The Majority Report with Sam Seder (general)

Dr. Henry Giroux, writer, cultural critic, and professor at McMaster University joins us to discuss his latest book, American Nightmare: Facing the Challenge of Fascism, a collection of essays that reckons with the swell of white-supremacy, anti-immigrant policy, and everyday-racism that has taken hold and prospered in our highest offices and permeated our mass culture.

Giroux questions what it would take for Americans to stand up to such injustices and what we're willing to give up before our democracy is rendered unrecognizable. Giroux details how fascism grows incrementally, with people living their daily lives until their basic liberties are taken away. If violence becomes the only resolution to our set of social problems, our neoliberal political landscape becomes inoperable. Our political language is more codified than ever, it's a language that maintains power for political elites in Washington (hence Trump).

Power is not just about domination, it's about resistance. Operating at the local level is the beginning of political education. Bobby DeNiro calling Trump a jerk does nothing to change our politics. Younger generations have lived the consequences of Ronald Reagan's conservatism and their ability to communicate via social media has given hope to an alternative to neoliberalism. The younger generations are offering community spaces and opportunities as tonics to endless capitalism and profit-making. Reforms are limited, but in the most immediate sense, they can save peoples' lives.

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Direct download: 6-26-18-Henry_Giroux-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm EDT

Professor and Viewpoint Magazine founder Asad Haider joins us to discuss his new book, Mistaken Identity: Race and Class in the Age of Trump, a look at the history of black freedom struggle and how today's subjugated groups can use its legacy to escape the deadlock of identity politics and build solidarity.

On today's show: Trump thanks Harley Davidson for building in America in 2017...unfortunately, they've since moved some operations overseas as the result of Trump's steel tariffs.

Asad Haider joins us to discuss the history of identity politics and what role they should have in the left movements of today. Why the queer, black, socialist feminists of the Combahee River Collective coined the term "identity politics" and what they were seeking to correct. How "identity politics" became a neoliberal battering ram in the hands of people like Jennifer Palmieri. Can the term "identity politics" be saved, or do we need a new one? Haider's take on Jordan Peterson's white, male id pol. Is Black Lives Matter an id pol based movement, or something more? How neoliberal identity politics undermined anti-austerity fights in California. The dangerous misconception that class oppression is solely a white issue. How the socialist organizations of today can include as much of the working class as possible.

The junk science of culturally biased IQ tests.

On the fun half: Sarah Huckabee Sanders was politely asked to leave a restaurant, oh no. Florida AG Pam Bondy chased from Mr. Rogers documentary screening. Fox News' David Bossie tells black Democratic strategist he's out of his "cotton picking mind." Amy Kremer of Women For Trump gets fact checked by Victor Blackwell re: ICE under Obama. Bill and Melinda Gates admit the education "reform" movement has shown no gains for students. The crew attempts to help a confused "Republican Marxist." Dissident Peasant on how the ruling class uses racism to divide workers. Jordan Peterson qualifies his stance on gay marriage: "I'm against it if it's backed by cultural Marxists." Rachel Campos Duffy says detention centers are better than African American projects. Brian Stelter asks Glenn Beck about The Blaze going under, Beck walks off. A caller on how Sam helped save him from libertarianism (check out his podcast, Off Baseline). A caller shares a totally normal passage from Jordan Peterson's book.

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Direct download: 6-25-18-Asad_Haider-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:49pm EDT

Heather "Digby" Parton (@Digby56) and "Film Guy Matthew" Weiss (@langdonboom) join us.

On today's show: Sam remembers Koko the gorilla. Brian Kilmeade goes white supremacist, says "these aren't our kids."

Heather Parton a.k.a. Digby, of Salon.com and digbysblog.blogspot.com, joins us to talk about ICE's terrorism, how a structure becomes (more) ugly when authoritarians get a hold of it. Obama's misguided political calculus re: ICE. Jeff Sessions' accusation that immigrants won't assimilate. How the Flores settlement protected (some) immigrants' rights and how the Trump administration got around it. Why the Republicans don't care about the 2018 midterms. Larry Murphy's theory about Melania's jacket.

Film Guy Matthew joins us to talk movies and more. A clip from his forthcoming production, "Senior Class of Earth." Matthew's weekend film pick: "Seven Beauties," a 1975 Italian film set in fascist Italy featuring an un-erotic sex scene in a concentration camp. "It's about the triumph of the human spirit!"

On the fun half: Young Trump staffers are having trouble dating, boohoo. Ronald Raygun reports from a Dave Rubin event. Dave Rubin talks about "systemic racism" and intentionally not making money to live subsidized housing. US pulls out of UN human rights council. DC DSA members protest outside Kirstjen Nielsen's house. MSNBC reacts to emotional Trump fans at rally. Fox and Friends talks to diner patrons about immigration.

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Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter:

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Direct download: 6-22-18-Digby_Film-Guy-Matthew-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:49pm EDT

Ed Caesar of The New Yorker joins us to discuss his latest piece, "The Reputation-Laundering Firm That Ruined Its Own Reputation," on how a renowned British PR firm, Bell Pottinger,  worked with dictators and oligarchs and deliberately inflamed racial tensions in South Africa—and destroyed itself in the process. Caesar's piece details how seemingly innocuous industries like public relations can take on accounts for corrupt political actors like the Gupta family and propagate evil consequences like those from Bell Pottinger's "state capture" campaign in South Africa during the Jacob Zuma presidency.

And in the Fun Half: the infamous Sam Harris "REASON" tattoo, Sam Harris compares Ezra Klein to a Klansman, lamenting the death of Christopher Hitchen and the lack of intellectual challenge on the secular right, the conservative authoritarian movement sweeping Latin America, Trump supporters tell CNN "quit trying to make us feel teary-eyed about the children," Tony Reali's heartfelt monologue on grief and humanity in an era of moral bankruptcy, The President's Show predicted the "Zero-Tolerance" policy in May 2017, Republican congressman Roger Marshall thinks 5-year-old Guatamalans are drug runners, the state of the "oppressed atheist," the Jeffrey Epstein protester at Trump's rally in Duluth, and, of course, your lovely IMs and calls!

Check out Sam’s sister Betsy’s project to raise money for Swing Left via print sales: makethewave2018.com

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Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter:

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Direct download: 6-21-18-Ed_Caesar-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:07pm EDT

Author and journalist Matt Taibbi (@mtaibbi) joins us to discuss the war for New York's 19th district and the new John McCain documentary, 'For Whom the Bell Tolls.'

On today's show: Corey Lewandowski on 10-year-old Downs syndrome child being separated from mother at border: "whomp whomp." Kirstjen Nielsen gets protested by DC DSA members at Mexican restaurant.

Matt Taibbi joins us to discuss 'The Battle of Woodstock,' his series of reports on a Democratic primary in New York's 19th Congressional district. How this primary exemplifies larger trends in the Democratic Party. The seven candidates running and the various monied interests they represent. How the DCCC has been intervening in an attempt to squash Jeff Beals and Dave Clegg, the two candidates who qualify as "Berniecrats." How the DCCC's overemphasis on fundraising conveniently shuts out progressive candidates. Also: John McCain's (largely successful) efforts to evade accountability for inviting right-wing populism into the Republican Party via Sarah Palin. (Check out Taibbi's review of the McCain doc here.)

On the fun half: Sam calls Stephen Miller's newly public phone number. Trump says he'll "make changes" to House GOP immigration bills. Progressive advocacy group American Bridge plays crying border children audio outside Trump International Hotel in DC. Fox News' Trish Regan calls internment camps for kids "tough love." Is this policy really a deterrent? The crew discusses the idea of open borders. Ted Cruz's proposed immigration bill. Michael Cohen turns on Trump. A Nazi calls in to argue with Sam about the bell curve...again!

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Direct download: 6-20-18-Matt_Taibbi-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:02pm EDT

Eliza Griswold (@elizagriswold) joins us to discuss her new book, Amity and Prosperity: One Family and the Fracturing of America.

On today's show: Sam calls out libertarian Tim Carney for his disingenuous concern-trolling re: ICE's family separation policy.

Poet and journalist Eliza Griswold joins us to discuss her new book, Amity and Prosperity: One Family and the Fracturing of America. Why Stacey Hanes of Amityville, PA signed a natural gas lease to let a Texas company frack on her land and how she realized there was something wrong with her family's water supply. The history of mineral rights leases in Appalachia. How fracking works and why it's so difficult to do it safely. The nightmare of trying to figure out what's giving people cancer when the chemicals used in fracking are proprietary. How rural America's "resource curse" has disenfranchised the people there and built up resentment towards urban areas. The Whiskey Rebellion of 1791, onerous farm regulations, and other factors driving rural distrust of big government. How Stacey went from concerned parent to political activist in her efforts to get redress from the corporations polluting her community.

Conservative commentator Todd Starnes calls asylum-seekers "illegal alien invaders," outlines how this is different from the Holocaust.

On the fun half: Ronald Raygun steals valor from 4-H. Jeff Sessions says "in Nazi Germany, they were keeping the Jews from leaving the country." Acting ICE director Thomas Homan uses Nuremberg defense to reject Nazi comparison, says they're "simply enforcing laws." John Kelly describes plan to separate families in March 2017. A caller in Arkansas on how right-wing media indoctrinated people into the the Republican cult starting with Jerry Falwell in the 1980s. Direct Action Alliance Portland protest outside ICE detention center in Portland, Oregon. Trump directs Pentagon to create "space force" military branch. Chris in Taiwan on the audio of kids in ICE detention centers.

Check out Sam’s sister Betsy’s project to raise money for Swing Left via print sales: makethewave2018.com

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Direct download: 6-19-18-Eliza_Griswold-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:47pm EDT

Journalist and author Alfredo Corchado joins us to discuss his new book, Homelands: Four Friends, Two Countries, and the Fate of the Great Mexican-American Migration.

On today's show: "Leading Republicans" like Laura Bush oppose separating kids from parents. Protesters interrupt Mike Pence speech in Columbus, OH.

Alfredo Corchado joins us to discuss his book, Homelands: Four Friends, Two Countries, and the Fate of the Great Mexican-American Migration. The 1986 law that gave amnesty to undocumented immigrants for labor reasons. How one farming town in PA showed how immigrants can integrate into American life. NAFTA's complex impact on the Mexican people and economy; "good for Mexico, bad for Mexicans." Why more Mexicans are thinking twice about immigrating to the US and the factors driving violence along the US-Mexico border. Rep. Beto O'Rourke's immigrant rights march. A breakdown of who is seeking asylum in the US. Do these policies fulfill their stated goal of deterring asylum seekers from coming?

On the fun half: Steve Doocy, WH spokesman Hogan Gidley says child detention centers are more like "pens" than cages ('cause that's so much better). Ronald Raygun outlines ICE's attempts to pass the buck, recommends the book 'Defiant Braceros: How Migrant Workers Fought for Racial, Sexual, and Political Freedom.' DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen claims "don't believe the press...kids [in camps] are very well taken care of." Internal DHS memo shows accelerated rate of child detentions. Caller Josh on the parallels between Reagan and Trump. Are Baby Boomers to blame for society's ills and are millennials gaining class consciousness? ICE officer in Maine asks bus riders for papers, driver says you must be a US citizen to ride the bus. Trump says his hands are tied by the law, blames Democrats for current immigration policy. A caller in Appalachia asks how to create left-populist reform in states where it seems nearly impossible. Sam destroys a MAGA chud who calls in to argue about immigration. A plug for the Poor People's Campaign and its upcoming march on DC June 23 (more at poorpeoplescampaign.org).

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Check out Sam’s sister Betsy’s project to raise money for Swing Left via print sales: makethewave2018.com

Consider donating to listener Lauren’s fundraiser for her mom’s medical treatment at gofundme.com/please-support-miriam

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Direct download: 6-18-18-Alfredo_Corchado-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:46pm EDT

Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter ) and Judy Gold (@JewdyGold ) join us.

On today's show: Donald Trump CONFIRMS that Peter Doocy is the son of Steve Doocy.

Cliff Schecter joins us to discuss latest news from Washington. Paul Manafort is going to jail, Michael Cohen lost his legal team, New York has filed a civil suit against three of the Trump kids for illegal conduct with their fake charities, what happened with the Singapore summit, and more!

Judy Gold joins us to rail against all things Trump. Paul Ryan dodges a question on Scott Pruitt's ethics scandals. Journalist confronts Sarah Huckabee Sanders over families separated at border, asks "don't you have any empathy?" What will Manafort's prison experience be like?

Jimmy Reefercake continues to make good on his promise to only parody songs by classic butt-rock band The Doors until weed is legal everywhere.

On the fun half: Chris Hayes' interview with whistleblower Antar Davidson, who says the detention center where he worked was "like a private prison" full of traumatized kids. Trump's creepy motivational mural. Hundreds (including Cynthia Nixon) protest Cuomo's "master builder" award; Jamie provides a firsthand report. Joe Rogan pwns Dave Rubin over building codes, Rubin insists the left are "the real racists."

Today’s show is brought to you by the audiobook edition of 'What Truth Sounds Like,' written and narrated by Michael Eric Dyson: us.macmillan.com/books/9781250295927

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Direct download: 6-15-18-Cliff_Schecter-Judy_Gold-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:10pm EDT

Good morning everyone, on today's show, journalist Jay Cassano, joins us to discuss his new piece, Pentagon’s Top Official For East Asia Led Think Tank Funded By Defense Contractors And Foreign Governments. Cassano shares the history of Project 2049 and how defense contractors and arms dealers are funneling their influence through a bevy of think tanks. Cassano then explains how the weapon system and defense arms race will continue to ratchet up international tensions, specifically in the South China Sea.

And in the fun half: Arizona state legislator doesn't hide the racist immigration ball, Trump will bring back the remains fallen Korean War veterans to their 145-year-old parents, Joe DeVito from Staten Island smashes his framed De Niro photo because Trump, Dave Rubin asks "what does government do well?" before approving USPS's ability to ship his chickens, plus your thoughtful calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 6-14-18-Jay_Cassano-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:03pm EDT

Author Nomi Prins (@nomiprins) joins us to discuss her new book, Collusion: How Central Bankers Rigged the World.

On today's show: 74-year-old Rudy Giuliani's still got it, had an affair with a married New Hampshire hospital administrator. High school pitcher Ty Koehn strikes out childhood friend, gives him a hug afterwards. Wisconsin Democrats win special election Scott Walker tried to keep from happening. Nazi Corey Stewart wins Republican primary in VA, setting him up to run against Tim Kaine.

Journalist and author Nomi Prins joins us to discuss the role central banking played in the financial crisis of 2008 and subsequent bank bailout. The purpose the central bank is supposed to serve: lender of last resort, regulator. A brief summary of how private banks knowingly caused the 2008 crash with their subprime mortgage pyramid scheme. How the government wound up insuring toxic assets. Why Bush and Obama gave bailout money to the banks directly, rather than homeowners who owed money to banks. The ideology driving this anti-populist decision. An explanation of quantitative easing. The problem with conjuring money from thin air and giving it to the wrong people. Are there any institutional fixes?

On the fun half: John from San Antonio on ranked choice voting. Anthony in Miami on voter suppression in Ohio. Trump's North Korean propaganda video. Rachel Maddow's theory that Putin is dictating Trump's NK policy. How Elon Musk is different from pro athletes. Fox and Friends on Trump's tweets about Robert DeNiro. Awesome anarchist/veteran/dad curses out Seattle's city council for repealing corporate tax that would've helped the homeless. Domino's Pizza steps up to repair America's crumbling infrastructure. A caller questions the definition of money. A caller points out that a WSJ article validated Maddow's "theory" before she even came up with it.

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Direct download: 6-13-18-Nomi_Prins-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:56pm EDT

On today's show: A summary of the "four point peace pledge" and why it does basically nothing. Will the talks nonetheless lead to a loosening of tensions with North Korea? Lindsey Graham "violently disagrees" with Trump's military concessions. Trump gives Kim the thumbs up at press conference, says he trusts him. SCOTUS rules in favor of voter suppression in Ohio.

On the fun half: Trump says Kim Jong-Un has a "great personality." Lead diplomat Dennis Rodman's thoughts on denuclearization. Tom Cotton says "once they have missiles," we have to go to the table. Ex-White House aides who taped together Trump's ripped up documents to CNN: "we thought it was a joke." A caller asks, "what are identity politics?" Should we spend time criticizing the mainstream media or focus on building our own networks? Mike from PA defends the blue wave. Will a boldly progressive program win elections for Democrats? A discussion of the connection between social movements and electoral politics (Jamie defends last week's guest Kim Moody). The Mooch calls in with an apt metaphor for the Trump White House.

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Direct download: 6-12-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:32pm EDT

Reporter and author Guy Lawson joins us to discuss his recent article for The New York Times, "First Canada Tried To Charm Trump. Now It's Fighting Back."

On today's show: Larry Kudlow is drunk (or something) on CNN.

