What Next | Daily News and Analysis

Some presidents use their pardons for large groups of people. Some presidents use them for personal reasons. If you were to sum up Donald Trump’s use of the power of the pardon, the only word for it is “brazen.”  Guest: Benjamin Wallace-Wells is a staff writer at The New Yorker.Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Retired Air Force Major General Steven J. Lepper, a former deputy legal counsel to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delves into the legality surrounding recent military strikes in the Caribbean. He discusses the implications of targeting shipwreck survivors, labeling such orders as textbook unlawful. Highlighting a viral video urging soldiers to refuse illegal orders, Lepper critiques the administration's dismissive tone. He outlines legal obligations for service members and calls for Congressional investigations into potential war crimes, emphasizing the impact on military families.

Clint Smith, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of *How the Word Is Passed*, joins to discuss the complexities of teaching U.S. history. He highlights the importance of confronting America’s past, including slavery and systemic oppression, to understand the present. Clint reflects on how personal narratives often overshadow historical facts and how these lessons can empower students to see societal change as possible. He also shares insights from international memorial practices and the challenges of reckoning with a troubled national memory.

Josh Keating, a senior correspondent at Vox and a national security researcher, discusses the integration of AI into nuclear systems. He explores the potential roles AI could play in decision-making chains, from predictive maintenance to automating retaliatory plans. However, Keating highlights military skepticism about ceding control to AI, emphasizing risks like errors and deception. He warns that an AI arms race could escalate geopolitical tensions, reminding us that human judgment remains crucial amidst growing reliance on AI in warfare.

Mia Sato, a technology and culture reporter for The Verge, dives into the intriguing world of 'dupes'—the budget-friendly knockoffs that flood the market. She explores how viral trends, like a Taylor Swift skirt, ignite shopping frenzies. From skincare to travel, Mia reveals how social media and fast manufacturing create a booming dupe economy. With a focus on the moral implications, she discusses if dupes undermine creators or simply serve savvy consumers. The conversation highlights the fine line between inspiration and imitation in today's digital marketplace.

Explore the cozy world of autumn with a look at the beloved pumpkin spice latte. Delve into its cultural origins and the controversy surrounding its taste changes. Discover the science behind fall leaves and the vibrant red pigments that may serve as both sunscreen and herbivore warnings. Finally, uncover the seasonal allure of Malamars, a cookie with a historical strategy of scarcity that keeps fans craving more each year. Snuggle in for a delightful blend of food, science, and nostalgia!

Michael Schulman, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of Oscar Wars, dives into the fascinating world of modern movie promotion. He discusses how iconic films like Jaws and Star Wars set the stage for today's elaborate press tours. Schulman shares insights on everything from the strategic tease of Barbie to the accidental cultural collision of Barbenheimer. He analyzes how stars use viral marketing and self-aware promotions to captivate audiences, while also reflecting on the evolution of press tours in a post-COVID landscape.

Fred Kaplan, a military and national security expert from Slate, dives into the controversial 28-point peace plan proposed by the Trump administration for Ukraine. He highlights how this plan sensationally favors Russian demands, raising questions about Ukraine's alliance with Western powers. Kaplan critiques the plan's territorial concessions and military reduction terms while analyzing the complex dynamics of Ukraine's domestic politics. He also discusses the necessity of Europe's involvement in any resolution and speculates on the ramifications if Putin rejects the deal.

Shefali Luthra, a reproductive health reporter at The 19th, and George Hill, President and CEO of Maine Family Planning, discuss the far-reaching impacts of recent funding cuts to Planned Parenthood and other clinics. They dissect how Title X funding freezes and federal policies have led to clinic closures, limiting access to essential services. Hill shares firsthand experiences from Maine Family Planning, including tough decisions to cut certain services to prioritize reproductive care. Together, they highlight the broader implications for reproductive healthcare under changing political landscapes.

Joseph Cox, co-founder of 404 Media and investigative journalist focused on surveillance, dives into the invasive world of license plate tracking. He reveals how apps like ICE's Mobile Companion exploit data to bypass constitutional rights. The discussion highlights alarming cases, such as tracking individuals post-abortion, and the public backlash against Flock's network. Cox emphasizes the need for transparency, warrant reforms, and offers practical tips for protecting personal data while navigating this surveillance landscape.