Podcast appearances and mentions of scott stantis

How has the upset victory of progressive Abdul El-Sayed over a DNC/AIPAC-backed corporatist in Michigan transformed the Democratic Party? Drawing on historical precedent, editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down on today's DMZ America Podcast. The Democratic Party is locked in a fierce internal civil war as progressive and Democratic Socialist insurgents surge against the centrist establishment. In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated AIPAC-backed Rep. Haley Stevens in the Senate primary despite over $60 million in dark money, framing the race as a referendum on foreign influence and corporate power. Similar upsets in New York, where Mamdani-backed candidates toppled incumbents, and victories in Colorado, Maine, and elsewhere have alarmed moderates. Groups like Third Way are mobilizing millions to attack the Left within their own party, with strategists warning of a “schism” and labeling progressives “bomb-throwers.” The clash pits economic populism, antiwar stances, and young voters against the old guard's focus on control and Israel. Establishment figures fear losing their grip on the DNC, while progressives argue the party's corporate tilt caused recent losses and demand a bold new direction.

How has the upset victory of progressive Abdul El-Sayed over a DNC/AIPAC-backed corporatist in Michigan transformed the Democratic Party? Drawing on historical precedent, editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down on today's DMZ America Podcast. The Democratic Party is locked in a fierce internal civil war as progressive and Democratic Socialist insurgents surge against the centrist establishment. In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated AIPAC-backed Rep. Haley Stevens in the Senate primary despite over $60 million in dark money, framing the race as a referendum on foreign influence and corporate power. Similar upsets in New York, where Mamdani-backed candidates toppled incumbents, and victories in Colorado, Maine, and elsewhere have alarmed moderates. Groups like Third Way are mobilizing millions to attack the Left within their own party, with strategists warning of a “schism” and labeling progressives “bomb-throwers.” The clash pits economic populism, antiwar stances, and young voters against the old guard's focus on control and Israel. Establishment figures fear losing their grip on the DNC, while progressives argue the party's corporate tilt caused recent losses and demand a bold new direction.

How has the upset victory of progressive Abdul El-Sayed over a DNC/AIPAC-backed corporatist in Michigan transformed the Democratic Party? Drawing on historical precedent, editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down on today's DMZ America Podcast. The Democratic Party is locked in a fierce internal civil war as progressive and Democratic Socialist insurgents surge against the centrist establishment. In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated AIPAC-backed Rep. Haley Stevens in the Senate primary despite over $60 million in dark money, framing the race as a referendum on foreign influence and corporate power. Similar upsets in New York, where Mamdani-backed candidates toppled incumbents, and victories in Colorado, Maine, and elsewhere have alarmed moderates. Groups like Third Way are mobilizing millions to attack the Left within their own party, with strategists warning of a “schism” and labeling progressives “bomb-throwers.” The clash pits economic populism, antiwar stances, and young voters against the old guard's focus on control and Israel. Establishment figures fear losing their grip on the DNC, while progressives argue the party's corporate tilt caused recent losses and demand a bold new direction.

Get up to speed on a fascinating legal challenge to Big Tech by an independent web cartoonist. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down on today's DMZ America Podcast. Who will win—cartoonists and creators, or Big Tech? Filipino cartoonist Elmer Saflor, who goes by pen name Superelmer, has filed a complaint against Memes App, LLC, the operator of Memes.ai and Memes AI Studio, for copyright infringement when they began selling a commercial template subscription plan that includes his viral cartoon “Running Away Balloon.”The complaint asks the court to stop the defendants use of his comic and compel discovery to see how many ads used his work. If instances are found, Memes App could face statutory damages upwards of $150,000 per “willful infringement.”By taking on the meme generator, Saflor may hit a wall if the court finds that his arguments apply to any meme generator and a finding in his favor could risk undercutting the entire meme ecosystem, Goldman said.

How has the upset victory of progressive Abdul El-Sayed over a DNC/AIPAC-backed corporatist in Michigan transformed the Democratic Party? Drawing on historical precedent, editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down on today's DMZ America Podcast. The Democratic Party is locked in a fierce internal civil war as progressive and Democratic Socialist insurgents surge against the centrist establishment. In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated AIPAC-backed Rep. Haley Stevens in the Senate primary despite over $60 million in dark money, framing the race as a referendum on foreign influence and corporate power. Similar upsets in New York, where Mamdani-backed candidates toppled incumbents, and victories in Colorado, Maine, and elsewhere have alarmed moderates. Groups like Third Way are mobilizing millions to attack the Left within their own party, with strategists warning of a “schism” and labeling progressives “bomb-throwers.” The clash pits economic populism, antiwar stances, and young voters against the old guard's focus on control and Israel. Establishment figures fear losing their grip on the DNC, while progressives argue the party's corporate tilt caused recent losses and demand a bold new direction.

