Tennison from Olympia, Washington writes:  

I listen to every episode, and sometimes I wonder why.  Some of the panel are back at it again: the sky is falling; the sky is falling. 

Honestly, if Brooklynn didn’t have Trump to worry over, a fresh QAnon conspiracy to dissect, or some imaginary apocalyptic disaster looming in our future, I’m not sure what she’d talk about.  

A framework for peace has been agreed to. Yes, there are glitches, pauses, and restarts, but show me one international agreement that hasn’t had those. Oil is moving through the Strait of Hormuz. Israel appears to be keeping things contained. And oil prices are down to about $107 a barrel; I checked today. Gas prices are down too, yet somehow the panel is still complaining.  It feels like nothing makes you all happy. Yes, we’re drawing from the reserves, but that’s hardly unprecedented. 

So why the panic over hypothetical outcomes with no evidence to back them up? Let me guess: “I heard it somewhere, but I can’t remember where.”  Come on, guys, can’t you be happy that things seem to be moving forward?  

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Brian from Denver, Colorado writes:

It feels like the Supreme Court may have rediscovered its backbone. This past week delivered several significant setbacks for Donald Trump’s legal agenda. The Court overturned his attempt to fire FTC Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, reaffirming the limits on the president's removal power. 

More consequentially, the justices upheld birthright citizenship, a principle written plainly into the 14th Amendment.

But I’ll admit, I’m puzzled. The decision was 6–3. I’m not a lawyer, but birthright citizenship isn’t exactly an interpretive puzzle; it’s spelled out in the Constitution in clear, unmistakable language. So how do three members of the country's highest court read the same text and arrive at completely different conclusions? 

I’d really like to hear how the panel makes sense of that divide.

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Renee from Jersey City, New Jersey writes 

With the recent primary results in New York, there’s growing talk that Democrats may be facing a Democratic Socialist challenge from within their own ranks. Some analysts warn that this progressive bloc could complicate or even undermine Democratic efforts to retake the House and Senate in November. 

There’s no question that Mamdani has significant influence in New York City, and several candidates he backed managed to unseat sitting Democratic members of Congress.

So, what exactly are we looking at here? Is the rise of Democratic Socialists a genuine new political force that could reshape the party’s prospects in November, or is this more of a momentary surge, something that might fade away the way the Tea Party eventually did? And will these primary victories translate into general‑election strength, or have Republicans been handed an unexpected opening in districts they might not otherwise have been competitive in?

Finally, how should we understand the term “Democratic Socialist” in this context? For many people, Bernie Sanders and maybe AOC have been the most recognizable figures associated with that label, but is this new wave aligned with them or something entirely different? And do we see Democratic Socialism expanding beyond deep‑blue, urban strongholds like New York?

I’m interested to hear how the panel interprets this shift and what it means heading into November.

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Randy from Sacramento, California writes:  

Well, that didn’t take long. The peace framework already looks on the verge of collapse. Iran and the United States are still exchanging fire, commercial shipping is under attack in the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran has launched strikes against Bahrain. Israel does appear to be pulling back in Lebanon, but I don’t see how that’s sustainable in the long term.  

So where do we go from here? Dr. Scott continues to argue that a two‑state solution is the only viable path forward, but with multiple fronts still active, it’s hard to imagine any diplomatic track gaining traction. I’m someone who genuinely believes in diplomacy, but right now it doesn’t seem to be producing results.  

Is there any realistic path toward de‑escalation when the parties are still shooting at each other? And what does the panel think about the broader strategic picture? Is there still a case to be made for diplomacy, or are we entering a phase where the conflict risks expanding even further?  

I’d appreciate the panel’s perspective on what options remain.  

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Ray from Bangor, Maine writes:

So now the Housing Affordability Act, a bipartisan bill that actually had momentum, is on hold until Trump gets his SAVE Act passed. He’s reportedly pressuring members of his own party: either advance the SAVE Act, despite the serious concerns some Republicans have raised, or face the wrath of his base in November.

The irony is hard to miss. The Housing Affordability Act could have given Republicans a rare, positive policy achievement to run on this fall. Instead, Trump remains fixated on his false claims of widespread voter fraud, and the SAVE Act has become another loyalty test rather than a substantive legislative priority.

I’d really like to hear what the panel thinks. Should Republicans stand their ground, override a veto, if necessary, pass the Housing bill, and let the SAVE Act die? Do they have the political courage to break from Trump on this? And does this hand Democrats a clear line of attack heading into November?

From a messaging standpoint, what’s the smarter strategy: focus on the tangible benefits of the Housing Affordability Act, or highlight the flaws and controversies surrounding the SAVE Act?

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Today, we’re taking a hard look at the newly announced Iran Peace Deal, a development that, depending on who you ask, is either a diplomatic breakthrough, a political sleight of hand, or a fragile ceasefire dressed up as a historic agreement. The administration has framed it as a major step toward ending the conflict. Critics argue it’s confusing, incomplete, and lacking transparency. And the public? They’re trying to figure out what happened.

So, in this episode, we’re going to break down what we know, what we don’t know, and what this deal really means for the United States, Iran, and the broader Middle East.

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Yaddi from Traverse, Michigan writes 

I know this might sound like a small or even silly topic at first, but I actually think it points to a much bigger issue in America. The Reflecting Pool refurbishment has turned into a full‑blown disaster, with algae blooms, peeling paint, and now Trump suggesting sabotage. At this rate, it feels like only a matter of time before he blames Obama or Biden.

And yes, in the grand scheme of global crises, this might seem minor. But the symbolism of the Reflecting Pool, a place tied to some of the most important moments in our civic history, has exposed something deeper: the state of America’s infrastructure.

While we spend billions on wars with unclear objectives and hundreds of millions on ballroom renovation, the basic physical backbone of this country is crumbling. Roads, bridges, water systems, and public spaces are all in dire need of investment. Yet we hear almost nothing from either political party treating infrastructure as a serious, sustained priority.

So, here’s the real question: Could infrastructure actually be a winning political platform? It affects every community, every voter, every part of daily life. I’d love to hear the panel’s take on whether this moment, even one sparked by a drained pool, could finally push infrastructure back into the national conversation.

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Tyrell from Denver, Colorado  writes:

Trump seems to have a remarkable talent for alienating America’s allies. Just last week, he declared that without the United States, “there would be no Israel.” It’s hard to imagine that landing well with Israeli leadership or with the Israeli public, who see their national identity as something far deeper than American patronage.

And now he’s managed to insult Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, claiming she “begged” to have her picture taken with him. Her response was swift and sharp: “She nor Italy beg.” That’s not a minor diplomatic dust‑up; that’s a head of government publicly rebuking the President of the United States.

So, what exactly is going on here? Does Trump genuinely not grasp how these comments play on the world stage? Is he really this unaware of the damage he’s doing to relationships that have taken decades to build? Or is there something else at work, a deliberate strategy of provocation, disruption, and dominance politics that treats allies the same way he treats opponents?