Guy Lawson (@GuyLawson2) joins us to discuss the trade war brewing with Canada. How his research began with the Canadian counter-propaganda campaign re: Trump, then developed as the situation unfolded. The history of Canada's relationship to US power. Foreign minister Chrystia Freeland's dire warnings and the fragile state of our rules-based alliance with Canada. Canadians' view of Trump as the natural result of the American system, not a thing apart from it. The lasting damage a trade war with Canada could do.

Follow Guy's work at facebook.com/guylawson.author

On the fun half: Ronald Raygun on how Jeff Sessions is changing asylum law for the worse. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) visits SeaTac federal detention facility, says "mothers could not stop crying." Trump claims he feels "horrible" about detention centers that separate children from parents, blames Democrats. Trump trade advisor Peter Navarro says "there's a special place in hell" for Justin Trudeau, accuses him of "stabbing us in the back." Gorka agrees with him, calls Trudeau "childish." Justin Trudeau trolls Trump with framed photo of Trump's grandfather's Canadian brothel. Abby Huntsman slips up and calls Singapore summit a "meeting of dictators." Alex Jones has a conspiracy theory about Anthony Bourdain's death. John in San Antonio on ranked choice voting. Are Jamie and Michael too vague about socialism and are they turning people off? What's the progressive line on free trade? A Canadian caller on ISDS.

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Direct download: 6-11-18-Guy_Lawson-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:10pm EDT

Digby (@digby56) & Isabel Gillies  (@isabelgillies) join us for Casual Friday.

On today's show: Trump says "I don't think I have to prepare very much" for North Korea summit. Gorka mocks "clown" Dennis Rodman for attending Singapore summit, is possibly just jealous.

Heather Parton aka Digby (@digby56), of Salon.com and Digby's Hullabaloo (digbysblog.blogspot.com) joins us to break down the latest tomfoolery from Washington DC. Trump's utter lack of preparation for the G7 summit and naked fealty to Russia. Scott Pruitt's fracking billionaire benefactor and the circle of corruption. What's Giuliani doing in Israel? The role of economic sanctions. The sidelining of John Bolton. The Democrats' enduring lack of nerve and need for new leadership.

Isabel Gillies (@isabelgillies) joins us to remember Anthony Bourdain and discuss the mental health crisis in this country. Check out her work at isabelgillies.com.

Jimmy Reefercake debuts a new song, "Riders on the Stormy."

On the fun half: Josh in Chicago on mental health and capitalism. Brenda plugs MN gubernatorial candidate Rebecca Otto. Sam breaks down the ACA lawsuit. A caller drags Elon Musk. Alex Jones chases Bernie Sanders at LAX. Dana Loesch defends masculinity. A caller fills us in on grift and civil rights violations at Whatcom County jail. Manafort indicted for obstruction of justice. Mariah Parker sworn into local office on a copy of Malcolm X's autobiography. The dangerous flaws of '13 Reasons Why.'

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Direct download: 6-8-18-Digby-Isabel_Gillies-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:03pm EDT

Corey Pein (@CoreyPein) joins us to discuss his new book, Live Work Work Work Die: A Journey into the Savage Heart of Silicon Valley and how tech is not the utopian industry we made it out to be less than a decade ago.

Pein gets into his personal history in Silicon Valley, from working for a cutthroat startup to pitching corporate espionage businesses to angel investors. Michael and Corey discuss the larger question of what happens when popular opinion on tech turns sour. A short abstract on Elon Musk's true nature. And are tech workers beginning to have some consciousness of themselves as workers?

Suggested further reading: "Tech Workers Versus the Pentagon" in Jacobin Magazine.

In the fun half: Even Fox News is calling out Scott Pruitt's corruption, Rudy Giuliani is a pig, how to prevent tribal politics in America, NFL stars are speaking out against Trump and his administration's social injustices, American police conduct v. Canadian police conduct, Keith Ellison is running for AG in MN, and Michael breaks down the cult of personality around Elon Musk.

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Direct download: 6-7-18_Corey_Pein_pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:22pm EDT

Good morning everyone, on today's show Washington Post's Dave Weigel (@daveweigel) joins us to talk about the primaries in California, New Jersey, Alabama, and Montana. We break down where the Democratic Party stands as we move towards the November ballot box and whether or not the Overton window is shifting to the left.

On the fun half: right-wing conspiracists enlist SWAT to terrorize David Hogg, Jeff Sessions preaches the gospel of separating asylum-seeking families at the border, Gorka is headed to the Singapore summit, and all of your thoughtful calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 6-6-18-Dave_Weigel-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:25pm EDT

Good morning, everyone on today's show, author Kim Moody, join us on today to discuss his new book, How Capital is Reshaping the Battleground of Class War.

 

Moody breaks down how our transformed industrial terrain offers new possibilities for organization in the workplace and opens doors for grassroots, independent political action strengthened by reemerging labor and social movements.

In the fun half, Ted Cruz admits he's not an expert on presidential self-pardons, Fox and Friends are subhuman, Nikki Haley has no friends at the United Nations, and a San Diego local news report goes off the rails. Plus: a cornucopia of insightful calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 6-5-18_Kim_Moody_pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:21pm EDT

Donald Trump lies for no apparent reason about reading a letter presented by a North Korean envoy.

Journalist and author of Spies for Hire Tim Shorrock, (@TimothyS), explains why both South and North Koreans want a peace deal. The stakes for reunification for both South and North Korean perspectives. What is Kim Jong Un’s strategy?  What are the interests of the United States? The militarized nature of US policy in Korea. What are China’s interests? Why Trump is doing the right thing in meeting with North Korea and the liberal freakout isn’t helping. Is there any actual downside to the Trump meeting? John Bolton’s attempts to undermine the negotiations? Could this be the end of the Korean War? Japan’s hawkish approach and Russia’s push for economic integration and what is the role of the United Nations in finalizing any diplomatic agreement.

On the Fun Half: John from Saint Antonio tells us what to look out for in tomorrows state primaries.  Raygun is going to see a Dave Rubin show. The test ballon of separating families at the border and what’s next in the war on immigration. Senator Jeff Merkley, goes to a child detention center and is asked to leave. A bizarre caller tries to defend ICE showing up at Jake Flores’s apartment. The Baker Case.  Tomi Lehren, is shockingly a total hypocrite. Rick Santorum blames Obama for the racism of Trump and his supporters. An MSNBC segment the smile of the day segment is actually a sign of American dystopia. Sean Spicer tries get back into Trump’s good graces. FBI agent accidentally shoots someone at a dance off and and your calls and IMs.  

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Direct download: 6-4-18_Tom_Shorrock_pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:34pm EDT

Good morning everyone, on today's show Alex Pareene (@pareene) and comedian Jake Flores (@feraljokes) join us to discuss Trump's latest tariffs imposed on our allies, how feckless Democratic leadership needs to go, and why ICE is a terror organization.

Alex Pareene came by the studio for a rare in-studio casual Friday to discuss his latest piece from Splinter News, "Chuck Schumer Is Not Cutting It." Chuck Schumer has been rolled by Trump and his administration the past two years, even helping Trump confirm such controversial nominations like Gina Haspel and applaud the newly minted US embassy in Jerusalem.  Also, Jonathan Chait is Having A Really Bad Time.

Then, comedian Jake Flores from Pod Damn America tells us the saga of how one (hilarious) tweet bashing ICE led to an early morning visit from DHS agents. Flores also tells us why ICE should be abolished and how defenses of the agency (Sesta Foster) are completely disingenuous.

On the fun half: Cynthia Nixon's small donors spooking Cuomo, John Boehner with a giant bloody mary, Niall Ferguson employs TPUSA students to get dirt on Stanford leftists, Michael Cohen is Willy Loman, purity politics and peeping toms, and DUG!

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Direct download: 6-1-18-Alex_Pareene-Jake_Flores-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:58pm EDT

Eric Levitz (@EricLevitz) of New York Magazine joins us to discuss his latest piece, "Unions Are Not a Special Interest Group."

On today's show: Trump says he'll "have a little fun today" visiting shooting victims' families.

Eric Levitz (@EricLevitz) of New York Magazine joins us to discuss unions, Jordan Peterson, Puerto Rico, and more.

The correlation of unionization rates and the wages of all workers, not just the ones in unions. The myth that higher unionization rates hinder economic growth, especially when you look at the share of that growth that goes to the working class. Anti-union propaganda and the shifting perception of unions, even among the Democratic Party. The 1970s roots of backlash against unions. Why so many Senators consistently vote against labor. The contradictory politics of people in red states and the rising respect for unions among even (some) Republican voters. Levitz's take on Jordan Peterson and the myth that Marxists want everyone to be perfectly equal. The policy changes that would have to take place for us to actually have equality of opportunity.

The survey that found 4,581 Puerto Ricans, not 64, have died as the result of Hurricane Maria. The failings of the Trump administration and the manmade nature of this catastrophe.

The corporate malfeasance by which Purdue Pharmaceuticals knowingly profited off of, and contributed to, opiate addiction in the US. The false dichotomy between rule of law and economic inequality in framing problems like the opiate epidemic.

On the fun half: The broader implications of the coup against Lula in Brazil. Police beat up drunk woman on New Jersey beach. Jim Acosta cries about MAGA people calling him a scumbag. Bacon's rebellion, miscegenation laws, and the history of the ruling class using racism to divide workers. Tucker Carlson says that MSNBC, Tim Wise are the real racists. A caller in Nigeria talks about the state of LGBT rights in Africa and what we can do about it. Alex Jones defends Roseanne by saying he's "gorilla-like" himself. Mike Pompeo shakes hands with Kim Yong Chol, Vice Chairman of North Korea. China releases video of awesome aqua drones. What to say to someone who thinks progressive politics don't go far enough? Jamie and Michael debate tactics and where to draw the line. Should the MR crew go harder on people like David Brooks?

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Direct download: 5-31-18-Eric-Levitz-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:20pm EDT

Gerald Horne, Professor of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston and author of 'The Apocalypse of Settler Colonialism: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy and Capitalism in Seventeenth Century North America and the Caribbean' joins us.

On today's show: Virginia is set to expand Medicaid; Utah to vote on Medicaid expansion and medical marijuana. Trump tells voters in TN that Nancy Pelosi "loves MS-13." ICE is separating more kids from their parents.

Gerald Horne, Professor of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston, joins us to discuss his latest book, 'The Apocalypse of Settler Colonialism: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy and Capitalism in Seventeenth Century North America and the Caribbean.' How England's rise to power in the 1600s was fueled by the slave trade. What "apocalypse" means in this context: The mass deaths of Native Americans and Africans. The construction of whiteness as a "new identity politics" and the purposes it served in Europe and the New World. Could European integration be reversed? Which came first, slavery or white supremacy? The role played by the Crusades and Enlightenment-era "science," and how these ideas got yoked to capitalism. The high profit margins of the slave business. Horne's perspective on Trump, the NFL controversy and modern day politics.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio on Bernie 2020 and the latest primary polls. Alex Jones gives stay-at-home-son Michael Rotondo a pep talk on Infowars. Dave Rubin tries to defend Bill Maher. Tucker Carlson compares Roseanne cancellation to book burning, re-education. ABC began its recent upfronts with jokes about Roseanne's Twitter activity. A caller on the opposition journalist who faked his own death in Kiev. Asad Haider's book on how identity politics have divided the left. Rush Limbaugh asks if NFL protests are worse than Roseanne's racist tweets. Geraldo Rivera, who likes to drink, jokes that Greg Gutfeld is a "pervert on the playground."

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Direct download: 5-30-18-Gerald-Horne-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:18pm EDT

On today's show: Giuliani gets booed at Yankee stadium on his birthday. ICE lost track of 1,475 immigrant children last year; some of them wound up trafficked. PBS Frontline documents Guatemalan teens forced to work on Ohio egg farm. Is it bad that people are conflating Obama's immigration policy with Trump's? GEO Group private prison contractor creates a prison transport bus for babies. Jonathan Chait's latest sloppy, red-baiting piece on how "the left" doesn't care about democracy.

On the fun half: GOP candidate John Ward doesn't want PuertoRonald  Ricans voting in Florida races. New Harvard study finds death toll in Puerto Rico is at least 4,600 (official government figure: 64). Ireland overturns its abortion ban by referendum, granting human rights to millions. Sam was right about birth control and conservative commentator Peter Schiff was wrong. Ronald Raygun on ICE removal proceedings, the lack of a left alternative on immigration policy. Roseanne's show canceled over racist tweet. GOP Congressman Dana Rohrabacher won't apologize for supporting housing discrimination against gay people. KY Catholic diocese banned a valedictorian's speech for being too political, so the teen found a megaphone. Maggie Haberman and the NYT don't want to lose their White House access. A plug for Chardo Richardson, the Justice Democrat running against Blue Dog Stephanie Murphy in Florida. Mindy on Haberman's connections to the Kushner family. A caller recommends the manga version of Marx's Capital. (This one is good too, says Jamie.) How dependent is MMT on the US as global hegemonic power?

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Direct download: 5-29-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:49pm EDT

Adam Winkler, a professor of constitutional law at the UCLA School of Law, joins us to discuss his new book "We the Corporations: How American Businesses Won Their Civil Rights." What exactly is a corporation? The corporations seizing of their first rates as 1809, and how corportions are extensions of property rights. How "Corporate Personhood has become problematic. How corporations shed their public obligations and piggybacked on the 14th amendment to give corporations more rights. How the Supreme Court has been consistently pro-corporate whether it leaned liberal or conservative. The counter-intuitive role of Ralph Nader in expanding corporate rights. Citizen's United and the "money=speech" equation.

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Direct download: MR_Adam_Winkler_May_28_2018.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Good morning on everyone on today's show, Benjamin  Dixon (@BenjaminPDixon)  and Ben Mankiewicz. We are live at 12:00 ET.

First, ICE has lost 1475 children they ripped from parents they've detained. It must go.

Then, Ben Dixon joins us to break down Nancy Pelosi's lame response to the NFL telling players they can't kneel, Trump's erratic diplomacy with North Korea, and how much will the Democrats squander their "blue wave."

The Ben Mankiewicz joins us to discuss his love for Los Angeles driving routes, The Americans and Deadwood, Fleetwood Mac as the third greatest band of all-time, and Steve Kerr's response to the NFL's kneel rule.

On the fun half - The NRA's Dan Bongino calls NFL players snowflakes and blocks Matt, Trump continues making NK talks pettier than you can imagine, is a fascist board game indoctrinating children, LGBT  rights still need defending, and your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 5-25-18-Ben_Dixon-Mankiewicz-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:48pm EDT

Anthropologist David Graeber (@davidgraeber) joins us to discuss his book, "Bullshit Jobs: A Theory."

On today's show: Trump says NFL protesters shouldn't be in the country. Milwaukee police tase NBA player Sterling Brown over parking infraction.

Anthropologist and activist David Graeber joins us to discuss his book, "Bullshit Jobs: A Theory." How Graeber gathered stories from people about their experiences of work. The five categories of bullshit jobs: goon, duct taper, flunkie, box ticker, task master. The high percentage of UK survey respondents who think their jobs add nothing to the world. The psychological effects of knowing your job is bullshit. The link (or lack thereof) between GDP, employment rates and indicators of well being. What the growing number of useless jobs says about how capitalism actually works. How whole industries are moving to a system of managerial feudalism. How the financialization of the economy drives the bullshit job phenomenon and the role the government plays in extracting profits. The benefits of replacing means-tested programs with UBI. Why right-wing populists resent the cultural elite.

On the fun half: Josh from Chicago praises Jamie's op-ed on Cynthia Nixon, points out the white supremacy of Trump's NFL statement. Bari Weiss's hot NFL take. Richard Spencer admits the alt-right is not pro- free speech. Elon Musk complains about the press, Peter Daou invites him to fund Verrit (hell yeah). A caller inducts more people into the Yacubian left. Is Trump's NFL meddling a first amendment issue? Jim Bakker knows "in his spirit" than 100 hit men have been hired to assassinate Trump. Mike Pence says North Korea must adhere to Libya model in negotiations. An early plug for International Whores Day (donate at IWD18.org). What kind of statement is 'The Handmaid's Tale' making about politics? Michael from Miami calls in to contextualize Bill Clinton's '90s-era politics.

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Direct download: 5-24-18-David_Graeber-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:41pm EDT

Journalist Marcy Wheeler (@emptywheel) joins us to discuss the latest on the Mueller investigation.

On today's show: Trump tells anecdote about young girl coming home from "schloogp." Congress passes "right to try" bill that will undercut FDA's ability to regulate potentially dangerous new drugs. An update on primary results from around the country.

Journalist Marcy Wheeler, of EmptyWheel.net, helps us unravel the many threads of the Mueller investigation. The DOJ's interest in Paul Manafort, Michael Cohen and Jared Kushner and how it works when people agree to flip. Giuliani's theory that the FBI had an informant in the Trump campaign. The trading of foreign policy favors for dirt on Hillary and the deal between Mike Flynn and Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. The role played by informant Stefan Halper. The White House's efforts to limit the investigation to pre-election promises ("quid") and exclude post-election follow-through ("pro quo"). The imminent sentencing of Trump campaign advisor George Papadopoulos, who lied to the FBI to cover up treason. How Don Jr. and Eric Prince fielded offers from oligarchs and spies from around the world. How the "crime fraud exception" could invalidate Cohen's attorney-client privilege. How this tracks with the rest of Trump's shady career. Manafort's many charges and the likelihood he will flip. What's next?

