Attitude with Arnie Arnesen

Part 1:We talk with Mark Joseph Stern, senior writer for Slate.comWe discuss recent rulings by Judge O'Conner, who has taken rights to himself that he does NOT have as a Circuit Court Judge in Texas. These pertain to rulings about access to medical and personal records of children in Rhode Island. This is seen as despotic, and unlawful, and may cause a Constitutional crisis with many implications for civil and privacy rights.Part 2:We talk with Jonathan Ross, co-founder of the Media and Democracy Project.We discuss Minnesota's decision to ban prediction markets in Minnesota, which considers these as a form of gambling. US DOJ is opposing this action.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Try and Catch the Wind", music by Donovan, performed by Joan Baez 

Part 1:We talk with Lynne Stuart Parramore, cultural historian, essayist, and Research Analyst at the Institute for New Economic Thinking.We discuss the consequences of AI installations and data centers. We examine the power and water requirements for these centers, and what the effects will be on people who live near them. In addition, we look at the costs associated with them. Who is getting rich from this technology? Who is losing out?Part 2 We talk with Joyce Frieden, who oversees the coverage that Medpage Today provides about Washington's Health Policy.We learn that policies about enrolling seniors into Medicare Advantage programs are changing. Under a new proposed policy, seniors will be auto-enrolled, with few options to opt out or leave enrollment. There are many disadvantages in these types of plans, and we discuss them.WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Amy Littlefield, writer for The Nation.We discuss how the civil rights that have bee fought for by many people, and for which many have died, has now been abrogated by the Supreme Court. Civil rights, including women's rights, are being eliminated by white 'christian' supremacists.Part 2:We talk with Mark Olalde, who writes for ProPublica.We discuss how polluters are being encouraged to avoid clean air and water regulations, simply be allowing them to request waivers by email to the EPA. Spurious 'emergencies' and 'security concerns' are being cited to allow the use of restarted coal plants or energy generation without scrubbers. 'Cancer Alley' regions are often sited in areas of minority populations, who pay the health and early death price as a result. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic:  That's how every empire falls", John Prine

This is a panel discussion with the following members:Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare, Aaron Rosenthal, Jamie Rowen.We discuss many topics:= California's governor's election: candidates and process- Minnesota governor's race.- The victims of the "Metro Surge" in Minneapolis got no relief or compensation from the Minnesota House.- ICE is putting detainees to work at $1/day; in effect, slavery- In Texas, the Texas Democrats have asked Bernie Sanders and Pritzker to speak at their convention.- Trump is suing the IRS, offering to settle to 'use the settlement money to pay the January 6 participants"- Trump is threatening Cuba- Trump's visit ti China. Russia is currently a China client.- The future for the US-- The current government is hollowed out-- Needed: economic help to US population: raise minimum wage, provide universal health care, rebuild infrastructure, reform the tax structure, etc.-- bring power back to the local level, for greater accountability.WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls", John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Harvey Kronberg, publisher of the Quorum Report, Texas' oldest political newsletter.We discuss the gerrymandering in Texas, and how this is affecting the current campaigns in Texas.We also discuss how Atty Gen Paxton is attaching State Rep Wu for the quorum break last year.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Harold Meyerson.We discuss how southern states are in a frenzy to redistrict, following the Supreme Court's decision in Callais.We speculate on Trump's China meeting. China's tech capacity is rising, while the US capacity and future looks bleak.We discuss Iran, and "operation epic failure"The Hanta virus response has been questionable. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls,:" John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Anders Croy, Communications Director for Florida Watch.We discuss the gerrymandering spree by Republicans, which includes Florida Republicans. The residents' reaction is that this is a power grab before the 2026 elections Lawsuits have been filed, because the Florida Constitution expressly forbids gerrymandering. Chaos has ensued.Florida has not be reimbursed for the construction and maintenance of "Alligator Alcatraz", which is being shut down because of costs. This amounts to about 6oo Million dollars, and rising.More problems have occurred in Florida, and we discuss these.Part 2:We talk with Taylor Noakes, a public historian and independent journalist.We discuss how Trump has stopped offshore wind projects in the US and Canada by blackmail and extortion, favoring oil and gas projects instead. We discuss the role of Canadian pension plans' involvement in these investments.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls, " Joh Prine

