The DSR Network

Political theorist Alan Elrod, known for his insights on Trumpian politics, joins the discussion about the shifting landscape of Trump's support. They dive into the emerging doubts among Trump’s allies regarding his perceived 'mandate.' Elrod highlights concerns over mass deportations and pardons, emphasizing potential public backlash. The conversation also touches on how authoritarian policies might normalize Trump’s governance style and the critical importance of engaging young voters to reshape America’s political future.

Inauguration Day takes center stage with discussions on executive orders and absentee notable figures. Insights from navigating a MAGA rally reveal social dynamics amidst the celebration. Unexpected presidential pardons spark debate about their implications. The challenges and promises of the new administration are examined, particularly through the lens of past and present policies. Personal plans for the day reflect a mix of hope and engagement, emphasizing the need for optimism in politically charged times.

Lara Seligman, an award-winning journalist from Politico, shares her expert insights on pressing military concerns. The discussion delves into whether U.S. responses to threats against troops have been sufficient and the implications of recent military actions against Houthis in Yemen. They explore the urgent need for sustained military support for Ukraine, the risks of dwindling aid, and the shifting focus on China as a long-term threat. Seligman also reveals the complexities of addressing extremism within military ranks.

Original air date: January 24, 2024Whereas Benjamin Netanyahu is struggling with flagging domestic support , Joe Biden is the most popular politician in Israel. As the devastating war in Gaza drags on, how can Biden channel his popularity into substantive policy change? Jerusalem-based journalist Noga Tarnopolsky joins Kori Schake, Ed Luce, Rosa Brooks, and David Rothkopf to answer this question and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jenny Town, director of the 38 North Project, and Toby Dalton, co-director of the Carnegie Nuclear Policy Project, dive into the tumultuous political landscape in South Korea. They analyze President Yoon's declaration of martial law and its implications for governance and U.S. relations. The conversation shifts to South Korea's nuclear dilemma as they contemplate the risks of nuclear proliferation and the complexities of military alliances in securing peace. Ultimately, they argue for the primacy of conventional deterrence over nuclear arsenals.

A pivotal ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel gains momentum, sparking discussions on its political ramifications. Meanwhile, the confirmation hearings of three cabinet nominees reveal their views on tax policy and climate change. In a significant legal development, Rudy Giuliani reaches a settlement in a defamation case, raising eyebrows about justice outcomes. Additionally, historic clemency actions are celebrated, addressing sentencing disparities in nonviolent drug offenses, and a lawsuit reveals voter representation issues in Georgia.

Casey Michel, a renowned reporter on lobbying and influence peddling, discusses Trump’s recent brutal attack on Nikki Haley and the implications for GOP loyalty. He highlights how Trump's rhetoric serves to warn dissenters, establishing a political climate steeped in fear. The conversation delves into the troubling emergence of a 'Trump kleptocracy,' where political favors favor friends while ostracizing critics. Michel also sheds light on the dangers of dark money and foreign influence that threaten the integrity of democracy.

With traditional media outlets like the Washington Post bending the knee to Donald Trump, what is in store for the future of pro-democracy media? Jen Rubin and Norm Eisen join David Rothkopf to spill the details on their new media outlet, The Contrarian. Jen and Norm share what makes this new publication different and why searing critiques and biting humor are the best ways to fight authoritarianism. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the DSR Daily for Thursday, we break down President Biden’s farewell address, the ‘last minute crisis’ holding up approval of the Gaza truce, the latest from Trump nominee Senate hearings, and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At her confirmation hearing Wednesday, Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general, Pam Bondi, sought in some ways to project an apolitical aura. But Bondi also refused to answer direct questions about Trump’s threats to prosecute enemies, and dissembled about similar threats from Kash Patel, Trump’s pick to head the FBI. All this accidentally revealed something important. Bondi could not say straight out that she wouldn’t carry out Trump’s corrupt designs, because saying that could disqualify her in his eyes—which is itself the problem here. We talked to former prosecutor Mimi Rocah, who explains how Bondi exposed herself as an unreliable defender of the rule of law—and what that telegraphs about the coming hellscape of 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices