The Reason Interview With Nick Gillespie

Jeff Asher, a crime data analyst and former CIA analyst who runs AH Datalytics, explains recent city-by-city trends. He discusses the sharp multi-year drop in murders and why 2025 may be historically low. Conversation covers how crime stats are gathered, why public perception lags reality, media mistakes in coverage, and factors that might be driving nationwide declines.

J.C. Bradbury, an economist who studies public finance and criticizes taxpayer-funded stadiums, explains why stadiums rarely deliver promised economic benefits. Short takes cover how media and consultants sell projects, why deals reallocate local spending instead of creating growth, and why another stadium boom is likely despite weak fiscal logic.

Freddy Guevara, a Venezuelan opposition leader and former National Assembly member, shares his gripping story of political imprisonment and exile. He discusses the devastating impact of Maduro's regime, why many citizens support U.S. intervention, and the complexities of Venezuela's geopolitical status. Guevara argues that Venezuela's collapse stems from socialism, not just external factors, and emphasizes the need for democratic reforms. He envisions a path to recovery through free elections and institutional integrity, shedding light on the urgent need for global support.

Colleen Shogan, former Archivist of the United States and political scientist, discusses the vital role of the National Archives in preserving presidential records for public trust. She introduces her 'In Pursuit' essay project aimed at fostering a nonpartisan civic memory as America approaches its 250th anniversary. Shogan also addresses the politicization of historical institutions, the Trump documents controversy, and the importance of transparency in presidential records. Her insights explore how to navigate history amid today's partisan divides.

Scott Jennings, a political analyst and former GOP operative, delves into the evolving identity of the conservative movement. He shares his unique perspective as a conservative voice at CNN and critiques mainstream media's portrayal of Trump. Jennings explores the dynamics of being a minority in debates, the appeal of Trump among voters, and the rise of alternative media platforms. He also tackles the challenges within the conservative faction, highlighting issues like free speech and infighting, while advocating for a coherent articulation of conservative values.

Lauren Hall, a political science professor at Rochester Institute of Technology and author of The Radical Moderate's Guide to Life, dives into the complexities of modern politics. She defines radical moderation as a necessary break from binary thinking, advocating for nuanced solutions to divisive issues. Hall warns of the top-down nature of polarization driven by elites and discusses the impact of tribal identities on policy choices. Her insights on evolving institutions to enhance cooperation and the challenges of engaging in a politically charged environment are particularly thought-provoking.

Tony Gilroy, the acclaimed screenwriter and director behind Andor and the Bourne films, discusses the complexities of authoritarianism in his latest work. He explains how the Galactic Empire is portrayed not as a caricature of evil, but as a bureaucratic entity that normalizes surveillance and controls societies. Gilroy touches on themes of moral compromise, the chilling reality of mundane tyranny, and how small choices can have significant consequences, reflecting contemporary political landscapes and resonating with audiences seeking deeper insights into power and liberty.

Keonne Rodriguez, founder of Samourai Wallet, discusses his groundbreaking noncustodial bitcoin privacy software and the serious legal challenges he faces, including a five-year prison sentence. He explains the importance of privacy in digital cash, the technological nuances of his wallet, and the government's claims about criminal activity. Rodriguez confronts the implications of his case for privacy rights, innovation, and free expression. He reflects on the realities of his guilty plea and the risks for future developers in the cryptocurrency space.

Katherine Dee, a writer and internet ethnographer, shares her insights on the evolving landscape of online culture. She reflects on how the internet has shifted from a utopian playground to a source of anxiety. Dee introduces the concept of 'internet realism', emphasizing the importance of using the internet as a tool rather than losing oneself in it. They discuss the impact of COVID on online habits, the legitimacy of digital friendships, and concerns around AI and privacy, advocating for conscious engagement and boundaries in our digital lives.

Sarah McLaughlin, a senior scholar at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and author of *Authoritarians in the Academy*, dives into the troubling influence of foreign governments on free speech in the U.S. She highlights how countries like China and the UAE exploit U.S. campuses to suppress dissent. The discussion also covers the nuanced implications of American comedians censoring themselves in Saudi Arabia and the financial pressures universities face to maintain foreign ties, often at the cost of academic freedom.