On the fun half: Jake Tapper calls out Matt Gaetz's far right collusion interference. Journalist Lesley Stahl says Trump told her he attacks the media so people won't believe negative stories about him. Trump touts his pro-life bona fides at Susan B. Anthony dinner. Why do Democrats run on tickets with Republicans? More un-published Jordan Peterson books. Dr. Gorka's dissertation. Dave from Jamaica asks how we get to a post-capitalist future; Jamie responds. Steve Bannon says MLK would be proud of Trump's black unemployment rate. Racist lawyer Aaron Schlossberg's crap apology. Trump goes off script, says 2018 is less important than 2016. NFL owners vote to penalize players for kneeling during national anthem; players' union responds.

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Direct download: 5-23-18-Marcy_Wheeler-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:36pm EDT

Journalist Yasha Levine (@yashalevine) joins us to discuss his new book, Surveillance Valley: The Secret Military History of Silicon Valley, and Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter) joins us to talk about his new project, Ohioans for Economic Opportunity.

On today's show: Betsy Devos says she has "heard that opined" that there are $15 billion in cuts to student aid in the plan she approved.

Yasha Levine joins us to discuss the history of the internet as a surveillance tool. The birth of the internet in the 1950s as a Cold War national security network and the development of ARPANET in the 1960s as a way to gather and analyze data. The internet's history as a tool for spying on US citizens and how that undercuts the techno-libertarian ethos. The National Science Foundation's successful efforts to privatize the internet once it caught on with consumers. The web's concentration of private entities that will share info with the government. The internet's domination by private monopolies and government spies as a reflection of neoliberalism, not a natural inevitability. How TOR is presented as a privacy solution, but is actually funded by government contractors and used to spy on people. The impossibility of true internet privacy and the political nature of the problem.

Cliff Schecter joins us to talk about his new project, Ohioans for Economic Opportunity. Through a website and media buys, Cliff hopes to spread the word about how Republican lawmakers are screwing over the middle class on "kitchen table" issues like taxes and healthcare. His hopes of replacing Rep. Steve Shabot with Democratic challenger Aftab Pureval. Why, in Cliff's opinion, Democrats can win in Ohio by appealing to POC voters and moderates who don't like Trump. For more, visit OHeconomicopportunity.org.

On the fun half: Betsy Devos explains (deflects) why school performance reviews don't need to include "sub-performance groups." Is she evil, stupid, or some combo of both? The NRA's absurd commercial for "National School Shield," their plan to "mitigate" the number of kids who are murdered with guns. Mike Pompeo vows U.S., middle east allies will "crush" Iranian operatives around the world. KY Governor Matt Bevin talks about cutting "red tape" when he's really cutting the safety net. Trump says NASCAR fans are good because they "stand for our flag." Woman calls cops on people in Oakland for BBQing while black; community responds with even more BBQs. Vic Berger shares threatening visit from Proud Boys in retaliation for making fun of them. A caller breaks down the Supreme Court's recent anti-labor decision, recommends subscriptlaw.com for info on Supreme Court rulings. Dissident Peasant fills us in on the governor's race in GA (vote for Stacy Abrams!).

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Direct download: 5-22-18-Yasha_Levine-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:50pm EDT

On today's show: Trump is having second thoughts on his negotiations with North Korea. The Supreme Court issues an anti-labor ruling. Home Depot tycoon Ken Langone tells millennials they, too, can love capitalism if only they give it a try. Border patrol agent detains two women for speaking Spanish in Montana. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick says schools need to limit the number of entrances to prevent shootings. Sean Hannity wants the government to monitor every student's social media account. Lt. Gov. Patrick thinks abortion led to Santa Fe shooting. Oliver North throws stone from glass house, says "culture of violence" is to blame for mass shootings (also Ritalin).

On the fun half: John from San Antonio updates us on how Berniecrats are doing in primaries. Caller Mariana on the complex web of factors driving the incel movement. (It might be fun to mock these people, but is it politically helpful?) A fedora-adorned Jordan Peterson thinks "good men" are going away because boys aren't allowed to throw snowballs anymore. A list of JP's un-published works. The connection between many mass shootings and far right ideology. A severely abbreviated summary of how capitalism (and its helpers patriarchy and white supremacy) provides the basis for toxic incel culture.

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Direct download: 5-21-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:46pm EDT

Digby (@digby56) and Larry Murphy join us.

On today's show: Bill Gates reveals that Trump asked him the difference between HIV and HPV, twice. Racist lawyer Aaron Schlossberg once harassed vlogger Willie Morris on the street, calling him an "ugly foreigner."

Heather Parton a.k.a Digby, of Salon.com and Hullabaloo, joins us to break down the news. The latest on Trump's shady business deals and the degree to which we've become a kleptocracy. Digby's critique of the Democrats' midterm electoral strategy: They should be attacking Trump and the GOP more. Six Democrats voted to confirm Gina Haspel. What's up with all this capitulation? Is Chuck Schumer just bad at his job? The GOP's failed attack on SNAP by way of the Farm Bill. The history of tying SNAP to agricultural subsidies as a compromise between urban and rural areas. How the Republican Party has gone from appealing to the crazies to being them. How Americans can exert pressure on elected officials from the bottom.

Voice actor and comedian Larry Murphy (@LarryMurphyJr) joins us. Rudy Giuliani melts down over a Clinton-era clip of himself contradicting his own assertion re: whether or not the president can be subpoenaed. Trump's shady associate Felix Sater and comparisons to crime boss Whitey Bulger. An update on the "Bob's Burgers" universe. A new Jimmy Reefercake song is played.

On the fun half: Footage from the scene of the school shooting in Sante Fe, TX. Woman who brought gun to graduation was paid right-wing operative. Charlie Kirk praises black conservative Candace Owens; Vic Berger remixes her with Kanye. Racist lawyer yells "you are not a Jew!" at Rabbi who supports Linda Sarsour. ICE director cries at WH summit because everyone hates ICE officers. Oochie Wally on black conservatism. (Book rec: 'Why Some Politicians Are More Dangerous Than Others,' by James Gilligan.) Listener Tammy emotionally blackmails her fellow Texans into voting. Jordan Peterson's modest proposal for a fascist rape state.

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Direct download: 5-18-18-Digby_Larry_Murphy-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:19pm EDT

Splinter media reporter David Uberti joins us to discuss his latest investigative piece, "Univision is a F***cking Mess," where he dives into how corporate raiding, complacency, excess, and incompetence are gutting what was once the most promising new media company in America.

On the fun half - Alex Jones meets/flees from a fan with Milo in an all-time clip, a Canadian woman does a terrible homage of Childish Gambino's America, a substitute teacher goes on hunger strike in Milwaukee, a girl takes an AR-10 on campus for graduation photos, Boris Epshteyn thinks Chris Cillizza is fomenting violence, does Israel have a right to exist? And your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 5-17-18-David_Uberti-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:58pm EDT

Journalist David Dayen(@ddayen), of the Nation, the Intercept, the New Republic and more, joins us.

On today's show: Michigan state reaches $500 million settlement for Larry Nassar's victims. Tucker Carlson calls Pat Davis' anti-NRA ad "rude," argues with him about the AR-15.

Journalist David Dayen(@ddayen) joins us to talk primary results and the effects of the Dodd Frank rollback. How progressive Democrats (especially women) won big in PA primaries and what that means for the future of the party. The effects of re-districting on the "blue wave." Is the Democratic Party having a "Tea Party" moment? The two DSA-endorsed women who defeated an establishment family in PA. What it means that the DCCC and EMILY's List abandoned Kara Eastman, a pro-choice, progressive woman running against an anti-choice, moderate man. What's up with the Idaho governor's race?

The impact of the Dodd Frank rollback bill a.k.a. S. 2155 a.k.a. "the Crapo bill," which 17 Senate Democrats voted for. The lie that this bill will prevent the consolidation of banks and increase rural community lending. What Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) should have learned from public-private banking partnerships in her own state.

David breaks down the consolidation of Ticketmaster and Live Nation. How Ticketmaster makes most if its money off fees and captures much of the secondary market as well. How Live Nation and Ticketmaster create a "monopsony" wherein artists not repped by Live Nation have a harder time booking shows. The effect of the Live Nation/Ticketmaster monopoly on the type and quality of music available to consumers.

To stay up to date on David's many articles, visit daviddayen.tumblr.com.

On the fun half: White collar bro threatens to call ICE on restaurant workers for speaking Spanish. Heidi Heitkamp grills Nielsen over DHS plans to separate kids from parents. Jordan Peterson claims he's not alt-right, refuses to own his libertarian bullshit, talks absent black fathers with Charlie Kirk. Mike from PA breaks down the primary results, attributes progressive success to resistance moms. Mindy on how her Republican neighbor lost her election. (Suck it, Wendy!) A former IDF soldier explains how far right Zionists and Hamas benefit one another.

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Direct download: 5-16-18-David_Dayen-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:36pm EDT

Yousef Munayyer (@YousefMunayyer), Executive Director of the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, joins us.

On today's show: IDF deploys tear gas drones against protesters at Gaza border. Nikki Haley lays blame for the violence on Hamas and their burning kites.

Yousef Munayyer (@YousefMunayyer), Executive Director of the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, joins us to discuss the situation in Gaza. The internal displacement of Palestinians to Gaza and the problems they face there. What really happened after Israel's 2005 "withdrawal"? How Israel maintains a racial apartheid state and violates international law with impunity. Who the protesters are, what role Hamas is actually playing, and the myth that Hamas has majority support. The billions of dollars the US gives Israel each year in completely unnecessary military aid. How US public opinion on Israel is shifting. The significance of moving the US embassy to Jerusalem on the anniversary of the 1948 Palestinian exodus, or Nakba. Munayyer's own family's story of displacement and the #mynakbastory hashtag. How Americans can demand accountability from our government. The BDS movement and parallels with South African apartheid. The post-Trump outlook for middle east policy.

On the fun half: Jared Kushner says the US embassy in Jerusalem shows Trump is keeping his promises. Miserable lying nerd Ben Shapiro thinks US media outlets are "acting as propaganda arms for Hamas." Eddie Glaude Jr. says "this is me being a moralist" on MSNBC, can't talk horse race when people are dying. Trump's China tweets. Raj Shah says the White House can't speak to Trump, Inc. deals, won't comment on emoluments clause.

An Israeli caller on what it's like to be a leftist there and the difficulty of getting good info from the media. NM Congressional candidate Pat Davis says "fuck the NRA" in campaign ad. Sonoran Science Academy student gives himself superlative "most likely to bomb the US." A caller recommends "Against Our Better Judgment: The Hidden History of How the U.S. Was Used to Create Israel" by Alison Weir. A plug for Greg Edwards, a Bernie-endorsed progressive running in the Democratic primary in PA's 7th Congressional district. A caller who used to work at IHS explains how the Koch brothers essentially own it and how he snapped out of being a libertarian.

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Direct download: 5-15-18-Yousef_Munayyer-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:32pm EDT

Henry Farrell (@henryfarrell), professor of political science and international affairs at George Washington University, joins us to discuss his latest piece for Vox, "The intellectual dark web, explained: what Jordan Peterson has in common with the alt-right."

On today's show: Israeli forces kill at least 37 Palestinian protesters in Gaza; The Times runs a hideously euphemistic headline.

Henry Farrell joins us to break down this "intellectual dark web" nonsense. Once upon a time, folks like Kevin Williamson and Charles Murray had a place in the range of views the mainstream media deemed acceptable. How the market has shifted since then. On the need of the far right not just to air their views, but to have them represented on respectable platforms. The backlash reaction caused by multiculturalism. Farrell's critique of Angela Nagle's analysis of how SJW culture feeds the alt-right online. What's our outlook for the future?

Dave Rubin's "free speech" promo reel and a look at where his funding comes from.

On the fun half: Google AI calls a local restaurant. Judge Jeanine Pirro says Trump has "fulfilled biblical prophecy" by recognizing Jerusalem as capitol of Israel. Jeff Sessions' "zero tolerance" immigration policy separates kids from parents, at which point the government may lose track of them. Research reveals Tomi Lahren's ancestors did not assimilate into American society very well. Matt Schlapp defends "victim" Kelly Sadler for her remarks on John McCain. John from San Antonio plugs Bernie's town hall on Iran, updates us on Our Revolution and Justice Democrats' electoral campaigns. A listener debates Dave Rubin at his "free speech" event. Raygun on the preponderance of conservative universities where right-wingers could speak without getting blowback. Pompeo says the "end state" in North Korea is eliminating nuclear threat. Brenda on privilege vs. status, how privilege is connected to material gains and losses.

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Direct download: 5-14-18-Henry_Farrell-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:33pm EDT

Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter) and Film Guy Matthew Weiss (@langdonboom) join us for Casual Friday.

On today's show: Fox News says torture works, just ask "song bird" John McCain. Damn!

Cliff Schecter joins us to break down the latest news out of Washington. Trump claims he's fighting to drain the swamp amid Michael Cohen lobbying controversy. Politico says "pay for play" is just the reality of D.C. Kamala Harris grills Gina Haspel on the morality of waterboarding, Haspel is (spoiler alert!) evasive. Was it cool for Fox to go after John McCain for being tortured?

Film Guy Matthew joins us. The story of how Sam and Matthew met and how Matthew became Film Guy Matthew. The time Sam almost killed Stephen Colbert. An update on the Cernovich doc. Matthew recommends two movies: 'Culloden,' a 1964 film by Peter Watkins about the 1746 battle that ended the Scottish Jacobite uprising, and 'Land and Freedom,' a 1995 film by Ken Loach about an unemployed Brit who goes to fight in the Spanish Civil War. Is 'The Handmaid's Tale' a work of bourgeois propaganda? Everyone but Sam disses The Doors.

On the fun half: Trump rallies his base, bashes foreign aid, celebrates saying "Merry Christmas" in May.  John Kelly says undocumented immigrants "don't have the skills" to assimilate into US society. Brooklyn comedian Jake Flores gets interrogated by ICE for joking about them on Twitter. ICE terrorists bust down a family's door without a warrant. How to deal with red baiting in Europe? An IM-er recommends the dystopia "3%" on Netflix. How to deal with Jordan Peterson's followers? A spirited debate about the causes of, and remedies for, aggrievement politics and right wing populism. Raygun theorizes ICE agents are motivated by a mixture of racism and boredom. A plug for Alison Hartson, who's running for Senate in California.

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If you’re in Brooklyn, come see Michael and Jamie at the DSA Healthcare Community Fair on Saturday, May 12.

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Direct download: 5-11-18-Cliff_Schecter-Matthew_Weiss-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:22pm EDT

Zero Books editor and podcast host Douglas Lain joins Michael to take a birdseye view of the much discussed and hotly debated conversation surrounding the "Intellectual Dark Web," the internet's latest cast of "renegades" shaking things up in the American sociopolitical discourse. How the "Intellectual Dark Web" is open to any idea besides the idea that they might be racist or sexist. The troubling way the "intellectual dark web" sucks up oxygen in public conversation when there are more urgent things going on in the world.

On the fun half - Amazon is holding Seattle hostage and Kshama Sawant and socialists are fighting back,  Alex Jones is seeing globalist predictions come to pass, Bernie wants to help the gig economy unionize, Tom Cotton is a super bad guy covering for Gina Haspel, plus your calls and IMs!

If you're in Brooklyn, come see Michael and Jamie at the DSA Healthcare Community Fair on Saturday, May 12.

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Direct download: 5-10-18-Douglas_Lain-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:53pm EDT

On today's show: Oliver North says the NRA is under attack, admits to being a gun runner, wants to scrap the Iran deal. Code Pink protests at Gina Haspel's confirmation hearing. Haspel claims she didn't play a role in destroying the torture tapes, but she's sure whoever did had a good reason. Sen. Mark Warner asks Haspel if torture is consistent with American values and you'll never guess what happens next. A breakdown of payments to and from Michael Cohen's shady LLC. Michael Avenatti calls on Cohen to release records of payments from Russian oligarchs.

On the fun half: Rep. McKinley tells drug distributors "I want you to feel shame about your roles" in the opioid crisis. Bari Weiss is back with another disingenuous article about those poor, unfairly maligned reactionaries. Jamie gives an update on what's going on with the New School occupation. (To donate, Venmo some bucks to Solidarity-4-ever.) Black University of Florida students thrown off stage for dancing at their graduation. Dasha owns Infowars re: socialism and Bernie Sanders. A caller posits the Times will never hire a socialist, but that's okay because we don't want to be in their neoliberal rag, anyway.

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Direct download: 5-9-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:32pm EDT

On today's show, Stacy Mitchell, (@stacyfmitchell) the co-director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, joins us to explain how to rein in toxic monopolies.