Whatever the explanation, the pattern is impossible to ignore. If this type of diplomacy continues, what could be the consequences? 

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Brandon from Boroughbridge, England writes So now we’re being told yet again that a peace deal has been reached. After forty‑plus previous “breakthroughs” that went nowhere, does the panel see any reason to believe this one is any different? The details are vague at best, and the claim that the Strait of Hormuz will suddenly reopen to all traffic feels more like wishful thinking than a credible development. And realistically, would Iran actually honor a deal that requires it to surrender their strongest source of leverage? It’s hard to imagine them giving that up without something far more substantial in return. I’m curious whether the panel sees this as a genuine diplomatic shift or just another announcement that won’t survive first contact with reality.  

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Joseph from Boston, MA writes:  I see that President Trump will be meeting with the G7, and given the turmoil surrounding the conflict with Iran, I’m curious how the other leaders are likely to respond. What does the panel think they will say to him privately or publicly, and what do you think they should say in light of the current situation? Do you expect any meaningful policy shifts to come out of this meeting, or is this more likely to be a tense diplomatic reset with limited outcomes? I’d be interested in hearing how the panel reads the dynamics heading into this summit.  

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 Renee from Miami, FL writes: I really enjoyed your episode on the dangers that social media poses for young people. I’ll admit that several of the points you raised were things I hadn’t fully considered before. I know the panel has praised Australia for banning social media for children, and now it seems the U.K. is preparing to take similar steps. What I’m wondering is whether you think a law like that could ever pass here in the United States. Given our current political climate, is something like this even remotely possible? And if not, which I suspect may be the consensus among the panel, what do you see as the biggest obstacle? Is it the influence of the tech giants? Our deeply rooted belief in freedoms without corresponding responsibilities? Or is there something else standing in the way?

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Today, with the NY Knicks winning the NBA Championship, many of our listeners, knowing of Scott's affection for the Knicks, flooded the mailbag with questions. So, we put together some of those questions and had a great time talking about Basketball, New York, and the Knicks. 

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Gio from Grosseto, Italy writes:

The conflict in the Middle East continues without any sign of slowing, and the situation is becoming increasingly unstable. The United States and Iran are both urging Israel to halt its operations in Lebanon, yet at the same time, Israel and Iran continue exchanging missile strikes. It feels as though no diplomatic pressure, not even from major powers, is having any real influence on the parties involved.

Your panel has often discussed the lack of an off‑ramp, and I agree: at this moment, there appears to be no clear path toward de‑escalation. What concerns me now is that Israel is effectively engaged on multiple fronts. Historically, when a nation is stretched thin, adversaries sometimes see an opportunity. 

Do you believe there are regional actors who might view this as a moment to strike a weakened Israel? And if so, who would be the most likely contenders?

At the same time, international support for Israel continues to erode. As last week’s listener from England mentioned, attacks on Jewish communities are rising there, and I can say the same is happening here in Italy. It’s a troubling reminder that regional conflict often fuels broader hostility far beyond the battlefield.

If another nation were to enter the conflict, who in the region might come to Israel’s aid? You’ve spoken before about the improving relationship between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Do you think Riyadh would be willing to intervene, or at least provide some form of support?

I would appreciate the panel’s assessment of these possibilities. 

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Mike from Queens, NY writes: I’ve got two rants today, and honestly, I’m shocked my blood pressure survived the weekend.  

First, that Meet the Press interview. What was that? I’ve seen toddlers in the cereal aisle handle tough questions better. The host tossed him softballs so gentle they practically had feathers, and all she asked for was proof. Proof! Instead, we got a word salad monologue about voter fraud in California that sounded like someone shook a Magic 8 Ball too hard. And the moment she pushed back, just a little, he melted down like a popsicle on the F train in July. Calling her “cooked” and “stupid”? Please. I’ve heard more mature comebacks from my nephew’s kindergarten class. I kept wishing, just once, a journalist would look him dead in the eye and say, “Sir, you’re not the hero of this story.” But no, that would cause a five-alarm meltdown among the MAGA faithful, who treat him like he’s the Patron Saint of Spray Tan.  

So, panel, I’m begging you: was Kristen Welker the wrong person to interview someone who treats every question like a personal insult? Because I watched the whole thing, and I needed antacids afterward.  

Second rant, why was he at the Knicks game? Why does everything have to turn into the Trump Show? He looked like he was dozing off between plays. I know the Knicks’ owner is a buddy of his, but come on. Knicks fans are already hanging on by a thread emotionally. If they think the team’s being used as a political photo op, we might see a full-scale fan revolt. And honestly, who could blame them?  Go Knicks!!!!!  

And as a special addition, Scott gives us a first-hand look at Madison Square Garden and his take on the Knicks.

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Today we welcome immigration lawyer David Zimmer, who will be unraveling some of the misconceptions around immigration law and policy in the US. 

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Ari from Liverpool, England writes:

It now appears that Netanyahu is signaling that Israel intends to take control of roughly 70% of Gaza. I can’t imagine this ending well for Israel. No matter how anyone tries to frame it, this is, in plain terms, a military occupation, and the world is already expressing outrage. The United States, meanwhile, has remained largely silent. Here in Great Britain, Jews are facing harsh backlash, and support for the Palestinians continues to grow.

I know there are many theories about why Netanyahu would float such a move, but I’d like to hear the panel’s take. Wouldn’t this dramatically complicate the ongoing conflict with Iran? Would it make it even harder for the U.S. to extract itself from the Iran crisis?

If Israel actually follows through, does it risk becoming a pariah state on the world stage? What should the U.S. be doing right now, if anything? And finally, why do you think Netanyahu is considering this at all, is it a genuine plan, or just another strategic threat meant to distract from other pressures he’s facing? 

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Roberta from Scranton, PA writes: I’ll admit it. Every time one of Trump’s plans collapses under its own weight, I feel a certain satisfaction. And this week has been something to watch. Major figures have pulled out of Freedom 250, leaving the whole event looking like a circus on the White House lawn. Trump’s name has been removed from the Kennedy Center. I won’t lie, that moment made me laugh. His fund to support the January 6th defendants (traitors) has been blocked, even by members of his own party. The so‑called peace deal is stalled, just as many expected. Congress finally stepped in and limited his war powers. And on top of all that, the national debt has now hit $39 trillion.  But hey, he can identify an elephant, a horse, and a dog. All this “winning” must be incredibly fulfilling.  My question for the panel is this: while I’d love to hear your thoughts on the broader chaos, Trump is reportedly planning to nominate Todd Blanche as the next Attorney General. Do you think that nomination has any real chance of moving forward?  

