July 21, 2020
The Damage Report with John Iadarola - S3 - E141
A tribute to Michael Brooks, host of The Michael Brooks Show and The Majority Report, as well as a close friend of the TYT Network, who passed away yesterday. Fox News and hosts Ed Henry, Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and more are being sued for workplace harassment. As the lawsuit is made public, Carlson’s “pre-planned” vacation following his head writer’s resignation for being a white supremacist online now doesn’t seem so “pre-planned.” AOC will introduce legislation requiring federal law enforcement officials to clearly identify themselves. AOC was accosted by GOP Rep. Yoho, who was overheard calling her “disgusting.” More information is uncovered about the attack on Judge Salas’ home.
The Damage Report with John Iadarola: Season 3 - 101 Episode s
3x91 - May 8, 2020
May 8, 2020
Trump became “lava mad” at his staff when he found out a member of his valet team contracted Covid-19. Ahmaud Arbery’s murderers were finally arrested yesterday. The DOJ drops the Michael Flynn case, despite the fact that he owned up to being guilty himself. GOP Gov. Pete Ricketts of Nebraska is forcing a beef packing plant in his state to remain open despite it being described as a Covid-19 “hotspot.” It’s time to take out the trash with Garbage People of the Week! AOC is playing Animal Crossing and John wants to talk about it. Clay Aiken LIVE on the damaging effects of polarization in the context of the pandemic.
3x92 - May 11, 2020
May 11, 2020
Comedian, actor and single-payer advocate Jerry Stiller, well-known for his role as Frank Costanza in Seinfeld, passed away on Sunday. Although it might seem impossible, the WH response to the pandemic is somehow getting even worse. GOP Sen. Lamar Alexander says there’s “not enough money to help everybody” affected by the pandemic --despite having voted for a .5 trillion tax cut for the rich in late March. An Iowan meat packing plant confirms that over 1,000 of its workers have tested positive for Covid-19, three of which have died. A Georgia homeowner linked to the Ahmaud Arbery case confirms that his property had never been burglarized, further discrediting Ahmaud’s murderers account of the assault. Howie Hawkins LIVE on his campaign to become the Green Party nominee for President.
3x93 - May 12, 2020
May 12, 2020
Trump has a temper tantrum during his press conference and storms out. In his Senate testimony, Dr. Fauci warns of “needless suffering and death” should we reopen the country too soon. Water is wet and 72 “lockdown protesters” test positive for Covid-19 after attending a Wisconsin protest. Belly Mujinga, a British railway ticket office worker, died from Covid-19 after being spat on. Elon Musk is reopening a CA Tesla plant, claiming he’ll “be on the line with everyone else.” Michael Brooks LIVE on his new book analyzing the leading figures of the "intellectual dark web" and the future of the progressive movement.
3x94 - May 13, 2020
May 13, 2020
The Biden-Sanders Unity Task Forces are announced and will include many leading progressives, such as AOC and Varshini Prakash. All of Trump’s incarcerated cronies are getting released from prison due to fears they might contract Covid-19. Kushner says the presidential election could be postponed, but Trump says November 3rd is “a good number.” Trump’s favorability amongst the “haters” constituency is dwindling. Brian Kilmeade makes an... honest assessment? Contrary to what Trumpers are saying, most Americans actually prefer stores where masks are required. Polls show that most Americans are disappointed in Trump’s response to the pandemic. A Washington, Virginia restaurant is using mannequin customers to enforce social distancing. Jamaal Bowman LIVE on his campaign to represent NY-16 and why the Dem establishment --including Gov. Cuomo--is falling short in responding to the pandemic.
3x95 - May 14, 2020
May 14, 2020
Whistleblower and ousted vaccine Dr. Rick Bright testifies before Congress, condemning the Trump Admin’s pandemic response so far and warning of “unprecedented illness and fatalities” should “we fail to develop a national coordinated response based in science.” There may be actual consequences for Senators involved in the pandemic insider trading scandal. A key anti-surveillance bill fails by one vote in the Senate. Trump doesn’t get why Dr. Fauci is warning against sending children back to school, ignoring the mysterious Covid-related disease that has affected kids in 15 states so far. Trump’s Covid-19 testing plan falls totally short. AOC calls for billionaires to pay taxes and Trumpers forgot to turn their brains on. Alex Morse LIVE on his campaign to represent MA-01 and how establishment Dem incumbent Richard Neal is harming the lives of his constituents, as well as Americans nationwide.