How Amazon cornered the online retail market with its "free" shipping option. How Amazon is not just a retailer, but an infrastructure company that owns the platform, cloud computing and (soon!) shipping service that everyone is forced to use. How Amazon's monopoly enables it to rip off small businesses and bump up its own search results. How Amazon uses predatory pricing to force smaller companies to sell or perish. The principles of democracy and fairness that drove antitrust laws in the 1890s-1930s and why those laws stopped being enforced in the 1970s/1980s. The influence of the Bork school's assumption that bigger is always better. How monopolies concentrate political power, drive down wages and hinder the growth of small businesses without giving much of a price break to the consumer. The rubber stamped merger of Amazon and Whole Foods and Amazon's plans to use the upscale grocery store chain as distribution centers. Six proposals to reign in monopolies: hold field hearings, "bring daylight to antitrust agencies," set a higher bar for mergers, break up big tech, enact legal regulations, and pass local antitrust laws.

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Direct download: 5-8-18-Stacy_Mitchell-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:23am EDT

Cornell Law professor Aziz Rana joins us to discuss the left's missing foreign policy and the pressing need, fifteen years after the Iraq invasion, for a non-imperial vision of the US and the world. You can read his latest at n+1.

In the run-up to Iraq, there was massive popular resistance but this wasn't reflected in the Democratic Party establishment, many of whom were active cheerleaders for the war and the surveillance state. How foreign and domestic policy became separated from one another as part of the Cold War-era bargain between labor and capital. How Nixon and union leaders solidified this split during the Vietnam era. How McGovern ran and lost on antiwar principles in '72 and the lessons the Democrats took from it. Bernie Sanders' foreign policy shortcomings and what he's doing to fix them. How the bipartisan consensus around foreign policy and its corresponding "experts" allowed figures like Gina Haspel to avoid accountability for Iraq-era crimes. How Russiagate allowed the national security establishment to rehabilitate itself via misplaced Cold War nostalgia. How trade deals like NAFFTA and the TPP undermine social democracy at home and abroad. How US progressives can reconnect foreign and domestic policy and confront post-9/11 developments like ICE and the DHS. Rana's blueprint for a foreign policy based on human rights, not capitalist imperialism.

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Direct download: 5-7-18-Aziz_Rana-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:06pm EDT

Mark Thompson (@ministter) and Andy Kindler (@AndyKindler) join us to break down the week's news.

The end of blue slips as a way to stop Trump's judicial nominees. Don Blankenship's insane campaign ad about "Chinapeople" and "Cocaine Mitch."

Mark Thompson (@ministter), host of 'Make It Plain' on Sirius XM, joins us. Rudy Giuliani contradicts his own statements on the hush money paid to Stormy Daniels. Trump says "Rudy knows it's a witch hunt." The slim possibility of impeachment with a Republican held Congress. What's Putin's end game with Trump? Netanyahu's claims about a nuclear Iran and America's blind support of Israel. What's the deal with Kanye West?

Andy Kindler (@AndyKindler) joins us to drag on Dennis Miller for forty odd minutes. When will Miller's ghost of a career become too depressing to have fun with? Sam, Michael and Andy say "probably never." Jamie remains unconvinced, but she'll get used to it.

On the fun half: Ronald Raygun's new nickname and Dave Rubin's filthy lucre. Sebastian Gorka says the mainstream media is obsessed with Sean Hannity. Neil Cavuto, possibly angling for a job at MSNBC, calls out Trump on his pattern of false statements. Sam gets a call from his future self. Tom in Yacubia says we inspired him to unionize his workplace (hell yeah!). Disturbing footage of a police officer kicking an 18-year-old suspect in the head in Ohio. The Democrats need to cater to their base better. Vic Berger's NSFW video of Gavin McInnes and the Pwoud Boys falling even further from grace.

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Direct download: 5-4-18-Mark_Thompson-Andy_Kindler-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:21pm EDT

Gabriel Debenedetti (@gdebenedetti) from New York Magazine joins us to detail how Bernie Sanders' media presence is changing how politicians advance their platform in the 21st century.

On today's show: Rudy Giuliani tells Sean Hannity that Trump paid back Michael Cohen for the Stormy Daniels hush money.

Gabriel Debenedetti joins us to discuss his recent article, "Bernie Sanders is Quietly Building a Digital Media Empire." In 2018, Bernie Sanders remains one of the country's most popular political figures in no small part due to his embrace of social media. How Bernie's (paid) interns and other young staffers have helped build a presence on various platforms. Bernie's plans to create an alternative news network that focuses on regular people and policy, not tabloid stories and talking heads. How other politicians view his efforts. How does Bernie's embrace of platforms like Facebook square with his critique of Silicon Valley? Bernie's biggest hits so far. How digital content tracks with door to door outreach. What Bernie and friends have planned for the future.

On the fun half: Alex Jones mercilessly ethers Ben Shapiro. Hillary Clinton claims she lost votes in the Iowa primary because she's a capitalist. WV Senate candidate Evan Jenkins photoshops his primary opponent shaking hands with Hillary Clinton instead of Donald Trump. Emmanuel Macron calls Australian PM's wife "delicious;" the crew speculates on what happened. A college student thanks us for inspiring her to do politics IRL. What's the proper socialist approach to drug policy? Did Bill Clinton really tell Trump to run for president? Should the left ally with the right to bring controversial speakers to campus? The Mooch teaches us the Italian word for "cuck."

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Direct download: 5-3-18-Gabriel_Debenedetti-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:24pm EDT

Salon's Amanda Marcotte (@AmandaMarcotte) joins us to discuss her new book, Troll Nation: How The Right Became Trump-Worshipping Monsters Set On Rat-F*cking Liberals, America, and Truth Itself.

On today's show: Proud Boy defeated by cardboard sign at May Day protest.

Amanda Marcotte joins us to talk about her book on the pro-Trump movement. According to Marcotte, Trumpism is different from the normal conservative agenda because it's driven by the politics of revenge. She traces this thread from Rush Limbaugh, to Gamergate, to the movement to elect Donald Trump. How did this attitude take over the whole Republican Party? The anti-p.c. movement as proxy battle for other issues. How to deal with this strain in US politics? What role, if any, have liberals and "SJWs" played in creating these problems? What role is played by material forces and economic anxiety?

Dennis Miller's eagerly awaited burn of Michelle Wolf, bap bap bap.

On the fun half: Mike Pence introduces racist sheriff Joe Arpaio at tax policy event. John from San Antonio criticizes Amanda Marcotte's position on Bernie Sanders. Trump's doctor "felt raped" and "like a slave" when Trump's bodyguard raided his office. A caller shares her experience at a Dave Rubin "freedom of speech" event. Dave Rubin's triumphant return to stand-up comedy. Jeff in GA says Trump is the ultimate expression of conservatism. Does the MR crew need to go on the road to understand the Real America? What people should actually be concerned about when they complain about the military budget.

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Direct download: 5-2-18-Amanda_Marcotte-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:51pm EDT

Trita Parsi (@tparsi), president of the National Iranian American Council and author of 'Losing an Enemy: Obama, Iran, and the Triumph of Diplomacy,' joins us.

On today's show: Trump didn't discuss his "shithole countries" remark with Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari. Mad Dog Mattis says the JCPOA was made "assuming" Iran would "try to cheat."

Trita Parsi joins us to discuss the Iran nuclear deal and the motivations of those who want to scrap it. While opponents of the deal claim to be acting against nukes or in favor of regime change, it's really about shifting the balance of power in the region back to a pre-2003 scenario in which Iran is isolated and contained. How both Israel and Saudi Arabia are using US power to their own ends in the region.

The crew checks in on the Dennis Miller countdown clock. Why do people give Netanyahu any legitimacy? Ben Shapiro gets remixed by Vic Berger. Freedom of speech and the history of May Day. Major donors the Koch brothers had a say in hiring and firing at George Mason University. Fox News made a montage celebrating the death of Osama bin Laden; Condi Rice approves. Condi scolds critics of the Bush admin's torture program that they "weren't there" on 9/11. How Trump's play with North Korea is just like the plot to "Talladega Nights." The definition of reactionary politics. Mindy's insight into why Mika got mad about the WHCD. How Andrew Cuomo gets endorsements from groups that don't actually like him. Pat Buchanan's Hannity appearance.

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Direct download: 5-1-18-Trita_Parsi-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:33pm EDT

Donald Trump makes some disgusting comments about the Para Olympics and of course no one cares. `

Andrew Bacevich, Professor Emeritus of International Relations and History at the Boston University Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies and author of, America's War for the Greater Middle East: A Military History, what is the purpose of war? Why the United States military does not "win". What is the distinction between military and civilian rule? Cold War foreign policy and the purpose of Pentagon spending. Bill Clinton's foreign policy and ongoing American action. What does military power exist for? How important were the neocons in the Bush Administration? Did Donald Rumsfeld reset military policy and strategy? What is the "military system". Are we choosing the right people to run our wars? How to deal with the problems inside military leadership. What if China behaved like the United States? Increasing the awareness of the American public about American empire. Why do we call the President the Commander and Chief? And why both political parties are militarized.

The Dennis Miller countdown clock begins.

On The Fun Half: Donald Trump, says Kanye "gots it". Why its so hard to win asylum cases from Central America. The Republicans and the Washington press whine and complain and whine and complain about Michelle Wolf's White House Correspondents Dinner.  Brian Kilmeade, thinks comedy should only punch up? Mika Brzezinski, reaches for her smelling salts.  Will be there be a Democratic wave? and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 4-30-18-Andrew_Bacevich-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:51pm EDT

Iran's President, Hassan Rouhani roasts Trump for not knowing anything about international treaties and just being a "merchant".

Benjamin Dixon (@BenjaminPDixon) breaks down the historical breakthrough of the handshake between the North Korean and South Korean leaders on both sides of the Korean border. Who deserves credit for what's happening in Korea. China and the United States, enter negotiations soon. North Korea's strategy. How do revolutions happen and will there be changes in North Korea? Prospects for change and modernization. Does Trump deserve credit? Stoney Hoyer, caught on tape, explaining how the DCCC, backs corporate democrats in primaries. Steny Hoyer's corporate base How democrats are pushed to the right. Why progressives should think far more about policy than process.  What to do about Joy Reid and how she should have handled her scandal.  Ronny Jackson is out as the next head of the VA and how was his misbehavior not a problem earlier?

Judy Gold (@JewdyGold), Judy Gold talks about being Jewish in Sweden. Sweden is great, but there isn't any weed there? Sean Hannity, Michael Cohen and Donald Trump. Diamond and Silk do an ad for a Nazi candidate. White privilege in action in New Jersey. Police harassment and racism across America. The Steele Dossier and will Trump be impeached? And we introduce Judy to the wonders of Sassy Trump.

On the Fun Half: Alex Jones makes a move on Kanye as Kanye embraces the Alt Right, what's going on with Dave Rubin's twitter and brain? Teachers strike in Arizona, is a nationwide strike next? And we take your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 4-27-18-Benjamin_Dixon-Judy_Gold-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

Daniel Marans (@DanielMarans) of The Huffington Post joins us to discuss postal banking, the special election in AZ, and more.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's proposed Postal Banking Act and how it would hurt predatory lenders. How durable is this progressive drift among elected Democrats? How activist groups are asserting power over Democratic candidates. What's going on with the special election in Arizona. Democrat Randy Bryce's run for Paul Ryan's House seat as test case for the blue wave. Why more progressive ideas are coming out of the Senate than the House. Cynthia Nixon's emphasis on racial justice and how she could do well against Cuomo in a post-Bernie world.

On the fun half: Trump goes off to Fox and Friends about James Comey, Michael Cohen, and much, much more. Trump flip flops on pleading the 5th. Trump thinks Kanye West's unhinged tweet about him is "very cool." David French misinterprets Chance the Rapper. Is Silicon Valley infantilizing its employees, or does it just want them to work 24/7? Gorka tells Dave Rubin that Trump "doesn't have a racist bone in his body," he just wants everyone to be safe, ps: global jihad. It's a day that ends in "y" so Tomi Lahren said something racist and dumb. What's going on with North Korea at the moment? A caller on which right-wing women he finds sexually attractive. A caller on life as a union postal worker. Michael debates a caller on Israel. Is the name of Jamie's podcast cultural appropriation?

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Direct download: 4-26-18-Daniel_Marans-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:57pm EDT

Terence Keel, Assistant Professor of History and Black Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, joins us to discuss his book, Divine Variations:
How Christian Thought Became Racial Science.

On today's show: Dr. Ronny Jackson was nicknamed "the Candy Man" at the White House because he gave out prescriptions "like candy."

Terence Keel joins us to discuss the social factors underlying the continued interest in race science. The history of bad science around race, even after the human genome was sequenced and showed 99.98% genetic consistency across all of humanity. How Dr. Spencer Wells mapped human migration, found no population to be genetically homogenous. The biblical framework for belief in "monogeneism," or common human ancestry. A Carlos Slim funded study that looked at type 2 diabetes risk alleles in Latin American culture without accounting for the effects of colonialism, dispossession. How race and gender-specific drug research and marketing fails to account for social factors, lets policymakers off the hook. The flawed work of David Reich and the similarities between race IQ theorists and new atheists.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio breaks down the Democrats' big night and the cruelty of Medicaid work requirements. The bizarre bromance between Trump and Macron. Trump and Mulvaney's vicious attack on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Ronan Farrow says Hillary Clinton tried to cancel an interview with him because he was reporting a story on Harvey Weinstein. Alex Jones claims the KKK is full of self-hating black people. Is freedom of speech on college campuses actually under attack? Sean calls in about "Count Me In," a movement to protect unionized labor in the NYC building trades. Jim Bakker says God sent two(!) scientists to cure cancer, but they were aborted, so...sucks to be you. The impact of starvation on Dutch children during World War II. A caller urges people to get involved in local politics.

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Direct download: 4-25-18-Terence_Keel-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:56pm EDT

Rachel Heiman, associate professor of anthropology at The New School, joins us to discuss her book, Driving after Class: Anxious Times in an American Suburb.

On today's show: Mitt Romney heckles Russell Westbrook at NBA playoff game, isn't doing so hot in the Utah Senate primary.

Rachel Heiman joins us to discuss her ethnographic study of a suburban town in New Jersey. How Heiman wove herself into the fabric of the town for about a year, attending local meetings, interviewing kids and adults, and even working as a babysitter. The reasons Baby Boomers migrated from cities to the suburbs in the 1980s: The enduring postwar ideal of the nuclear family in a single-family home, public divestment in cities, racial anxieties. Changes in the middle class brought on by neoliberalism, growing inequality, and the myth of rugged individualism. Coded language like "security" and gated houses as a proxy for other types of barriers. The rise of hyper-scheduling, tutors, SUVs, and other expressions of parents' fears. What's driving this insecurity? "Shop local" as a way to keep tax dollars in one's own, relatively wealthy, town.

On the fun half: Fox News clowns take shots at Bernie Sanders' proposal for a federal jobs guarantee, only succeed at making it sound great. Rand Paul gives into Trump, votes for Pompeo because he "learned his lesson" on Iraq. Alek Minassian arrested for van attack in Toronto, apparently a member of "incel" community. Senate to postpone confirmation hearing for VA nominee (and doctor to Trump) Ronny Jackson over concerns about his on-the-job behavior. Tucker Carlson whines about DSA members who were mean to Milo, suddenly likes safe spaces. Why hasn't Trump mentioned the Waffle House hero? Melania, having tasted freedom, resists holding her husband's hand. Mindy backs up Rachel Heiman's findings. Vote for Genevieve Jones-Wright, a DSA candidate for DA in San Diego. Sean Hannity flabbergasted/thrilled that newscasters keep saying his name. Trump parrots talking points from Fox News.

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Direct download: 4-24-18-Rachel_Heiman-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:14pm EDT

On today's show: Tom Perez defends the cost of the DNC's lawsuit against Russia and Wikileaks. Milo gets shouted out of a Manhattan bar by the DSA. Gina Haspel's involvement in Bush-era torture program, black site prisons, destroying evidence. Wisconsin is ramping up its punishment of food stamp recipients. The teacher strikes spread to IN, GA...will there be enough solidarity for them to win? Sean Hannity got HUD help on numerous multi-million dollar property deals.

On the fun half: What Kant can teach us about public vs. private uses of reason. Zizek says leftists should focus on mundane concerns beyond the revolutionary moment; Jamie agrees. Jordan Peterson goes on Real Time With Bill Maher, says Democrats need to have respect for Trump voters. The top three selling points of socialism. Where should we draw the line on coalition-building? A Mexican immigrant tells us about Texas' anti-immigrant bill SB4. KS Secretary of State Kris Kobach says students participating in walkouts need to stay in class and learn about the second amendment. Hero man disarms shooter in Waffle House without the use of a gun. Cops harass counter-protesters for wearing masks at GA white supremacist rally. Is contact with liberals causing Trump voters to double down?

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Direct download: 4-23-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

Good morning everyone, on today's show Digby and Andy Kindler join us. 

