POPULARITY
Eileen Gu is back at the 2026 Olympics for China — American-born, Stanford-educated, earning millions (including reported Chinese payments), yet facing almost no mainstream backlash. Mike Pesca & Matt Lewis unpack why America still loves her: media both-siderism, cultural tolerance trumping geopolitics, China's propaganda wins, and what it says about our weakness vs. a real adversary.We also Trump-era moral equivalency, and Marco Rubio's attempt to square Reaganism with Trumpism.Don't miss this conversation!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2026, BBL & BWL, LLC
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim welcomes Jon Hillman, a senior fellow for Geoeconomics at the Council on Foreign Relations, to discuss their latest Task Force Report on US Economic Security. The conversation delves into the strategic importance of emerging technologies such as AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology, highlighting their potential to generate up to $29 trillion in economic value by 2040. Hillman emphasizes the need for targeted government intervention to address market failures and ensure national security, while also exploring the role of US allies in strengthening supply chains. The conversation offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology, policy, and global competition and explores the challenges and opportunities facing the United States in the race for tomorrow's technologies.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Henry Olsen, senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center to discuss President Trump's proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget, highlighting its potential impact on US military capabilities and global commitments. Roger and Henry explore the historical significance of such an increase, the strategic necessity of aligning military resources with America's defense obligations, and the political and economic challenges of implementing this budget. The dialogue delves into the implications for national security strategy, the role of allies, and the fiscal realities of funding such a substantial increase in defense spending.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim sits down with Arthur Herman to discuss his latest oped in the Wall Street Journal titled "America is the Sole Superpower Again." Herman argues that despite the presence of China, India, and other great powers, the United States is the sole superpower because it alone is capable of dictating the tempo and direction of world events, as recently evidenced by US strikes against Iran, Venezuela, among others. Herman argues that the latent tools of US power have existed for years and were just waiting for the right leader to bring them together and combine them on the world stage. They end the conversation with Herman's reflections on the trend lines of past unipolar moments after World War II and the Cold War and their fleeting nature, along with Herman's observations on President Trump's handling of Greenland.
On this episode of Reaganism, Rachel Hoff sits down with Masih Alinejad, an Iranian journalist and human rights activist. The discussion delves into the ongoing protests in Iran, sparked by economic distress and the brutal enforcement of compulsory hijab laws, which have evolved into a broader revolution against the Islamic Republic. Masih shares her personal experiences and insights into the regime's oppressive tactics, the international community's response, and the critical role of women's rights in the fight for freedom. Her testimony underscores the urgency for global solidarity to support the Iranian people's quest for a secular democracy.
When most people think about the 1970s, they're likely to conjure up images of Watergate, oil shortages, disco, and outrageous hairstyles. When academic political historians have thought about the 1970s, they have tended to see the era largely as one in which the forces of conservatism gained strength, setting the stage for Ronald Reagan's election as president in 1980 and the subsequent decades of “neoliberalism,” in which both parties tended to agree that market forces needed to be liberated from the heavy hand of government. But a new generation of historians argues that this reading shortchanges many of the Democratic politicians active in the 1970s and the years that followed, particularly the New Liberals. These were the people who wanted the Democratic Party to regain its political momentum by reforming liberalism as well as the party. The New Liberals included intellectuals like Robert Reich and Ira Magaziner, business figures like Felix Rohatyn and Robert Rubin, and politicians including Gary Hart, Paul Tsongas, Jerry Brown, and of course Bill Clinton, who arguably brought the New Liberal project to fruition by winning the presidency in 1992. Henry Tonks, a historian at Kenyon College, has written a dissertation reevaluating the New Liberals. He argues that while they did pave the way toward the modern Democratic Party, they didn't capitulate to Reaganism or repudiate their New Deal heritage. Rather, they tried to reinvent liberalism by adapting it to an economy that was becoming more globalized as well as less industrial and more reliant upon financial services and advanced technology. They embraced industrial policy and worried about whether America was falling behind its commercial rivals, particularly Japan. Tonks argues that while New Liberals didn't correctly diagnose the changes to the economy in all of its particulars, their policy vision retains considerable relevance to today's politics — and particularly the discussion around the Abundance movement.