Vance's stance on gender relations and the historical role of white women in reactionary politics, offering a nuanced perspective on how these dynamics play out in today's political arena.
From the resurgence of trans-exclusionary bathroom bills to the strategic maneuvers in Congress and the courts, we consider the effects of backlash and progress. While some areas of social policy are regressing, others are pushing forward, and these shifts have profound implications for the future.Counterpoint Podcast
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In this episode, we question the future of American leadership and its crucial role in maintaining the liberal world order. Could a second Donald Trump presidency shift the balance of power, allowing authoritarian regimes like China and Russia to gain prominence? Professor Edward Goldberg - expert on globalization, and author of the book The United States as Global Liberal Hegemon: How the US Came to Lead the World - joins Deep Dive to consider these pressing questions, offering keen insights into the historical and contemporary factors shaping the U.S.'s position as a global leader.
Professor Goldberg argues that the United States is the global liberal hegemon, a stabilizing force since the aftermath of the World Wars and, furthermore, that the world needs the United States to remain in that role. We discuss the U.S.'s unique advantages—secure borders, natural resources, and strategic alliances—that have cemented its leadership in fostering global cooperation and democracy. With a thoughtful examination of international institutions like the UN and NATO, we assess the strengths and limitations of these organizations in managing conflicts amidst the rise of power rivalries.
As polarization in the United States deepens, Trumpism takes hold, and isolationism becomes a real possibility in a second Trump presidency, the potential repercussions of a significant pivot in U.S. foreign policy are all too real. We explore the possible consequences of a diminished American role, contemplating the risk of increased global instability and authoritarian aggression. Reflecting on past and present geopolitical landscapes, we emphasize the importance of sustained U.S. influence in mediating conflicts and reinforcing democratic norms. With this pivotal election approaching, the stakes for global stability are higher than ever, and Professor Goldberg's insights offer a critical perspective on the future of American global leadership.Counterpoint Podcast
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What if the family values we've been taught to cherish are nothing more than myths and, in fact, are dangerous? In this episode, historian and author of the book The Way We Never Were, Stephanie Coontz, helps us to understand the New Testament's radical interpretation of family, offering enlightening insights—and challenges the nostalgic allure of "traditional family values" often exploited in contemporary political discourse. We unmask the nostalgic fantasies fueling certain ideologies and question which eras are truly being glorified, exposing the social injustices that these idealized visions conveniently overlook.
We discuss how skewed narratives around gender roles have been manipulated throughout history to justify inequality, examining early societies, where shared responsibilities and egalitarian structures were the norm, contrasting them with the myths used to hinder marginalized communities today. And, we address head-on the danger posed by the MAGA movement, utilizing false nostalgic political rhetoric to lull us into a sense of longing for a bygone era that never existed, and its potential impact on reproductive rights, women's liberty, the trans community, and race policy. There are repercussions to weaponizing "traditional values" in today's debates - and on the future of American democracy.
Nostalgia isn't just a longing for the past—it's a tool that can be, is being, wielded by the Republican Party to maintain power and divert attention from current issues. In the episode, we explore the consequences of romanticizing a “simpler time,” particularly for women and the queer community, while highlighting the regressive agendas at play - the societal norms under threat, the democratic backsliding we face, and the paths forward to foster diverse and inclusive family structures. Stephanie's upcoming book, For Better and Worse, aims to further enlighten listeners about these pressing issues.Counterpoint Podcast
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What if the very tools meant to inform and unify us are actually tearing our democracy apart? In this episode, we explore how gossip, rumor, and disinformation are used as tools in American politics, especially in the Trump era, to distort truth and threaten democracy. I chat with historian Dr. Christopher Elias, author of Gossip Men: J. Edgar Hoover, Joe McCarthy, Roy Cohn, and the Politicss of Insinuation, to unravel the intricate and often nefarious role of gossip, rumor, and misinformation in American politics. Discover how political figures like Donald Trump, J. Edgar Hoover, Joe McCarthy, and Roy Cohn have weaponized these tactics to manipulate public opinion, sidestep substantial policy debates, and undermine trust in our institutions.
We discuss the role of bad information in American politics from Alexander Hamilton to the present day with figures like Donald Trump and JD VAnce, and revealing how advances in media technology have transformed political gossip into a powerful tool for shaping narratives. We consider the ethical implications of these tactics and the enduring impact of figures like Trump, JD Vance, and the Republican Party who have brought them to unprecedented levels, reshaping U.S. politics and public discourse. Learn about the nuanced differences between gossip, rumor, and insinuation, and how each serves its purpose in this strategic manipulation.