Part 1:We talk with John Nichols, Executive Editor, The Nation Magazine.We discuss the state of politics in the US at present. We discuss various candidates being fielded by the Democrats, and the effect of Independent candidates, who appear to be more connected to people's real problems.Part 2:We talk with Cathy Ramstetter, a School Health Consultant, and who writes about children's health and safety.We discuss the recess studies that have been done, and how recess affects learning and children's development overall. Outside playtime is important, and cheap, and should be used more in US schools, similar to the use in schools in Scandinavian countries and other countries. This should apply beyond grade school for best results.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls." John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Michael Tomasky, Editor, The New Republic.We discuss the number of millionaires and billionaires in the US and their influence on government and the laws that are created to benefit them. We also discuss how the Supreme Court has misinterpreted the Constitution, and abrogated laws that the Congress has passed.Part 2:We talk with Chris Lehmann, D.C. Bureau Chief, The Nation Magazine.We discuss Trump's behavior, which can be characterized as a "mob boss". There is an avalanche of corruption, including his children and his associates, profiting from government moneys. Crypto currency, a know vehicle for concealment of funds, seems to be the main or important factor. What can be done to end this?  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls, " John Prine

This is a panel discussion. The participants are:Stephen Pimpareis Professor of Public Policy and Director of the Master in Public Policy program at Vermont Law and Graduate School. He is the author of four books, numerous articles, and the Host of the New Books Network's public policy channel.Lincoln Mitchellteaches political science and public policy at Columbia University. He is the author of nine books and his writings have appeared at CNN, Reuters, the New York Times, NBC, the San Francisco Examiner and numerous other media platforms. For more of Lincolns work you can subscribe to his Substack Kibitzing with LincolnLaura Jedeedis a freelance journalist who primarily focuses on the American conservative movement. Her bylines include The New Republic, Rolling Stone, and Politico, and you can find her newsletter at BannedInYourState.comWe discuss the disenfranchisement of Blacks with the latest SCOTUS decision regarding gerrymandering in Virginia.We cover other topics.RFK jr. proposes "wellness farms/work farms" for 'problematic' children who would then be 'reparented'.The Postal Service be allowed to ship guns.The states should have rights to impose their specific laws on other states.School spending should be reduced.WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Keep Goin'", Jada Monroe, 2026

Part 1:We talk with Prof. Richard Murray, an expert on surveys and survey analysis. We discuss the latest primary results in Texas, and how these reflect changes in the voter patterns.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Ryan Cooper. We discuss the ruling by the Supreme Court which has gutted the Voting Rights Act, thus disenfranchising Black and City voters. Another way in which Republicans are cheating in elections. We also discuss Trump's ballroom desires. 

Part 1:We talk with Laura Belin, political commentator, and writer of "Bleeding Heartland" substack.We discuss the current state of the campaigns in Iowa for Senate, and the recent debates. We also discuss the problem of seed patents, right to repair, and other issues important to farmers, who have been badly served by this administration.Part 2:We talk with Felicia Kornbluh, Professor of History, University of Vermont, Chair of Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Vermont.We discuss the recent rulings by courts about the use of drugs for abortion access. What provisions in the constitution should be used to defend the right of women to control their health and their bodies?WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Rescue Me" , Fontella Bass, 1965  

Part 1:We talk with Seth Miller, an authority on the airline industry.We discuss the closure of Spirit Airlines, after 33 years of operation. We consider the airline industry as whole, in the time in increasing oil costs. What alternatives could be developed to reduce the impact of future oil shocks?Part 2:We talk with Cantor Michael Zoosman, who is (he/him/his) is a Certified Spiritual Care Practitioner with the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care/Association canadienne desoinsspirituels(CASC/ACSS) and received his cantorial ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in 2008. He sits as anadvisorycommitteemember at Death Penalty Action and is the co-founder of Lchaim! Jews Against the Death Penalty. Michael is a former Jewish prison chaplain and psychiatric hospital chaplain. Currently, he serves as a Spiritual Health Practitioner (Chaplain) for various mental"health outreach teams, working with individuals in the community living with severe mental"health disorders and addiction. He lives with his family in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada,and is a progressive Zionist.We discuss the latest death penalty law passed in Israel, which is specifically aimed at non-Israeli lawbreakers. It specifies death penalties that do not apply to Israelis for the same crimes. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Peter Greene, education writer and reporter.We discuss cases in which teachers and educators have been assailed for free speech in the classroom. We also discuss the group "Schools for America", which has begun a campaign to further the use of charter and private schools that fit the MAGA outlook. The cost is to public schools that are now being starved of funds to support voucher programs with tax dollars. The total cost of education is going up.Part 2:We talk with Jill Barshay, who writes for the Hechinger Report. She is expert in educational technologies being used and proposed.We discuss the use of AI in teaching young students, and how these AI systems appear to perpetuate biases: they distinguish between the kinds of feedback given to white students, students of color, and female students.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine