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Joseph Ledford of the Hoover Institution to discuss Operation Absolute Resolve, the US snatch-and-grab mission in Venezuela to apprehend dictator Nicolas Maduro. Joseph highlights the historical context of US involvement in Latin America, drawing parallels between past and present policies. They explore the strategic significance of the operation to capture Maduro, emphasizing its impact on regional stability and US national security interests. The dialogue also touches on the interconnectedness of Venezuela with other geopolitical players like Cuba and Iran, and the potential for democratic restoration in Venezuela. The conversation concludes with reflections on the enduring influence of Reagan's foreign policy principles and the optimistic outlook for US leadership in the region.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Derek Chollet, Managing Director at the JPMorgan Chase Center for Geopolitics, to discuss JPMorgan's ambitious $1.5 trillion Security and Resiliency Initiative. The conversation highlights the initiative's focus on bolstering U.S. national security through investments in critical sectors like defense, energy, and advanced manufacturing. Derek emphasizes the importance of private sector involvement alongside government efforts to address geopolitical challenges, citing JPMorgan's commitment to enhancing U.S. resilience and economic growth. The dialogue underscores the bank's strategic role in facilitating investments and partnerships to drive innovation and strengthen the national defense industrial base.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Aaron MacLean, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute and host of the "School of War" podcast. They delve into the complexities of the Trump National Security Strategy, exploring its implications and the competing ideological factions within the administration. They discuss how the strategy reflects a mix of influences, with Aaron noting that it serves as a tool for understanding the shifting dynamics of power and policy preferences. The dialogue touches on the broader themes of American foreign policy, the role of historical context, and the evolving nature of conservative ideology, with Roger and Aaron offering insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. on the global stage.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down live at the Reagan National Defense Forum with Substrate's founder and CEO, James Proud. Roger and James discuss Substrate's background, and it's promise to revolutionize the chip industry that is currently dominated by Taiwan and Dutch origin lithography machines. Roger and James discuss the history and state of the US chip industry and the chip race underway with China. They transition to the profound challenge Substrate is trying to tackle, and why no company has thus far singularly integrated the chip industry. The conversation concludes with a look at the future of the chip industry, and the cost prohibitive nature of producing increasingly advanced chips.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party to discuss the strategic competition between the United States and the CCP, focusing on the implications of China's actions on national security and economic interests. Chairman Moolenaar highlights the bipartisan efforts of the Committee to address these challenges, emphasizing the importance of maintaining technological and economic advantages over China. They also explore the GAIN Act, which aims to prioritize American access to advanced AI chips, ensuring that the U.S. remains a leader in innovation while safeguarding national security. The discussion underscores the ideological differences between the U.S. and China, particularly in terms of individual freedoms and government control, and the need for policies that reflect American values.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Rachel Hoff and Thomas Kenna to discuss the findings from the 2025 Reagan National Defense Survey. The discussion highlights the American public's views on national defense, foreign policy, and international alliances, with a particular focus on the increasing support for NATO and military aid to Ukraine. Rachel and Thomas provide insights into the survey's methodology and the significance of bipartisan support for American leadership on the global stage. They also explore the public's perception of threats from China and Russia, and the importance of US military strength in maintaining peace. The conversation concludes with reflections on the evolving geopolitical landscape and the enduring relevance of Reagan's principles in contemporary policy discussions.
On this episode of Reaganism, Dan Rothschild sits down with Peter Lipsett and delve into the complexities of the modern conservative movement, exploring the evolution and fragmentation of the right since the Reagan era. They discuss the emergence of new factions like the national conservatives and the challenges of maintaining a cohesive narrative amidst diverse ideologies. Peter reflects on his podcast series, "What is the Right?", which examines these shifts through interviews with various leaders. They also touch on the role of traditionalists, the influence of tech on conservatism, and the enduring legacy of Reagan's principles, pondering the future trajectory of American conservatism and the potential for a new fusionism that reconciles differing viewpoints within the movement.