3x96 - May 15, 2020
May 15, 2020
Trump claims testing is overrated and says “it’s a beautiful thing to see” doctors “running into death.” ICE’s “efforts” to stop sex trafficking include coercing suspected victims into paid sex acts. A reporter attempting to cover a Long Island lockdown protest was verbally attacked by those in attendance. CA regulators decide to suspend the million fine that PG&E was meant to pay after their poor equipment ignited a series of deadly wildfires across the state. It’s time to take out the trash: find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week! Ti-Hua Chang LIVE on his TYT Investigates exclusive that revealed House Dems are entertaining the idea of a possible fossil fuel bailout in the next Covid-19 relief bill. Madeline Peltz LIVE on Joe Rogan's Elon Musk interview and debunking the coronavirus misinformation that both of them spread.
3x97 - May 18, 2020
May 18, 2020
Trump fires the State Dpt IG Steve Linick, who was in the midst of investigating whether Pompeo misused federal funds and the legality of Saudi arms sales. The GOP is mounting a huge national effort to make sure your ballot does NOT get counted in November. Fox & Friends host Pete Hegseth went to New Jersey to support the re-opening of a gym and the tomfoolery was honestly astounding. A Karen went to Gelson's and you can pretty much figure out how that went. Phone data suggests that lockdown protesters are making everything worse, for both themselves and everyone else. Elon Musk is somehow getting even more loathsome. Keith Comito LIVE on how reprioritizing federal funding into aging research could protect us from future pandemics.
3x98 - May 19, 2020
May 19, 2020
The Trump Admin. screws over National Guard members currently providing coronavirus relief, ordering an end to their deployment just one day before they would have become eligible for benefits. Trump is self-medicating and it’s going exactly the way you’d expect. Pelosi expresses her concerns over Trump’s usage of hydroxychloroquine, noting that it’s particularly dangerous for those in his age and weight group. The Ahmaud Arbery case takes another dark turn as more evidence emerges. Indian and Bangladeshi citizens evacuate as a dangerous “Super Cyclone” approaches the region. Sean Hannity will say just about anything to convince his viewers that we should re-open. Linda Sarsour LIVE on her new book and the future of mass-scale progressive organizing. Gabe Tobias LIVE on the Movement School's new Campus initiative, which provides online courses for progressive electoral organizers.
3x99 - May 20, 2020
May 20, 2020
CDC officials claim they’ve been "muzzled” by the White House when it comes to the national pandemic response. Trump and the rest of the GOP wants you to believe voting by mail is illegal. Mike Pompeo refused to meet with now-ousted IG Steve Linick concerning the Saudi arms sales investigation. Pompeo has also reportedly been using taxpayer money to fund dozens of extravagant dinners for himself without Trump's knowledge. Trump is using the pandemic as an excuse to ramp up his war on regulations. A CA Lockdown protest attendee is seen holding up an extremely racist sign. Ahmad Ibsais LIVE on how the pandemic is worsening the refugee crisis and how we can help those most vulnerable throughout this difficult time.
3x100 - May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
Researchers estimate that 83% of the nation’s deaths could have been avoided had we imposed social distancing measures as early as March 1st. Trump’s total and complete incompetence during intelligence briefings is putting all of our lives at risk. Despite unemployment claims skyrocketing, Trump and McConnell seek to end enhanced unemployment benefits ASAP. GOP officials, QAnon-ers and other right-wing figures are all jumping aboard the hydroxychloroquine train, with some even creating DIY brews. The Trump campaign launches “The Right View,” a conservative take on The View where co-hosts are literally either related to Trump and/or work for him.
3x101 - May 22, 2020
May 22, 2020
Trump praises the “good bloodlines” of Henry Ford, a renowned anti-semite who Hitler himself lauded. Trump's obsession with eugenics is a long-standing and extremely worrying one --although not surprising. Joe Biden’s interview on The Breakfast Club with Charlamagne tha God was… strange to say the very least. Fox & Friends’ host Steve Doocy lies trying to defend his and the network's blatant hypocrisy. American billionaires have become significantly richer throughout the pandemic, with their net worth growing by 15% in just 2 months. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and the TDR audience picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Rashad Richey LIVE on major updates in the Ahmaud Arbery case. Jason Stanley LIVE on how fascist politics work in the context of the pandemic and how to fight back against the Trump Administration's propaganda.