This is a panel discussion, and the participants are:Arnie Arnesen, Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare, Bill Scher.The topics covered are:- The Veterans Administration, its importance and fate under Trump- The Senate race in Maine- The race in Michigan= Southern states are redistricting, under the assumption that race is no longer important, per SCOTUS ruling- New voting districts in Texas, and their effects for local elections- Likely voter suppression in 2028- Trump's push to reduce benefits for SSI and SS- Who benefits from the Iran war: China, Russia, the oil producers- Post-Trump: what will be next for America? WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's How Every Empire Falls, " John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Matt Angle, Democratic consultant in Texas.We discuss the latest SCOTUS ruling on gerrymanders, and how this will affect local elections in Texas and other states. We also discuss how construction and other activities are declining in Texas because of the climate of fear due to ICE activities.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Jamie Rowen.We discuss the latest SCOTUS ruling regarding voting rights and racial discrimination. What could remedy this? We also discuss the waste exhibited by the administration. While people in the country are struggling with high costs for everything, Trump is pushing for his ballroom, and other wasteful activities, like the 'forever' war in Iran. WNHNFM.ORG  production 

Part 1:We talk with Dean Baker, co-founder of the Center for Economic and Policy Research.We discuss how the 'green' transition is being escalated by Trump, though his attacks on Iran, and the subsequent crisis in oil shipments from the Middle East. The world is now more focused on renewable sources of energy, because they can provide safety, security, and stability. China is very much ahead of the US in the green energy develop efforts.Part 2:We talk with Ryan Cooper, Senior Editor, at The America Prospect.We discuss prediction markets that allow people to 'bet' on outcomes of many different things. "How many posts to X with Elon Musk make today?" an example. Who wins? Who loses?WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls." John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Cydney Hayes, business and tech reporter for Gazetteer, SF.We discuss Palantir, and how its operations and leaders are affecting life in the US. Specifically, we talk about the Manifesto, as published by Alex Karp, et. al. in "The Technological Republic", and how this is forming the techno-fascist movement. We also discuss how Palantir's stock value is affected.Part 2:We talk with Joyce Abbey, about NASA, and how that agency has shown us all the value of science and scientific advances that have come as offshoots of NASA developments. Ms. Abbey is the daughter of a long-time leader of NASA, W.S. Abbey, who was the also the Director of the International Space Station Center from1996-2001.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Bob Lord, retired tax lawyer and former Congressional candidate, currently serves as senior advisor for tax policy at the Patriotic Millionaires.We discuss how the very rich avoid paying taxes that fall on working people. The US tax system favors the oligarchs, who have manipulated the tax code to favor themselves, and now control most media outlets. We discuss the mechanisms by which they avoid paying taxes. We also talk about what could help alleviate this situation.Part 2:We talk with Alex Sammon, feature writer atslate.com, who has written about the huge issue of the orange crop failures in Florida, and how this has impacted the agricultural businesses in Florida. This is an epidemic that is striking the citrus business, a huge proportion of agriculture in Florida, with no solution in sight. What will be the long term effects on the population of Florida and the effects on the US?WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine

This is a panel discussion that includes:Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare, Aaron Rosenthal, Jamie RowenTopics:- The DOJ prosecution of the Southern Poverty Law Center- White supremacy as a central theme for Trump's appeal- AI threats: replacement of workers, effect of huge data centers on energy costs and water availability, dehumanization- What can an average person do? WNHNFM.ORG productionMusic: "That;s how every empire falls, " John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Harvey Kronberg, Publisher of the Quorum Report in Texas.We discuss Gov. Abbott's attack on Houston, defunding the police to force them to work with ICE, just as the World Cup is coming to Houston.We discuss the race for US Senate in Texas, and the positions of Cornyn and Paxton, both Republicans, and Talarico (D) in that race.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Harold Meyerson.We discuss the "jungle primary" in California, with the previous Democratic leader, Swallwell, out of the race. We also discuss the war on science being waged by the White House, which has just shut down research on MRnA vaccines, which hold promise for many diseases.The Secretary of the Navy has been replaced by Hegseth, in the middle of the Iran war.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls." John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Dr. Stephen Bezruchka, Assoc. Teaching Professor Emeritus at the U. of Washington.We discuss the health of people in the US, and how it can be improved. Currently, the US residents spend more money on 'health care' than anyone in the developed world, and we have the worst outcomes: we have shorter and sicker lives. We look at the real causes of this, and how it can be corrected. A book can be downloaded from StephenBezruchka.comPart 2: We talk with Dr. Jonathan Feingold, of Boston University, as part of the ongoing Race Class.#RaceClass Ep. 62 | David Duke's DOJJon and Arnie discuss the Justice Department's decision to indict the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) on fraud charges related to its use of informants to infiltrate extremist hate groups. The indictment turns the DOJ upside down; rather than prosecute the Klan, the DOJ is targeting the organization that helped combat the Klan. It might sound absurd, but it is a predictable consequence of a federal government allied with many of the extremist organizations " including PragerU, Moms for Liberty, and Turning Point USA " that the SPLC has dutifully monitored for years.Jonathan FeingoldProfessor of LawBoston University School of Lawjfeingol@bu.edu|#RaceClass Podcast|researchWNHNFM.ORG productionMusic: "That's How Every Empire Falls," John Prine 