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Paul from San Francisco, CA writes: I’m seeing reports that CBS has fired Scott Pelley for speaking out, and honestly, none of this surprises me anymore. Ever since Bari Weiss took over CBS following the Ellison purchase, the network has drifted further and further from anything resembling unbiased reporting. The 60 Minutes show I’ve watched for decades has been gutted, and of course, Stephen Colbert signed off from The Late Show last week.  

At this point, it feels obvious: the Ellisons have openly aligned themselves with Trump, and yet another major source of information has been compromised. For a group that constantly claims its voices are being silenced, Trump’s allies now control CBS, OANN, Newsmax, and, of course, FOX.  

So, my question to the panel is this: Who can we trust now? When Trump‑aligned donors are buying up major media outlets, Disney, Paramount, and more, and when the FCC is pressuring anyone who doesn’t fall in line, is there any outlet left that we could rely on? And looking ahead, what does this mean for the post‑Trump landscape? Is there any realistic path to reversing this takeover of the information ecosystem?  

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Corbin from Portland OR writes, I’d like to talk about a couple of health issues in the news. New studies show that teens may be experiencing severe mental health issues due to screen time. I can see it everywhere I go.  Young people glued to their phones. Conversation seems to be a thing of the past. Should tech companies be held responsible? Should government try to legislate tech usage if this is a real problem. As Online professors, is distance learning part of the problem? 

 Second I just saw that Trump has shut out key US researchers from working with the rest of the world about virus response plans. Why do you think he would do that? Didn’t we learn anything from the COVID pandemic? Who do you think suffers more from this move? The US or the rest of the world? 

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Ted from Little Rock AR writes, OK maybe I’m being a conspiracy theorist here but is all seems just a bit convenient. Trump skips his oldest sons wedding and low and behold, shots are fired on the White House grounds, making it look like a really pathetic assassination attempt. I know there are crazy people out there and Trump is unpopular, but, I don’t know this all seems so, conveniently staged. What does the panel think?  

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Renee from Dallas Texas Writes, Even though his poll numbers are in the low 30s it would seem the Trump hold on the Republican party is still strong. Here in Texas, Paxton has won the primary ousting John Cornyn. It wasn’t only a win, it was a massive win for Paxton. (As I write this Paxton is up by more than 20 points.)  Now I was never a fan of Cornyn, but Paxton is on a different level of POS. Democrats seem happy that Paxton won, I’m guessing because they think they will have an easier time beating Paxton in the general.  What does the panel think? Is Paxton the easier candidate. Rumors have it that Cornyn might run as an independent. Do you think he will and will this have an impact on the general? Might Cornyn, like Massie, use his remaining time to trash Trump? 

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John from Tempe Arizona writes, I’ve listened to the Nova Society for over 3 years now and enjoy the show. I teach political theory at the local university, (ASU) and my classes are in a heated discussions regarding the state of politics in America today. I have listened with interest to your take regarding the Trump Presidency. I think the panel has some different views as to what and why we are seeing what we are seeing. This may be an unusual request, but I hope the panel will consider it. My class cannot agree if Trump is the symptom or the disease. They cannot decide if the problem is the system, just Trump, or the people. They also cannot come up with a clear plan on how to fix the current state of American politics. I was wondering if the panel would take up these questions and with your permission, I’d like to present that episode to my 5 classes to further our discussions. Thank you for considering this request. 

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Ted from Little Rock AR writes, OK maybe I’m being a conspiracy theorist here but is all seems just a bit convenient. Trump skips his oldest sons wedding and low and behold, shots are fired on the White House grounds, making it look like a really pathetic assassination attempt. I know there are crazy people out there and Trump is unpopular, but, I don’t know this all seems so, conveniently staged. What does the panel think?  

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Tonya from Westminster, Indiana writes, So Trump’s suit against the IRS is personally paying off for him. His DOJ signed off on a deal that not only forbids looking back at Trump and his families tax evasion over the years but creates a over 1-billion-dollar slush fund to reward the January 6th traitors that attacked our capital. This is so obviously corrupt it’s almost mindboggling. I know the numbers are on the Republican side, and there is little Democrats can do but whine. But after the midterms isn’t there something that can be done? Some Republicans are complaining about the slush fund but we don’t hear much about the Trump IRS pass, I doubt they will stand up and do what’s right but I can always hope. Can these 2 corrupt policies be challenged in any way that avoids having to deal with the spineless Republicans, or are we the people just going to simply accept this? We pay taxes Trump doesn’t. We stand for law-and-order Trump pardons and gives money, our money, to his supporting traitors. WTF 

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Thomas from Bridgeport, RI writes Well Trump is back from his China trip and as expected he is touting his great success.  I did note that this week President Putin visited China and not only did he also get the red-carpet treatment but Xi personally showed up to welcome him, unlike when Trump arrived. For me that spoke volumes. From what we’ve been told Trump was ambiguous regarding Tiwan and didn’t really accomplish much. One of your previous episodes the panel was thinking that we need to keep an eye on the CEOs and the moves they make before we can start to understand what really went on in the talks. I did see where China will buy 200 aircraft from Boing and a deal that includes a reduction to US tariffs on Chinese goods and a pause to Beijing's restrictions on exports of rare earth minerals and magnets. What is the panels take on the trump China visit and have you seen any CEO moves that might be of interest? 

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Today our question in from Tammy from Roanoke, Virginia writes, “I am very angry at the Virginia Supreme Court, overturning the redistricting decision made by the people. How is it possible for a group of judges to reject a democratically approved law? The people spoke and it seems our voices don’t matter anymore. I know this question might cause a fight on the Podcast. Dr. Brooklynn will see this as a validation of her position the system is being rigged, where Dr. Mark will push back on any such notation.  So, all I can say is Sorry Dr. Scott, you’ll need to use all your skills to mediate this. 

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today we hear from James from Toronto Canada writes: So the American President is going to China. With all that is going on in the world, this might make sense. But when I think about your President I begin to wonder if this could be a further disaster for the United States?  As a Canadian who has always had good feeling toward the US, I and many of my countrymen are concerned with your global downfall over the past 2 years. But back to China. What should be on your Presidents agenda for this important meeting with Xi? Should we read anything into Elon Musk as part of the delegation? Do you think the Iran war, which should be a major topic, might see some movement toward peace at China’s insistence or could we be looking at further escalation? Could this meeting have any impact on energy prices globally? What does the panel see as a positive outcome from these meetings and what would be your worst-case scenario? Finally, I think it’s pretty well known that China isn’t a fan of Israel. If China does become the major peace broker, what might the ramification be for the conflicts Israel is involved in? Could Xi talk Trump into abandoning Israel? 

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Today, we are happy to welcome author A. Marc Ross to discuss his new book, "Attacking the Dragon," a political thriller we think all our listeners will enjoy. We will be discussing the book and how this piece of fiction might relate to China's geopolitics today.

