What Next | Daily News and Analysis
Slate Podcasts
The problem with the news right now? It’s everywhere. And each day, it can feel like we’re all just mindlessly scrolling. It’s why we created What Next. This short daily show is here to help you make sense of things. When the news feels overwhelming, we’re here to help you answer: What next? Look for new episodes every weekday morning. Get more of What Next with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of What Next and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or visit slate.com/whatnextplus for access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 28, 2024 • 26min
The Panopticon Olympics
Anne Toomey McKenna, a professor and expert in electronic surveillance, alongside Henry Grabar, a journalist covering the Paris Olympics for Slate, delve into the unprecedented security measures France is implementing for the Games. They discuss the ethical implications of automated surveillance and AI technologies, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties. The conversation highlights how the changes made for the Olympics may permanently alter urban surveillance practices, leaving lasting impacts long after the festivities conclude.
Jul 26, 2024 • 21min
Is Silicon Valley Trump-Vance Country?
Guest Nitish Pahwa discusses Silicon Valley's shift towards Trump-Vance ticket. Topics include CEOs' political changes, resistance to tax increases, Thiel's influence on Vance, fundraising post-Biden, balancing tech support with Democratic base, and Silicon Valley donors' impact on the general election.
Jul 25, 2024 • 23min
Could Biden's Court Reforms Actually Work?
Stephen Vladeck, expert on federal courts and constitutional law, discusses Biden's court reforms. Topics include congressional oversight of the Supreme Court, President Biden's proposed reforms like term limits and a code of conduct, and Congress's authority to regulate the court. The conversation also covers historical context, challenges in passing reforms, and the importance of checks and balances in the current political climate.
Jul 24, 2024 • 22min
Why the Secret Service Director Resigned
Policy correspondent Abdallah Fayyad discusses the resignation of the Secret Service Director after security failures at a Trump rally. They explore the lack of accountability in the agency's history, controversies, transparency issues, and concerns about protecting high-profile figures. The podcast raises questions about the Secret Service's effectiveness and management.
Jul 23, 2024 • 25min
Kamala Harris: Meme Queen to Madame President?
Scaachi Koul, Slate senior writer, explores Kamala Harris's internet meme popularity and serious political platform questions. They discuss Harris's comedic moments, diverse heritage, centrist political history, communication style, and image evolution. The podcast delves into Harris navigating challenges, criticisms, and meme culture while aiming for a presidential image.
Jul 22, 2024 • 25min
Joe Biden Passes the Baton
David Faris, a Slate contributor and political science professor, discusses Joe Biden's unexpected decision to withdraw from the race and its impact on the Democratic Party. The podcast delves into Biden's choice, the implications for Kamala Harris, the dynamics of the Democratic National Convention, and potential lawsuits to keep Biden on the ballot. It also reflects on Biden's handover and the Democratic Party's structure.
Jul 21, 2024 • 21min
The Conspiracy Theory Election
Tech reporter Drew Harwell from the Washington Post discusses the proliferation of conspiracy theories after significant events, the role of social media in politics, and how powerful individuals amplify false narratives. The influence of conspiracy theories in modern media and challenges in navigating a landscape where misinformation spreads online.
Jul 19, 2024 • 30min
America’s Tech Trustbuster
Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter discusses antitrust laws and tech giants like Google, Apple. Topics include market manipulation, AI ethics, competition, pricing, and regulation. Kanter emphasizes the importance of fair competition, innovation, and diversity in the tech industry.
Jul 18, 2024 • 28min
What Republicans Really Want
Paul Farrow, County executive for Waukesha County, talks about the changing GOP priorities, shifting from fiscal conservatism to newer issues like border security and unity. Insights into internal party divisions, evolving principles, and reflections on the aftermath of the 2020 election in Wisconsin. Discussion on election preparation, voter engagement, and the challenges of achieving bipartisan cooperation in politics.
Jul 17, 2024 • 29min
How to End One-Party Rule
Ari Berman, voting rights correspondent, discusses how Wisconsin exemplifies one-party rule tactics like gerrymandering. They explore the impact of fake electors, Supreme Court dynamics, and the role of progressive justice in combating minority rule. Wisconsin's influence on national elections and the GOP's strategy are also analyzed.