Part 1:We talk with Greer Donley, Professor, U of Pittsburgh School of Law, and Yvonne Lindgren, Prof. of Las at the U of Missouri, Kansas City School of Law.We discuss the effects of anti-abortion laws that have been passed in various states. The actual numbers of abortions has risen since, and most abortions that are being prevented are life-saving abortions, ending in the pregnant woman's death or disablement.Part 2:We talk with Mark Kreidler, a California-based writer and broadcaster.We discuss the changes instituted in California, increasing the minimum wage for workers in large fast-food restaurants. Predictions were for job losses and higher costs to customers. We look at the actual outcomes. WNHNFM.ORG productionMusic: "Masters of War," Bob Dylan

Part 1:We talk with Melvin Goodman, Senior Fellow at Johns Hopkins Univ. and national security and intelligence expert.We discuss the amount of defense spending that is being used now, and likely, in the near future, due to the Trump urge to war in the Middle East and other locations. There is no real national security process, and no real personnel to manage it. Domestic issues are being ignored: hospitals are closing, welfare assistance is cut, etc. The US is hollowed out, so future development is difficult.Part 2:We talk with Brett Wilkins, Staff writer for Common Dreams.We discuss the initiative that Bernie Sanders is launching, "Worker Power Movement", to counter the rich, who own too much, and take more.WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War", Bob Dylan

Guests: Laura Jedeed, Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare, Jamie RowenThis is a panel discussion with many topics:- The increase in data centers, and the moratorium in Maind- The Straits of Hormuz, or as Trump calls them now, "The Straits of Iran"- The role of China in the war, and after- The world does not like Trump- Christian Right is increasingly moving from Trump- The affordability crisis- Eugenic goals of 'starve the poor, and refuse medical care to the poor'- DOGE effect so far: $861 Billion deficit WNHNFM.ORG  production

Part 1:We talk with Egberto Willies.We discuss the Texas campaigns for Senate, and voter sentiment there. We also discuss the changes in Latino voters' expectations.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Robert Hockett.While Wall Street hits an all time high the US is hitting an all-time low. Public sentiment and confidence is decreasing. Wars for 'no real reason' are becoming a drag on the economy. We are seeing the collapse of democracy, climate, government funded science, education has decreased.WNHNFM.ORG productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls, " John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Michael Tomasky, Editor of The New Republic.We discuss the Eric Swalwell scandal, and his retreat from the governor's race in CA. What is likely to be the net outcome in CA?Part 2:We talk with John Nichols, Executive Editor of The Nation Magazine.We discuss the likelihood of a big victory for Democrats in the upcoming elections. There is potential for change in direction for the US, but it must be reinforced by a very large margin in the elections. We discuss what happened in Hungary, as a kind of exemplar of what is needed here.WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Timothy Noah, staff writer for The New Republic.We discuss taxes in the US. Trump almost invites people NOT to pay taxes through various tax avoidance schemes. We discuss the need for taxes, and the benefits that accrue to society that can pay for services.Part 2:We talk with Lynn Parramore and Alissa Quart about the effects of the use of AI on white-collar employees. AI systems are being trained by these employees, and many expect to be replaced by these AI systems. The workers view AI as Apocalyptic Insecurity. Workers are being conditioned to expect their own replacement, and thus conditioned to not push back by their employers. What can be done to mitigate this? WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls", John Prine

art 1:We talk with Lincoln Mitchell, Prof. of Political Science, Columbia University.We discuss the Hungarian election, and how the 16-year control Viktor Orban was ended by a landslide vote. We discuss how voters should demonstrate even after an election, as the Hungarians did, to show those who would try to roll it back that voters INDEED wanted the new path. Efforts should not stop on election day.Part 2:We talk with Nicola Santa Cruz, who writes about inequality in the southwestern US.We discuss the SNAP cutbacks, which shift 50% of the cots of the program to the states, rather than part of the federal budget. This means that vulnerable populations (children and the disabled) ere being dripped from programs, with no substitutes. We discuss what all of this means to those affected.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls", John Prine