Both of Marc's books are available on Kindle and through Amazon.com. Signed copies by the author are also available on Marc's website. https://www.amarcross.com/books.html 

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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 Today we welcome Tom Joseph, businessman, entrepreneur, and civic reform advocate. Tom joins us to explore his groundbreaking People’s Primary model, an innovative approach to selecting congressional delegates that reimagines how voters participate in the primary process. 

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today our question comes from Peter from San Antonio Texas who writes, Last week Spirit Airlines closed operations. Although Spirit sucked as a carrier, it did offer opportunities to many wanting a less cost prohibitive option for air travel. So, and I’m sorry I have a lot of questions, I want to ask the panel, what does Spirit Airlines’ collapse reveal about the fragility of the ultra‑low‑cost carrier model in today’s economic environment? There was a plan for Jet Blue to take over Spirit, did federal regulators unintentionally contribute to Spirit’s downfall by blocking the merger? Are regulators protecting competition or preventing struggling carriers from finding lifelines? What does Spirit’s shutdown mean for ticket prices nationwide? How will Spirit’s closure reshape the competitive landscape for other budget carriers? What lessons should policymakers draw from this collapse, does the U.S. need a more resilient aviation strategy, or is this simply market forces at work? How does Spirit’s shutdown intersect with broader economic signals, rising fuel costs, inflation, and shifting travel demand? Should the federal government have intervened to stabilize Spirit, or would that have set a dangerous precedent for corporate bailouts?

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today our question is from Alicia from Rome, GA writes, Recently SCOTUS handed down a major decision impacting the voting rights Act in striking down Louisiana v. Callais. I have a bunch of questions regarding this decision. 

Civil rights groups like the NAACP and ACLU have called the ruling a “devastating blow” and a “profound betrayal.” What does this decision mean for the future of multiracial democracy and federal protections against racial discrimination in voting? With Section 2 now significantly weakened, what tools, if any, remain for communities of color to challenge racially discriminatory maps or election systems? How might this ruling influence upcoming redistricting battles in other states, especially those with histories of racially polarized voting? Does the Court’s embrace of a “colorblindness” principle ignore the historical and ongoing realities of racial discrimination in voting? 

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Today our question is from George from Tallahassee,  FL writes: Recently Pete Hegseth was questioned by congress, and it was explosive. Some members questioned the war in Iran. Calling it a “Quagmire”. In usual Trump administration fashion, Hegseth shot back calling the members unpatriotic and treasonous and giving aid and comfort to the enemy. I’ve been seeing this sentiment in many social media feeds recently. So, my question is, did Hegseth have a point? Is not fully supporting the war unpatriotic?  Could it be classified as treasonous?  I know the panel has said that “during times of war, the truth is one of the first casualties.” I also know we probably are in the dark about a lot of things in this conflict. But one thing seems clear, Trump and Hegseth are seemingly moving toward “redefining” victory in the conflict. Do you think in the end this strategy will be successful? What might this “redefinition” look like? 

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Today we hear from Heather from Lexington VA writes, King Charles III is visiting Washington in celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary. What is the real purpose of the King’s visit? Since he has no real power is there a diplomatic reason or agenda that the King can promote, or do you think this is just for show? Given the tension between the UK and US over Iran should the UK government have tried harder to get the King to cancel? 

 Regarding Iran, Iran has threatened to expand its blockade to the Sea of Oman and the Red Sea unless the U.S. lifts its naval blockade. Oil prices surged amid fears of prolonged conflict and potential infrastructure attacks. The UAE has announced it will be leaving OPEC. Does this decision have anything to do with the Iranian war? What might the global energy consequences be if OPEC was to dissolve? 

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Today our question is from Kay from Lancaster PA writes: So what could have been a disastrous Whitehouse Correspondents dinner was avoided by a gunman. Of course conspiracy theorists are saying that it was all planned. But I tend to believe that this was a real incident. However, by all reports, this was not as life threatening as the right would like to have us believe. The gunman never got close to the president as was stopped before reaching the Hilton Ballroom. Although I would like to hear your thoughts on this incident what I really want to ask is, do you think this will further rally his base? Will the congress now have the excuse to approve the new ballroom that he so desperately wants? Who should bear the responsibility for what many are calling an almost incompetent security set up? And why would a president attend an open dinner with his VP, Secretary of defense, acting AG and the Speaker of the House?  You would think no one in their right mind would want this group together during a social event. 

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Today, we welcome back Dr. Stephen Ducat as we discuss Trump Tweets, Cognitive Decline, and the impact of manipulation on society. 

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Today, we answer a question from Thomas from Las Vegas, Nevada, who writes, Of course, the economy is on everyone’s mind. The conflict in Iran is helping raise the price of almost everything. I’ve been following the IMF, and my questions stem from concerns they have raised; I’d like the panel's take on them. With Brent crude climbing above $100 per barrel, how vulnerable is the global economy to a prolonged conflict in the Middle East? The IMF now projects global growth at just 3.1%, are we heading toward a recession if the conflict widens? 

How should policymakers balance rising defense spending with the risk of inflation and weakened fiscal stability? 

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Today we hear from Joyce from Kansas City, Missouri, who writes: " It’s hard to decide what is truth and what is fiction coming out of the Iran conflict. But it seems almost all social media and news outlets are asking the same questions. How close is the world to a broader regional war as Iran expands its blockade threats from the Strait of Hormuz to the Sea of Oman and the Red Sea? What are the long‑term implications of President Trump’s escalating rhetoric, including warnings of potential strikes on “Level 3 targets”? If U.S. negotiations with Iran continue to stall, what diplomatic off‑ramps remain, and who has the leverage now?

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A listener writes; I know Mark is Catholic. How does he and the panel see the fight Trump seems to have taken up with the Pope?  What about that Jesus/Doctor post on Truth Social? I see in the news even his most MAGA of Morons are not happy with this. 

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Candace from Butte, Montana writes, Victor Orban’s party was elected out in what is being described as a landslide in Hungary. I think this is interesting for us here in the US since Trump has used the Orban playbook to move us toward a more authoritarian government. Trump even sent JD Vance over to stump for Orban. But for all Orban’s and Trump’s maneuvering, taking over the press with lackies, oppressive voting rules, etc., the people of Hungary had had enough and made the change, booting Putin’s lackey.  So, I would ask Do you think Hungary will now return to normalcy with the rest of the EU? Although it seems the new leader is far from liberal, do you think he will be able to dismantle all or some of the authoritarian policies Orban put in place? If Hungary does move away from Russia, will this have any impact on Hungarian/US relations?

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Today we had a lot of fun with our special guest Eva Posner. 

Eva is a sought-after podcast guest known for her insightful, direct, and often humorous takes on Democratic politics, campaigns, and ideology. She fearlessly pulls back the curtain on the political industrial complex, offering a candid perspective on its implications for the future of democracy.