3x102 - May 26, 2020
May 26, 2020
Thousands of Americans ignored stay-at-home orders this weekend to celebrate Memorial Day. Trump and the right-wing’s attempts to spread Covid-19 misinformation have proven largely successful amongst their conservative base. Sr. WH Adviser Kevin Hassett refers to human beings as “capital stock.” During this difficult time, Bloomberg Media is most concerned about rich people being able to reach their yachts without “exposure to the germ-ridden masses.” Biden puts out an attack ad blasting Trump for golfing as the Covid-19 national death toll approaches 100,000. #KarenStrikesAgain as fragile white lady Amy Cooper threatens an innocent black man’s life because she felt like it. Dave Levinthal LIVE on how city leaders are pleading the Trump campaign to pay its rally-related bills so they can more efficiently respond to the pandemic.
3x103 - May 27, 2020
May 27, 2020
George Floyd, an innocent black man, is murdered on the streets of Minneapolis by the police; when protests ensued, police shot rubber bullets and tear gas at the unarmed protesters. Twitter attempted to fact-check some of Trump’s tweets and he… lost it. A CNBC debate erupted into a giant argument as Andrew Ross Sorkin accused Joe Kernen of ignoring the 100,000 Americans who have died from Covid-19 in order to “help his friend” Trump. Shockingly, Hannity suggests we should wear masks --but his Fox News counterparts, Tucker Carlson and Laura Ingraham, didn’t seem to get the memo. Conservatives mock Biden for… wearing a mask? Allie Young LIVE on her efforts to help the Navajo Nation during the pandemic and a lockdown protest in New Mexico where attendees held up racist signs, one of which featured a swastika.
3x104 - May 28, 2020
May 28, 2020
A PA Democratic lawmaker goes on an epic rant after finding out that his GOP counterparts KNEW that some of them had contracted Covid-19 but didn’t tell their colleagues so they could push through anti-lockdown legislation. Trump and Kayleigh McEnany are doing everything in their power to make sure your vote doesn’t count in November. Kellyanne Conway joins in on pushing the anti-vote-by-mail narrative, making a comparison between polling stations and a… cupcake store? The Lincoln Project blasts both Trump and Mitch McConnell for their poor leadership on Covid-19 and more. Parker Molloy LIVE on how the right-wing and Fox News are trying to turn the pandemic into the latest "culture war" battle.
3x105 - May 29, 2020
May 29, 2020
Minneapolis demonstrators continue to protest George Floyd’s murder. Trump tweets out something so racist even Twitter had to step in. Trump begins his war on Twitter. MPLS police arrest a CNN crew… while the reporter was live. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Ana and you (yes, you!!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Samelys Lopez LIVE on her run for NY-15 and the importance of housing justice for all.
3x106 - June 1, 2020
June 1, 2020
Police forces nationwide deployed extreme violence against those protesting George Floyd’s murder and centuries of police brutality. "Alpha Male" Trump hid in his underground bunker as protests began in front of the White House. Trump has no public response to the wave of protests around the country --but he’s privately telling Governors to arrest protesters and “dominate” them. Trump blames Antifa for the protests and seeks to label the group as a “terrorist organization.” Surprise surprise: a person who attended a massive Memorial Day party has now tested positive for Covid-19 and was possibly infectious during the holiday weekend. Norman Solomon LIVE on the 2020 Bernie Delegates Network and how the group plans to leverage progressive power at the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
3x107 - June 2, 2020
June 2, 2020
Trump got scared before his little outing yesterday so he made DC police attack peaceful protesters. Trump then self-proclaimed himself an “ally of all peaceful protesters” while literally tear-gassing a priest to clear the way for his beta male Bible photo sesh. The right-wing falls over themselves praising Trump for the photo op. An independent autopsy report examining George Floyd’s murder confirms exactly what we all saw with our own eyes, and entirely conflicts with the county medical examiner’s original claims. Emma is accused of being an Antifa "terrorist" by the right-wing -- all the while, we find out white nationalists were behind the "official" national Antifa Twitter account all along. Biden speaks out on the current unrest taking place nationwide. If you don’t like looting, wait until you hear about the IRS. Marc Porter Magee LIVE on the challenges of re-opening schools and how Betsy DeVos and Trump are yet again seeking to screw over 99% of students in the country.