Digby joins us to talk about the Cuomo/Nixon democratic primary in NY and why Cuomo is in more trouble than he appears prepared for before discussing the legal jeopardy Michael Cohen is in. Finally, the shock doctrine is in full effect in Puerto Rico.

Andy Kindler joins us to tell us about his new movie The Fiddling Horse and helps us bully the newly resurgent Dennis Miller who's back back back baby! ba ba ba! Dennis Miller's new column in Breitbart is a doozy and his new radio spot "Miller Minute" is somehow even worse.

On the fun half: Farmer tells of the brutal tactics used by ICE, Theranos makes game about shooting journalists, plus your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 4-20-18-Digby_Andy-Kindler-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:31pm EDT

Professor Daniel Bessner joins Michael Brooks to discuss his new book, Democracy in Exile: Hans Speier and the Rise of the Defense Intellectual and Daniel Bessner shows how the experience of the Weimar Republic’s collapse and the rise of Nazism informed Hans Speier’s work as an American policymaker and institution builder. How intellectuals began embedding themselves in the defense establishment beginning in the 1930s. Hans Speier's origins in Weimar Germany and on the German socialist left. How intellectuals came to believe they had to save democracy "from the people, for the people."

On the fun -  Alex Jones in big legal trouble, denies calling Sandy Hook a hoax, Laura Ingraham gets trolled by a Border Angel, Dave Rubin edits Q&As and bombs at stand up, Trump remembers Barbara Bush, Nikki Haley gets misled but not confused, and your calls and IMs.

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Direct download: 4-19-18-Johann_Hari-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:50pm EDT

Domingo Morel (@domingomorel), Assistant Professor of Political Science at Rutgers University – Newark and author of Takeover: Race, Education, and American Democracy, joins us.

On today's show: Comey has said the GOP has "lost their way."

Domingo Morel joins us to discuss his book, 'Takeover: Race, Education and American Democracy.' By the '60s and '70s, lots of funding was going to city schools in which racial minorities had a real voice. School boards as entryway into politics for marginalized communities. The state takeover of "failing" urban schools as a response to this growing base of power. The 1989 takeover of a school in Jersey City that started the trend. How state takeovers of schools allowed politicians to abolish or replace community-led school boards. How these trends shifted in the early '00s to reflect a bipartisan, neoliberal program of privatization. What teachers and students have been doing to resist.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio on trends in special elections. Meghan "glass houses" McCain accuses Comey of writing book for money, attention. Fox & Friends pal around like real, human friends in hilarious promo. Barbara Bush didn't want Jeb to run for president. Wisconsin teacher speaks in favor of new governor, funding for transportation, gets told off. Raygun says electoral politics are just as important as direct action. Jamie still disagrees. A caller on flat earth theories, youth movements and the internet. The Mooch calls in to defend his people.

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Direct download: 4-18-18-Domingo_Morel-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:10pm EDT

David Faris (@davidmfaris), an associate professor of political science at Roosevelt University in Chicago, joins us to discuss his book, It's Time to Fight Dirty: How Democrats Can Build A Lasting Majority in American Politics.

On today's show: Sean Hannity is the third Michael Cohen client revealed by court, claims it's no big deal.

David Faris joins us to discuss what the Democrats should do to hold onto power, if and when they get it back. How Republicans consolidate power by pushing the boundaries of what's legal and acceptable. How the Democrats should follow suit: National voting rights laws, giving statehood to Puerto Rico and Washington DC. The "archduke moment" when Republicans stole a seat on the Supreme Court. How Democrats could pack the courts and what they could concede in the process. Why are the Democrats like this in the first place? Is the current leadership able to change, or do they need to be replaced? Why the filibuster is bad. The need to change how Senate seats are apportioned and an interesting idea out of California. Card check and union power. The issues with gerrymandering.

On the fun half: The relative importance of social movements and electoral politics. Trump asks "are there any Hispanics in the room?" Hannity opens show with news montage of his name, quickly moves onto Syria. Alan Dershowitz puts Hannity on the spot. Alex Jones claims hot girls tried to convert him to Satanism as a teen, is being sued by Sandy Hook parents. Senator John Larson (D-CT) rips into the balanced budget amendment proposal, defends Social Security and Medicare. Greg in Oklahoma updates us on the labor actions there. Should university endowments over a certain amount be taxed? A tip on keeping your info safe from Zuck: disconnect.me. A caller gives a detailed assessment of the conflict in Syria and why the U.S. shouldn't leave the Kurds (and others) to die.

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The Northwest Immigrant Rights Project continues to do amazing work, but thanks to Jeff Sessions they’re poised to lose a major source of funding. Please consider donating what you can here.

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Direct download: 4-17-18-David_Faris-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:24pm EDT

On today's show: Libertarian economist finds regulations have no negative impact on business dynamism. Trump addresses nation on Syria strikes. KY governor Matt Bevin claims kids will be poisoned and molested because teachers are striking. Why the Democratic Party is supporting the current wave of teacher strikes. The crew discusses Cynthia Nixon's chances of beating Andrew Cuomo to become governor of New York, what's going on with unions and the Working Families Party, and how progressive Nixon would be in office.

On the fun half: The Mooch is offended on behalf of Italian-Americans that Comey compared Trump to a mob boss. Comey says Trump is morally unfit to be president, upsetting Fox and Friends. Starbucks has two black men arrested for the crime of sitting down and waiting for their friend. The absurdly well-funded reach of the conservative Young Americans Foundation. Alex Jones "sick" over air strikes in Syria, says Trump has betrayed him. Eddie Glaude says our country is in decline because of Trump. Joseph Ballin finally quits MR. Sam's opinion on Dennis Kucinich. Conservatives aren't the only ones on campus whose free speech is being threatened. Sam defines "business dynamism." How to win over working class Trump voters. Why is Matt Bevin so sure that kids left home alone are getting molested?

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Direct download: 4-16-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:12pm EDT

Sam Live from the 2018 Mass Tort Conference in Las Vegas

On today's show: Sam speaks with radio host Thom Hartmann about the history of reform and where America is headed. The cycles of reform and backlash that characterized much of the 20th century. Paul Manafort's sociopathic career. How the Republican Party has changed. The various factors that will contribute to an economic crisis worse than 2008. Thom co-signs MMT.

Sam talks to human rights lawyer Gavi Mairone about his work suing banks on behalf of the victims of terrorism and ethnic cleansing. The lasting effects of chemical weapons Saddam Hussein used on Kurds in Iraq. How he is helping 4,000 plaintiffs  hold war profiteers semi-accountable for their suffering.

Shannon Pennock at Pennock Law Firm explains how tort lawyers are holding pharmaceutical companies responsible for over-distributing heartburn medications that have been linked to kidney disease.

James Comey hints to George Stephanopoulos that the pee tape may be real. Trump claims he's been draining the swamp, even if it "may not look like it." Elizabeth Warren tells Mick Mulvaney "you're hurting real people" by dismantling the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which she started. Ainsley Earhardt tells Geraldo she wants war in Syria to overshadow Comey's book. Corey Booker corners secretary of state nominee Mike Pompeo on his ties to Islamophobic hate groups. CA Sheriff Donny Youngblood caught on video telling CO union it's "better financially" to kill suspects than to "cripple" them. Code Pink confronts Nikki Haley over the murder of Palestinian protesters.

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Direct download: 4-13-18-Sam_Seder-Mass_Torts-Day_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:25pm EDT

Sam broadcasts live from the Mass Torts conference in Las Vegas, NV!

On today's show: Jimmy Kimmel takes down Paul Ryan.

Sam speaks with Jared Johnson of SueTheCollector.com about consumers' rights when dealing with debt collectors. The many ways debt collectors can break the rules, rendering your debts null and void. How to deal with student loan collectors. How the laws are expanding to be more consumer-friendly but how the Santander ruling set it back.

Sam speaks with Mike Papantonio about his work suing opiate distributors on behalf of communities. Distributors' little known role in creating the opioid crisis and how the law can hold them accountable. How this is different from the Big Tobacco settlement of 1998. How aware were doctors in the '90s of the dangers of opiate addiction? How funds from settlements can be distributed to under-funded communities hit hard by the opioid crisis.

Judicial nominee Wendy Vitter refuses to say whether she agrees with the Brown v. Board of Education decision. Cynthia Nixon wants to legalize recreational marijuana in New York. Jeffrey Sachs says it's time to get out of Syria.

Sam speaks with Kimberley Dougherty, the torts lawyer representing the gymnasts in the Larry Nassar sexual abuse case, about how the Safe Sport Act could keep young athletes safe from abuse in the future.

Sam speaks with Cenk Uygur of The Young Turks about the latest in US electoral politics. The real reasons Paul Ryan is not running for re-election. Why he thinks Trump will be impeached sooner than later. The likelihood that the Democrats will win the Senate and the need for new, progressive faces. Why you should support Alison Hartson in her primary campaign against Dianne Feinstein. (More: justicedemocrats.com/alison) Cenk's opinion on the situation in Syria.

Sean Hannity has a meltdown over the upcoming George Stephanopoulos interview with James Comey.

The Northwest Immigrant Rights Project continues to do amazing work, but thanks to Jeff Sessions they’re poised to lose a major source of funding. Please considering donating what you can. Donate here!

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Direct download: 4-12-18-Sam_Seder-Mass_Torts.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:05pm EDT

Alex Hochuli (@Alex_1789), writer and host of the Aufhebungabunga podcast, joins us to discuss the slow motion coup against former Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

On today's show: Paul Ryan will not seek re-election, is a grotesque person.

Alex Hochuli joins us to discuss the slow motion coup against Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Lula's background as a labor leader. The deals Lula struck during his time as president (2003-2011) that left him vulnerable to corruption charges. Lula's limited social reforms that reduced hunger and poverty. How the right turned spontaneous protests to their advantage and redirected them against Lula's Workers' Party. The three factors that led to Lula successor Dilma Rousseff's impeachment and Lula's criminal charges. The substance of the charge against Lula (or lack thereof) and quirks of the Brazilian legal system. The rise of right-wing militias and the assassination of human rights activist and Rio councilwoman Marielle Franco. The dangers Lula faces in prison. What it means that even a center-left politician like Lula can face a right-wing coup at any time. Where does the Brazilian left go from here?

On the fun half: Senators give Mark Zuckerberg a metaphorical swirlie in Congressional hearing. Trump has a normal time with kids at the White House. Melania scores minor points for humanity. Tammy in Texas discusses her viral confrontation with Ted Cruz. Sean Hannity's halfhearted list of people waiting to be raided by the FBI. How much of the military's de facto economic draft is the result of a conscious conspiracy? Actor Jeffrey Wright doesn't pay the workers in his gold mine. A caller discusses how many of his Bible belt classmates grew up to be liberals.

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Direct download: 4-11-18-Alex_Hochuli-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:13pm EDT

Professor Elizabeth Anderson joins the show to discuss why our workplaces are authoritarian private governments—and why we can't see it. In her new book, Private Government How Employers Rule Our Lives (and Why We Don't Talk about It), Anderson breaks down how Americans continue to talk as if early advocates of market society—from John Locke and Adam Smith to Thomas Paine and Abraham Lincoln—were right when they argued that it would free workers from oppressive authorities. What does 'government' mean, and why do we only ever hear about the problems of public governance when corporations can be the primary autocratic and dictatorial force in people's lives? Why 'exit rights,' or quitting your job, is insufficient for freeing people from dictatorial private governance. How non-compete agreements and monopolization make the problem of private dictatorship. How moving from an election to a card-check system while facilitate unionization.

On the fun half: Brazil's deep state takes aim at Lula, what to make of claims of anti-semitism in UK's Labour party, Tony Blair says non-intervention has consequences, Madeline Albright laments Obama's failure of imposing his 'red line,' plus your calls an IMs!

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Direct download: 4-10-18-Elizabeth_Anderson-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:23pm EDT

On today's show: Scott Walker claims to support a suspiciously ACA-like healthcare program. What's Trump about to do in Syria? Bernie Sanders calls Israel's killing of non-violent Palestinian protesters an "overreaction." Updates from the OK teacher strike: The other jobs teachers do to survive, Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder expresses support, Teamsters walk off the job in solidarity (with pizza!), students keep everyone's spirits up with Rihanna. ICE deports a mother on her daughter's prom night.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio on the role of state courts in enforcing the funding of schools (or not). Ronald Raygun gives background on ICE's latest deportation tactics. Turning Point USA guy thinks socialism leads to "extreme poverty and eventually death." Trump talks military action in Syria. Ted Nugent and Alex Jones rail against liberals in a small kitchen. Sinclair media makes all its local news anchors spout the same "fake news" propaganda, may soon reach as much as 70% of the country via monopoly waiver. Dissident Peasant mocks Jordan Peterson. Sam challenges Steven Crowder to a debate, will provide fog machine. Brenda on talking to right wingers. Greg in OK on conservative attempts to demonize striking teachers.

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Direct download: 4-9-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:35pm EDT

Julie Wilson is an Associate Professor of Communication Arts at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. She joins us today to discuss her new textbook, 'Neoliberalism.'

What "neoliberalism" is and how it differs from classical liberalism. The role of the state in promoting neoliberalism via policy that privileges "free markets." The different versions of neoliberalism advanced by Democrats and Republicans. The rise of neoliberalism in the late '70s and early '80s and how every president since Reagan has advanced it. The four D's: dispossession, dis-imagination, de-democratization, and disposability. How social media and austerity train kids to think of themselves as market commodities who must compete with one other. How neoliberalism used the individualistic 1960s counter-culture for its own nefarious ends. How neoliberalism seeps into every aspect of our lives while simultaneously rendering itself invisible. The privatization of politics and what it means to be a neoliberal citizen. What we can do to resist neoliberalism in our everyday lives and become more communal and less alienated.

For members, Eugene Mirman and Jon Benjamin join Sam in studio. 12/14/05

Direct download: Friday_Julie_Wilson_Neoliberalism_public.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Patrick J. Deneen (@PatrickDeneen), political science professor at Notre Dame, joins us to discuss his book, 'Why Liberalism Failed.' What "liberalism" means in the context of Deneen's book. How liberalism protects individual liberty, but also dissolves social bonds like family, religion, and community. How the U.S. was founded on the liberal ideas of John Locke.  How progressives and conservatives debate the "means" without disputing the "ends" of liberalism. How both socialism and libertarianism de-personalize our obligations to one another. How liberalism justifies itself as the natural outgrowth of human nature. How we could better organize society to combat atomization and create a sense of personal obligation to one another. 
 
For members, Jack Hitt talks to Sam and Janeane about a branch of science attempting to prove 'white people' were on North America first.
 
Direct download: Thursday_Deneen_Why_Liberalism_Failed_Public.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Today we present two interviews taken from Sam's nationally syndicated radio program, Ring of Fire.

Alana Massey (@AlanaMassey), journalist and author, joins us to discuss the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act, or SESTA, the controversial "anti sex trafficking" bill that recently passed the Senate. While SESTA sounds like a good idea on its surface, sex workers' rights advocates and many who work with trafficking victims say it will hurt the victims of trafficking more than it helps. The misguided notion that shutting down online advertising will stop sex trafficking rather than driving it further underground. How amending the Communications Decency Act will damage online freedom. The challenges of identifying trafficking victims in the US. Why those involved in the sex trade themselves are in the best position to identify and help trafficking victims, and why the police do more harm than good. The kinds of services that would actually help trafficking victims and why a "harm reduction" approach is preferable to an "abolitionist" approach.

For more, check out Massey's piece in Allure Magazine, 'If You Care About Sex Trafficking, Trust People in the Sex Trades — Not Celebrities.'

Khalil Gibran Mohammed (@KhalilGMuhammad), professor of history, race and public policy at Harvard Kennedy School, joins us to discuss his piece in The Nation, 'How the Alt-Right Uses Social Science to Make Racism Respectable.' How Derek Black, son of prominent white nationalist and Stormfront.org founder Don Black, renounced his father's teachings and what scholars have learned from him. The common misconceptions of racism in the US as aberrational, isolated, and historical, rather than widespread and foundational. The misconception of white nationalists as uneducated yokels, rather than professionals and small business owners. The through lines from the alt-right to the alt-lite. How white nationalists use respectability politics, cherrypicked facts, and "the free exchange of ideas" to give their beliefs a veneer of scientific rigor. How the racist right uses the current movement against police violence to their rhetorical advantage with those who lack a systemic critique of state violence.

For members, Sam and Janeane talk to Arundhati Roy.

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Direct download: Wednesday_ROF_Shows.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Journalist Brian Alexander (@BrianRAlexander) joins us to discuss his book, 'Glass House: The 1% Economy and the Shattering of the All-American Town.' The history of Alexander's hometown of Lancaster, Ohio and how it came to be a glass-making center where one fifth of the population worked at the Anchor Hocking Company. The policy changes during the Reagan years that incentivized the transition to a less production-oriented, more financialized, and more sociopathic version of capitalism. How leveraged buyouts and other mercenary business moves ripped Anchor Hocking from the social fabric of Lancaster and decimated its economy. How the private equity industry uses pension investments as false justification for their actions. Why the people of Lancaster ended up voting 60-40 for Trump in 2016 and how economic factors interacted with racism.