Get up to speed on a fascinating legal challenge to Big Tech by an independent web cartoonist. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down on today's DMZ America Podcast. Who will win—cartoonists and creators, or Big Tech? Filipino cartoonist Elmer Saflor, who goes by pen name Superelmer, has filed a complaint against Memes App, LLC, the operator of Memes.ai and Memes AI Studio, for copyright infringement when they began selling a commercial template subscription plan that includes his viral cartoon “Running Away Balloon.”The complaint asks the court to stop the defendants use of his comic and compel discovery to see how many ads used his work. If instances are found, Memes App could face statutory damages upwards of $150,000 per “willful infringement.”By taking on the meme generator, Saflor may hit a wall if the court finds that his arguments apply to any meme generator and a finding in his favor could risk undercutting the entire meme ecosystem, Goldman said.

How will AI affect (or afflict) cartooning?Artificial Intelligence is reshaping cartooning, hitting political cartooning especially hard while transforming the broader industry. In political cartooning, AI tools now generate satirical images in seconds, flooding social media with viral memes and caricatures that mimic editorial styles. This undercuts traditional artists who rely on sharp timing, cultural insight, and hand-drawn originality for publications. In general cartooning and illustration, generative AI has commoditized routine work. Studies show a surge in AI-generated images on platforms, driving human artists out and reducing commissions for illustrators and comic creators. San Diego Comic-Con banned AI art from its 2026 show, while animation faces massive job disruption—over 100,000 roles at risk. Artists adapt by using AI for rapid prototyping and backgrounds, focusing on human storytelling, emotion, and unique vision that machines still struggle to replicate. However, style theft, copyright battles, and market saturation remain major threats, forcing many to rethink careers. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) explore the Brave New World of cartooning in the age of AI.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

How will AI affect (or afflict) cartooning?Artificial Intelligence is reshaping cartooning, hitting political cartooning especially hard while transforming the broader industry. In political cartooning, AI tools now generate satirical images in seconds, flooding social media with viral memes and caricatures that mimic editorial styles. This undercuts traditional artists who rely on sharp timing, cultural insight, and hand-drawn originality for publications. In general cartooning and illustration, generative AI has commoditized routine work. Studies show a surge in AI-generated images on platforms, driving human artists out and reducing commissions for illustrators and comic creators. San Diego Comic-Con banned AI art from its 2026 show, while animation faces massive job disruption—over 100,000 roles at risk. Artists adapt by using AI for rapid prototyping and backgrounds, focusing on human storytelling, emotion, and unique vision that machines still struggle to replicate. However, style theft, copyright battles, and market saturation remain major threats, forcing many to rethink careers. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) explore the Brave New World of cartooning in the age of AI.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Pat Oliphant, one of the most influential political cartoonists of the 20th and 21st centuries, has died. Considering his legacy on DMZ are editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left), Scott Stantis (from the Right) and Mike Thompson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning American editorial cartoonist known for his sharp wit and bold, expressive style. Born in 1964, he is widely syndicated. Thompson's work frequently appears in USA Today and other major outlets. Born Patrick Bruce Oliphant on July 24, 1935, in Adelaide, Australia, he began his career as a news illustrator for The Adelaide Advertiser before moving to the United States in 1964.Hired by The Denver Post, Oliphant quickly gained national attention for his bold, fluid line work and savage wit. In 1974 he won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning. His cartoons appeared in over 500 newspapers through universal syndication, making him a daily fixture in American political discourse for more than five decades.Oliphant's signature creation was “Punk,” a small, irreverent, tufted bird who often appeared in the corner of panels delivering a final dry or biting comment. His style blended elegant draftsmanship with ferocious satire, skewering presidents from Lyndon Johnson to Barack Obama with equal glee. He famously said he drew “not to change minds, but to make people angry enough to think.”Later in life he expanded into sculpture and fine-art painting while continuing to produce cartoons. Oliphant's work is held in major collections including the Library of Congress. He died in 2026 at age 90, leaving behind a legacy as a defining voice of modern American editorial cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Pat Oliphant, one of the most influential political cartoonists of the 20th and 21st centuries, has died. Considering his legacy on DMZ are editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left), Scott Stantis (from the Right) and Mike Thompson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning American editorial cartoonist known for his sharp wit and bold, expressive style. Born in 1964, he is widely syndicated. Thompson's work frequently appears in USA Today and other major outlets. Born Patrick Bruce Oliphant on July 24, 1935, in Adelaide, Australia, he began his career as a news illustrator for The Adelaide Advertiser before moving to the United States in 1964.Hired by The Denver Post, Oliphant