3x108 - June 3, 2020
June 3, 2020
LAPD Chief Michael Moore tries to blame George Floyd’s murder on those protesting it. Moore then rightly gets publicly blasted for his comments during a live LA Police Commission meeting. Trump and his cronies are still trying to use the ‘Antifa’ excuse to harm peaceful protesters, while the FBI finds “no intel indicating Antifa involvement." Iowa Rep. Steve King, an overt white supremacist, loses his primary race. Republicans, allegedly lovers of “freedom,” have nothing to say about police forces tear gassing protesters nationwide. An anti-Trump Republican group airs an ad bashing the President on Fox & Friends. Trump is embarassed about hiding in the WH bunker during DC protests, instead claiming that he was simply undertaking an "inspection." Meghan McCain gets dunked on for lying about her neighborhood looking like a “war zone.” Jesselyn Cook LIVE on social media influencers spreading Covid-19 related conspiracy theories, with some profiles even becoming 'hubs' for QAnon.
3x109 - June 4, 2020
June 4, 2020
NY-16 Rep. Engel is caught on a hot mic claiming that if he wasn’t being primaried by progressive Jamaal Bowman, he “wouldn’t care.” NYPD ramps up violence against protesters, which included tear-gassing a pregnant woman in her car. The NYT thought it was a good idea to publish an op-ed written by GOP Sen. Tom Cotton, in which Cotton argues that Trump must “send in the troops.” Trump also wants military troops and tanks in the streets, but the Pentagon is allegedly reluctant to actually cooperate. Trump is NOT SCARED OF PROTESTS which is why he’s literally building a wall in front of the WH. Lynching is still not a federal crime in the U.S. and the bill to designate it as such is being blocked by GOP Sen. Rand Paul. The Lincoln Project attacks Trump again and polls show these GOP ads against the President might be working. Barbara Freese LIVE on her new book Industrial-Strength Denial, which examines corporate lies and the harm big companies refuse to own up to.
3x110 - June 5, 2020
June 5, 2020
Two Buffalo police officers are suspended after the cops are YET AGAIN caught lying thanks to social media; this time seen pushing a 75 year-old man to the ground. Trump’s press conference today featured all types of offensive absurdities, including using George Floyd’s name in vain, attacking black female reporter Yamiche Alcindor about the economy and again rebutting claims that he is a bunker boy. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are reaching yet another record peak. Media Matters exposes the right-wing’s hypocrisy in saying everything would be fine were the protests just “peaceful.” It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Shaniyat Chowdhury LIVE on running against Dem incumbent Gregory Meeks in NY-5 and why it’s time for a change in the district. WA-5 candidate Chris Armitage LIVE on being tear gassed at a BLM protest in Spokane, Washington.
3x111 - June 8, 2020
June 8, 2020
An armed white man plowed his car through a peaceful BLM protest in Seattle and shot a black protester who was trying to stop the vehicle. House and Senate Democrats unveil new legislation in response to growing protests against police brutality. Las Vegas has officially reopened. All of the Covid-19 swabs made during Trump’s visit to a PPE factory in Maine need to be thrown out because he refused to wear a mask. Over the weekend, Mitt Romney joined the protests against police brutality and Trump wasn't happy about it at all. Trump and his team are panicking as his ratings plummet amid nationwide unrest. JK Rowling is hell bent on destroying her legacy. James Veraldi LIVE on the plight of pangolins and how the pandemic is affecting the animal, which is the most trafficked in the world.
3x112 - June 9, 2020
June 9, 2020
Trump attacks the 75 year-old peace activist that Buffalo PD pushed to the floor for no reason. NY-16 Dem incumbent Eliot Engel is sad after AOC & Bernie endorse his progressive challenger, Jamaal Bowman. Progressive MA Sen. Ed Markey debates Rep. Kennedy and it didn’t go so well for the establishment contender… Tucker Carlson is the worst human ever. Ben Shapiro needs a safe space because sports has become too political for him. Trump’s Admin. throws him under the bus with Barr admitting he is, in fact, a Bunker Boi and Press Sec. McEnany *boasting* that he received just 8% of the black vote. Trump’s campaign is running tons of pro-Trump ads in the DC area to make sure Trump is in a good mood. James Felton Keith LIVE on why he’s the best representative for NY-13 and how his ethic of inclusionism affects his approach to politics.
3x113 - June 10, 2020
June 10, 2020
Tucker Carlson and the right-wing claim that pandemic control measures have nothing to do with controlling the pandemic. Trump puts white supremacist Stephen Miller in charge of writing his upcoming “race relations” speech. GA experienced mass voter suppression yesterday as citizens waited in line for hours to cast their ballots. The MA Senate race heats up as progressive incumbent Ed Markey releases a new ad. Sean Hannity says he’s not *not* comparing Trump to George Floyd. Tucker Carlson attacks his newfound nemesis in the culture war: Elmo. Kayleigh McEnany defends Trump’s attacks on the 75 year-old innocent peace activist brutalized by police. Isiah James LIVE on why he’s the best representative for NY-9 and how current establishment Dem incumbent Yvette Clarke has neglected her constituents since 2013.