Subscribe to skip ads, get bonus content, and enjoy access to the entire catalog of 500 episodes. Keep the narrative flow going! Is the rise of Donald Trump a result or a rejection of Reaganism? As the conservative movement is convulsed by the crazies inside and outside its ranks, some may feel nostalgic for a bygone age when a Republican president seemed committed to the principles of smaller government, free trade, and America's global leadership. But what was Reaganism, really? Our guest in this episode is historian Max Boot. Recommended reading: Reagan: His Life and Legend by Max Boot The Age of Reagan by Sean Wilentz
On this episode of Reaganism, Dan Rothschild, director of the Civics, Education, and Opportunity at RRI sits down with Steve Davies, Head of Education at the Institute of Economic Affairs to discuss his upcoming book, "The Great Realignment: Why the New Right Is Here to Stay." Dan and Steve explore the evolving ideological alignment underway in the United States and across the globe. Steve argues that the split today is no longer governed by economic philosophy as it was from 1800s-2000s but is rooted in a new understanding of one's national identity.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Jeh Johnson, former Secretary of Homeland Security in the Obama administration to discuss his reaction to the election of Zohran Mamdani in New York City. They explore some early litmus tests for the Mamdani administration including the status of NYC Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. They explore past examples of principled leadership and lessons Mamdani can draw from past political figures like Bob Gates. The conversation ends with a discussion of the Trump administration's negotiations with Columbia and role of higher education institutions in fostering a balanced discourse, highlighting Johnson's insights on navigating political and social dynamics.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger sits down with Marc Thiessen to delve into the current ideological battles within the conservative movement, focusing on the influence of figures like Tucker Carlson and Nick Fuentes. They explore the tension between traditional conservative values and the rise of alt-right ideologies, emphasizing the need to reject extremist elements to preserve the integrity of the movement. The conversation also touches on the role of nationalism, the importance of supporting Israel, and the challenges of maintaining unity while confronting internal and external threats. Marc advocates for a form of American nationalism rooted in the country's founding principles, contrasting it with European-style nationalism based on ethnicity.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim, host of the Reaganism podcast, sits down with Dr. Will Inboden, Executive Vice President and Provost of the University of Texas at Austin, to discuss his latest article in National Affairs, "Restoring the Academic Social Contract." They discuss the concept of the "social contract" between American universities and the public. The dialogue explores the historical roots and current challenges facing higher education, including issues of trust, academic freedom, and the influence of foreign entities like China. Will shares personal anecdotes and insights into the politicization of academia, emphasizing the need for universities to uphold their foundational ideals to restore public confidence.
On this episode of Reaganism, Rachel Hoff sits down with Grace Jin Drexel to discuss the pressing issue of religious freedom, particularly focusing on the persecution faced by Christians in China. Grace shares her personal journey and her father's story, Pastor Ezra Jin, who has been imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party for his religious activities. The discussion delves into the challenges of practicing Christianity in China, the evolution of Zion Church, and the broader implications of religious persecution. Grace emphasizes the importance of global awareness and advocacy for religious freedom, urging the international community to support those facing persecution. Rachel and Grace conclude by reflecting on the universal right to believe freely and the ongoing struggle for religious freedom worldwide.
On this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Wall Street Journal Editorial Board Member Jillian Kay Melchior to discuss her latest trip to Ukraine and update from the frontlines in Donetsk. Roger and Jillian discuss the race between elite Ukrainian and Russian drone units as they both look for the upper hand in Ukraine's heavily defended fortress belt. They discuss how despite over a decade at war, Ukraine's civil society and democratic fabric is flourishing and is increasingly integrated into Western economic, political, and security architecture. They conclude the conversation with a discussion of US arms transfers and sanctions pressure, and the importance of creating various vectors of pressure points on Russia.
How does one man whose formative years are largely defined by five “s's” – sex, satanism, suicide, secret agents, and Stalinism – somehow wind up as a defining intellectual behind the rise of America's conservative movement? Daniel Flynn, a Hoover visiting fellow and author of The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer, takes us through an improbable journey that involves Princeton and Oxford, deportation, socialism, capitalism and Hayek, William F. Buckley and the founding of The National Review, Goldwater, Nixon and Reagan, plus a few unexpected cameos along the way (Bob Dylan, Joan Didion and the Berlin Wall's architect, to name a few).