For members: Sam and Janeane talk with Triumph the Insult Comic Dog.

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Direct download: Brian_Alexander_Tuesday_April_3_Public.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Author Ijeoma Oluo (@IjeomaOluo) joins us today to talk about her book, 'So You Want To Talk About Race.' How Ijeoma's mixed-race and class background informed and motivated the writing of this book. How class and race intersected in her life. How 'racism' is different when it reinforces a racial power structure. Separating intention from impact in conversations of race. Where America's history with slavery and racial segregation intersect with economic class oppression. How awareness around race can lead to better choices.

Then for members Mark Crispin Miller appears on Majority Report on Air America on June 3rd, 2004, 'Boxed In: The Culture of TV'

 

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Direct download: Ijeoma_Oluo_Public.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:50pm EDT

Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter) and H. Jon Benjamin (@HJBenjamin) join us for Casual Friday.

On today's show: Sam recalls meeting Carter Page and hearing him say "dodgy dossier." Trump congratulates Roseanne Barr on her high ratings.

Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter) joins us to talk about the latest from the Trump White House. Fired VA head David Shulkin and efforts to privatize the VA. Trump's unqualified celebrity appointees. Laura Ingraham's unwise attack on David Hogg and subsequent backhanded apology. Sam takes Cliff to task for giving a platform to David Frum, a man who wrote speeches for a war criminal, and a lively debate ensues.

Voice actor H. Jon Benjamin (@HJBenjamin), author of Failure Is An Option, joins us to talk about his book, his short career in academia, his terrible jazz album, and more. Sam and Jon recall their time as roommates. Long simmering rivalries are brought to the surface. Bill O'Reilly babbles drunkenly about race.

On the fun half: Jeb Bush accidentally makes a good joke at Trump's expense. Trump compares US infrastructure to that of "a third world country." Mad Dog Mattis gives John Bolton a warm welcome. The crew discusses religion as a force in the world. A caller gives insight into the minds of two Mexican-American MAGA guys he used to live with. The ins and outs of automatic voter registration. Boris Johnson gets taken to task for sexist comments. A caller tells us about Lindsay Shepherd, a grad student who went full alt-right via the "free speech" Jordan Peterson route. Do we hate Pod Save America?

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Direct download: 3-30-18-Cliff_schecter-Jon_Benjamin-mem.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:42pm EDT

David Webber joins us to discuss his new book, The Rise of the Working-Class Shareholder: Labor's Last Best Weapon. 

In The Rise of the Working-Class Shareholder: Labor’s Last Best Weapon, David Webber uses cases such as Safeway’s to shine a light on labor’s most potent remaining weapon: its multitrillion-dollar pension funds. Outmaneuvered at the bargaining table and under constant assault in Washington, state houses, and the courts, worker organizations are beginning to exercise muscle through markets.

On the fun half - Sam Harris is frustrated publishing his meltdown in an email exchange with Ezra Klein failed to convince people he's the most rational, Geraldo talks about whether he still talks with Bill O'Reilly, a caller defends Turkey, what does it mean that America can't police the world anymore, Tucker Carlson is worried about the decline of men still, Stuart Varney and Fox & Friends wonder why people are jealous of banker bonuses, and your calls an IMs.

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Direct download: 3-29-18-David_Webber-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:24pm EDT

Ari Berman (@AriBerman), senior reporter at Mother Jones, joins us to discuss his latest article, Hidden Figures: How Donald Trump is Rigging the Census.

On today's show: Sam Harris has a hilarious Twitter meltdown over some extremely fair mannered criticism from Ezra Klein.

Ari Berman, author of Give Us The Ballot: The Modern Struggle For Voting Rights In America, joins us to discuss the Trump administration's efforts to tamper with the census. Why the U.S. census has not asked respondents' citizenship status since 1950. Why an accurate census of everyone living in the U.S. is mandated by the constitution. The 2010 census' drastic undercounting of immigrants and POC and its implications for everything from voting rights to education. How Trump is trying to rig the 2020 census and steps people are taking to fight it.

Sarah Huckabee Sanders lies about the census and steals Jamie's Peter Pan collar look.

On the fun half: Alex Jones compares David Hogg to Hitler. S.E. Cupp says Melania will be a better role model than Hillary Clinton if she leaves her cheating husband. What are people's rights w/r/t ICE? A caller's insight into why Sam Harris is freaking out so hard. Conservative teen says more dumb things about gun violence, fellow panelists set him straight. A Steven Crowder appearance gets canceled due to his own elaborate demands. An update on how badly the DCCC is screwing up in PA by favoring establishment candidates. Hundreds protest the police killing of Stephon Clark at Sacramento City Hall.

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Direct download: 3-28-18-Ari_Berman-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:31pm EDT

Nomiki Konst (@NomikiKonst) joins us to discuss recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.

On today's show: Andrew Cuomo is trying to quell voting rights in New York. Ben Shapiro criticizes David Hogg's speech using his trademark sophistry and MTV camera work.

Nomiki Konst (@NomikiKonst), investigative reporter for The Young Turks, joins us to talk NY state politics and disaster capitalism in Puerto Rico. The shady moves Cuomo has pulled to keep New York as Republican-dominated as possible in fealty to wealthy donors. The legitimate alternative presented by actress/activist Cynthia Nixon despite Cuomo and friends' efforts to smear her. The ongoing recovery efforts in Puerto Rico and how disaster capitalists are closing in like vultures. Wealthy entrepreneur Brock Pierce's plan to create a libertarian utopia/tax shelter there and how it resembles old fashioned colonialism.

On the fun half: Sam recalls his career as an assistant DJ. US media's misplaced praise for Mohammed Bin Salman. CNN's panel of conservative women don't believe Trump had an affair with Stormy Daniels...but if he did, it would be fine. Herman Cain excuses Trump's history of housing discrimination with the "everyone's racist" defense. How John Bolton weaseled out of serving in Vietnam. What if the Trump WH goes to war before the midterms? The power of religious fundamentalism to keep people from acknowledging facts. DCCC still sabotaging progressive Democrats. Killer Mike's appearance on NRA TV and leftist criticism of how liberals approach gun control.

Check out this piece co-written by Michael Brooks and Djene Rhys Bajalen here!

 

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Direct download: 3-27-18-Nomiki_Konst-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:27pm EDT

On today's show: Rick Santorum says children should take CPR classes if they're so concerned about gun violence. NAACP National Youth Director Tiffany Dena Loftin on the importance of intersectionality in March For Our Lives. Parkland survivor Emma Gonzalez gives a powerful speech. NRA TV's sad attempt at a response. Trump's un-evolved stance on NAFTA and how it's different from Bernie's. Why the federal "right to try" bill that just passed the House is a bad idea. How anti-sex trafficking bills SESTA and FOSTA would hurt the people they purport to be helping. A summary of voting rights measures to watch. Some developments in the Guccifer 2.0 story. Why Stormy Daniels was denied a spot on "Celebrity Apprentice."

On the fun half: Stormy Daniels recounts details of her affair with Trump. What we can learn from Marie Newman's failed bid in the Illinois primary. Judge Jeanine defends Trump's honor from Ann Coulter re: the omnibus spending bill. MA gubernatorial candidate Scott Lively wants "separation of LGBT and state." A caller uses arguments against raising the minimum wage to point out the powerlessness of the capitalist class. A caller compares March for Our Lives to his memories of anti-Vietnam War activism. Do Corbyn and Wolff's prescriptions for democratizing the economy go far enough? Sam's opinion on the omnibus spending bill. A libertarian calls in to talk about apples. Could the DSA be doing a better job on electoral politics? A DJ criticizes Matt's sound drops.

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Direct download: 3-26-18-Sam-Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:01pm EDT

Blogger and political analyst Digby joins us to break down the latest news from the Trump White House.

On today's show: Sam fills in Ari Melber on John Bolton's extremism. Former Playboy model Karen McDougal admits Trump compared her to Ivanka during their affair.

Political writer Heather Digby Parton (@digby56), of Salon.com and Hullabaloo, joins us to talk Trump's terrifying foreign policy moves. Who is Trump's new security advisor John Bolton and what does he believe? Bolton's history of extreme hawkishness, even among fellow neocons. His ties to fanatical Islamophobes like Pamela Gellar. Bolton's stated desire for pre-emptive war with North Korea and Iran. Will Trump veto the omnibus spending bill because there's not enough funding for the wall? Is Sean Hannity writing Trump's tweets? The "mad man" theory by which everyone gives Trump what he wants out of fear. Why Rex Tillerson was fired. What's going on between Kushner and Saudi Arabia. The United States as "rogue nation" and Trump as authoritarian threat. The last ditch option of Republicans standing up to Trump (yeah right).

On the fun half: Trump tells TP USA's Charlie Kirk his advice for his 25-year-old self: "don't run for president." Did Trump promise Stormy Daniels a spot on "The Apprentice"? Mick Mulvaney says Trump will sign the spending bill because it "funds his priorities" but Trump tweets otherwise...then signs it, anyway. John Bolton goes on Fox News, says he wants a "military solution" to North Korea. Rex Tillerson gives a farewell speech, tells us to be nicer to one another. A Norwegian caller fills us in on the history of libertarian socialism and why it's still a valid term. Jamie and Michael argue over whether there's room for anyone who's anything less than 100% pro-choice on the left. Mindy on how to talk to one's kids about Trump.

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Direct download: 3-23-18-Digby-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:24pm EDT

Today: political advisor Luke Thompson (@ltthompso) to give an inside view of how campaigns work and why we shouldn't overrate the capabilities of Cambridge Analytica. What is it that Cambridge Analytica actually sold? 

On the fun half - are we too dismissive of population growth concerns? Trump boasts of deals with MBS, Zuckerberg says Facebook should be regulated, Alex Jones warns of world war, ICE releases woman they terrorized for no reason, how to we respond to Sam Harris' idea religion is the root of all evil? and your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 3-22-18-Luke_Thompson-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:11pm EDT

Journalist and historian Elizabeth Catte joins us to discuss her new book, "What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia."

On today's show: Austin bombing suspect blows himself up, Trump tweets his approval.

Elizabeth Catte joins us to discuss her book, "What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia." The media paints Appalachia as a place with a monolithic culture, but it's actually quite diverse. How the message of  JD Vance's "Hillbilly Elegy" goes along with conservative theories about race and poverty. How liberals and conservatives both believe there are market solutions to poverty. Why people are talking about Appalachia now. The need for broader, more nuanced coverage of the region. Trump, Appalachia, and right-wing populism. How the left should reach out to those alienated by the political establishment.

On the fun half: What the leftists of today can learn from Red Vienna, militant workers' movements, and the USSR's treatment of anarchists. Sam accidentally says "black Africans" on MSNBC, recovers like a champ. Trump's terrible toilet tweets. Sarah Huckabee Sanders claims we don't "get to dictate how other countries operate." Ben Carson still blaming his wife for home improvements. Should Chicago schools be rehabilitating Colin Powell's image? Nine Democrats vote against joint resolution that would have ended US support for Saudi war in Yemen.

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Direct download: 3-21-18-Elizabeth_Catte-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:52pm EDT

Patrick Blanchfield (@PatBlanchfield) of Splinter News joins us to talk about his latest piece, "The Market Can't Solve A Massacre."

On today's show: Channel 4 exposes Cambridge Analytica's honeypot tactics and oligarchic election tampering.

Patrick Blanchfield (@PatBlanchfield) of Splinter News joins us to discuss why neoliberalism can't solve the problem of gun violence. The definition of neoliberalism and how it values human life in terms of market activity. How both Democrats and Republicans apply neoliberal logic to mass shootings. How neoliberalism shifts responsibility for solving problems from society to individuals. Democrats' self-sabotaging technocratic retreat and the need for a broader view on gun violence. The connection between gun violence, racism, the carceral state, militarism, arms manufacturers, and conflict abroad. What student activists are getting right. Concrete steps we can take to reduce the threat of violence for everyone, not just those the market deems valuable.

On the fun half: The crew discusses Kanye West. Jordan Peterson freaks out over Pankaj Mishra's takedown. How do we keep people engaged after Trump leaves office? Cynthia Nixon is running against Andrew Cuomo and we're all about it. Tucker Carlson delivers alt-right talking points about why immigration is bad. Ben Carson blames his wife for $31,000 dining set. How much could a Berniecrat actually get done in office? The deficiencies of modern political discourse and why Jordan Peterson speaks to so many people.

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Direct download: 3-20-18-Patrick_Blanchfield-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:44pm EDT

Nathan J. Robinson, editor-in-chief of Current Affairs (@curaffairs), joins us to discuss his latest piece on Jordan Peterson, "The Intellectual We Deserve."

On today's show: 'Fox and Friends' is upset with Jim Carrey for drawing an unflattering portrait of Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

Nathan J. Robinson (@NathanJRobinson) joins us to break down the Jordan Peterson phenomenon. Who is Jordan Peterson and how did he get such a large following? Peterson's journey from obscure academic to bestselling "self-help" author. The strategy of presenting simple ideas in a complicated way so people think they're profound. The slipperiness of what he's actually saying and how it opens the door to reactionary thought. Peterson's apparent ignorance about the history of identity politics and political activism. What his success says about our current cultural moment. The vacuum created by real academics' absence from the mainstream. How this kind of discourse puts the left at a disadvantage.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio urges people to vote for Marie Newman and other progressives in the Illinois primary, plugs Bernie's upcoming town hall. Will the Democratic Party learn a lesson from Hillary's remarks in India? Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman pursues social reforms for women's attire in Saudi Arabia, continued human rights abuses in Yemen. Peter Thiel praises Trump's economic policies, lack of political correctness. Hannity says not prosecuting Hillary was biggest abuse of power in U.S. history. What U.S. leftists can learn from Red Vienna. Ben Shapiro says the media is biased in its coverage of gun violence and school children have no right to comment.

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Direct download: 3-19-18-Nathan_Robinson-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:17pm EDT

On today's show: Ryan Zinke says "konnichiwa" after listening to a woman's story of Japanese internment camps.

Benjamin Dixon (@BenjaminPDixon), founder of ProgressiveArmy.com and host of The Benjamin Dixon Show joins us to break down the latest news from the Trump White House. North Korea hawk John Bolton is set to become Trump's national security advisor. Trump's increasing confidence that he can do whatever he wants and no one will care. Can our institutions absorb this? How Trump and the GOP are driving turnout among Democrats. Lessons from the PA 18 election, which saw blue collar labor allied with educated suburban women to elect Conor Lamb. Jeff Flake says climate change is real but the left needs to accept nuclear energy. What will happen when Trump runs out of people to fire?

Film Guy Matthew Weiss (@langdonboom) joins us in studio(!) to talk film and more. The time Matthew tried to thank Governor Cuomo for re-routing truck traffic in his neighborhood. An update on the Mike Cernovich documentary. Today's film rec: "The Spirit of the Beehive," a 1973 drama set in post-Franco Spain and starring a young girl. (Also: "Out of the Blue" and "Dear Zachary: a Letter to a Son About His Father.") Matthew hawks his Ebay items, which now include a talking Dennis Miller doll signed by Sam.

On the fun half: A caller highlights excessive law enforcement spending in NYC. Big pharma's role in the opioid crisis and artist Nan Goldin's protest at the Sackler wing of the Met. Stormy Daniels' lawyer says she was physically threatened to stay silent. Man pulls a switchblade on high school student in Rocky Point, L.I. to teach him about guns. Demands from Chicago students go way beyond gun control. Teens are crazy for Bernie! Stephen Hawking owns Piers Morgan on the topic of IQ. Mindy tells her own harrowing story of opiate withdrawal. The government's responsibility for treating drug addiction. Some criticism of David Frum. A listener reports back from Dave Rubin's "free speech" event.

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Direct download: 3-16-18-Ben_Dixon-Cliff_Schecter-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:23pm EDT

Journalist and author Liza Featherstone (@lfeatherz) joins us to discuss her new book, Divining Desire: Focus Groups and the Culture of Consultation.

On today's show: What Conor Lamb's victory means for the GOP. Sean Hannity criticizes student walkouts, brags about being 100% Irish.

Journalist, author, and professor Liza Featherstone joins us to discuss her latest book, Divining Desire: Focus Groups and the Culture of Consultation. The surprising origin of focus groups in the government of 1920s Vienna. The influence of demographics and the difference between quantitative and qualitative research. How the tactic migrated to the U.S. government during WWII, then jumped to Madison Avenue in effort to jumpstart the postwar economy. The connection between advertising and psychoanalysis and the influence of Freud's ad man nephew. The push back against "subliminal marketing." How the focus group migrated back to politics in the 1980s.