quickly gained national attention for his bold, fluid line work and savage wit. In 1974 he won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning. His cartoons appeared in over 500 newspapers through universal syndication, making him a daily fixture in American political discourse for more than five decades.Oliphant's signature creation was “Punk,” a small, irreverent, tufted bird who often appeared in the corner of panels delivering a final dry or biting comment. His style blended elegant draftsmanship with ferocious satire, skewering presidents from Lyndon Johnson to Barack Obama with equal glee. He famously said he drew “not to change minds, but to make people angry enough to think.”Later in life he expanded into sculpture and fine-art painting while continuing to produce cartoons. Oliphant's work is held in major collections including the Library of Congress. He died in 2026 at age 90, leaving behind a legacy as a defining voice of modern American editorial cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Why is American editorial cartooning in crisis? Sure, journalism is melting down. But the cartoonists might be guilty too. Joining cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss is DC-based cartoonist Alexandra Bowman.Alexandra Bowman is a versatile American political cartoonist, illustrator, satirist, journalist, and fine artist based in Washington, D.C. Born in March 2000 in Sierra Vista, Arizona, she graduated early from Georgetown University with a BA and MA in English while double-majoring in Art. Bowman served as editorial political cartoonist for The Hoya (Georgetown's student newspaper) and has created work for The Lincoln Project, Our Daily Planet, World War Zero (John Kerry's climate initiative), Voice of America, BBC Books, and the National Wildlife Federation. She is known for live political cartooning at events like the MSNBC Climate Forum and her role as Director of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Her syndicated work appears via Cagle Cartoons. A multi-medium artist skilled in traditional pen-and-ink, digital tools, murals, and fine art painting, Bowman also illustrates children's books, designs costumes, and hosts The Hilltop Show, a student political comedy series. Her sharp, witty style blends cultural commentary, environmental advocacy, and satire, establishing her as a rising voice in editorial cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Why is American editorial cartooning in crisis? Sure, journalism is melting down. But the cartoonists might be guilty too. Joining cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss is DC-based cartoonist Alexandra Bowman.Alexandra Bowman is a versatile American political cartoonist, illustrator, satirist, journalist, and fine artist based in Washington, D.C. Born in March 2000 in Sierra Vista, Arizona, she graduated early from Georgetown University with a BA and MA in English while double-majoring in Art. Bowman served as editorial political cartoonist for The Hoya (Georgetown's student newspaper) and has created work for The Lincoln Project, Our Daily Planet, World War Zero (John Kerry's climate initiative), Voice of America, BBC Books, and the National Wildlife Federation. She is known for live political cartooning at events like the MSNBC Climate Forum and her role as Director of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Her syndicated work appears via Cagle Cartoons. A multi-medium artist skilled in traditional pen-and-ink, digital tools, murals, and fine art painting, Bowman also illustrates children's books, designs costumes, and hosts The Hilltop Show, a student political comedy series. Her sharp, witty style blends cultural commentary, environmental advocacy, and satire, establishing her as a rising voice in editorial cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

As America turns 250, where are we now? DMZ America co-hosts and history buffs Ted Rall and Scott Stantis compare the state of the nation today to where we stood at year zero (1776) and at the previous 50-year benchmarks: 1826, 1876, 1926, and 1976. Join the guys for a fascinating trip down memory lane through our country's history—its triumphs, struggles, and everything in between!We discussed:1776 – Revolution & Independence: The founders were divided roughly one-third each for independence, loyalty to Britain, and indifference. The war was a prolonged guerrilla effort aided by home advantage, French support, and British distraction with more valuable Caribbean colonies.1826 – Era of Good Feelings: Marked by westward expansion, prosperity, and the simultaneous deaths of rivals-turned-friends John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Slavery debates simmered beneath surface harmony under President Monroe.1876 – Centennial & Stolen Election: Celebrated 100 years amid Reconstruction's end. The disputed Hayes-Tilden election led to the Compromise of 1877, withdrawing Union troops from the South and enabling Jim Crow segregation and violence.1926 – Roaring Prosperity: America boomed under popular President Coolidge with economic growth, innovation, and the Sesquicentennial Exposition. Women had the vote, but storm clouds of socialism and labor unrest loomed.1976 – Bicentennial Recovery: Post-Vietnam, Watergate, and stagflation, Americans embraced commercialized but unifying celebrations with tall ships, fireworks, and the Freedom Train during a civilized Ford-Carter election year.2026 & 2076 Outlook: America faces imperial decline after losing wars including to Iran, eroding patriotism, truth decay, and capital flight. Speakers foresee climate devastation, possible balkanization, and deepening rich-poor conflict or socialist pressures.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