Jason Dick and Sean Carswell discuss how Thomas Pynchon's novel “Vineland” led to Paul Thomas Anderson's movie “One Battle After Another,” the conversation those two works have about American culture and politics, as well as the 1960s left, the Nixonian right, Reaganism, the drug war, Trumpism and, for good measure, Emerson's concept of the level of divine justice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jason Dick and Sean Carswell discuss how Thomas Pynchon's novel “Vineland” led to Paul Thomas Anderson's movie “One Battle After Another,” the conversation those two works have about American culture and politics, as well as the 1960s left, the Nixonian right, Reaganism, the drug war, Trumpism and, for good measure, Emerson's concept of the level of divine justice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim and General Laura Richardson discuss the strategic importance of the US Southern Command, highlighting the region's vast natural resources and geopolitical significance. General Richardson emphasizes the need for consistent US military presence to counteract influences from China and other adversaries, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road. They also address the challenges posed by the Maduro regime in Venezuela, the impact of narcotics trafficking, and the importance of fostering democratic partnerships in the Western Hemisphere. The discussion concludes with reflections on political developments in Argentina and their implications for regional stability and alignment with democratic values. For more information on the ongoing works of President Reagan's Foundation, please visit http://www.reaganfoundation.org
Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer discuss the turbulent week in Canada-U.S. trade relations, from Prime Minister Carney's underwhelming primetime address and mixed signals on sectoral trade deals to President Trump's explosive reaction to the Ontario government's Reagan ad. They explore how the apparent breakdown in trade negotiations may actually benefit the Carney government politically by justifying deficit spending and empowering domestic interests who prefer the status quo over meaningful economic reform. On the back half of the show, they discuss how modern conservatism is drifting away from Reagan-inspired principles of limited government and free markets, with conservatives increasingly embracing culture war politics and deficit spending over economic liberty and fiscal discipline. The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get our latest videos: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanada Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go: https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) Want more Hub? Get a FREE 3-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS: Amal Attar-Guzman - Producer & Editor Rudyard Griffiths and Sean Speer - Hosts To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts email support@thehub.ca
On this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Tim Bouverie, author of the new book "Allies at War: How the Struggles Between the Allied Powers Shaped the War and the World." Tim and Roger delve into the complexities of alliances during World War II, focusing on the intricate dynamics between the Allied powers. Tim discusses how the collaboration among nations like the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union was crucial in defeating the Axis powers, despite internal rivalries and suspicions. They explore the historical context of these alliances, the strategic decisions made, and the lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of unity in facing global threats. They conclude their conversation with a contemporary appraisal of Roosevelt and Churchill, rejecting far-right reinterpretations of World War II and Roosevelt and Churchill's legacies.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim sits down with Congressman Adam Smith, the senior Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, about his recent trip to China. The discussion centered on the importance of dialogue between the US and China, despite the complex geopolitical tensions and differing perceptions each country holds about the other. Congressman Smith emphasized the need for open communication to address issues such as Taiwan, China's military buildup, and US-China economic relations, advocating for a coexistence strategy rather than a confrontational approach. He shared insights from his meetings with Chinese officials, noting a shift towards more civil discourse and a recognition of mutual interests, while also highlighting the challenges posed by China's historical grievances and global ambitions.