A lone protestor (and MR listener) heckles Sebastian Gorka outside an event in Ohio.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio on the blue wave sweeping the country. Sam gives Chris Lapakko some documentary tips. Ronald Raygun responds to criticism. New WH economic advisor Larry Kudlow's greatest failed predictions. The Democrats who voted for the Dodd-Frank rollback. Ryan Zinke defends his private jet rides and other excessive spending. Rand Paul criticizes Gina Haspel's torture record. Dubya's press secretary Dana Perino defends the Bush admin's early aughts torture program on "The Five." Juan Williams tries to talk sense into The Five but they dig their heels in and joke about waterboarding. Kudlow's $100k/month (former?) coke habit. Jordon Dyrdahl-Roberts, who quit his job at the Dept. of Labor rather than cooperate with ICE, calls in to break down the "just following orders" defense. (Donate to his crowdfunding page here.) A caller recommends an article on Splinter News, "The Market Can't Solve A Massacre."

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Direct download: 3-15-18-Liza_Featherstone-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:25pm EDT

Good morning on today's show, Christy Thornton,(@llchristyll)  a Professor in the Sociology Department at Johns Hopkins University joins us to talk about the prospect of Mexico electing a left President.

First, Fox and Friends try to spin Conor Lamb's victory as disappointing for Dems.

Who is Andrés Manuel López Obrador and where does he fit in the context of Mexican democracy? The outlines of the Mexican left. The long shadow of Mexico's longtime sole party, the PRI. What are the major problems facing Mexico, from historical neoliberalism to foreign interference.

On the fun half - Is Elon Musk a 'good capitalist,' students across the country walk out in protest of inaction on gun control, RIP scientist and NHS-defender Stephen Hawking, Alex Jones decodes Rex Tillerson,

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Direct download: 3-14-18-Christy_thornton-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:37pm EDT

On today's show: Trump bids a fond farewell to Rex Tillerson. Sarah Huckabee Sanders won't blame Russia for UK gas attack, even after Theresa May said it was probably them. Republican Rick Saccone claims to be the underdog in PA Congressional race. Incoming CIA director Gina Haspel's dark history of overseeing torture and covering it up afterwards. Trump won't answer a valid question re: Tillerson. ICE spokesman in resigns over being told to lie about California arrests.

On the fun half: Why is the Trump White House so uptight about letting Stormy Daniels talk? Alex Jones thinks Daniels is working with globalists to take down America. Jimmy Dore thinks we should team up with Mike Cernovich for the anti-war cause. Hillary Clinton continues to ruin everything. Stacy Dash is running for Congress, has an awkward appearance on Ari Melber. Why budget surpluses are bad. A caller in Austin reports what he knows about the mail bomb attacks there. A caller in Pittsburgh says Hillary isn't helping. Sam's thoughts on Cuomo. A caller discusses voter purging in WI. Sam's undistinguished basketball career. Why do we hate Jordan Peterson? Let's break it down.

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Direct download: 3-13-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EDT

On today's show: Trump wants to arm teachers who are "naturally talented" with guns.

William Darity Jr.(@SandyDarity) joins us to discuss An Economic Bill of Rights for the 21st Century, a piece he co-authored for The American Prospect with Darrick Hamilton and Mark Paul. FDR's proposed "second bill of rights" that would have enshrined economic rights into the constitution. Employment programs under the New Deal and the idea of a federal jobs guarantee. How such a program would be funded. How a public jobs program would increase the power of workers and create a floor for wages and benefits. What these jobs would actually consist of and how they'd fulfill other promises in the bill, like housing, healthcare and education. Why the right to an adequate education needs to be written into the constitution. Darity's updates to FDR's original list of rights: the right to sound financial services, a clean environment, and trust fund as birthright. How guaranteeing these rights would help fight racial inequality.

Elizabeth Warren calls out fellow Democrats for supporting the bill that would deregulate banks. John from San Antonio updates us on Democrats in Texas. Trump owns "sleepy eyed son of a bitch" Chuck Todd. Betsy Devos drowns on '60 Minutes.' Ronald Raygun shares another ICE horror story. Alex Jones shills fluoride-free mouthwash. Steve Bannon tells France's National Front to keep up the good work. How to handle a stubborn moderate.

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Direct download: 3-12-18-William_Darity-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:12pm EDT

Digby (@digby56) and Andy Kindler (@AndyKindler) join us for Casual Friday.

On today's show: Trump likes Gary Cohn even though he's a "globalist." Trump's awkward press conference with steel workers.

Digby (@digby56) of Salon.com updates us on what the hell Trump thinks he is doing with North Korea. Hannity's absurd "rocket man blinked" segment. More theories on the Stormy Daniels situation. A pee-themed performance Trump might have watched in Moscow. A brief explanation of the Seychelles story.

Andy Kindler (@AndyKindler) joins us to talk masculinity and drag some right wing bozos. Chad Prather's ode to the alpha male. Dennis Miller's depressing comedy. Adam Carolla's documentary on campus snowflakes. Miller's attempts to take down Kathy Griffin. Maybe he's just not that smart? A new Jimmy Reefercake song is played.

On the fun half: Parkland High School student Sarah Chadwick's parody video of Dana Loesch's NRA ad. A caller recommends the BBC series "North South," about industrialization in England, and the Left Flank Gam1ng Youtube channel. Greg's uncle calls in from Nebraska. The Yakubian left defines neoliberalism. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke's very expensive door. Sen. Dean Heller tries to boost re-election bid with Justice Kennedy retirement rumors. A caller reports back from Dave Rubin's "free speech" event sponsored by the Ayn Rand Institute. A caller relates how Sam inoculated him against libertarianism.

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Direct download: 3-09-18-Digby_Andy_Kindler-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:57pm EDT

Professor Richard D. Wolff (@profwolff), of U Mass Amherst and The New School, joins us to discuss the failure of capitalism and what socialism in the US could look like.

On today's show: Sam Nunberg changes course on complying with Mueller's subpoena. Professor Richard D. Wolff (@profwolff) returns to talk Marxism, crisis, and economic democracy. How the financial crisis of 2008 awoke many Americans to the fatal flaws of capitalism and made them curious about socialism. How globalization and the credit industry have harmed the working class. The Corbyn-led Labour Party's plan to democratize the economy via worker coops. A brief analysis of MMT. The past failures and future potential of unions. For more Richard D. Wolff, check out Democracy at Work and Economic Update.

On the fun half: Florida state rep. Elizabeth Porter says children have no right to influence gun control policy. Dana Loesch responds (sort of) to CT governor calling the NRA terrorists. Jeff Sessions suddenly cares about states' rights. Susan Page and Jeremy Peters unwittingly contradict each other re: microaggressions. Some Puerto Ricans critical of San Juan mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz. NRA TV chuds angry you can wear a Colin Kaepernick jersey to vote. Trump claims he'll build the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem for $250k. Anthony in Miami questions the blue wave. How to make sure you haven't been purged from the voter rolls. Jamie's dad calls in to wish her a pre-emptive happy birthday, and another quality Raygun call.

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Direct download: 3-07-18-Richard_Wolff-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:17pm EDT

Labor reporter Mike Elk (@MikeElk) joins us to discuss the teachers' strike in West Virginia.

On today's show: The GOP's fake mailer about Democrat Conor Lamb's support of gun rights. Ted Cruz's hackish attack ad against Beto O'Rourke.

Labor reporter Mike Elk (@MikeElk) of The Guardian and Payday Report joins us to talk about the West Virginia teachers' strike. The issues that led up to the strike and why the striking teachers had the support of their communities. The role of union leadership and why they accepted a deal the rank and file rejected. An explanation of the deal that ended the strike for real. Under what circumstances will the teachers and other state workers' 5% raise be funded by cuts to Medicaid? The strike's ripple effect on other states. The history of militant labor in West Virginia and how that squares with the state's drift toward the Republican Party. The significance of having a majority-female teachers' union and the value of emotional labor.

On the fun half: The GOP's creepy attack ad against Conor Lamb. Ted Cruz's hackish attempts to make fun of Beto O'Rourke's name. Chuck Schumer makes a lackluster case for Israel at AIPAC. John from San Antonio updates us on voting patterns in Texas. Dissident Peasant critiques Ted Cruz's country song and offers his perspective on solidarity in red states and eroding confidence in Trump. White House chief economic advisor Gary Cohn pretends to quit over trade tariffs but it's probably for his own personal enrichment. Sam challenges (more) libertarians to come on the show and debate him. A caller details the dire pollution situation in Missouri, recommends the documentary "Atomic Homefront." Sam plays clips from his "Sex and the City" appearance and talks about Cynthia Nixon's primary chances against Cuomo. The bottomless cynicism of Pennsylvanians. What is left-libertarianism? Sean Hannity cucks Roger Stone.

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Direct download: 3-07-18-Mike_Elk-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:11pm EDT

David Dayen (@ddayen) joins us to discuss bipartisan attacks on Wall Street reform.

On today's show: Updates on how the West Virginia teacher strike is developing. Will Oklahoma teachers be next? And Sam Nunberg's origin story involves meeting Trump at Wrestlemania.

Journalist David Dayen (@ddayen) of The Intercept joins us to discuss the latest bipartisan attack on Wall Street reform. While Congressional bill S.2155 was pitched as a way to relieve community banks and credit unions from the more onerous and expensive parts of Dodd-Frank, Citigroup and other "stadium banks" have been successfully lobbying to build in as many shelters for themselves as possible. 13 Democratic senators support the bill, including Jon Tester, Heidi Heitkamp, Joe Donnelly, and Mark Warner. Dayen discusses Democrats' political rationalizations for supporting the bill as well as the nuts and bolts of how it will promote bank consolidation, hamper regulation, and increase the risk of another financial crisis. For more on the topic, check out Dayen's latest article here and keep up with his work here.

On the fun half: Why you should stop calling conservative Democrats "moderate Democrats." Greg from OK on the potential strike brewing in his state. Would the MR crew eat lab meat? John from San Antonio with an encouraging update on early voting results in TX. Sam Nunberg's strange day of press. A caller degrades sacred plant medicine by accusing Jimmy Dore of being on it. Jim Bakker claims his apocalypse food bucket biz is "a coop." NY Congresswoman Claudia Tenney claims most mass shooters are Democrats. What's making the DCCC so unresponsive to regular people? Michael explains why he'd vote for Dennis Kucinich.

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Direct download: 3-06-18-David_Dayen-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:34pm EDT

Ryan Grim (@RyanGrim) of The Intercept joins us to talk about the tightening legal net around Jared Kushner and why the DCCC is attacking progressive candidates. 

Brian Kilmeade tells Ainsley Earhardt if she's worried about he pay at Fox News she should be glad she isn't in Hollywood.

The, a look a the Kushner family's business practices and what a failed loan deal with the Qataris tells us about the sort of legal trouble Jared may be in. Why democratic strategists are still stuck in the 'have no position' style of politics, now regarding the emerging consensus for universal healthcare coverage.

On the fun half - Trump jokes about wanting to be President for Life like Xi, Mike from PA calls in to talk DCCC shenanigans, Mike Cernovich thinks christians are being persecuted by tech companies, how to talk about Obama without being glib or racist, and your calls and IMs!

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Direct download: 3-05-18-Ryan_Grim-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:03pm EDT

On today's show: The West Virginia teacher strike and how it relates to the Janus case. School child owns Governor James Justice on the topic of education funding. Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter) joins us for a weekly politics rundown. What's different about the Parkland shooting that will actually inspire change? The state of Georgia's extortion of Delta over the NRA discount. How gun control will impact youth voting patterns. The latest on Jervanka.

Sam re-plays a 2015 interview with the legendary Barry Crimmins, who sadly passed away this week. Crimmins talks political comedy, refusing to shake Henry Kissinger's hand, and "Call Me Lucky," the documentary film Bobcat Goldthwait made about his life. He also discusses the abuse he suffered as a child and its effects on him as an adult, and the complicity of the Catholic church in covering up abuse.

On the fun half: Laura Ingraham claims Trump isn't racist. Tucker Carlson criticizes Trump re: gun control. A caller plugs Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a progressive who is running for Congress in New York. Dissident Peasant talks union organizing and the WV teacher strike. A caller on the liberatory potential of technology. Mindy will have none of her Republican neighbor running for office. Alex Jones claims Youtube suspended him because he's exposing pedophiles, but he's recently been accused of sexual harassment and discrimination. Rush Limbaugh thinks the teacher who brought a gun to school is a "radical leftist" plant. A delightful call from Jordan Peterson. Sam and Jamie discuss their relationship to Marxism.

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Direct download: 3-02-18-Cliff_Schecter-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:32pm EDT

Roxanne Dunbar Ortiz (@rdunbaro) joins us to discuss her new book, Loaded, A Disarming History of the Second Amendment.

On today's show: Sam remembers Barry Crimmins, a pioneer of political comedy who died on Wednesday at the age of 64.

Roxanne Dunbar Ortiz (@rdunbaro), author of Loaded, A Disarming History of the Second Amendment, joins us to discuss the history of gun rights in America. How Dunbar Ortiz first discovered the addictive power of guns when living in 1970s New Orleans. The connection between our militaristic culture and violence at home. How gun rights made it into the constitution. The history of gun rights in America as a means of killing Native Americans and enslaving Africans. Guns as currency of U.S. expansion. How the NRA was taken over by right-wing groups in the 1970s. How minorities and communists scared the right into becoming gun nuts. Reagan's connection to the reactionary John Birch society. How arming themselves backfired on the Black Panthers.

On the fun half: Trump tells senators they're afraid of the NRA, says he wants to seize guns without due process. John from San Antonio on what early voting results in Texas mean for the Democrats. Jeff in Georgia ties gun culture to evangelical Christianity's worship of power. Nobel peace prize committee receives not one but two forged nominations for Donald Trump. John Kelly misses his reign of terror at the DHS. The Mooch takes Kelly to task for Porter abuse scandal. Mnuchin gets heckled at UCLA speaking engagement, reportedly doesn't want anyone to see the video. Josh tells a gun story from his childhood, talks Jumaane D. Williams' chances at beating Cuomo's lt. governor in the primary. Bernie Sanders pushes to end U.S. involvement in Yemen war. Trump advisor Sam Numberg says he thinks Russia offered Don Jr. dirt on Clinton. Ajit Pai is still the worst. The absurdity of thinking guns will protect us from the government.

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Direct download: 3-01-18-Rosanne_Dunbar_Ortiz-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:40pm EDT

Murtaza Hussain joins us to discuss his latest piece from The Intercept where he details the skyrocketing civilian death toll in the U.S.-led war against ISIS and whether our political changes may be influencing the conduct of this war.

First, Gorka wants teachers to lay down suppressing fire in event of shootings while Hannity wants guards on every floor.

What is the contrast between the Obama and Trump administrations regarding rhetoric, policy, and personnel? Understanding how counterinsurgency (COIN) strategies have worked and not worked in Iraq and Afghanistan. The defeat of ISIS and remaining conditions for insurgency. What the left positions should be on the Assad government and foreign interventionism.

On the fun half - Ben Carson is spending $30k on dining sets for HUD, where the Left should focus gun control efforts, Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity have to apologize for spreading lies about the CNN gun town hall, Laura Ingraham wants kids to shut up and stop playing victims, Wayne LaPierre and the NRA are concerned about the DSA.

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Direct download: 2-28-18-Murtaza_Hussain-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:19pm EDT

Ann Hodges, a Professor of Law at the University of Richmond, joins us to discuss the implications of the Janus case.

On today's show: The NLRB throws out an anti-labor ruling due to a Trump appointee's conflict of interest. Donald Trump won't share his umbrella with his wife and child. A brief introduction to the Janus case.

Ann Hodges, a Professor of Law at the University of Richmond, joins us to discuss the Janus case and what it could mean for public sector unions. As per the Abood decision of 1977, it's legal to have a union shop in the public sector, which means every worker whose interests a union represents is required to pay dues whether or not they want to join the union. However, the union may not use objectors' dues for political purposes. The argument currently being made in the Janus case is that money is political speech, and all union activity is political. Hence, requiring dues of union-averse workers infringes on their first amendment rights. Hodges goes over the basics, the politics, the response of unions, and the effect of the 2016 election. She also goes over some of the absurd suits that could be brought based on Janus' legal precedent.

On the fun half: North Korea point man Joseph Yun resigns from the state department. Trump talks tough about China. PA gets a better district map. The leftist potential of billboards and video games. MAGA fan paints portrait of Trump respecting the flag. Paul Ryan claims tax cuts are helping small businesses, but they're actually going to stock buybacks. Democratic lawmaker/former Verizon exec Mark Keam flashes hammer and sickle behind DSA State Senate rep. Lee Carter while Carter is talking about poverty. Trump claims he would have rushed the Parkland shooter. Ben Carson on having a gun pulled on him. Vice roundtable of current and former NRA members sound off on gun control. GORKA RETURNS. More black bloc talk. Are conservatives under-represented in academia? Ronald Raygun fills in on the Rodriguez case, which will deny detained immigrants the right to bond hearings.