This is a panel discussion. Our panelists are: Laura Jedeed, John Martin, Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare.We note that there has now been ordered automatic draft registration for men in the US. Recruiting efforts seem to focus on men only, with emphasis on white men.We discuss Mamdani's successes as Mayor of NYC.We discuss the 'ceasefire' in Iran, even though Israel continues its attacks.Iran has instituted a "toll" on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, defacto claiming Hormuz as its territory. Trump has indicated that he wants 1/2 of the 'toll'.The war in Gaza and Lebanon continues, with Israeli attacks on civilian centers and infrastructure.In the US, 2.5 M people, mostly children, have been removed from SNAP benefits. 25 M people are losing health care benefits. The is a result of the BBB.WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War", Bob Dylan 1963 

Part 1:We talk with Harvey Kronberg, publisher of the Quorum Report in Texas.We discuss the effects of the space program in Texas, and its ongoing contribution to the Texas economy.We also talk about the Texas legislature, and Republicans' discomfort with the slow change to Democrats' gains.Data centers in Texas are using many resources, and this is not popular, especially rural Texas, while the centers are getting $1Billion in tax breaks annually.We also discuss textbooks used in public schools in Texas and California, the two states who influence the use of books countrywide.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Harold Meyerson.We discuss how the Iran war is being framed in religious terms by Hegseth and Trump. The Vatican has been threatened by Pentagon officials, presumably speaking for Trump, too. Hight-ranking officers, including command generals, have been dismissed by Hegseth. Israel has continued to bomb Lebanon. The Straits of Hormuz are still closed to most traffic, and Iran has a "toll" system for those ships who are allowed to pass.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War" Bob Dylan, 1963

Part 1:We talk with Anders Croy, Communications Director for DeSantis Watch, and Florida Watch.We discuss the debt status of ordinary people, and the rising number who cannot pay their debts.We discuss how affordability is affecting Florida residents, who are #50 in the US in affordability measures.The legislature is contemplating redistricting, in hopes of finding more votes for Republicans.However, "dummymandering" may happen, rather than the unconstitutional gerrymandering the want.Florida has passed a terrorist designation law.Part 2:We talk with Celinda Lake, political strategist.We discuss how political polling is being done, and how this is identifying topics of importance to voters. Some that have been cited are:childrenAICuts to social and medical servicesmental healthsafetythe jobs that are disappearingeducationchild care and elder care  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls", John Prine

Part 1:We talk with Dylan Gyauch-Lewis, Senior Researcher at The Revolving Door Project.We discuss the war on information that the Trump administration has been waging. Data is unavailable or poorly analyzed, thus leading to poor decisions and policies. Government bureaus that gather data have been decimated by the personnel and program cuts. This creates a lot of uncertainty. We discuss the growth of 'prediction markets" that appear rigged, because not everyone has the same data.Part 2:We talk with Laura Belin, publisher of "The Bleeding Heartland", based in Iowa.We discuss election trends in Iowa, which are now more favorable to Democrats, though Iowa is still very Republican. The main industry in Iowa is farming, which has been hurt by Trump's tariff policies. There are many follow-on effects on other sectors in Iowa.  WNHNFM.ORG  production

Part 1:We talk with Emma Whitford, of Insider Education.We discuss the pressure from the administration to identify Jewish faculty members to the government, providing their group membership data, election behavior/choices, social security data, residencies, etc. This is being viewed as an invasion invasion of privacy, and discriminatory of the basis of religious freedom, though a judge doesn't seem to agree.Part 2:We talk with John Martin, Asst. Professor at Quinniapiac University, election law.We discuss Trump's campaign to expand federal control of election management, even though the Constitution specifically leaves this task to the individual states.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's How Every Empire Falls", John Prine, 2016