Cynthia Bemis Abrams sits down with actor and singer Stepfanie Kramer at the Paley Center for Media to revisit her trailblazing role as Sgt. Dee Dee McCall on Hunter (1984–1991). Together, they unpack: The cultural legacy of Hunter and its Reagan-era action show peers Kramer's reflections on fame, aging in Hollywood, and leaving the series Her influence as a feminist TV figure and enduring global fan base Behind-the-scenes production realities Life after Hunter: music, stage, and staying connected to fans Honey West, Police Woman, Cagney & Lacey and Hunter - how they reveal progress Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Kramer's work anew, this episode explores the power of representation, resilience, and navigating fame as a woman in a male-dominated genre. CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – https://tvherstory.com Website – https://cynthiabemisabrams.com Podcast Archive – https://tvherstory.com Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory Bluesky Social – https://cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim sits down with Elliott Abrams, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations to discuss the UK, France, Canada, and Australia's recognition of Palestinian statehood. Elliott discusses the complexities surrounding Palestinian statehood, the role of the Palestinian Authority, and the implications of Western recognition of a Palestinian state. He argues that Palestinian nationalism is fundamentally opposed to the existence of a Jewish state and that the leadership of the Palestinian Authority has failed to build a viable state. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of Israeli politics, the potential for annexation, and the changing attitudes towards Israel in the United States.
On this episode of Reaganism, Roger Zakheim and Jonathan Burks explored how to secure a durable, bipartisan fix to America's fiscal challenges—especially Social Security—without defaulting to lowest-common-denominator politics. Burks argued that trillion-dollar (and rising) deficits, debt service now rivaling or exceeding major programs, and higher interest rates make action unavoidable; any real solution will require both spending restraint and new revenue. They discussed President Trump's tariffs, with Burks noting tariff receipts are too small and economically inefficient to close the gap and that policy/legal uncertainty is chilling investment and manufacturing jobs. Drawing on his Hill experience, Burks explained why continuing resolutions and executive workarounds (e.g., rescissions, reconciliation) are poor substitutes for bipartisan appropriations that give industry long-term certainty—vital for defense and other priorities. They concluded with a discussion on the future of Social Security. Burks argued that there is bipartisan consensus on the path to make the program solvent: gradually raise the retirement age, modestly adjust payroll taxes (with protections for physically demanding careers), and act soon—pointing to strong public support for fixing the program if leaders level with voters.
On this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Matt Continetti, an acclaimed historian of the right, to discuss his latest piece in the Free Press, on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the decline of America's civic character. Roger and Matt discuss the deepening political and cultural divide in America, highlighted by the assassination of Kirk. Matt expresses concern over the reactions to Kirk's death, noting a troubling trend of political violence and the left's misunderstanding of the right. They explore the idea of America becoming two nations, divided not only by politics but also by culture, lifestyle, and epistemology. Matt argues that the right understands the left better due to the left's dominance in cultural institutions. They also discuss the role of political leaders and the need for a collective cultural effort to bridge the divide and reaffirm American principles.
On this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Matt Waxman, a professor at Columbia University Law School. Roger and Matt discuss the Trump administration's recent strike against the Tren de Aragua gang in the Caribbean. Matt outlines the constitutional and international legal hurdles the president faces authorizing the strike. Matt and Roger discuss the intricacies of the authorization for the use of military force, and the distinctions between Al Qaeda and cartel groups like Tren de Aragua. Roger and Matt explore the White House's use of the president's Article II powers to justify the strike against Tren de Aragua. They conclude the conversation with an evaluation of Israel's strike against Hamas in Qatar, Matt finds the strike was justified under international law, but draws important distinctions between Israel's strike and how the US would conduct a similar strike. Roger and Matt finish the episode by concluding Israel's strike was escalatory and opens a new chapter in the Israel-Hamas war.
In this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with former U.S. Senator Phil Gramm who served the State of Texas in the United States Senate and is the author of the newly released book, “The Triumph of Economic Freedom: Debunking the Seven Great Myths of American Capitalism.” They discuss Sen. Gramm's new book arguing that many policy debates stem from misreadings of history and flawed statistics. He challenges the notion that free trade hollowed out American manufacturing, pointing instead to record-high output driven by productivity and innovation, much like agriculture's transformation. Sen. Gramm defends Ronald Reagan as a principled free-trader who saw commerce as an extension of individual freedom, contrasting Reagan's approach with today's rising protectionism and “state capitalism.” He critiques how government statistics misclassify income, poverty, and manufacturing, distorting public perception, and insists that prosperity comes from smaller government and greater freedom.