3x114 - June 11, 2020
June 11, 2020
Trump orders the National Guard to use aggressive tactics against protesters, but internally many speak of being “ashamed” in carrying out his directives. Black Lives Matter’s popularity has soared in just a matter of weeks and has now become the single most favorably viewed political organization in the entire country. 2 million people in the United States have now tested positive for Covid-19. Harry Potter actors speak out in support of the transgender community and condemn J.K. Rowling’s statements. Trump’s racism is in overdrive as he insists US military bases named after Confederate generals should remain that way. The Lincoln Project comes for Trump again, this time condemning his love for the Confederacy. TX-31 candidate Dr. Christine Eady Mann LIVE on the police’s brutal murder of Javier Ambler II.
3x115 - June 12, 2020
June 12, 2020
MAGA rallies are back but with a twist: Trump is forcing attendees to waive their rights to sue should they contract Covid-19 at the event. While protests were taking place in Chicago, 13 police officers --including 3 supervisors-- were caught napping and eating popcorn in Rep. Bobby Rush’s office. Steve Mnuchin is now refusing to disclose ANY information pertaining to the billion in pandemic-relief loans allocated to corporations. Dave Chappelle is back with a new Netflix special. A new book about Melania Trump reveals that she delayed her initial move into the WH to renegotiate her prenup. It’s time to take out the trash: find out who John, Ana and you (yes, you!!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Sean Shaw LIVE on which specific policies we should implement to actually start fixing our broken criminal justice system.
3x116 - June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
On Friday, Atlanta PD murdered Rayshard Brooks for NO reason, shooting him in the back-- TWICE. Today SCOTUS, led by Neil Gorsuch himself, ruled against Trump and confirmed that of course you can’t fire people based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Covid-19 patients are receiving huge medical bills, with some amounting to over a million. When it comes to police brutality, Trump says that “the concept of a chokehold sounds so innocent, so perfect.” Trump has legs and he knows how to use them. NY-49 State Senatorial candidate Thearse McCalmon on why it’s time her district had real representation and how her experience as a nurse, activist and educator has informed her platform.
3x117 - June 16, 2020
June 16, 2020
Trump thinks that if we stop testing for Covid-19, it will literally disappear. Trump will now hold TWO rallies without coronavirus prevention measures in Oklahoma. Rep. Omar’s father, Nur Omar Mohamed, passes away after contracting Covid-19. Hillary Clinton gets involved in the heated NY-16 race, endorsing Dem establishment incumbent Eliot Engel over progressive Jamaal Bowman. An armed ‘militia’ in Albuquerque fires shots at peaceful protesters. Republican Voters Against Trump release a new scathing ad using Lindsey Graham’s own words to slam the President. Jason Harrow LIVE on how in some states, mail-in voting disproportionately disenfranchises young voters --and what we can do to stop it.
3x118 - June 17, 2020
June 17, 2020
The likelihood of a Covid-19 vaccine being developed soon is relatively small --but Trump doesn’t seem to think so. A night on the town in Jacksonville, Florida unsurprisingly resulted in a newfound Covid-19 outbreak. Tuesday marked the highest single-day total for new Covid-19 cases in Oklahoma, but MAGA isn’t convinced of the risk and still plan on attending Trump’s rally in the state later this week. Dr. Fauci doesn’t seem to think Trump’s rally is a great idea, although Press Sec. Kayleigh McEnany claims it’ll be totally safe. Incidents of right-wing violence are flaring up nationwide, with little to no attention from the media. Trump’s niece is coming out with a new book, allegedly coming forth with details about family “trauma, neglect and abuse.” Laura Briggs LIVE on her new book Taking Children and how purposefully harming vulnerable children and families is part of a longstanding American tradition.
3x119 - June 18, 2020
June 18, 2020
SCOTUS rules to protect the DACA program and its current recipients, blocking Trump’s efforts to discontinue the policy and deport Dreamers. Protests around the country have pushed through concrete legislative action in the fight against racial injustice. In a lengthy phone interview with Hannity last night, Trump defended “mistreated” police officers, claimed he personally popularized Juneteenth and vilified BLM protesters. Meatpacking companies lobbied to stay open as Covid-19 devastated their workforces, claiming they were doing so to avoid food shortages --when they were in fact selling record amounts of meat to China. John Bolton’s upcoming book exposes secrets about the Trump Administration, each revelation being more disturbing than the next. CA-12 candidate Shahid Buttar on what it would be like to have a BLM activist in Congress and how Nancy Pelosi isn’t doing enough to protect BIPOC in her district or around the country.