In 2026, Eva marks ten years of powerful movement building with Evinco Strategies, leading a dedicated team with over 110 combined years of political experience. Her firm is committed to transforming the political landscape by supporting progressive causes and candidates.

Beyond her work with Evinco, Eva offers free presentations and trainings to political operatives nationwide, sharing her expertise across the country. She champions local politics at a national scale, having successfully supported staff, candidates, and organizations across 17 states.

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today we finish our conversation started on Friday. We try to make sense of the Iran war and Scott says the quiet part out loud. 

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Today, we begin a conversation attempting to make sense of recent events for many of our listeners. 

Today, we’re stepping into a week so packed with developments that it feels like the news cycle is running on fast‑forward. 

The messages pouring into our inbox made one thing clear: people are trying to make sense of a lot at once. There’s the uproar surrounding President Trump’s recent tweet directed at Iran, the unexpected shift during yesterday’s widely discussed “TACO Tuesday” moment, and the renewed attention on that ten‑point peace plan floated weeks ago that never really left the public conversation.

And with all of that comes a flood of questions. What, if anything, has actually been accomplished on the diplomatic front? Will the Strait of Hormuz reopen? How does all of this intersect with ongoing concerns about Iran’s nuclear program? And if, as some officials have claimed, Iran’s military capabilities have been severely reduced, why does the conflict appear far from over?

Even among people who have historically supported President Trump, there’s been a noticeable rise in commentary questioning his recent decision‑making, with some voices publicly invoking the 25th Amendment.

Analysts are debating whether this moment represents a broader shift in the American political mindset or simply a spike in tensions during an already volatile period.

So let’s break it all down: what happened, why it matters, and how people across the country are reacting to it. 

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Today, we welcome our guest, Metin Pekin, to the Nova Society. Metin introduces a compelling vision of politics without traditional political parties, one built on truly independent representatives whose only loyalty is to their constituents.

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Today, we conclude our conversation from last Friday as we discuss the Iran Conflict, Oil, innovation, the future of America's world influence, birthright citizenship, and Israel.   

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Today, we have 2 questions that we will be splitting up into 2 episodes. 

Tonya from Statesville, North Carolina writes: OK, it seems American and world politics get crazier and crazier by the day. Snowflake Hegseth is threatening to arrest Colin Jost for picking on him on SNL. As gas prices go up, Trump's approval rating continues to nose-dive.  Finally, SCOTUS is hearing arguments over an Executive Order that ends Birthright Citizenship. And this is the short list. I know this is a lot to unpack, but I’d appreciate hearing your thoughts. 

 Stephen from Milwaukee, Wisconsin writes, The UK is offering to host negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz, while Trump says the US is considering leaving NATO. Trump also says the Iranians are requesting a ceasefire. No surprise, but the Iranians are pretty much denying this. Then, Trump says that the US will leave Iran in 2 to 3 weeks, even if there is no deal. Do you think the US might abandon the war in Iran within this time frame? If this were to happen, how do you think this might all play out? What might this mean for Israel?  Is Trump dumping his war onto our allies to clean up? Can this disaster be cleaned up? 

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Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Peter Solomon onto the Podcast. Dr. Peter Solomon is a scientist, educator, successful entrepreneur, and author. His current mission: to warn the next generation about the threats posed by unchecked science and technology. He is sounding an alarm about the potential tyranny of technology through his novels, 100 Years to Extinction and the sequel, 12 Years to AI Singularity. Learn more at 100yearstoextinction.com.  

We strongly encourage all of our listeners to check out Peter's work at

HTTPS://100YearsToExtinction.com 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561030003312

https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-solomon-72380b36/

https://www.instagram.com/100yearstoextinction/

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, we welcome Chris Angle to the Podcast. Chris is a University of Michigan,
 graduate who studied in Japan Missionary - Japanese Language & Culture
 
When matriculating at the University of Michigan, Chris discovered a desire to write creatively. In his senior year, he discovered that he could meld the disciplines of human biological behavior with philosophy, and, as such, he produced a research paper proposing a relationship among the concept of beauty, behavioral evolution, and mankind’s will to survive.
 
While studying abroad, Chris discovered that he could readily define philosophical concepts upon graduation. In Japan, he produced the initial draft of his first book, The Nature of Aesthetics. Upon returning to the U.S., he finished the
 manuscript and subsequently produced 4 more works, which he self-published and are available in paperback, Kindle & audio formats, wherever books are sold.
 
 Chris’ books are known as the Detmar-Haskell Dialogues.
 
 The Nature of Aesthetics (Also available as an audiobook)
 The Nature of Ethics 
 The Nature of Truth
 The Philosophical Equations of Economics
  The Nature of the Political Left & Right (Also available as an audiobook)
 
Chris will be discussing The Nature of the Political Left & Right. Highlighting his theory of the differences between conservatives and progressive liberals on the left, the origin and essence of politics, why this divide between the two political philosophies exists, and why it is growing. 

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today our question is from Troy from Pine Valley, California, who writes, ICE in airports? As if they weren’t bad enough out in the open! This just sounds like a disaster looking for a place to happen. I never thought I’d be defending the TSA, as they can be some real asshats, but here we are. So, I know DHS is still operating on limited funding as Republicans and Democrats argue over funding, and ICE in particular. So, I guess ICE is partially funded, and TSA isn’t funded at all? Why hasn’t someone suggested moving some of that money to TSA? I think the real argument about DHS funding has gotten lost in all the distractions. What are the Democrats actually asking for?  Are the Republicans really that opposed to their requests, or is this a Trump thing? Finally, if you have time, I’d like to hear your thoughts on Trump's tweet following Robert Mueller's death. I know if anyone had tweeted that after the death of Charlie Kirk, the right would have lost their minds. 

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today we field a question from Tina from Wildwood, New Jersey, writes: OK, I think I’m confused, and I’m not the only one. Please, if you have any insight, what is really the status of the War with Iran? Trump says we’ve won. Then we are making progress. The Strait of Hormuz is open, then maybe not so much. We are negotiating successfully. Then Iran has 5 days to agree to a deal. No boots on the ground. Then maybe boots on the ground. Meanwhile, Hegseth muddies the water even more. Iran says it’s not talking with anyone, and Trump can’t figure out who we are supposedly talking to since we’ve killed everyone. We haven’t heard much from Israel, though news from there rarely helps clarify things. So, I am assuming you guys are as confused as the rest of us, but with all the mixed messages, what do you think might be happening, and where is this conflict leading? 

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, we welcome Ramon Perez to the podcast. Ramon is an expert on Artificial Intelligence, a former military officer, and Executive Director at the Digital Democracy Project (DDP). After years in both civic service and the tech sector, he’s made it his mission to bridge the gap between citizens and government. DDP, which he leads, now operates in seven states, empowering people to directly weigh in on the real legislation their representatives consider, and to hold those officials publicly accountable for the outcomes. Ramon’s approach stands out because he views political disengagement as a systems problem, one he tackles with transparency, technology, and steadfast nonpartisanship.