As America turns 250, where are we now? DMZ America co-hosts and history buffs Ted Rall and Scott Stantis compare the state of the nation today to where we stood at year zero (1776) and at the previous 50-year benchmarks: 1826, 1876, 1926, and 1976. Join the guys for a fascinating trip down memory lane through our country's history—its triumphs, struggles, and everything in between!We discussed:1776 – Revolution & Independence: The founders were divided roughly one-third each for independence, loyalty to Britain, and indifference. The war was a prolonged guerrilla effort aided by home advantage, French support, and British distraction with more valuable Caribbean colonies.1826 – Era of Good Feelings: Marked by westward expansion, prosperity, and the simultaneous deaths of rivals-turned-friends John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Slavery debates simmered beneath surface harmony under President Monroe.1876 – Centennial & Stolen Election: Celebrated 100 years amid Reconstruction's end. The disputed Hayes-Tilden election led to the Compromise of 1877, withdrawing Union troops from the South and enabling Jim Crow segregation and violence.1926 – Roaring Prosperity: America boomed under popular President Coolidge with economic growth, innovation, and the Sesquicentennial Exposition. Women had the vote, but storm clouds of socialism and labor unrest loomed.1976 – Bicentennial Recovery: Post-Vietnam, Watergate, and stagflation, Americans embraced commercialized but unifying celebrations with tall ships, fireworks, and the Freedom Train during a civilized Ford-Carter election year.2026 & 2076 Outlook: America faces imperial decline after losing wars including to Iran, eroding patriotism, truth decay, and capital flight. Speakers foresee climate devastation, possible balkanization, and deepening rich-poor conflict or socialist pressures.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Andrew Farago Upskirt Scandal: The curator of the San Francisco Cartoon Art Museum was arrested for secretly recording up to 20 people (including children) in his bathroom at a birthday party using a hidden phone. Farago admitted the act in an email as a “tremendous lapse in judgment” and has been fired. Broader Scandals in Cartooning: Discussion of multiple past incidents including Al Capp's predatory behavior, Darrin Bell's child pornography charges, Ben Sargent's indecent exposure arrest, Mike Lester's domestic violence case, and the Superman artist secretly drawing S&M comics. Why Cartoonists Behave Badly: Exploration of whether the solitary nature of cartooning, arrested development, abusive childhoods, and lack of socialization lead to higher rates of weird or destructive sexual behavior among cartoonists. Separating Art from the Artist: In-depth debate on whether immoral or criminal behavior by creators (Picasso, Woody Allen, Hitler's paintings, etc.) should affect enjoyment of their work. Hosts largely agreed the art stands alone, especially after death. Forgiveness, Firing & Judgment: Should Farago have been immediately fired before conviction? Discussion of presumption of innocence, redemption, Jean-Paul Sartre vs. Ted Lasso philosophies, and how people are often judged by their worst actions. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) bring you up-to-date on this bizarre case rocking the American cartooning world.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Andrew Farago Upskirt Scandal: The curator of the San Francisco Cartoon Art Museum was arrested for secretly recording up to 20 people (including children) in his bathroom at a birthday party using a hidden phone. Farago admitted the act in an email as a “tremendous lapse in judgment” and has been fired. Broader Scandals in Cartooning: Discussion of multiple past incidents including Al Capp's predatory behavior, Darrin Bell's child pornography charges, Ben Sargent's indecent exposure arrest, Mike Lester's domestic violence case, and the Superman artist secretly drawing S&M comics. Why Cartoonists Behave Badly: Exploration of whether the solitary nature of cartooning, arrested development, abusive childhoods, and lack of socialization lead to higher rates of weird or destructive sexual behavior among cartoonists. Separating Art from the Artist: In-depth debate on whether immoral or criminal behavior by creators (Picasso, Woody Allen, Hitler's paintings, etc.) should affect enjoyment of their work. Hosts largely agreed the art stands alone, especially after death. Forgiveness, Firing & Judgment: Should Farago have been immediately fired before conviction? Discussion of presumption of innocence, redemption, Jean-Paul Sartre vs. Ted Lasso philosophies, and how people are often judged by their worst actions. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) bring you up-to-date on this bizarre case rocking the American cartooning world.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Sarah F. Davidson joins editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to check in on the Graphic Novels industry. (Ted has authored numerous graphic novels, including My War with Brian, The Stringer and The Year of Loving Dangerously.)Sarah is a graphic novelist, colorist, and Professor of Sequential Art at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Creator of the award-winning Jackson's Wilder Adventures series (ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children), she specializes in middle-grade comics filled with magic, nostalgia, and feel-good vibes. She has colored for major publishers including Random House, Feiwel & Friends, and Webtoon.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Sarah F. Davidson joins editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to check in on the Graphic Novels industry. (Ted has authored numerous graphic novels, including My War with Brian, The Stringer and The Year of Loving Dangerously.)Sarah is a graphic novelist, colorist, and Professor of Sequential Art at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Creator of the award-winning Jackson's Wilder Adventures series (ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children), she specializes in middle-grade comics filled with magic, nostalgia, and feel-good vibes. She has colored for major publishers including Random House, Feiwel & Friends, and Webtoon.