This is a panel discussion with the following participants:Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare, Aaron Rosenthal, Jamie RowenTopics:- Iran War, Trump's magical thinking- No incentive for Iran to resolve, and this existential- Trump's goal seems to be to destroy the USpart 2- The number one issue in US is health care, especially as the administration is planning to shift money to the war- The next large issue for US residents is economic insecurity- Birthright citizenship before the Supreme Court- Mail in voting attacked by admin, though Trump and his family all vote by mail- Todd Blanche replaced Pam Bondi at AGWNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War", Bob Dylan,

Part 1:We talk with Harvey Kronberg, publisher of the Quorum Report in Texas.we discuss the Senate campaign in Texas, and how both Cornyn(R) and Paxton (R) are advertising in Florida. We discuss Talarico (D)' s campaign.We also discuss affordability, and the housing shortage is affecting Texas, because many workers are not available. School vouchers in Texas are also an issue.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Ryan Cooper.We discuss the 'progress' of the Iran war. The Iranians have monetized the Strait of Hormuz by creating a toll system, allowing tankers through unharmed if they bay a $2M toll. This will support Iran at $100 B/year.We discuss the breakdowns in the US.-Alliances-Rule of law-Use of assassinations as a tool of warDresdenication by attacking civilian targets-Power of large armed forces is diminished(asymmetric war now increasingly possible and effective)-The white-collar crime wave led by Trump and his cronies. WNHNFM.ORG  production 2026Music: "Masters of War'", Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell

Part 1:We talk with John Nichols, Executive editor, The Nation.We discuss the NO KINGS rally in Minneapolis, and Bernie Sanders' speech there. "No Kings, No ICE, No War". We also discuss how the campaign should proceed to rid the country of trumpism.Part 2:We talk with Ken Morales, reporter for ProPublica.We discuss the 23,000 criminal investigations that were abandoned by the DOJ to shift to immigration enforcement efforts. Those criminal investigations ranged through terrorism, white collar crime, drug trafficking, violent assaults, etc. The country is less safe as a result.WNHNFM.ORG   productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Prine 2016 

Part 1:We talk with Jeff Bryant, writing fellow and chief correspondent for Our Schools.We discuss the us of vouchers, which is increasing in many states. We examine how vouchers are used, and how they are subsidizing well-off families through tax dollars, to the detriment of public schools. We also look at how the Chinese have entered the school 'marketplace' and benefiting from the vouchers in US schools through private equity schemes.Part 2:We talk with Norm Solomon, American journalist, media critic, and progressive activist.We discuss how Democratic Party leaders are no longer responsive to their base. There is pseudo-leadership, but no true 'spine' left in the current leadership. They are not acknowledging their mistakes, and thus show no appetite for fixing them. Instead, grass-roots sentiment is being ignored. The book “The Blue Road to Trump Hell” is cited. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls." John Pine, 2016

Part 1:We talk with NItish Pahwa, Staff writer for Business and Technology at Slate.com.We discuss the latest developments in the AI arena. Specifically, we talk about AI contracts between corporations that are being cancelled. Is it the beginning of the AI bubble bursting?Part 2:We talk with Arno Rosenfeld, enterprise reporter at theForwardand author of theAntisemitism Decodednewsletter. An award-winning investigative journalist, he has chronicled the Jewish American response to antisemitism.We discuss how the growing Islamophobia in the US resembles antisemitism. Who defines religion vs. political outlook? We look at the various forms of Islamophobia, including the spread of "anti-Sharia" laws and sentiment. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War", Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, artist

This is a panel discussion with guests Dave Levinthal, Lincoln Mitchell, Stephen Pimpare, Egberto WilliesTopics:- The Iran war is being cast as a crusade for christian nationalism.- Trump seems to not understand reality- NATO sees an opportunity to separate from the US: they are not supporting the Iran war.- Trump and his family are profiteering from the war- Corruption is rife among Trump's circle- The SAVE act will harm red states more than blue states- the SAVE act is a tool to cast doubt on all elections in future.  WNHNFM.ORGMusic: "Masters of War", by Bob Dylan, singer Joni Mitchell, 1962

Part 1:We talk with Asma T. Uddin, Professor of Constitutional Law.We discuss how religious liberties must be defended against what is happening now. The administration and its adherents are attempting to reclassify the Muslim faith as NOT a religion, but a political movement. ALL faiths must be protected under the Constitution.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Jamie Rowan.We discuss how Trump is slanting discussion of people with either disabilities or those who are neurodivergent as somehow having fewer rights. Eugenicist rhetoric is used to justify this.We also discuss the court cases that have recently been announced that find tech companies guilty of causing harm to children through social media. We need more "adversarial legalisms" to cover what regulations do not cover explicitly. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War", by Bob Dylan, performed by Judy Collins 1962