As we explore the broader implications for democracy, underscoring the critical need for truth and communal trust in safeguarding our democratic processes. Finally, we touch on the evolving history of masculinity in American politics, the widening gender gap in American politics, providing insight into how these elements intersect and impact our political landscape.Counterpoint Podcast
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Deep Dive returns! In this episode we bring back a number of contributors to our recently concluded limited series - After America - and ask if they have hope for American democracy, or if we already past the Rubicon. Can American democracy survive the storm of voter disenfranchisement, misinformation, and rising authoritarianism? This episode promises not just a look at the challenges, but also a glimmer of hope for our democratic future.
We explore the perennial struggle to uphold the ideals of equality and the essential role of our political institutions. And, you'll hear insights into how the Republican Party's transformation and Donald Trump's influence pose unique threats to American democracy. Yet, amid these daunting challenges, we find reasons for cautious optimism in the resilience of U.S. institutions and the enduring power of foundational principles like equality and justice.
What would another Trump presidency mean for the United States? Through poignant personal stories and global perspectives, we highlight the immediate and structural dangers we face. This episode isn't just a wake-up call; it’s a call to arms to protect the future of American democracy.
Featuring: Dr. Carol Graham, Dr. Kate Starbird, Dr. Edward Watts, Dr. Alice Marwick, Dr. Tara Grove, Dr. James Robinson, Dr. Sara Benesh, Dr. Benjamin Hett, Dr. Sheri Berman, Dr. Bernard Schlager, Jason van Tatenhove, Dr. Balint Magyar, Stephen MarcheCounterpoint Podcast
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How does a nation rebuild itself after falling under authoritarian rule? In the series finale of After America, we take you through the harrowing aftermath of an imagined Trump's second presidential term, where democratic institutions were eroded, civil liberties dismantled, and marginalized communities oppressed. We examine the monumental task of transitioning back to democracy and preventing future authoritarian takeovers.
We imagine the dramatic events of a potential January 6, 2025—when Trump's return to power is marked by a controversial certification of the electoral vote, igniting widespread protests and unrest. We imagine how this era of expanded executive control would eventually collapse under its own corruption and the public’s rising discontent. And, we shed light on how transitional justice mechanisms, such as truth commissions and criminal trials, can pave the way for a reconciled and democratic future.
But history has its lessons, and so we remember the failures of post-Civil War America, where the lack of transitional justice led to systemic racism and political polarization we're still grappling with today. So, we discuss the necessity of truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reforms to transitional justice and the establishment of an enduring and healthy democracy. And, we close by emphasizing the importance of vigilance and proactive efforts to safeguard democracy against erosion, underscoring the need for systemic reforms and citizen engagement to ensure a resilient democratic future.
Guests: Dr. David Faris, Dr. Monika Nalepa, Dr. Alastair Smith, and Stephen Marche.Counterpoint Podcast
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Is democracy at risk worldwide? In this penultimate episode of After America, we examine the alarming trend of democratic backsliding, the global rise of authoritarianism, and how it might provide a blueprint for a second Trump presidency.
We compare the authoritarian tendencies of leaders in India, Russia, and Hungary, whose tactics in weakening the judiciary, manipulating the media, and undermining fair elections have set a troubling precedent, influencing similar movements across Europe and even some Republican figures in the U.S. This discussion also highlights the broader implications of sacrificing civil liberties for nationalism and security, reflecting on the erosion of democracy in these countries and the potential roadmap it provides for the U.S.
Finally, we discuss the intricate relationship between liberalism and democracy, using Hungary as a case study to explore how democracies without full liberalism can falter. The concept of a "post-communist mafia state" provides a lens through which we analyze Hungary's journey from democracy to autocracy. We also tackle the challenges the European Union faces in addressing Hungary's defiance of democratic norms and consider the global threat of authoritarianism, weighing the contrasting approaches of the EU and the U.S. in imposing sanctions.
Guests: Flemming Rose, Dr. Sheri Berman, Dr. Shalu Nigam, & Dr. Balint Magyar
Credits:
Trump on Putin: Courtesy of CSPAN
Trump on Orban: Courtesty of CSPANCounterpoint Podcast
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Can American democracy survive the encroachment of authoritarian regimes? This episode of "After America" tackles this critical question by exploring the global impact of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding. We take a close look at the establishment of post-World War II institutions like the United Nations, NATO, and the International Monetary Fund, and analyze how these have contributed to global peace and stability. Using case studies from Hungary, Russia, and China, we examine the erosion of democratic norms and its influence on foreign policies, posing the unsettling question of what might happen to global stability if key democratic nations, particularly the United States, were to falter.
We highlight the rise of authoritarianism and its profound impact on global governance, and we dissect how regimes like Russia and China undermine multilateral institutions like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, opting for unilateral actions and exclusive alliances. Through examples such as the Russia-China partnership and Russia's involvement in Venezuela and Syria, we reveal the mechanisms these regimes use to maintain power and challenge democratic nations. The potential consequences of an authoritarian shift in traditionally democratic countries, such as the United States, are scrutinized, underscoring the risks to global peace and stability.