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Acclaimed Iranian-French cartoonist and filmmaker Marjane Satrapi, a prominent advocate for women's rights, has died at 56, the French presidency said Thursday.“Her passing marks the loss of a leading figure of French culture and an artist devoted to freedom, whose work carried a universal message and earned her immense international acclaim,” the French presidency said in a statement.French media reported Satrapi has “died of sadness” a little over a year after the death of her husband, Swedish film producer and actor Mattias Ripa, according to a statement from people close to the artist.Cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis break down Marjane's legacy, her political influence and share their personal memories.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Acclaimed Iranian-French cartoonist and filmmaker Marjane Satrapi, a prominent advocate for women's rights, has died at 56, the French presidency said Thursday.“Her passing marks the loss of a leading figure of French culture and an artist devoted to freedom, whose work carried a universal message and earned her immense international acclaim,” the French presidency said in a statement.French media reported Satrapi has “died of sadness” a little over a year after the death of her husband, Swedish film producer and actor Mattias Ripa, according to a statement from people close to the artist.Cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis break down Marjane's legacy, her political influence and share their personal memories.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Politics is what happens when members of a society identify problems, determine which ones are most pressing, and debate proposed solutions to those priorities. It's a messy process that, over time, hopefully leads to progress. But what happens when members of society live in completely different realities, in which the major problems that afflict one half of the population doesn't exist, much less matter, to the other half? Politics don't happen at all—and there's no hope for building a better world. That's where America is today.Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they're best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Politics is what happens when members of a society identify problems, determine which ones are most pressing, and debate proposed solutions to those priorities. It's a messy process that, over time, hopefully leads to progress. But what happens when members of society live in completely different realities, in which the major problems that afflict one half of the population doesn't exist, much less matter, to the other half? Politics don't happen at all—and there's no hope for building a better world. That's where America is today.Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they're best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they're best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Ted and Scott react to the latest political absurdities making headlines this week. They break down fresh cartoon ideas that are already stirring controversy. And they tackle listener questions in today's polarized landscape.“TK” is journalism jargon for “to come,” when you don't have the info yet but you want to indicate where it will go. Today, we have no idea what we'll be talking about, but if you want to chime in, please do, and that will help!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they're best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Ted and Scott react to the latest political absurdities making headlines this week. They break down fresh cartoon ideas that are already stirring controversy. And they tackle listener questions in today's polarized landscape.“TK” is journalism jargon for “to come,” when you don't have the info yet but you want to indicate where it will go. Today, we have no idea what we'll be talking about, but if you want to chime in, please do, and that will help!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they're best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Today's special guest is cartoonist Rob Rogers, formerly of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Ted and Scott react to the latest political absurdities making headlines this week. They break down fresh cartoon ideas that are already stirring controversy. And they tackle listener questions in today's polarized landscape.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they're best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Today's special guest is cartoonist Rob Rogers, formerly of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Ted and Scott react to the latest political absurdities making headlines this week. They break down fresh cartoon ideas that are already stirring controversy. And they tackle listener questions in today's polarized landscape.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) as they interview veteran editorial cartoonist Marshall Ramsey—who has had a bird's eye view of the South for decades—about cartooning, politics, and the news of the day.Marshall Ramsey is a renowned American editorial cartoonist known for his sharp wit, incisive commentary, and poignant memorial tributes. Born in New Jersey and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, he graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1991 with a marketing degree, where he cartooned for the student newspaper. After early work in San Diego, he moved to Mississippi in 1996 and spent 22 years at the Clarion Ledger in Jackson. A two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist (2002 and 2006), he has authored three cartoon collections, two short story collections, and a children's book, and won a Southeastern Emmy. Formerly editor-at-large of Mississippi Today, Director of the Mississippi Media Lab, and a syndicated artist, Ramsey continues creating impactful cartoons while engaging communities through journalism and speaking.