In this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Dmitri Alperovitch who is the Co-Founder and Chairman of Silverado Policy Accelerator, national bestselling author of “World on the Brink: How America Can Beat China in the Race for the 21st Century,” founder of the Alperovitch Institute for Cybersecurity Studies at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies and Co-Founder and former CTO of CrowdStrike Inc., one of the world's largest cybersecurity firms. They discuss Alperovitch's book 'World on the Brink' and the current geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the new Cold War with China. Alperovitch argues that the U.S. must prioritize its resources and strategies to deter China, particularly regarding Taiwan. The discussion also touches on the importance of American leadership, the implications of various global conflicts, and the need for a robust defense strategy to maintain U.S. dominance in the face of rising threats.
Part Two: Breht listens to, comments on, and expounds upon a public lecture by the late professor of philosophy Rick Roderick from 1989 on Hegel, Marx, and modern American capitalism. Along the way he discusses the central role of reproductive labor, the dialectic of feminism in the US across the last century, identifying with your job under capitalism, reactionary psychology and understanding the joy they take in cruelty, the insane irony of "Make America Great Again" under both Reagan and Trump, the prescience of Professor Roderick, socially necessary labor, and more. Finally, Breht opines at length on a crucial and often overlooked dimension of a truly present, meaningful life. ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio: https://revleftradio.com/ outro music 'Mooncakes' by Spinitch find and support more of their work here: https://spinitch.bandcamp.com/album/com-postables-4-dessert
In this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with former Ambassador of the United States to the European Union, and now President & COO at Business Roundtable, Kristen Silverberg. They discuss the intersection of business and government. The conversation delves into the role of the Business Roundtable, the impact of executive orders, and the importance of CEO engagement with policymakers. Amb. Silverberg shares her insights on the current administration's approach to business, the significance of trade policies, and the challenges and opportunities in the AI and tech sectors.
In this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Karan Bhatia, who previously served as Deputy U.S. Trade Representative in the Bush Administration, and now serves as the Global Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy for Google. They discuss the current landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology, focusing on the United States' leadership role and the regulatory challenges faced in Europe. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration between free societies, the competitive dynamics with China, and Google's engagement in Taiwan. Bhatia also highlights the energy demands of technology and Google's contributions to national security, while reflecting on the impact of recent legislation on the tech industry and drawing parallels to Ronald Reagan's vision for innovation.
In this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Professor Brendan Simms, a Professor of the History of International Relations at the University of Cambridge. They discuss Professor Simm's essay in the Wall Street Journal titled "Don't Write Off Europe Just Yet," which addresses skepticism in the U.S., particularly within the Trump administration, about Europe's role and capabilities. Simms argues that Europe has the capacity to defend itself against Russia, emphasizing the importance of U.S. support for European security. The conversation touches on historical parallels, the current geopolitical landscape, and the interconnectedness of global security, particularly concerning Russia and China.
In this episode of Reaganism, host Roger Zakheim sits down with Dr. Daniel Samet who is the George P. Shultz Fellow at the Ronald Reagan Institute, and the author of the new book, U.S. Defense Policy toward Israel: A Cold War History. The conversation explores the core thesis of Dr. Samet's book, which directly challenges the claims made in John Mearsheimer and Stephen Walt's The Israel Lobby. Rather than attributing U.S. Middle East policy to undue influence by a pro-Israel lobby, Dr. Samet argues that American defense policy toward Israel has been driven primarily by national interest and strategic considerations—particularly during the Cold War. Drawing from extensive archival research, Dr. Samet finds that lobbying efforts appear rarely in the historical record. Instead, U.S. presidents from Truman through Reagan made decisions based on national security, geopolitical strategy, and the containment of the Soviet Union.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute's Director of the Center for Civics, Education, and Opportunity Dan Rothschild sits down with Dr. Ben Reinhardt who is the CEO of Speculative Technologies. They discuss discuss the mission and vision behind Speculative Technologies, emphasizing the importance of physical technologies and the need for innovative research funding models. Dr. Reinhardt critiques traditional government-funded research approaches and highlights the barriers to innovation in America, including bureaucratic constraints and the influence of venture capital. Reinhart advocates for a new system that allows for more flexibility and creativity in technology development, while also addressing the role of universities and the importance of co-location for fostering innovation.