Part 1:We talk with Robin Kaiser-Schatzlein, freelance journalist and book author.We discuss the problem of worker shortage. This 'shortage' can be attributed to the managers, who choose to reduce their operating costs by not hiring enough workers to perform the needed tasks. Consumers' expectations are being managed by corporations to believe that they should perform many self-service tasks versus having an employee help. This can cause dangerous outcomes: wrong prescriptions filled, incorrect instruction on using dangerous devices, no or delayed service in treating injuries or accidents, etc.Part 2:We talk with Prof. Jonathan Feingold of Boston University as part of Race Class.Ep. 59 | You Cant Combat Racism if You Dont Name RacismJon and Arnie discuss the many segregationist and white supremacist dimensions of the Trump administrations war on multiracial democracy. To map the assault on equality and democracy, we engage a recent report from the African American Policy Forum titled: Antiblackness is the Point: Racism, Misogyny, and Donald Trumps Assault on Equal Opportunity. The AAPF report connects todays racial fascism to the 19thRedeemers who employed a combination of racist rhetoric, policy and historical narratives meant to rationalize white male domination and undo the gains of post-Civil War Reconstruction. We also touch upon Toni Morrisions 1995 essay Racism and Fascism, which offers a useful framework for understanding the tactics the Trump regime is employing to dehumanize and brutalize so many communities in the United States. The conversation leads to a pressing question: Why do so many of todays democracy defenders continue to sideline Trumps racism when challenging Trumps policies? If we dont name racism, how can we hope to combat it?Jonathan FeingoldProfessor of LawBoston University School of Lawjfeingol@bu.edu|#RaceClass Podcast|researchWNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Masters of War", Bob Dylan, 1963 

Part 1:We talk with Kristian Coates-Ulrichsen, Ph.D., Fellow for Middle East at the Baker Institute.We discuss the effects on the energy markets as a result of the US attacks on Iran. This conflict has spead to the whole Middle East, as as Iran attacks other oil and gas producing countries in the region. The world economy is affected as a whole. Israel wants to extend the war as long as possible in order to tally destroy Iran as a possible aggressor in future. But this is causing irreversible and lasting damage all around. Negotiations do not seem to be feasible, due to the lack of trust.Part 2:We talk with Christina Canterucci, Slate Senior Writer.We discuss the revelations about the actions of Cesar Chavez. Canterucci has interviewed Dolores Huerta, and we discuss the effects on her and on others who were victimized by Chavez.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Pine, 2015

Part 1:We talk with Myke Cole, historian, novelist, essayist.We discuss the implications of immoral actions, especially in times of strife and other upheavals. We discuss the moral injury that occurs to a person who either commits or observes actions that harm others.Part 2:We talk with Bob Lord, Senior Advisor, Tax Policy, to The Patriotic Millionaires.We discuss the proposal now being brought to Congress, The Working Americans Tax Cut Act," which is legislation that would cut income taxes for working people. One part of it proposes to exempt the first $46,000 from any tax, since this is the basic cost of living for a single person with no children. other parts of this proposed change to the tax code would raise some income taxes for persons whose income is above $1M. Overall, for the government, this would be revenue neutral. This proposal has support from the AFLCIO, AFT, and other unions. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Pine, 2015

This is a panel discussion. The participants on the panel are:Ryan Cooper, Laura Jedeed, Aaron Rosenthal.The Topics we covered are:- Tax policy in most states in the US is designed to protect the very rich, at the cost of those at the bottom of the income rates.- Iran is being destroyed, and rebuilding is going to take time and money- Iran currently controls the Strait of Hormuz, with no real power by the US to change the situation. Western allies are reluctant, as a result of previous Trump rhetoric.- Hegseth is invoking Christ as a reason to go to war, using apocalyptic language.- The World Health Organization appears to be preparing to treat radiation exposure, perhaps as a result of nuclear actions.We discuss Platner, who is running in Maine to replace Susan Collins. We discuss his antisemitic sentiments. What does this imply for Democrats who have endorsed him?- What is the role of Israel in this war?WNHNFM.ORG productionMusic: "Hey, What's that Sound?" Buffalo Springfield, 2015