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The Pulitzer Prizes, administered by Columbia University, stand as the gold standard for American journalism, literature, and arts. A win launches careers, boosts sales, and cements legacies. Yet this year's Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category—formerly Editorial Cartoons—faces serious questions about fairness. Finalist Peter Kuper appears syndicated by PoliticalCartoons.com, owned by Daryl Cagle. Cagle's daughter Susie Cagle serves on the five-person jury. Industry rules demand recusal for any appearance of conflict of interest, especially when a syndicate boss's family member judges entries from dozens of her father's clients. Columbia stays silent. Jurors refuse comment. No answers emerge despite direct inquiries. This controversy hits at a time when public trust in media sits at a dismal 8%. With journalism hemorrhaging jobs and facing accusations of bias, favoritism, and sloppy process, many wonder if the institution anointing “the best” lives up to its own standards. Broader issues swirl too: category expansion diluting editorial cartooning, past complaints of ignored entries, and declining faith in the system. Ted Rall and Scott Stantis cut through the noise with sharp analysis on this high-stakes drama.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) as they interview veteran editorial cartoonist Marshall Ramsey—who has had a bird's eye view of the South for decades—about cartooning, politics, and the news of the day.Marshall Ramsey is a renowned American editorial cartoonist known for his sharp wit, incisive commentary, and poignant memorial tributes. Born in New Jersey and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, he graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1991 with a marketing degree, where he cartooned for the student newspaper. After early work in San Diego, he moved to Mississippi in 1996 and spent 22 years at the Clarion Ledger in Jackson. A two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist (2002 and 2006), he has authored three cartoon collections, two short story collections, and a children's book, and won a Southeastern Emmy. Formerly editor-at-large of Mississippi Today, Director of the Mississippi Media Lab, and a syndicated artist, Ramsey continues creating impactful cartoons while engaging communities through journalism and speaking.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The Pulitzer Prizes, administered by Columbia University, stand as the gold standard for American journalism, literature, and arts. A win launches careers, boosts sales, and cements legacies. Yet this year's Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category—formerly Editorial Cartoons—faces serious questions about fairness. Finalist Peter Kuper appears syndicated by PoliticalCartoons.com, owned by Daryl Cagle. Cagle's daughter Susie Cagle serves on the five-person jury. Industry rules demand recusal for any appearance of conflict of interest, especially when a syndicate boss's family member judges entries from dozens of her father's clients. Columbia stays silent. Jurors refuse comment. No answers emerge despite direct inquiries. This controversy hits at a time when public trust in media sits at a dismal 8%. With journalism hemorrhaging jobs and facing accusations of bias, favoritism, and sloppy process, many wonder if the institution anointing “the best” lives up to its own standards. Broader issues swirl too: category expansion diluting editorial cartooning, past complaints of ignored entries, and declining faith in the system. Ted Rall and Scott Stantis cut through the noise with sharp analysis on this high-stakes drama.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss the impact of the Middle East War on the United States, cartooning, and Scott's views of Israel.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss the impact of the Middle East War on the United States, cartooning, and Scott's views of Israel.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Stephen Notley is a Canadian cartoonist, writer, and creator of the cult-favorite webcomic Bob the Angry Flower. Born in 1970 in Edmonton, Alberta, he launched the surreal, sharp-witted strip in 1992 featuring an easily enraged anthropomorphic flower who rants about everything from bad punctuation to global politics. Steven joins Ted and Scott today!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Stephen Notley is a Canadian cartoonist, writer, and creator of the cult-favorite webcomic Bob the Angry Flower. Born in 1970 in Edmonton, Alberta, he launched the surreal, sharp-witted strip in 1992 featuring an easily enraged anthropomorphic flower who rants about everything from bad punctuation to global politics. Steven joins Ted and Scott today!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) as they hang out with cartoonist Mr. Fish to discuss the state of the world from the Iran War to the collapsing economy to ecocide to everything else you can think of that's going seriously wrong during the End Times.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) as they hang out with cartoonist Mr. Fish to discuss the state of the world from the Iran War to the collapsing economy to ecocide to everything else you can think of that's going seriously wrong during the End Times.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) for a collision of podcast worlds! Ted's Deprogram co-host and CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou joins DMZ for a special cross-pollination episode in which Scott gets to ask John about the future of the republic, the Middle East War and anything else that happens to cross his mind.