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Direct download: 2-27-18-Ann_Hodges-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:44pm EDT

On today's show: Gorka menaces Mediaite reporter at CPAC, public sector unions under attack, judge blocks part of Trump's efforts to end DACA, Dianne Feinstein loses the support of the California Democratic Party, CNN's Erick Erickson says Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg is a "bully." Spotlight on James Dabney, the Smith and Wesson CEO making piles of money off gun sales.

On the fun half: John from San Antonio talks gun control's potential effect on elections. Dana Loesch says "many in legacy media love mass shootings," lies about being attacked by a mob at town hall. Trump says a school is "no different" than a military base and we need to arm teachers. The iron pipeline that brings guns from the U.S. to Canada. Former Trump U professor "Fat Tony" calls in to clear his name. Eric Trump emits word salad about Russiagate, blames Obama for...something? Former CIA head James Woolsey admits to tampering with other countries' elections. CPAC comms director says RNC elected Michael Steele because he's black, Michael Steele responds. How much of the Bernie bros' antipathy towards Hillary was a psy op by Russia?

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Direct download: 2-26-18-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:22pm EDT

Aviva Chomsky joins us to talk about immigration and her book "Undocumented: How Immigration Became Illegal." The myth that there are a finite number of jobs in the US and immigrants take away opportunities from natural-born citizens. Our history of settler colonialism and slavery. How the Hart-Celler Act of 1965 opened up immigration from Asia but restricted it from Mexico for the first time, creating the concept of the Mexican "illegal" immigrant. The history of "chain migration." How the militarization of the border contributed to the professionalization of smuggling and the takeover of drug traffickers. How nativist immigration policies have hurt workers and helped bosses. How Democratic lawmakers fail to fight for the big picture.

For members, Naomi Klein on The Majority Report on September 21, 2005 talking about the Argentine workers struggle.

Direct download: Aviva_Chomsky_Show_Last_Friday_Off.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Shane Burley (@shane_burley1) joins us to talk about his book, 'Fascism Today: What It Is and How to End It.' The fascist reverence for "natural" hierarchies as justified by racial pseudoscience and gender essentialism. The attractive-to-some notion that white men aren't doing well because the system supports the wrong people. The taxonomy of the modern right and how people with a variety of passions come together under "alt-right" and "alt-lite" banners. How the alt-right coopts left concerns like colonial struggles, "identity politics" and foreign interventionism. The alt-right's critique of capitalism. How to fight fascism using a diversity of tactics, from electoral politics to direct action.

Then, Matt Taibbi on The Majority Report on February 3, 2006

Direct download: Shane_Burley_Show_Feb_22.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:30am EDT

Sam Rosenfeld joins us to talk about his new book, 'The Polarizers: Postwar Architects of Our Partisan Era.' The New Deal and when American politics lacked polarization. What are the problems of too much bipartisanship? The problem posed by the conservative/white supremacist southern democrats. How patronage and historical legacies were more important than ideological and material concerns. The decline of party machines and emergence of an important national government. The assymetry of polarization with Goldwater-type Republicans in the 1960s. The response of conservative/market-based democras to the GOP's partisan success. The dangers and opportunities that emerge when polarization intensifies.

And for members, Saddam Hussain/Fred Armisen calls into the Majority Report on October 12, 2004

Direct download: Sam_Rosenfeld_Show_Feb_21.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Famed whistelblower Daniel Ellsberg joins us to discuss his new book on the 'omnicidal' dangers of nuclear weapons, 'The Doomsday Machine.' Ellsberg's personal history, including his father's connection to the US military-industrial complex and Daniel's time at RAND. How Ellsberg took more classified material than the Pentagon Papers as insurance. The Strangelovian reality of 'Dead Hand' mechanisms and how they could spell global apocalypse. The shocking casualness Ellsberg noticed in his time as a nuclear war planner. What Ellsberg would say to Trump or any president could he brief them. The change needed in our collective consciousness in addressing the proliferation of nukes and decommissioning of doomsday machines.

For members: Journalist James Risen on The Majority Report on Feb 22, 2006.

Direct download: Daniel_Ellsberg_Show_Feb_19.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:00am EDT

Authors and academics Daniel Ziblatt & Stephen Levitsky join us today to discuss their new book, 'How Democracies Die.' The pre-Cold War coup-centric deaths of democraceis, and how elections ended democracies during the cold war. The importance of institutions to making democracies last long. The gatekeeping capacity of political parties. How the GOP has abdicated responsibility for maintaining democracy and became a white identity party. What happens when it's one side breaking the norms? Does the GOP need to be met with its own tactics? Why the GOP becoming more diverse is the simplest available option.

Direct download: Levitsky_Ziblatt_Friday_16_Show.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

On today's show: Sam addresses the horrific school shooting in Florida. Teenage survivors of the massacre speak to local news about the need to take action on gun control. Ted Cruz claims Democrats are trying are trying to "politicize" a tragedy. Chris Murphy speaks on Senate floor: "this happens nowhere else." Marco Rubio claims "we need to know all the facts" before we can formulate a political response to the eighth shooting to have resulted in death or injury during the first seven weeks of 2018.

Daniel Marans (@danielmarans) of The Huffington Post joins us to discuss his latest article, What A Battle Over Virginia’s Most Powerful Monopoly Can Teach Democrats Everywhere. Fueled by massive donations, Virginia Democrats have long tolerated the monopolistic business practices of Dominion Energy, "a longtime foe of state consumer advocates, anti-corruption activists and environmentalists." Recently elected Governor Ralph Northam did not make the company an issue in his campaign. But an up-and-coming group of progressive Democrats like Sam Rasoul have pledged not to take any money from the company and fight back against predatory practices, like double-charging customers for the same service, and winning state-level elections. Marans breaks down what this shift in local politics can teach the Democratic Party going forward.

On the fun half: Josh in Chicago shares his experience of living in London where guns are banned, ICE issues a fascistic statement on a preliminary version of an immigration bill a group of Senators are working on, students in Austin protest to free their classmate from ICE, Trump says he's "totally opposed" to domestic violence, Jeff in GA on Meghan McCardle and the capitalist roots of the gun problem, Ben Shapiro triggered by the "identity politics" of Black Panther, Bari Weiss gets in trouble for a tweet, basketball coach Steve Kerr says "nothing has been done" to protect us from gun violence, Ronald Raygun on ICE's terrorism, some callers from Florida lend their perspective on the tragedy, and a Kansas politician is doing an AR-15 giveaway.

Direct download: 2-15-18-Daniel_Marans-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:15pm EDT

On today's show: Mitt Romney will announce his Senate run on social media. Democratic gains in VA and FL state houses. Trump ignores questions about Rob Porter. Trey Gowdy says the House Oversight Committee has opened an investigation into Porter's security clearance, but former FBI director Chris Wray contradicts his timeline. More stories of ICE terrorism. Jimmy Dore walks back his Seth Rich conspiracy theories but insists Hillary "was not the lesser of two evils" and even Jamie gets annoyed.

On the fun half: Kristen Gillibrand bends the knee, takes corporate PAC money out of her fundraising. Queer and trans POC activists arrested at Columbus Pride for protesting police violence. Mindy tells tales from the racist suburb she's moving out of. Alex Jones thinks Kehinde Wiley painted Obama with sperm on his face for Satanic reasons. Fox attacks a high school for opposing the national anthem's pro-slavery verse. A caller educates the MR crew on how to protect online privacy. Sam gives a caller tips on running for state office. A caller has obscure left-criticism of the push for Medicare-for-all. Confronting ICE agents in public about what they are doing to people. How to push the concept of debt resistance in the mainstream media.

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Direct download: 2-14-18-Sam_Seder-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:14pm EDT

Eric Levitz from New York joins the Majority Report to talk about his latest report on why canceling the country's $1.4T student debt would increase the purchasing power of a broad, and growing, part of the American labor force.

First, Maria Bartiromo and Paul Ryan choreograph concern about the national debt in order to gut social benefits. 

Then, Eric Levitz on the depressive economic impact of student debt. Navigating the resentments that a student debt jubilee could engender. What sort of students would debt relief help most? How student debt exacerbates the racial wealth gap. The interaction between the declining middle class and need for a college degree to avoid economic precariousness. How does a student debt jubilee become politically feasible.

On the fun half - Megan McArdle has a new job, Gregg Popovich is America's wisest basketball coach, NRATV impresses with a tv smashing commercial, Trump is mentally ill-equipped to care, Jeff Sessions gives a shout out to America's white sheriffs, the perils of calling state constitutions for money in politics.

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Direct download: 2-13-18-Eric_Levitz-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:55pm EDT

Aziz Rana, constitutional law professor at Cornell, joins us to discuss his latest piece in n+1 Magazine, Goodbye, Cold War.

On today's show: The Boston PD does a most Boston thing and honors a white guy for Black History Month. Aziz Rana joins us to talk about the end of the Cold War era in politics, which he places in 2016. Prior to the Cold War, U.S. politics were marked by class conflict, union power within the Democratic Party, and open white nationalism among Republicans. Both the rise of the USSR and World War II ushered in a new era where both major parties held up an increasing commitment to racial equality, just institutions, national identity, and middle class prosperity as reasons American capitalism was better than Soviet communism. During this time, unions went from true organs of class power to special interest groups defending the narrow interests of their members, and social goods began to to get privatized and tied to employment. Taft Hartley didn't help. The fall of the USSR further ensconced the triumph of neoliberalism. As the Obama era showed, legal equality was a step forward but did little to solve deeper economic problems. From growing class consciousness to grassroots movements, Rana draws parallels from the 1930s to the present and warns us against the mistakes of the past.

Good news: The Teamsters become a sanctuary union, and a California court rules against ICE for detaining people without probable cause.

On the fun half: Meghan McCain is sick of hearing Republicans are racist. John from San Antonio wants Democratic candidates to adopt a progressive program. WV state house candidate Lissa Lucas gets dragged off the house floor for reading a list of oil and gas donors. (Go here to donate to her campaign.) Kellyanne Conway claims Donald Trump helps women "privately." Judge Jeanine blames Obama for the Rob Porter scandal and Sebastian Gorka blames the CIA. Is Jimmy Dorr the Jeanine Pirro of the left? A call from Ronald Raygun. Andy Ternay wears "fuck Trump" shirt to Home Depot. Former Reagan advisor Lee Atwater explains the evolution of the southern strategy on his deathbed. The role of imperialism in U.S.-Taiwan relations. The left-criticism of student debt forgiveness is garbage. How Obama should have handled the Supreme Court. Is Pelosi the right messenger for the Democrats' "crumbs" message? Josh from [redacted] calls Jamie "Hymie."

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Direct download: 2-12-18-Aziz_Rana-PUB.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:28pm EDT

On today's show: Mike Pence won't comment on Rob Porter, says "it's a great honor to serve." Cliff Schecter (@cliffschecter) joins us to discuss the latest news from the Trump administration. Jim "Mad Dog" Mattis and John "not a general" Kelly might seem like the adults in the room, but they're guilty of atrocities and shouldn't be glorified. Nobody is surprised the Trump administration harbored a known abuser. Did Trump and Pence know about Porter? Some good news from Ohio. John Kasich 2020?

Rand Paul's shutdown speech elicits tough talk from Charlie Dent (R-PA) re: the time he got beaten up by his neighbor, which in turn elicits movie ideas from the MR crew. Omarosa says she regrets everything on Celebrity Big Brother and the White House is forced to respond. Corey Pein (@coreypein), host of News From Nowhere and author of the forthcoming Live Work Work Work Die: A Journey into the Savage Heart of Silicon Valley, joins us to talk tech and movies. Silicon Valley is no longer being valorized in our culture. Why superhero franchises are tiresome. Corey recommends Werner Herzog's 1972 film "Aguirre, the Wrath of God," a fictional story about a doomed Spanish conquistador expedition starring Klaus Kinski. More fun with Jordan Peterson.

On the fun half: Gabe in Chicago talks ADHD, Justice Democrats, and the IL governor's race. Trump sticks up for Rob Porter. Porter's ex-wife Jennifer Willoughby details the abuse she suffered. A ribald joke about Meghan McCain. More on why Jimmy Dorr is the worst. Brenda has the best idea yet for a Rand Paul beatdown flick. Fox News gets upset that writer Jesse Farrar wants to waterboard conservative students, never mind giving them bad grades. The other problem with campus culture. How do we fix the opiate epidemic? Trump blames Hope Hicks for the Rob Porter scandal.

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Direct download: 2-9-18-Cliff_Schecter-Corey_Pein-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:57pm EDT

David Golumbia (@dgolumbia), English professor and faculty member at Virginia Commonwealth University joins us to discuss his book Politics of Bitcoin: Software as Right Wing Extremism.

On today's show: Scott Dworkin's scammy #resistance PAC, and a literal Nazi is running for Congress in Illinois. David Golumbia (@dgolumbia) joins us to discuss crypto-currencies: What a crypto-currency is, how Bitcoin is "mined," and the economic principles at play. Golumbia breaks down some of the criticisms of Bitcoin, from the contradictions embedded within it to its association with far-right politics. Could anything created by libertarians really be that good? He explains why we might want to have some centralized regulations on our currency and makes a case for a democratic economy, rather than one created by a shady hacker class.

Nancy Pelosi says she won't whip the House to vote against the DACA-free budget deal. Look up your representative here and do it for her.

On the fun half: Kyle Shank provides further info on crypto-currencies and Sam makes a plan to start one of his own. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis tries to explain why we need low yield nuclear missiles to keep us safe. Jordan Peterson defends "daddy daughter" dances from cultural Marxists and claims men and women can't work together. Pastor Paul Begley claims Melania ordered the White House exorcised before she'd move in. Man quits Department of Labor in protest of its collaboration with ICE (donate to him here). A caller's personal take on NATO, Putin, and Latvia. Mike Pence rebuffed by gay Olympic figure skater. Jeff Sessions promotes aspirin as opiate alternative. Never Trumper Patrick Ruffini misses the cultural cachet (and war crimes) of the Bush II administration. Josh in Chicago breaks down the IL governor's race, encourages support of Daniel Bliss. The crew re-watches the Trump scalp reduction video. Sam offers encouragement to an aspiring academic.

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Direct download: 2-8-18-David_Golumbia-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:17pm EDT

On today's show: Trump "would love to see a shutdown" if border security isn't strengthened, White House Chief of Staff John Kelly thinks people who didn't sign up for DACA are lazy, a Kansas professor was seized by ICE for minor infractions, Disney will save $1.2 billion/year in taxes and spend just $125 million on one-time bonuses for workers, and partisan gerrymandering could be declared unconstitutional in WI.

On the fun half: Josh in Chicago thinks Jeff Merkley would make a good Senate leader, Addison in Ohio fills us in on why Laci Green is bad, former Evergreen State College professor Bret Weinstein says he was "ejected from the left" by student protests, a caller shares his experience with Medicaid work requirements, the smoking gun on Trump's scalp reduction, Jeff Sessions' nonsensical insistence that marijuana leads to opiate addiction, Gorka still totally in touch with Trump, racist asshole harasses Korean-American woman on camera, a caller on how Ursula K. Le Guin's work helps people envision a world without capitalism, progressive MI gubernatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed is getting smeared by his primary opponents, should Cenk Uygur be purged from the left, Jeff in GA tells a parable about how everyone deserves cornbread, Philly city council votes to end cash bail, and a caller asks how to deal with sexual assault on campus.

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Direct download: 2-7-18-Sam_Seder-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:28pm EDT

On today's show: The stock market is down but it matters not, Trump tells factory workers the Democrats have "bad energy" and are committing "treason," and the secretary referenced in Paul Ryan's infamous "$1.50" tweet responds.

The Intercept's Ryan Grim (@ryangrim) joins us to discuss how Democrats get picked to run for office. As Grim explains, the DCCC is the House campaign arm of the DNC, ostensibly tasked with helping Democrats win nationwide. But faced with an unprecedented array of viable left-populist candidates, the DCCC has been endorsing establishment candidates in primaries even when they have a poor track record, like Angie Craig, the medical device executive who underperformed every Democrat including Hillary Clinton when she ran for Congress in MN in 2016. Grim breaks down the reasons for this, including reliance on big donors, tactical misunderstandings of the political terrain, the nepotistic way contracts are awarded to consultants, and of course, ideology (which is shaped by all the aforementioned things). Despite all this, Grim sees hope in a new generation of progressive Democrats who are raising money from small donors, creating their own grassroots institutions, and abandoning the goal of the "permanent majority" in favor of bold, popular programs that actually improve people's lives. Read his piece on the subject here.

On the fun half: Joe Rogan shouts out MR and says we're "close minded" because we don't give a platform to racists like Steven Crowder, John from San Antonio criticizes Our Revolution's treatment of progressive candidates in TX, Trump responds to Nancy Pelosi's "crumbs" comment with "she's a rich lady who wants to give all of your money away," Donald Trump Jr. says his dad can't be racist because he's friends with rappers, Carter Page tries to explain why it's okay that he advised both the Kremlin and the Trump campaign and does such a bad job that Jamie starts caring about #Russiagate, and a caller un-ironically bitches about "social justice warriors."

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Direct download: 2-6-18-Ryan_Grim-pub.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:03pm EDT