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After the Trump administration launched a massive Immigrations and Customs Enforcement operation in Minnesota, protesters gathered to defend immigrant neighbors. Renee Nicole Good, a mother of a six year old, showed up with her wife and dog to film altercations between officers and community members. What happened next changed everything. Guest: Jon Collins, senior reporter on the Minnesota Public Radio News race, class and communities team. 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 Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 31, 2025 • 24min
What Next: TBD | Tech, power, and the future - RFK Jr. Is a Feature, Not a Bug
Dan Diamond, a White House correspondent for The Washington Post with a decade of experience in healthcare coverage, joins to discuss Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial Senate nomination. They dive into the tumult of the confirmation hearings, revealing the mixed reactions to RFK Jr.’s stance on vaccines. Diamond explores how Kennedy’s candidacy reflects broader goals to disrupt the healthcare establishment rather than genuine policy expertise. The conversation also highlights the complex interplay between political dynamics and public health during a turbulent era.
Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 12min
Political Gabfest - Elon Musk’s Fork in the Road
Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and author of "Cross Purposes," delves into the complex relationship between Christianity and American democracy. He discusses how the rise of the 'Church of Fear' among evangelicals shapes socio-political dynamics and contrasts it with the decline of mainline Protestant engagement. The conversation also touches on the implications of federal spending strategies and the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, exploring both ethical dilemmas and democratic challenges.
Jan 30, 2025 • 25min
What Next - Was Tulsi Gabbard Always Like This?
Elaine Godfrey, a national politics writer for The Atlantic, dissects Tulsi Gabbard's tumultuous political journey. Once a progressive darling, Gabbard's surprising shifts in stance—from anti-gay marriage to pro-choice—raise eyebrows. Godfrey delves into the controversies surrounding Gabbard's nomination for director of national intelligence, her ties to Bashar al-Assad, and how fear plays a role in reporting on her. The discussion reveals the complexities and contrasts of Gabbard's career as she strives to navigate her political landscape.
Jan 29, 2025 • 24min
What Next - Trump’s DIY Government Shutdown
Karen Tumulty, a political columnist for The Washington Post, dives into the chaos surrounding Trump's recent memo to halt federal financial assistance. She discusses the constitutional implications of this action and its potential impact on essential services like Meals on Wheels. Tumulty highlights the struggle of federal workers facing uncertainty and the broader risks of executive overreach in governance. The conversation sheds light on rising authoritarianism and calls for a more engaged political response.
Jan 28, 2025 • 39min
Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts - Extra: The Federal Funding Freeze
Join Dahlia Lithwick and constitutional law expert Stephen Vladeck, a Georgetown University professor and author of 'The Shadow Docket', as they dissect a troubling federal funding freeze. They explore the chaotic implications of this decision and its potential to shift governmental power dynamics. The conversation dives into the historical context of executive authority, the implications of the Impoundment Control Act, and rising authoritarian trends. Vladeck's insights illuminate the precarious balance of power in the face of political upheaval.
Jan 28, 2025 • 26min
What Next - Who Will Mourn DEI?
Farah Stockman, a member of the New York Times Editorial Board and author of "American Made," discusses the significant pushback against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives under the Trump administration. She highlights how these changes link back to historical policies and reflect current societal anxieties. Stockman examines the implications for employment opportunities and underserved communities, along with the critical need for diversity in government roles to foster effective governance amidst economic challenges.
Jan 27, 2025 • 24min
What Next - Trump’s Gift to Militias
Josh Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter specializing in January 6th events and right-wing militias, dives deep into the alarming resurgence of militia groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. He discusses how Trump’s potential pardons for January 6 rioters have boosted these groups' legitimacy. Kaplan highlights the timeline of militia growth in America, touching on their strategies, recruitment tactics, and the chilling implications for political violence. The conversation paints a stark picture of the evolving landscape of right-wing extremism in the country.
8 snips
Jan 26, 2025 • 20min
What Next: TBD | Tech, power, and the future - The A.I. Will See You Now
Geoffrey Fowler, a tech columnist at the Washington Post and expert on technology's societal impact, dives deep into the integration of AI in healthcare. He explores how AI can assist doctors in diagnostics, yet raises alarm about its accuracy and the potential erosion of the doctor-patient relationship. The discussion highlights the crucial need for human oversight and critical thinking when relying on AI for medical advice. Fowler also emphasizes the ethical concerns and biases inherent in AI technology, urging caution in its application.
Jan 25, 2025 • 46min
Slate Money - Trump’s TikTok Backtrack
This week, the chatter revolves around TikTok’s surprising reprieve in the U.S. and the political implications behind it. The hosts speculate on Trump's shift regarding the app and the potential financial winners if an American company invests. There's a playful critique of Trump launching a controversial meme coin, igniting backlash in the crypto community. And a discussion on the rise of digital shoplifting reveals intriguing behaviors among Gen Z and millennials. Don't miss the reflections on corporate fraud attitudes in younger generations!
Jan 25, 2025 • 59min
Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts - Trump’s Unconstitutional Rampage Against Immigration
Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a Senior Fellow and former policy director at the American Immigration Council, dives into the recent wave of immigration-related executive orders from President Trump. He discusses the legal implications and potential constitutional crises stemming from these actions. The conversation highlights the militarization of immigration enforcement and its challenges in the courts, as well as the fears among immigrant communities. Through it all, he emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in a rapidly changing legal landscape.