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) for a collision of podcast worlds! Ted's Deprogram co-host and CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou joins DMZ for a special cross-pollination episode in which Scott gets to ask John about the future of the republic, the Middle East War and anything else that happens to cross his mind.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The U.S. and Israel dominate the air, but it's the water that matters to the global economy, and Iran is putting on the hurt in the Strait of Hormuz, where tankers are being bombed and 20% of the world's oil supply is trapped. Join Ted and Scott for an in-depth discussion  about the U.S./Israeli War against Iran and what comes next.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The U.S. and Israel dominate the air, but it's the water that matters to the global economy, and Iran is putting on the hurt in the Strait of Hormuz, where tankers are being bombed and 20% of the world's oil supply is trapped. Join Ted and Scott for an in-depth discussion  about the U.S./Israeli War against Iran and what comes next.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Nikahang Kowsar, known as Nik Kowsar, is an award-winning Iranian-Canadian cartoonist, journalist, and water issues analyst born in Tehran, Iran, in 1969. He studied geology at the University of Tehran before launching his cartooning career in 1991 with the satirical magazine Gol-Agha. He contributed to numerous Iranian newspapers like Hamshahri and others, often facing censorship and prosecution for his sharp political satire. In 2000, he was imprisoned for a cartoon depicting a crocodile that critics linked to a hardline cleric, sparking death threats and forcing his exile in 2003. He fled to Canada, later settling in Washington, D.C. Kowsar received the Cartoonists Rights Network International Award for Courage in Editorial Cartooning in 2001. Today, he focuses on Iran's severe water crisis through journalism, a weekly video show Abangan, websites like AbanganIran.org, BBC Persian contributions, and TV analysis, while serving on CRNI's board.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Nikahang Kowsar, known as Nik Kowsar, is an award-winning Iranian-Canadian cartoonist, journalist, and water issues analyst born in Tehran, Iran, in 1969. He studied geology at the University of Tehran before launching his cartooning career in 1991 with the satirical magazine Gol-Agha. He contributed to numerous Iranian newspapers like Hamshahri and others, often facing censorship and prosecution for his sharp political satire. In 2000, he was imprisoned for a cartoon depicting a crocodile that critics linked to a hardline cleric, sparking death threats and forcing his exile in 2003. He fled to Canada, later settling in Washington, D.C. Kowsar received the Cartoonists Rights Network International Award for Courage in Editorial Cartooning in 2001. Today, he focuses on Iran's severe water crisis through journalism, a weekly video show Abangan, websites like AbanganIran.org, BBC Persian contributions, and TV analysis, while serving on CRNI's board.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Donald Trump certainly has good reasons to cancel the elections. Will he? Can he? The Washington Post reports that he is considering declaring a national emergency to justify federalizing the midterms—which is unconstitutional—on the grounds that China stole the 2020 election on behalf of Joe Biden.DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right), who predicted the January 6th Capitol Riot and have been following Trump's flirtations with American fascism all along, discuss why, how and whether the president may choose to end America's 250-year experiment with representative democracy later this year.Joining Ted and Scott to discuss is Charles Lipson. Charles is a political scientist and Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Chicago, where he held the Peter B. Ritzma Professorship and co-founded the Program on International Politics, Economics, and Security. He earned his undergraduate degrees in political science and economics from Yale and his Ph.D. from Harvard. Since joining Chicago in 1977, his work has focused on international relations, cooperation and conflict, and the political economy of global trade, debt, and investment. He is also a prolific columnist for outlets like RealClearPolitics and The Spectator, commenting on U.S. foreign policy and American politics.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Donald Trump certainly has good reasons to cancel the elections. Will he? Can he? The Washington Post reports that he is considering declaring a national emergency to justify federalizing the midterms—which is unconstitutional—on the grounds that China stole the 2020 election on behalf of Joe Biden.DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right), who predicted the January 6th Capitol Riot and have been following Trump's flirtations with American fascism all along, discuss why, how and whether the president may choose to end America's 250-year experiment with representative democracy later this year.Joining Ted and Scott to discuss is Charles Lipson. Charles is a political scientist and Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Chicago, where he held the Peter B. Ritzma Professorship and co-founded the Program on International Politics, Economics, and Security. He earned his undergraduate degrees in political science and economics from Yale and his Ph.D. from Harvard. Since joining Chicago in 1977, his work has focused on international relations, cooperation and conflict, and the political economy of global trade, debt, and investment. He is also a prolific columnist for outlets like RealClearPolitics and The Spectator, commenting on U.S. foreign policy and American politics.