This episode is the fourth installment in our summer series on "What Is the Right?" here on Giving Ventures. Over the course of the summer months, we are looking at the different factions and flavors of what it means to be on the right side of the ideological spectrum in this unique moment we're in. So far, we've explored the Freedom Conservatives, Libertarians, and the New Right. This episode explores the traditionalist wing of conservatism. At a quick glance, you might describe Traditionalist Conservatives as the social conservatives in the postwar coalition that culminated in the Reaganism of the '80s. But that's probably a little bit simplistic. On the landscape of the Right, the Traditionalists can be found on the opposite end of the spectrum from Libertarians. Order, virtue, and continuity with the past are of greater concern to the Traditionalists than unleashing the free market or ensuring government sticks to protecting life, liberty, and property. Conserving the principles of the American Founding is buttressed by the preservation of the Western Tradition and its tension between freedom and order. The episode features Daniel McCarthy and Luke Sheahan. Daniel is Vice President for Publications at the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and Editor of ISI's Modern Age, which was launched by Russell Kirk and Henry Regnery in 1957 as a forum for conservatives of various stripes to debate their ideas. Luke is an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science at Duquesne University, and a nonresident scholar in the Program for Research on Religion and Urban Civil Society at the University of Pennsylvania. He is also editor of The University Bookman, the online journal of book reviews published by the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim sits down with retired General Jack Keane, who serves as the Chairman of the Institute for the Study of War. They discuss the ongoing military actions by Israel against Iran's nuclear weapons program, the implications for U.S. involvement, and the strategic landscape in the Middle East. He assesses the current state of the Iranian nuclear program, evaluates Israel's military options, and outlines the potential risks and benefits of U.S. engagement in the conflict. The discussion highlights the historical context of U.S.-Iran relations and the importance of supporting allies in the region.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim sits down with Dr. Tevi Troy, a senior fellow at the Reagan Institute and former deputy secretary of Health and Human Services. They discuss Dr. Troy's article 'In Praise of Big Pharma,' exploring the critical role of the pharmaceutical industry in healthcare innovation and the challenges it faces from government regulation and public perception. The conversation also touches on the importance of vaccines, the impact of government policies on healthcare costs, and the future of American innovation in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the context of competition with China.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim sits down with Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick. They discuss the pivotal role of Pennsylvania in national politics, particularly in relation to tariffs and trade policies. He emphasizes the need for fairness in trade relationships, the importance of industrial policy for national security, and the role of government in fostering economic growth. The discussion also touches on the complexities of negotiating trade deals, the future of U.S.-China relations, and the necessity of revitalizing American manufacturing. Sen. McCormick also highlights the strategic challenges posed by China, the importance of a robust U.S. foreign policy, and the need to address rising anti-Semitism in America. He reflects on his recent trip to the Middle East, emphasizing the existential threat posed by Iran and the need for a united front against adversaries.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by Dr. Zack Cooper, who is a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. They discuss Dr. Cooper's book, Tides of Fortune, which explores the rise and decline of great militaries, focusing on China's military buildup and its implications for U.S. defense strategy. The discussion covers the historical context of military power, the dynamics of rising and declining powers, and the need for the U.S. to reassess its military investments in light of China's advancements. Dr. Cooper emphasizes the importance of a balanced military mix and the role of technology in modern warfare, advocating for a strategic shift in U.S. defense policy to address emerging threats effectively.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by the Honorable Dr. John Hillen who serves as the James C. Wheat Jr. Professor in Leadership at the Wilson Center and is also a professor in the government and foreign affairs department at Hampden-Sydney College. They discuss the importance of strategic thinking in both business and government. Dr. Hillen emphasizes that while many business executives focus on task accomplishment, only a small percentage naturally think strategically. He draws parallels between military training and business strategy, highlighting the need for leaders to develop strategic and interpersonal skills as they advance in their careers. The discussion also touches on the current state of global leadership, the lessons from history, and the philosophical differences in American foreign policy regarding spheres of influence versus systems of governance.
