Jacobin Radio

Alberto Toscano, a political theorist and author focused on fascism, joins Stuart Schrader, a historian specializing in policing and counterinsurgency. They discuss Trump's intensification of police and military repression, revealing insights into the MAGA agenda's authoritarianism. The conversation highlights how police unions amplify state impunity and how media narratives shape public perceptions of crime. They also address the dynamics of resistance and the blending of legal and political tactics against oppressive structures. A thought-provoking exploration of contemporary state violence!

Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University professor and author focused on neoliberal thought, joins Molly White, a cryptocurrency expert. They delve into the unsettling intersections of neoliberalism and eugenics, exploring figures like Hayek and the tech-right's disturbing alliances. Molly breaks down stablecoins, their regulatory challenges, and the 19th-century roots of their issues. They also discuss the political implications of the Trump-UAE Binance deal, raising questions about the future of stablecoins and their economic impact.

Catarina Príncipe, a contributing editor for Jacobin and co-editor of Europe in Revolt, dives into the tumultuous decade of Portuguese politics. She analyzes the impact of Troika austerity and the formation of the 2015 'contraption' government that initially brought the left together. Príncipe discusses the ups and downs of the Costa administration, including modest gains against a backdrop of stagnation for radical left parties. She also examines the withdrawal of support from the left and the resurgence of social movements in response to pressing issues like housing and anti-racism.

Alberto Toscano, a scholar focused on fascism and race, joins Stuart Schrader, a professor specializing in the transnational history of policing, for a riveting discussion on the U.S. escalating authoritarianism. They explore the implications of Trump's federal policing and the politicization of ICE. The conversation dives into the historical ties between policing and U.S. fascist tendencies, revealing how liberal complicity has made Washington D.C. a testing ground for repression. Their insights connect the war on drugs and terror, underscoring the risks of state violence in contemporary society.

Join Sebastian Budgen, an expert on French politics and editor at Verso Books, as he dives into the recent upheaval in France following the fall of Prime Minister Bayrou's government. He discusses the vibrant 'Block Everything' movement uniting unions and activists against Macron's austerity measures. Meanwhile, Joe Allen, a former Teamster, sheds light on the complexities within the Teamsters Union and the implications of a near-strike at UPS, exploring how political ties influence modern labor dynamics in the U.S.

Émile Torres, a moral philosopher and AI ethicist, discusses the unsettling dreams of tech moguls who envision transcending humanity itself. He critiques how transhumanism might prioritize abstract goals over real human concerns. Daniel Wortel-London, a historian and author, explores New York City's economic strategies, condemning the reliance on wealthy residents for growth and exposing the social costs involved. Their conversation navigates dangerous ideologies and the historical lessons that can inform a more equitable future.

The podcast dives deep into the impact of populism on the Left, highlighting the success of candidates like Zohran Mamdani who center economic demands. It discusses the rise in popular anger towards elites and how this sentiment has reshaped political strategies. The conversation explores the need for political parties to revive their connection with working-class voters and addresses the paradox of polarization in contemporary politics. It emphasizes the importance of genuine representation to align candidates with the public's needs.

Join historian John Roosa as he unpacks the recent riots in Indonesia, tying them to a legacy of discontent and austerity measures. David Duhalde shares insights from his extensive work with the Democratic Socialists of America, exploring its historical roots and current challenges. The conversation reveals how past political struggles echo in today’s movements, highlighting the complexities of navigating socialism in modern America. Together, they dissect the links between economic inequality and political unrest, both domestically and abroad.

Ian Gavigan, Executive Director of HELU and a former graduate student worker at Rutgers, discusses the neoliberal challenges facing higher education. He highlights the importance of unionizing and uniting campus workers to combat rising privatization and political pressures. The conversation sheds light on the impact of the Trump administration's policies on academia and the vital role of public institutions in fostering resistance. Gavigan calls for a transformation of universities to prioritize social justice and economic equality.

Sam Tanenhaus, a noted author and former editor of the New York Times Book Review, delves into the life and impact of William F. Buckley. He discusses Buckley's Mexican roots and how they shaped his views on race, contrasting his earlier pro-segregationist stance. Tanenhaus explores the ideological foundations of American conservatism and Buckley's legacy, including controversies around racism and homophobia. He shares insights into Buckley's influential role in the conservative movement and his relationships with key political figures.