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Two-time Pulitzer-winning editorial cartoonist Mike Luckovich of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, joins DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss cartoons, journalism and the news of the week:Economic challenges like inflation, affordability, jobs, and the deficit remain the dominant public concern, contributing to Trump's approval rating dipping to around 36% as Americans feel his policies have failed to deliver relief. Immigration continues as a flashpoint, with aggressive enforcement, mass deportations, and reduced illegal crossings achieving some goals but drawing criticism over humanitarian issues, overreach, and mixed support amid ongoing DHS funding battles and the partial government shutdown. As the 2026 midterms approach, Republicans defend narrow majorities amid deepening polarization, with key battles over government funding, foreign policy isolationism straining alliances, voter integrity legislation like the SAVE Act.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Two-time Pulitzer-winning editorial cartoonist Mike Luckovich of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, joins DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss cartoons, journalism and the news of the week:Economic challenges like inflation, affordability, jobs, and the deficit remain the dominant public concern, contributing to Trump's approval rating dipping to around 36% as Americans feel his policies have failed to deliver relief. Immigration continues as a flashpoint, with aggressive enforcement, mass deportations, and reduced illegal crossings achieving some goals but drawing criticism over humanitarian issues, overreach, and mixed support amid ongoing DHS funding battles and the partial government shutdown. As the 2026 midterms approach, Republicans defend narrow majorities amid deepening polarization, with key battles over government funding, foreign policy isolationism straining alliances, voter integrity legislation like the SAVE Act.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Conservative syndicated editorial cartoonist and comic strip creator Steve Kelley, formerly of the San Diego Union-Tribune and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, joins DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to break down the current state of the Trump Administration in its second year.A partial government shutdown looms, Trump's approval ratings on immigration--a good issue for the president usually--are tanking and the nation increasingly looks and feels a lot like the chaotic late 1960s. MAGA world appears to be coming apart at the seams, yet Democrats seem unable to seize the moment. What IS the real State of the Nation?Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Conservative syndicated editorial cartoonist and comic strip creator Steve Kelley, formerly of the San Diego Union-Tribune and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, joins DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to break down the current state of the Trump Administration in its second year.A partial government shutdown looms, Trump's approval ratings on immigration--a good issue for the president usually--are tanking and the nation increasingly looks and feels a lot like the chaotic late 1960s. MAGA world appears to be coming apart at the seams, yet Democrats seem unable to seize the moment. What IS the real State of the Nation?Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) dive deep with renowned political cartoonist Mr. Fish (Dwayne Booth). This sharp, subversive artist skewers power with bold, provocative illustrations that appear in Harper's Magazine, ScheerPost, and beyond. Known for his raw takes on politics, war, and society, Mr. Fish faces intense scrutiny over cartoons critiquing the Israel-Hamas conflict and U.S. policy. Critics blast some work as employing anti-Semitic tropes and leading to condemnation from University of Pennsylvania leadership. This firestorm culminates in his firing from lecturing at UPenn amid broader debates on free speech, academic freedom, and censorship in higher ed. Mr. Fish pushes back hard, framing it as part of a McCarthyist crackdown on dissent against genocide, apartheid, and fascism. Expect fireworks as these three editorial powerhouses clash and connect over cartooning's role in cutting through BS.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The DMZ America Podcast dives headfirst into one of the most explosive issues rocking the nation right now: the transformation of ICE from a border security agency into a violent, unaccountable domestic force under the current Trump administration. ICE touts itself as DHS's top law enforcement arm, fighting transnational threats while protecting communities, legal immigration, trade, travel, and financial systems. But in practice, the administration ramps up agent numbers aggressively, deploys recruitment tactics that echo white nationalist themes—like using lyrics from "We'll Have Our Home Again" in ads—and slashes training about de-escalation and rules of engagement.A bombshell 233-page court order from Judge Sara L. Ellis in Chicago exposes widespread duplicity, lies, and abuse of power by ICE and DHS officials. She slams agents for using force that "shocks the conscience"—pepper-balling clergy, tear-gassing kids and pregnant women, tackling protesters without justification—finding no legitimate government interest in many actions.Top officials push narratives of “absolute immunity,” with Stephen Miller and JD Vance assuring agents they're untouchable, even as former ICE leaders like Deborah Fleischaker call it dangerous overreach that emboldens aggression and erodes public safety. As ICE becomes the biggest military force on Earth, against which Americans will they turn when they run out of illegals to deport?You and me.Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down—no holds barred, cutting through the spin with sharp analysis and dueling perspectives that make you think hard about power, accountability, and where this all leads.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com