Finally, we ask the questiono - what would the world look like with a second Trump presidency? We discuss how European allies might scramble to forge new security pacts and bolster their defenses, and consider the broader risks of unilateral actions by an increasingly isolated United States. The episode concludes with a sobering look at the future of global stability in a world without American leadership, posing profound questions about the fragile state of democracy and the global order.
Guests: Dr. Tom Ginsburg, Dr. Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Stephen Marche, and Dr. James Robinson
Credits:
JFK Speech: Courtesy of the JFK Library
Trump on NATO: Courtesy of CSPAN
Infados - Kevin MacLeod
Dark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from PixabayCounterpoint Podcast
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Can democracy deliver the economic stability and growth we need, or do strongman tactics offer a more effective solution? In this episode, we dissect the economic impacts of contrasting political systems, drawing on the U.S. responses to COVID-19 under both Trump and Biden.
We discuss the historical economic performances of authoritarian states like the Soviet Union and modern-day China, while also confronting the grim realities of poverty in a democratic America, and its implications for democracy in the United States. By comparing the resilience of minority communities to the disillusionment among low-income whites, we delve into how social structures and economic policies shape societal well-being and commitment to democracy.
Lastly, we address the broader implications of wealth inequality and financial instability, drawing troubling parallels with ancient Rome. Highlighting the risks of economic crises fueling authoritarianism, we examine today's U.S. context as a potential breeding ground for similar trends. From the dangers of Project 2025 to the essential role of democracy in securing long-term prosperity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the future of the American economy and its global impact.
Guests: Drs. James Robinson, Carol Graham, Peter Kramer, Edward Watts, and Monika Nalepa
Credits:
Infados - Kevin MacLeod
Dark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from PixabayCounterpoint Podcast
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What if the very fabric of American democracy is under threat from within? In this episode of After America, we explore the insidious power of othering and its devastating effects on our nation's democratic principles. We start by highlighting the rise of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation following the Supreme Court's 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision, moving through the nativist rhetoric of the Tea Party and Donald Trump. Discover how these harmful narratives have pitted Americans against each other, creating an "us versus them" mentality that marginalizes vulnerable communities and destabilizes democratic values.
We then turn to the deep-seated issue of racial othering in the United States, revealing how dog-whistle politics have been employed to perpetuate racism under the guise of patriotism. From the early treatment of Native Americans and the institution of slavery to the strategic use of racial resentment against the New Deal coalition, McCarthyism, and the post-9/11 war on terror, we paint a vivid picture of how fear and suspicion have been weaponized to erode civil liberties and divide society. This historical context sets the stage for understanding the current political landscape, where racial and political divisions are being deepened to dangerous effect.
As the 2024 election looms, we delve into the authoritarian undertones of Trump's rhetoric and actions. We scrutinize his desperate attempts to retain power, even as he faces potential legal and financial repercussions. From authoritarian measures to outright declarations of dictatorial ambitions, Trump's alarming statements are a clarion call for anyone concerned about the future of American democracy.
Guests: Drs. Ian Haney Lopez, Jennifer Hochschild, Ari Shaw, Carol Graham, Sheri Berman, & Peter Fritzsche
Credits:
Infados - Kevin MacLeod
Dark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from Pixabay
9/11 Address to the Nation: Courtesy of the George W. Bush Library
Tommy Tuberville Immigration Speech: Courtesy of CSPAN
Bush Speech on Marriage Amendment: Courtesy of CSPANCounterpoint Podcast
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What happens when a cornerstone of democracy begins to show cracks? On this episode of After America as we scrutinize the U.S. Supreme Court's transformation and its far-reaching impacts on American democracy. We trace key moments from Justice Antonin Scalia's death to the rapid confirmation of conservative justices under President Trump. This episode unpacks the historical roots of the judiciary, its intended role as an independent arbiter of justice, and the seismic shifts that have led to a 6-3 conservative supermajority.
We confront the controversies marring the Supreme Court's image, from contentious nomination processes to ethical dilemmas involving Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh. We also explore how these controversies are eroding public trust and threatening the judiciary's credibility. Landmark cases like Roe v. Wade and Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization underscore the judiciary's evolving influence on societal values and individual liberties, and alert us to the grave consequences of increasing partisan divides in judicial appointments.
Is American democracy at risk? We discuss how the judiciary might bolster or dismantle democratic values amid these challenges. From the strategic delays in confirming justices to the potential chaos of a future Trump presidency, this episode offers a sobering look at the judiciary's pivotal role in safeguarding—or undermining—democratic principles.
Guests: Dr. Sara Benesh, Dr. Tara Grove, Dr. David Faris, Dr. Tom Ginsburg, and Stephen Marche
Credits:
Infados - Kevin MacLeod
Dark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from PixabayCounterpoint Podcast
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