Part 1:We talk with Harvey Kronberg, publisher of the Quorum Report in Texas.We discuss the upcoming election for US Senator in Texas, and the fact that neither Republican candidate has chosen to withdraw, as directed by Trump. There may be a blue wave in Texas.Part 2:We talk with Bill Curry and Harold Meyerson.We discuss the war in Iran, and the economic consequences for the world. The "American Century" is over, and the US has few friends left. It appears that Trump is not in charge of the war, but is led by Netanyahu.We also discuss the allegations against Cesar Chavez.WNHNFM.ORG productionMusic: "That's how every empire falls," John Pine, 2025

Part 1:We talk with Jen Fifield, reporter for ProPublica.We discuss the seizure of copies of Maricopa Co. (AZ) ballots by Republicans, apparently attempting to show that Trump won that county in 2020. We examine the pretexts, and and also examine the history of those ballots. This may be a prelude to 2026 and 2028 election interference by Trump.Part 2:We talk with Mechelle Dickerson, Prof. of Law at the University of Texas.We discuss how the changes made in the period after WWII have created the America middle class. This group is now under assault, and fragile. American workers are constantly in danger of falling off the economic cliff into poverty. They have been conditioned to look "sideways and down" at other workers as the causes of their economic fragility, rather than "up" at the bosses, who are responsible. We discuss possible 'fixes' for the situation that now exists.  WNHNFM.ORG  production Music: David Rovics

Part 1:We talk with Sasha Abramsky, writer, reporter.We discuss the movement of the US to a christian nationalistic theocracy, led by people who are not Christians, but are using the rhetoric to control their followers. They revel in war atrocities, control aspects of religious lives, and create economic anxiety. Experts in governance have been eliminated, and we are now reaping the results of the politics of idiocy.Part 2:We talk with David Gans, Director of Human Rights, Civil Rights, and Citizenship Programs at the Constitutional Accountability Center.We discuss the attempts by the Republicans to eliminate mail-in voting. Currently, according to the Constitution, the states are the regulators of the vote. These attempts infringe on states' rights. More than 30% of votes in the US in 2020 were mail-in votes. Who will be affected if mail-in voting is gone? WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: David Rovics

Part 1:We talk with Anders Croy, Communications Director for DeSantis Watch in Florida.We discuss the problem of lawmakers in Florida, who have NOT fulfilled their constitutional responsibility to produce a balanced budget for Florida. The top priority now is affordability. We discuss the role of property taxes, insurance premiums and income taxes in Florida.Part 2:We talk with Zachary Levenson, Associate Prof. of Sociology at Florida International University.We discuss how certain topics may no longer be taught due to the 'anti-woke' Act. There are no existing sociology texts that comply with this Florida law, in effect stifling all discussion of social and political issues. Oral directives are being sent to professors about this 'ruling', likely to avoid lawsuits citing freedom of speech issues.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "Coming to America", Neil Diamond, 1980

This is a panel discussion.The panelists are: Ryan Cooper, Laura Jedeed, Stephen Pimpare, Jamie RowenThe topics are:-- increasing antisemitism, especially among young men in the US-- Trump consolidating propaganda network by taking over more and more news outlets-- Hegseth's rhetoric-- disruption in the oil price, due to the war, and Iran's determination to NOT give up what is an existential struggle-- The SAVE act will likely be selectively enforced-- attacks on veterans who need mental health services, and the threats to institutionalize them-- Epstein still a topic among Americans WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "It's all right", The Impressions, 1963

Part 1:We talk with Egberto Willies of Texas.We discuss the primary elections just held, and the election of a new Democratic Party Chair in Houston.Part 2:We talk with Bil Curry and Robert Hockett.We discuss the Iran war, and the results in the Middle East. The "video game" war prosecuted by Hegseth is dangerous for the US and the Middle East.Is this a war to restore 'lost empires"? WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: "That's how empires fall," John Pine, 2015

Part 1:We talk with Arthur Allen, of KFF Health News.Mr. Allen describes the informal health care networks that have developed in the face of ICE actions, which caused many people to be afraid to leave their homes for health care, school, food shopping, or other tasks. This was especially true in Minneapolis. Should this be replicated in other cities when under this kind of siege?Part 2:We talk with Sarah Anderson, who directs the Global Economy Project at the Institute for Policy Studies and co-edits Inequality.org. Anderson's research covers a wide range of international and domestic economic issues, including trade, finance, inequality, and budget policies.We discuss how large corporations do not adequately pay their employees, and thus are subsidized by the welfare system. Most people who are getting 'welfare' assistance of various kinds are working, but simply not getting paid enough. Minimum wage has not changed in decades, even as the cost of living has risen greatly. WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: John Pine, "That's how every empire falls,"  2015