The Young Turks

A viral racist AI video of the Obamas sparks debate over accountability and GOP reactions. New reporting links Epstein to Israeli leaders and high finance. Discussion of Trump hinting at a third term and calls to federalize certain elections. Economists warn of looming financial stress that could dwarf 2008.

Dr. Anahita Mahdavi West, an Iranian-born scholar with lived-experience on Iran’s politics, and Dr. Cornel West, a philosopher and activist focused on justice, discuss Iran’s repression and how to show solidarity without military intervention. They explore amplifying Iranian voices, humanitarian support, and debates over intervention vs nonmilitary solidarity.

Michael Rechtenwald, author and professor who founded the Anti‑Zionist America PAC, outlines his PAC’s mission to confront Zionist influence in U.S. politics. He discusses strategy for running anti‑Zionist candidates, courting right‑leaning voters, fundraising goals, and legal plans to challenge anti‑BDS laws. Conversation also touches on controversies around his past tweets and how the PAC distinguishes ideology from antisemitism.

They dig into rising US-Iran tensions after drones were shot near a carrier and why war feels more likely. Newly surfaced Epstein material and emails with tech figures spark discussion of elite cynicism. They call out media narratives, lobbying influence on US policy, and reflect on corruption and outreach to disaffected voters.

Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Maryland Democrat focused on foreign policy and congressional oversight, joins to discuss Israel policy and limits on U.S. aid. He talks about AIPAC's influence, War Powers and preventing escalation with Iran. He also covers immigration enforcement, detention centers, and proposals like Power for the People and a millionaire surtax.

Alex Falconer, Minnesota state representative active in community defense, reports from the ground in Minnesota. He describes organizing Signal networks and trainings to monitor ICE operations. He recounts a roof standoff that protected workers and discusses community vigils after local shootings. He frames current operations as political occupation and urges continued local resistance.

Dan Osborne, an independent Senate candidate from Nebraska and former mechanic and union activist, talks grassroots campaigning and labor organizing. He discusses reaching rural voters door-to-door. He highlights anti-monopoly stances and refusing corporate PAC and AIPAC money.

An FBI raid on a Georgia elections office and the legal fight over 2020 ballots take center stage. Tensions flare over a controversial Minneapolis shooting and questions about federal cooperation. Heated GOP infighting erupts around immigration messaging. US posture toward Iran, naval movements, and regional fallout are debated. Diplomatic clashes over consular access and free speech controversies also surface.

Breaking reporting about federal agents tackling and injuring a protester before he was fatally shot. Debate over legal protections for recording and whistle use during protests. Allegations that federal authorities blocked local investigations and pushed false narratives. Discussion of DHS memos collecting protester data and broader political fallout over immigration enforcement.

Ken Klippenstein, investigative reporter and Substack journalist, breaks down DHS practices and intelligence collection. Short, punchy takes cover videos and claims around the Minneapolis Border Patrol shooting. He explains tracking tactics like license plate runs, databases, and how counterterror tools get used domestically.