The David Frum Show

Lord Andrew Roberts, British historian and author of a one-volume Churchill life, tackles why online revisionists recast Churchill as a villain. Short, sharp discussions probe algorithm-driven shock tactics, Holocaust denial echoes, misinformation about Dresden and Bengal, and modern podcasters’ misquotes. He also weighs MAGA splits over foreign policy and sketches unsettling alternate histories.

Alastair Campbell, writer, broadcaster, and former communications director to Tony Blair, discusses the fraying US–UK relationship. He and David Frum examine Britain’s legal caution over strikes in Iran, Trump’s public attacks on UK leaders, basing and alliance strains, Brexit’s costs, and the risks of improvised US military action. Short takes on postwar planning, NATO anxieties, and domestic political fallout.

Samuel Fleischacker, a philosophy professor and Adam Smith scholar, and Beto O'Rourke, former Texas congressman and organizer, join to discuss Texas politics and Smith’s legacy. They debate why Democrats struggle statewide and strategies for turnout and persuasion. They also explore Smith’s moral ideas, the invisible hand, and what he might make of modern American economic policy.

Tom Nichols, former Naval War College professor and national security expert, joins to dissect U.S. strategy toward Iran. They debate whether actions aim for regime change or limited strikes. They warn about weak planning, risks of state collapse, how war empowers the presidency, and the need for allies, reconstruction plans, and protecting civilians.

Tim Miller, Bulwark host and longtime Republican strategist, reflects on Minneapolis ICE actions and what he observed on the ground. He discusses why younger people find old anti-Trump postures cringe and how that feeds political shifts. Conversation covers how to persuade disaffected voters, the role of liberal democracy as a red line, and whether rituals like the State of the Union still matter.

Mona Charen, longtime conservative commentator and Bulwark contributor, reflects on leaving Reagan-era conservatism behind. She recounts watching colleagues embrace Trump, reassesses views on race and institutions, and defends enduring commitments to markets and the rule of law. Short, candid conversations about political transformation, accountability, and why she keeps speaking out.

Stephen Richer, former Maricopa County recorder who defended election integrity after 2020 and now teaches and practices election law. He recounts resisting pressure after January 6. They discuss how targeted post-election tactics, equipment seizures, and federal maneuvers could be used to disrupt key 2026 races. The conversation also examines court responses, audits, and the resilience of decentralized election systems.

Jason Kenney, former Alberta premier and federal minister known for reshaping Canadian conservatism. He discusses Trump’s outreach to Alberta separatists and how U.S. actions are nudging Canada toward China. They cover defense worries like NORAD and F-35 debates, and immigration reform lessons to prevent far-right backlashes.

David Brooks, longtime New York Times and Atlantic columnist known for cultural and political analysis, joins to revisit neoconservative roots and why their humanistic mix of culture, morality, and policy still matters. They explore declining civic norms, the costs of American retreat, accountability after Trump, and how moral renewal might slowly rebuild shared public life.

Fiona Hill, a former U.S. government adviser and renowned expert on Russia, joins to unravel why Trump is captivated by strongman power. She explores Putin's strategic long game in Ukraine, shedding light on his worldview and the geopolitical consequences of Trump's presidency. The discussion delves into their psychological alignment and how Trump's actions bolster Putin's influence while eroding U.S. credibility. Hill highlights Russia's economic vulnerabilities and the potential future scenarios for Putin's regime.