Ramon personally connects to the struggle to make democracy matter for everyone. Drawing on his own story after military service and on the inspiration of classmates who gave everything in defense of democratic ideals, Ramon frames his work to restore trust and invite all of us back into the conversation.

https://digitaldemocracyproject.org/about

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, our question comes from Jordan from Houston, Texas, who writes, I don’t know if this is wishful thinking or an actual collapse of the Trump hold is starting to happen. First MTG turned on Trump and resigned from Congress. The back and forth since then has been ugly, with Trump calling Green a traitor. Many other Republicans decided to retire, and the primaries don’t seem to be going smoothly for them. The Texas Senate between Cornyn and POS Paxton is a prime example. I never thought I would support Cornyn over anyone else, but there we have it. MAGA Moron Extraordinaire Joe Kent has resigned as the Counter Terrorism Director, and in his resignation, totally dismantled all of Trump's excuses for starting the war with Iran. Not the best look. And it looks like Dr. Mark might be getting his wish; things are not looking good for Senator Lindsey Graham in his reelection bid in South Carolina. Bondi is being called in to testify before the House Oversight committee, one controlled by the Republicans, about her handling of the Epstein files. There seems to be some internal arguing about Markwayne Mullin as Secretary of Homeland Security. Gas prices are up by over $ 1 per gallon. More Americans are dying in the Iran war. The rest of the world tells Trump to take a hike. And with the DHS budget still up in the air, travel has become a pain. TSA workers are not being paid and are not showing up to work. And this is the short list. Nothing seems to be breaking the Republicans' way. But Democrats don’t seem to be taking advantage of the situation. So, to my questions, are we seeing the collapse of the Trump regime or just another blip?  What can the Democrats do to take advantage of the Republican collapse? Who will emerge from the Democrats to lead the party? Will Dr. Mark get a new Senator? Who might that be? I just saw Venezuela beat Team USA for the World Baseball Classic title. Now that’s some Karma.

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, our question is from Laura from Kingston, Ontario, Canada, who writes: The reporting regarding the US war in Iran is confusing. Trump says it’s already been won, Iran’s military capabilities are destroyed, and pretty much mission accomplished. Yet, Hegseth says it is just the beginning. We should note that Trump said that it could be the beginning or the end, a very incoherent statement. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is down to a crawl as oil prices continue to rise. This past week, Trump asked NATO allies and even China to send ships to secure the Strait. Then, when he didn’t get the response he was expecting or wanted, he demanded. It doesn’t seem like that worked either. I guess I’m wondering if all is well, what does the US need with the navy support of other countries? Again, we are seeing chaos with no clear answers. But my question is about the reaction from the rest of the world. I know you all have said in the past that Trump’s actions were isolating the US. Is this rejection of Trump’s request a first sign of that? Trump said that if NATO didn’t help, it might be bad for the organization. What does that really mean? Oil is important for the entire world, and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz is a real problem. One that the US should have recognized before it started this war. Do you think the rest of the world should send help? And lastly, if Trump pulls out without securing the Strait, and Israel keeps fighting, and because of that, the Strait stays closed, what do you think this will mean for Israel’s standing in the world?

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, our question is from Richard from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who writes, So Trump says the war in Iran will end soon. I believe he is feeling the heat.  This wasn’t as easy as he thought, go figure. Iran has selected the former ayatollah's son to be the new supreme leader. By all accounts, someone who is even worse than his father, if that is even possible.  Trump says that it is unacceptable, but it looks like there is little he can do about it. Iran is now hitting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, further disrupting energy shipping.  So, let's say Trump does a TACO.  Declares victory, which anyone with a brain knows is bullshit, and just leaves. What would this mean to the dynamics of the war? Do you think Israel would continue fighting? Will some other nation need to step in and stop the blockade of the Strait? Who might that be? And what happens to the Iranian people? I think they will be left off worse than before this all started. Has Trump’s only success been to destabilize the Middle East so badly that it’ll take decades to repair the damage? Can the damage be repaired? If you think it can, what would it take, and who would need to take the lead? 

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, we hear from Stan from Roanoke, Virginia, who writes: I am a 27-year veteran of the US Navy, and for the first time in my life, I felt ashamed of my beloved branch of service. The war in Iran is becoming increasingly concerning as the days pass by. The cost of the war is estimated at around 1 billion dollars a day.  Gas prices continue to increase. More service men and women are killed every day. The administration appears to have no coherent plan or strategy, and now it has been hinted that our next target could be Cuba. What the hell are we doing? But my question is more along moral lines. Hegseth seems to have approved of an almost unrestricted war strategy. Now it looks like the girls' school was bombed by us! Over 150 young girls were killed. And there is the sinking of the Iranian frigate in international waters. Yet now reports are emerging that the frigate was returning from an invited war game and was unarmed, as were the conditions of the war games. To make this worse, after sinking the frigate, the US submarine didn’t even try to rescue survivors. Even the Germans in WWII would assist survivors. The fact that our military is acting in this way is appalling. But even worse, the American people seem quite alright with these tactics. It seems we are determined to play the bad guy. Do you think our military leaders will recognize these as war crimes and begin to refuse to be a party in all this? Should the Captain of the US Submarine be charged? Finally, if we pull out of Iran, do you think we might actually go after Cuba?

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, we welcome Paul Musson — a former investment manager turned author and economic communicator. Paul brings a rare blend of deep industry experience and down‑to‑earth language, empowering listeners to take control of their financial lives through clearer understanding.

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, we continue our conversation on the War in Iran. 

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today we are discussing the Iran war.  Why now? Are we prepared? Did Israel force our hand? And how are some Americans viewing this conflict?

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today, we welcome our guest, Adrianne Marsh, the CO of Altum-Insight, a research group studying the electorate from a fascinating perspective. Her team helps candidates and organizations translate research into compelling narratives and effective operations. 

Adrianne has spent two decades helping Democrats win races from Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign to Claire McCaskill’s 2012 re-election. 

They’re currently finalizing a new study focused on rural voters in Nebraska, and one finding stood out immediately: a deep, under-discussed fear of AI. 

Not the sensational, sci-fi version, but real concerns about accountability, trust, and who’s responsible as AI starts affecting daily life. 

Check out the work of Altum-Insight at https://www.altum-insight.com/ 

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Today, we hear from Brandon from Boston, Massachusetts, who writes, The SCOTUS struck down the tariffs that Trump unilaterally imposed on many of our foreign trading partners. He held a press conference where he derided the Justices, even 2 that he appointed, who voted against him.  Calling them un-American and an embarrassment to the country and their families. Of course, within hours, he signed an order for another 10% tariff on everyone, and later raised it to 15%. Do you think this, too, will be struck down by the SCOTUS? Still, there is talk of refunds now.  Should we, the people, expect refund checks for all the pain these tariffs have caused? Or is that just another example of wishful thinking, like the DOGE checks and the promised $2000 Trump promised a few months ago? 

