Jacobin Radio

Mosaab Baba, a researcher and activist focused on Sudanese politics, dives into the complexities of Sudan's civil war, its historical roots, and the role of foreign powers. He highlights the impact of the 2019 uprising, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the external actors prolonging the conflict. Joining him is Jake Adelstein, an investigative journalist in Japan, who reveals insights into the Liberal Democratic Party's power dynamics, the rise of Sanae Takaichi, and the implications of Japan's remilitarization efforts amid economic concerns.

Guests Brace Belden and Liz Franczak host the lively celebration featuring Aziz Rana, a law professor who shares a heartfelt message from his mother about The Dig's impact on leftist culture. The highlight includes Gabriel Winant discussing the intersection of reading and organizing, while Sumaya Awad emphasizes The Dig's historical significance for new leftists. The night is filled with laughter, bloopers, and insights into how the podcast shapes political knowledge and fosters a sense of community across generations.

Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst Journal, delves into the current crisis facing the Democratic Party. He discusses how recent polls reveal that working-class voters favor economic issues over divisive cultural ones. Chibber critiques the party's focus on identity politics, arguing it alienates potential supporters. He explores the tension between centrist strategies and the need for bold, social-democratic reforms to truly engage the electorate and ensure long-term success.

Alina Shen, Organizing Director at CAAAV, brings her experience in building tenant unions among immigrant communities. Jagpreet Singh, Political Director of DRUM Beats, shares insights on grassroots mobilization within South Asian and Indo-Caribbean populations. Alicé Nascimento of NYCC discusses neighborhood canvassing and accountability strategies. They highlight how grassroots organizations expanded the electorate, mobilized diverse communities, and strategized for political victory while preparing for potential pushback from real estate interests.

Thea Riofrancos, a political scientist and author of "Extraction: The Frontiers of Green Capitalism," shares insights on the complex dynamics of lithium mining essential for green energy. She discusses the ecological destruction and community struggles in places like the Atacama Desert and the impacts of colonialism on resource extraction. The conversation explores the connection between mining and capitalism, the rise of anti-mining protests, and the global challenges in balancing climate action with local environmental concerns.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Press, a labor organizing expert, and Luke Savage, a political analyst, dive into Zohran Mamdani's groundbreaking New York City mayoral campaign. Press shares on-the-ground experiences with late-night workers, highlighting Mamdani's connections with taxi drivers and healthcare staff. Savage critiques the elite backlash against Mamdani's socialist agenda, which includes affordable transit and wages. They explore how this unexpected campaign feared by the establishment could spark similar movements nationwide.

This discussion features Gabriel Hetland, an Associate Professor of Latin American history, who delves into municipal socialism in Venezuela, highlighting participatory budgeting and community empowerment. Lea Ypi, a political theory professor, shares her insights on Albania's complex history through her grandmother’s experiences, exploring themes of archival research, ethnic identity, and the effects of nationalism. Both guests connect past struggles to present challenges, emphasizing dignity, social justice, and the lessons learned from history.

Fernando Haddad, Brazil’s Finance Minister and former presidential candidate, dives into the complexities of Brazil’s political economy. He links the crisis of neoliberalism to the rise of the far right, discussing the PT's strategies in response to Bolsonaro. Haddad advocates for a reconnection of the left with social class issues and emphasizes the importance of coalitions. He critiques global dynamics, particularly concerning BRICS and China’s role in development. He also calls for green industrialization and effective regulation of big tech as part of Brazil’s progressive future.

Vivek Chibber, a sociology professor at NYU and editor of Catalyst, dives deep into the dynamics of neoliberalism. He outlines how neoliberal ideas overshadowed Keynesianism, driven more by class forces than appeal. The conversation highlights how elite institutions shape idea influence, arguing that academic debates had little role in adopting these policies. Vivek emphasizes the importance of social organization for the left to regain political relevance and proposes that misdiagnosing causes leads to misguided solutions. A thought-provoking discussion on power and ideas!

Jacob Silverman, a journalist and author of Gilded Rage, delves into the rightward shift of Silicon Valley elites, citing COVID-era grievances and the culture wars as catalysts. He critiques their anti-democratic instincts and ties to Trump, exposing a troubling blend of self-interest and disdain for outside expertise. Meanwhile, historian Forrest Hylton takes listeners on a political tour of South America, discussing U.S. influence on elections, regime change efforts in Venezuela, and the complexities of narco-politics. Together, they unravel the intricate connections between technology, politics, and global dynamics.