On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti

Ian Ward, a Politico reporter covering conservatism, joins JD Vance, Ohio Senator and a leading figure in the New Right movement, and freelance journalist Gil Duran. They discuss the ideological roots of the New Right, exploring its appeal among younger conservatives and its break from traditional values. Vance elaborates on his ties to influential figures like Peter Thiel and the emerging Project 2025 initiative. The conversation also touches on the implications of online discourse and corporate influence on governance, spotlighting a significant shift in American politics.

Ankush Kadori, a senior writer for Politico and former federal prosecutor, is joined by Stephen Gillers, a legal ethics professor at NYU. They dive into the effects of Trump’s Executive Orders on law firms, particularly how firms like Skadden and Paul Weiss grapple with political pressures. The conversation reveals the ethical dilemmas faced by big law in balancing financial success and moral responsibility, amid rising concerns over the rule of law and potential authoritarianism in America.

Jack Beatty, an On-Point news analyst, dives into Donald Trump’s intriguing comments about a potential third presidential term. He connects historical instances, like FDR's four terms, to the current political climate. The conversation shifts to the risks of Caesarism in American leadership, warning against authoritarian tendencies. Beatty also discusses how recent tariffs impact consumers and local economies, emphasizing the emotional toll on communities. His insights draw a vivid picture of the complexities of power dynamics and political survival in today’s landscape.

Jack Beatty, an On Point news analyst, dives into the implications of the Trump administration's upcoming 'Liberation Day' tariffs. He draws historical parallels, likening modern trade wars to past conflicts, including mentions of figures like Benedict Arnold. Beatty discusses how these tariffs impact everyday Americans, challenging misconceptions about their economic effects. The conversation also touches on Trump's lasting influence, revealing the complexities of political divides and economic disparities that linger in communities today.

Jack Beatty, an insightful news analyst known for intertwining history, literature, and politics, discusses the surge of grassroots activism inspired by frustrations with the Trump administration. He illuminates how activism has taken root in towns like Chippewa Falls and highlights the changing dynamics of town halls. Beatty also tackles the Democrats' struggles to connect with younger voters and working-class groups, alongside public sentiment regarding Trump's legal controversies and the broader implications for future elections.

Tim Odegaard, a psychology professor and host of Dyslexia Uncovered, teams up with Clarice Jackson, founder of Black Literacy Matters. They dive into the complex and often flawed history of dyslexia diagnoses, discussing the emotional toll on affected individuals and the dire need for updated screening methods. The conversation emphasizes the inequities in educational systems, particularly for marginalized groups, and the importance of advocating for more culturally sensitive support. Together, they inspire a rethinking of how we approach dyslexia treatment.

On Point news analyst Jack Beatty looks at the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine from Russian president Vladimir Putin’s perspective, as a ‘preventive war.’ *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint

Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park was first designated a national monument a century ago. Even with climate change, Glacier Bay has a surprising story to tell about nature’s resilience. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint

On Point news analyst Jack Beatty on the numerous ways Donald Trump has sided with Russian President Vladimir Putin since re-entering the White House. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint

FBI Director Kash Patel wants to go after President Trump's enemies. That reminds some historians of J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI's notorious first director. But some say Patel wants to weaponize the FBI so completely, even Hoover would disapprove. *** Thank you for listening. Help power On Point by making a donation here: wbur.org/giveonpoint