 Finally, I know you record on Wednesdays, but can I also get your take on the SOTU address? What stuck out to you, and did you think the message would help Trump’s sagging approval ratings? 

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today we have a question from Frank from Virginia, who writes I’ve heard both Mark and Scott say that the Department of Homeland Security shouldn’t exist, and I’ve also heard the broader call from others to 'defund DHS.” That phrase in particular is where I struggle. DHS is often treated as synonymous with ICE or CBP, but those are just two components of a much larger department. DHS also includes the Coast Guard, FEMA, CISA, TSA, FLETC, the Office of Inspector General, USCIS, and the Secret Service. Each of those agencies serves very different missions, and while it’s completely fair to debate the merits of any one of them, a blanket call to defund DHS risks unintended consequences for agencies that many people would consider essential.
 
If DHS funding were cut dramatically, it seems plausible that ICE and CBP would retain much of their funding while other, less politically visible but highly functional agencies absorb the losses. FEMA already struggles to meet the growing demand for disaster relief. CISA, though less well known, plays a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure, such as election systems, our power grids, our hospitals, and more, from cyber threats. TSA funding cuts would directly affect everyday travelers. Even agencies that most people rarely think about provide services that quietly support national security and public safety without being questionable or offensive. Broad reductions could have ripple effects that reach far beyond immigration enforcement.
 
I’d really appreciate hearing the panel’s thoughts on this. If DHS were to be restructured or dismantled, what would that process realistically look like? How feasible is it to move or separate subagencies from DHS? And in the meantime, how should people think about reform that targets specific problems without weakening agencies that provide tangible public benefits?

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today we have a special guest Zolal Habibi, who will be talking to us about a movement within Iran seeking to overthrow the current regime and create a secular democratic Iran.

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In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

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Today our question is from Tina from Hamburg, Germany, who writes, Your Secretary of State Marco Rubio was here in Munich at the Security Conference. As was AOC and Hillary Clinton. Among others. Clinton was basically bashing the Trump/Epstein files debacle, where AOC seemingly is positioning herself for a potential presidential run in 2028. First, to AOC, do you think she should run?  Could she be successful? Looking at Clinton, do you see her presence as a positive or negative as she and her husband prepare to testify about the Epstein files? Finally, to Rubio, he wasn’t as bashing as he was last year, but he did indicate that although the US is tied to Europe, it is Europe's responsibility to fall into ideological line with the US. Here, some politicians are breathing a sigh of relief, but many ordinary people don’t want the MAGA philosophy to dominate European culture and politics. Now I know right-wing politics is becoming more popular throughout Europe, but even to those hard-right groups, MAGA is a bridge too far. Some in my country say that Germany is moving right, as is the rest of Europe, because the US moved right first.  Do you see the connection? Is Europe's best hope that the US finally gets its act together and abandons MAGA?  Should Europe just ignore the US and go its own way, if for no other reason, to save ourselves from returning to the horrors of the early 20th century?

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Today, our question is from Felicity from Bridgeport, Connecticut, who writes, The House has passed the SAVE Act. It is currently in the Senate, and its fate remains uncertain. I’ve heard a bunch of interpretations of what this act will do and how it will impact voting. The right says it will protect voting integrity, whereas the left says it will restrict voting. Please help me sort this out.  Which is it? Everyone wants our voting system to be secure, and depending on who you listen to, the verdict is very different. I did see a report that the Heritage Foundation, as Scott would say, not exactly a liberal group, looked into voting irregularities and found only 7 instances over the past 10 years. I am a registered voter. I vote in every election. Right now, I have no idea if my voter registration in Connecticut is still valid. I’m being told that, if the SAVE Act passes, I‘ll need a birth certificate and an up-to-date passport to be allowed to vote. Is this right? Do I need to reregister? Help!

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So today we hear from Michelle from Fort Wayne, Indiana, who writes: What a disaster! Our Attorney General Pam Bondi testified in front of the Senate and House Judicial Committees, and she came across as a complete moron. She touted the stock market while ignoring the Epstein survivors sitting right behind her. She yelled at committee members who asked specific questions about the Epstein files, sounding like she was above Congressmembers and Senators. Of course, many Republican members tried to shift the conversation to other topics more favorable to her poor performance.  Trump says she did great, of course, but many, even Republicans, are saying it was a PR nightmare. Could there be a consequence for her conduct? Do you think this act played well with the base?  Has this ended the Epstein saga? Do you think Pam Bondi’s time might be up?

And Mark has a family encounter with ICE

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Today, we have two questions again. First, Myron from Boston, Massachusetts, writes that ICE seems to have backed down in Minneapolis. Yet it is being reported that there are over 18,000 cases currently in the court system challenging immigrant detention. There are over 3000 cases in Texas alone. (I got these numbers from ProPublica. There is a new push for local law enforcement to step in.  Some say it is their duty to arrest and charge federal agents for violating state and local laws. Why do you think this isn’t happening? Can and should local law enforcement intervene?

 Next up, Rebecca from Roanoke, Virginia writes, your panel has discussed the Steve Bannon strategy of flooding the zone to create confusion. Today, we have ICE, Bad Bunny, Olympic Athletes speaking out, The Epstein Files, Greenland, the East Wing of the White House, Israel and Iran, and of course the almost forgotten war in Ukraine. With all that is going on, it’s hard to keep up. Stories seem to come and go without any resolution or closure. Then they pop up every so often to divert our attention from something else. Now, you’ve talked about the strategy, but let me ask, what do you see as the solution?  How can the average American be informed when there is so much noise? I get that the strategy is to overwhelm. So, what would you say we can do to not be overwhelmed? 

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Today we have two questions. First, from Tina in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, who writes, "I’m sure someone on the panel watched the Super Bowl." The game was a disappointment, but the half-time show was outstanding. Bad Bunny, it’s being reported, had the biggest audience in Super Bowl history. And, as expected, the far right is crying about the program being in Spanish. I didn’t see it, but I heard the TPUSA alternative program was a complete disaster and had minimal viewership compared to the real show.  I know you all are constantly asked when these right-wing supporters are finally going to get their heads out of their collective butts. And I know the panel can’t really predict when this might happen.  But can’t they see how unpopular they are? How silly they look!  But I will ask this: Does the collective condemnation from those who haven’t been made part of the MAGA cult embolden them?  Might it be time to just ignore them altogether?