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by Hon. Hanno Pevkur who serves as the Minister of Defence for the Republic of Estonia. They discuss the current geopolitical landscape, Russia's aggressive actions in Eastern Europe, and the importance of NATO and collective defense. Minister Pevkur emphasizes Estonia's commitment to its own defense and support for Ukraine. The conversation reflects on historical contexts, the significance of NATO's Article 5, and the challenges posed by Russian influence in the region.
Trump is sending a clear message: he's not going away quietly. “ If you read The Washington Post, even The Wall Street Journal, but especially The New York Times, the question is, can MAGA survive after Trump steps down? “ There's arguments on both sides whether a popular movement can survive its creators. … Al Gore won the popular vote in 2000 to succeed him. And what did Barack Obama do? He repudiated Clintonism and the Democratic Leadership Council. And he went hard to the Left. And the result of that is we got a destroyed or an irrelevant Democratic Party.” 00:00 Introduction: Is Trump a Lame Duck? 00:23 Trump's Media Trolling and Third Term Speculation 01:29 Historical Context: Movements and Their Leaders 01:52 Reaganism and Its Aftermath 02:49 Clintonism and Obama's Shift 03:28 The Future of MAGA: DeSantis and Beyond 05:46 Conclusion: The Enduring MAGA Ideology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comChris — an old friend and, in my view, one of the sharpest right-of-center writers in journalism — returns to the Dishcast for his third appearance. He's a senior fellow at the Claremont Institute, a contributing editor to the Claremont Review of Books, a contributing writer for the NYT, and a member of the editorial committee of the French quarterly Commentaire. We covered his book The Age of Entitlement on the pod in 2021, and in 2023 he came back to talk European politics. This week I wanted to talk to a Trump supporter as we survey the first month. And we hashed a lot out.For two clips of our convo — on the vandalism of DOGE, and why Chris thinks Trump has been more consequential than Obama on policy— see our YouTube page.Other topics: the final demise of affirmative action; the 1964 Civil Rights Act; how DEI created racial strife; warring Dem interest groups; Biden's belated border enforcement; why Harris was picked for veep and party nominee; the minorities disillusioned with Dems; the rise in public disorder; looming inflation; Trump's tax cuts and tariffs; Trump vs Reaganism; DOGE vs Clinton's downsizing; Bannon vs Musk; Thiel a harbinger of Trump's broligarchy; USAID and NGOs; the Swamp; Musk calling for the impeachment of judges; his ignorance on government; his craving to be cool; RFK at HHS; Bezos ditching dissent at the WaPo op-ed page; America's new foreign policy; Trump's alliance with Russia against Ukraine; pushing reparations on an invaded country; NATO's Article 5 void under Trump; his love of strongmen; Vance's disdain of European leaders; Brexit; mass migration; the German elections; China and Trump; Syria and Obama; the DCA helicopter crash; the awfulness of Bluesky; the Gulf of America; and debating the extent to which Trump's rhetoric is just noise.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy (the first 102 are free in their entirety — subscribe to get everything else). Coming up: Evan Wolfson on the history of marriage equality, Nick Denton on China and AI, Francis Collins on faith and science, Michael Lewis on government service, Douglas Murray on Israel and Gaza, Ian Buruma on Spinoza, Michael Joseph Gross on bodybuilding, and the great and powerful Mike White, of White Lotus fame. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.
On this episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 1990's horror film "Def by Temptation" written, directed, and produced by James Bond III who is also the star. They talk about how this became James Bond III's passion project, the progressive and problematic aspects of the story, and Kadeem Hardison's portrayal of K through the plot. They also get into the the excellent soundtrack, the shadow of politics in a post-Reaganism urban America, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron and Derek use a cigarette lighter. The flame lasts longer. Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/WatchIfYouDare We are on PodBean, Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, Goodpods, Amazon Music, Spotify, iHeartRadio and CastBox. Please rate, review, subscribe, and share our show. Also, check out our Spotify Music playlist, links on our Twitter and Podbean page. Our socials are on Bluesky and Facebook and Twitter @WatchIfYouDare