Washington Today Weekend Edition: The Future of AI, "Crisis in Venezuela," and Campaign 2026
Feb 21, 2026
Juan Ravell, PBS Frontline journalist and documentary editor who made Crisis in Venezuela, discusses his film documenting Nicolás Maduro's capture and its chaotic aftermath. He describes dramatic opening footage, U.S. motives and regional buildup. The conversation also examines corruption networks like Cartel de los Soles and how sanctions reshaped Venezuela's shadow oil and trafficking systems.
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Avoid Policies That Hamper AI Competitiveness
- Avoid heavy-handed regulation or taxation that stifles AI development and competitiveness.
- Vance Ginn urges the U.S. to remain competitive so it doesn't fall behind countries like China.
Fear Versus Practical Benefits
- Public fear of AI often stems from dramatic cultural images like 'Terminator' rather than measured analysis.
- Ginn highlights concrete benefits in education and healthcare where AI can improve outcomes.
Filming Venezuela's Rapid January
- Juan Ravell says his team filmed Venezuela's January events to capture the rapid aftermath of Maduro's capture.
- He frames the film around the central question: is this a transition to democracy or another regime type?