Next up, Tom from Boulder, Colorado writes: Trump is criticizing our athletes at the Winter Olympics for speaking out about the social and political issues America faces today.  This reminds me of the Black Power signs in past Olympic games. My question is, should athletes refrain from these types of political gestures and statements? Shouldn’t the focus be on the games and sportsmanship rather than on the political divisions facing our country? Do these statements help or just fuel the fire of political division?

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The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

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Today our question comes from Terry from Chattanooga, Tennessee writes: So, Netanyahu is set to meet with President Trump sometime within the next few days. Reporting has them discussing Iran and the future of the West Bank. Israel is increasing its hold on the West Bank territory while Iran seems firm in its stance on nuclear enrichment. So, I’d like to hear your thoughts on both of these areas of conflict in the Middle East. 

 First, the West Bank. How can Israel claim to want peace when it is flagrantly violating international law? Israel seems to treat the West Bank as a legitimate part of the state of Israel. Now, I am not a supporter of Hamas, but isn’t this sort of heavy-handed policy what made these groups rise to power possible? Scott always says Israel is a miracle. I would agree.  So why can't they just be happy with what they have and leave the areas protected by international law alone? How might the issues in the West Bank affect the talks with Iran?

Talks continue between Iran and the US.  Iran has brutally put down protests even as Trump threatens military action, sanctions, and his favorite tariffs. Israel is pressing for Iran to have no nuclear enrichment. The US wants Iran to stop supporting terrorist groups and is deploying more military assets to the region. So I guess I’m asking, what’s the point? With the clear divisions between the sides, I cannot see a possible resolution. And why aren’t we calling out what is really the cause of all this?  Trump’s leaving the original Iranian Nuclear deal. 

Support the show

The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page
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Today we have two questions from listeners. First, Carl from Palm Beach, Florida writes, OK, this seems even crazier for Trump, he’s suing the IRS for 10 billion dollars because some contractor released his tax returns. He seems to think he can sue anyone.  The IRS, the BBC, and now even Harvard. None of these lawsuits is on behalf of the American people but for his own enrichment. Do any of these lawsuits have a chance? How can Trump sue an agency within his own area of purview? Sounds like a conflict of interest to me. 

 And next from:

Samantha from Casper, Wyoming writes, " Well, the DOJ released more Epstein files. With all that is going on, it seems rather anticlimactic. Bill Gates, Bill Clinton, Richard Branson, and a host of other economic and political elites are among the list of people mentioned in the 3 million documents released the other day. And there are still another 3 million still left to be seen. It’s being reported that Trump is mentioned more than 4,000 times.  Congress has subpoenaed the Clintons. They have finally agreed, but want their testimony to be in an open session.  My first question is, why would the Clintons want this? Secondly, isn’t Clinton immune from prosecution according to the SCOTUS ruling about Presidential immunity?  Finally, why are no Republicans, including Trump, being targeted by Congress for testimony? He seems to have a lot more “shit on his stick” than many of those Congress wants to talk to. 

Support the show

The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page
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Today, our questions come from Brian from Johnson City, Tennessee, who writes the government shut down once again for a few days, all because of Democrats' demands, which accomplished nothing. Still, there is no health care premium relief, and Republicans are just incapable of governing as they try to please Trump. But now ICE's funding will come up again in 2 weeks, which leads me to believe someone sees that this paramilitary group is a danger to society. What do you guys think will happen in 2 weeks? Might this be the end of ICE as we know it? What do you see should be the Democrats' strategy entering these negotiations?

 And from Tammy from Flagstaff, Arizona writes, Melania came out last week and wasn’t all that Trump had hoped for. But it’s being reported that it brought in $7 million, which I guess is good for a film of this type. Did anyone on the panel see it? Do you guys see this as just another distraction or just another grift?  Melania made $28 million for this crap. 

Support the show

The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page
Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page.

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Today we have 2 questions. Frist from Tony from Anne Arbor, Michigan writes: Trump continues to attack our nation's fundamental institutions. Now he’s talking about “nationalizing” elections. I’m pretty sure this isn’t something he can actually do, but I could use some reassurance. I know Brooklynn will sound the alarm, Dr. Scott will sit on the fence, and Dr. Mark will say the system will hold. But I guess the fact that he is even talking about this, and some are making it appear “normal,” is what has concerned me. He really can’t do this right?

 Next up:

Kaylee from Atlanta, Georgia writes The Trump FBI came into Fulton County and 'stole' all the election records. How is this possible? What could possibly be the reason for getting all this information? Do you think he might be trying to purge the voter rolls in an attempt to exclude anyone who voted against him? Why do you think he continues to investigate 2020 when he won in 2024? 

Support the show

The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page
Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page.

Support the Nova Society
Email us your Questions

Subscribe to the Nova Society

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Past episodes & read our blog Here.

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Today, we hear from Andrew from Rochester, Minnesota, who writes I’m sure there are plenty of listeners writing about the chaos in my home state, so I wanted to ask a couple of different questions. So, we have the Board of Peace. Oh, boy, what a motley crew. Do you think they will have any impact, or do you see this board as a billion dollars poorly spent, and they will be ignored? Now I see that Rubio is threatening to use force if the new Venezuelan government doesn’t behave.  So much for the Peace President. Trump is threatening Canada with additional tariffs if it trades with China. Does he really think he’s the President of Canada as well and interim President of Venezuela? What’s next? The EU and India have reached a major deal, and the US is on the outside looking in. Do you think Trump might make more threats regarding this alliance? And finally, Mark Rutte, a former Dutch PM and the current Secretary General of NATO, says Europe cannot go it alone in defending itself. I found this statement rather disturbing. Is NATO beginning to crumble? What might the aftermath actually look like? 

Support the show

The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page
Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page.

Support the Nova Society
Email us your Questions

Subscribe to the Nova Society

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Past episodes & read our blog Here.

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...

Today, our question is from Nick from Portland, Maine, who writes: Another killing by ICE in Minneapolis. I really cannot understand how those idiots in the administration and many in the public can justify what is clearly a murder. I see that Trump is recalling ICE Barbie and Bovino while sending Homan in to clean up the situation. I listen to the Podcast to try to make sense of what I see as a decline in America. Now it seems the administration has issues with statements that the NRA isn’t happy with. Sometimes you guys give me hope, and sometimes I just think maybe it’s time to move to somewhere off the grid. So, my question is: Does the Homan move indicate that the administration understands how badly they have screwed up? Are Bovino’s and ICE Barbie’s days numbered? The spending bill will be decided this week. Will the government shut down, or do you think Republicans might get their collective heads out of their collective asses and agree to defund ICE to keep the government open? What do you think the strategy of the Democrats should be moving forward on the votes this week?  Also, where are those Epstein files? 

Support the show

The Nova Society Podcast 

In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations.

Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners.

Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page
Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page.

Support the Nova Society
Email us your Questions

Subscribe to the Nova Society

Subscribe to our RSS Feed
Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel
Past episodes & read our blog Here.

JCIS

Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes   
Spotify 
...