3x120 - June 19, 2020
June 19, 2020
Updates on the Breonna Taylor case as one officer involved in her murder is fired. What Juneteenth commemorates and the work for racial justice that still remains to be done. Trump has no idea what Juneteenth is. Trump calls mail-in voting the biggest threat to his re-election, acknowledging that if everyone was allowed to fairly participate, he’d lose. Trump takes fake news to another level. Klobuchar announces she’s no longer seeking to be Biden’s VP pick to make room for a woman of color. AOC just released a new ad and it’s awesome. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week.
3x121 - June 22, 2020
June 22, 2020
Trump’s big comeback rally didn’t go as planned, with over half of expected attendees not showing up. Trump is NOT ANGRY about the low turnout at his rally, in fact he’s TOTALLY FINE OK?! Youths to the rescue as K-pop stans and Tik Tokers troll Trump and buy out tons of tickets to this weekend’s rally. Trump is very good at drinking water & the GOP couldn’t be happier to have such an alpha male as their leader. A Trump fan claims he’s not worried about contracting Covid-19 because he could just take hydroxychloroquine if he did. Another Trump fan claims she’d only stop supporting Trump if he committed adultery --but also, not really. The number of confirmed Covid-19 cases is still increasing nationwide, but Trump hasn’t changed his mind about reducing testing altogether. Trump fires SDNY Attorney Geoffrey Berman, who has led various investigations into Trump’s inner circle.
3x122 - June 23, 2020
June 23, 2020
The NYPD Commission claims that the officers who drove their police cars through a crowd of protesters were NOT in violation of their use-of-force policy. Today is election day: is a progressive wave coming? A lady attended a Missouri BLM protest while wielding Confederate flags and telling demonstrators that she will teach her grandkids to hate them. A US soldier is charged after confessing to having helped a satanic neo-Nazi group plot an attack against his own unit. Kayleigh McEnany struggles to defend Trump’s use of the term “Kung Flu” to refer to Covid-19. Trump throws McEnany under the bus by doubling down on his idea to “slow down” Covid testing after she had spent all day claiming he had said it “in jest.” A MAGA megachurch that will be hosting Trump’s Phoenix rally claims to have installed a “system” that “kills” Covid-19. Nina Turner LIVE on the ongoing battle over who will chair the CA delegation to the upcoming DNC and her new podcast, Hello Somebody.
3x123 - June 24, 2020
June 24, 2020
A number of states move to impose a 14-day quarantine on travelers from Covid-19 hotspots. Bowman defeats Engel. AOC easily defeated her challenger “MCC” yesterday, winning w/ over 70% of the vote. Trump hasn’t been “joking” when it comes to significantly scaling back pandemic prevention measures. Trump won’t stop saying “K-Flu” & Kellyanne Conway is struggling to flip the script after having already condemned the term repeatedly. At Trump’s rally in Phoenix yesterday, very few attendees were seen wearing a mask. A TPUSA speaker at Trump’s rally said ‘Aunt Jemima,’ whose real name is Nancy Green, was “the picture of the American dream” --disregarding the offensive depiction of Green, as well as the racist history behind the name “Aunt Jemima.” Brian Kilmeade is very confused about bears in general, but what he does know is that he absolutely HATES pandas. Michael Starr Hopkins LIVE on The John Lewis Bridge Project and why Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama must be renamed ASAP.
3x124 - June 25, 2020
June 25, 2020
Trump refuses to follow NJ’s quarantine order, with the WH arguing that he’s above the law and “not a civilian.” Although testing is steadily decreasing, Covid-19 cases continue to spike across the country. NYC reports NO protest-related upticks in Covid-19. A Federal Appeals court rules that ALL charges against Michael Flynn must immediately be dropped, no questions asked. Facial recognition software led to the false arrest of an innocent black man because surprise surprise: even police technology is racist. The China-US trade “war” is revived as Trump extends farmer bailout money to the lobster industry. Gary Chambers LIVE on the viral video of him slamming a school board member for online shopping during a community meeting about racism. Will Jawando LIVE on what it’s like to be a black lawmaker amidst nationwide calls to #DefundThePolice.
3x125 - June 26, 2020
June 26, 2020
Instagram influencers won't stop spreading crazy misinformation about Covid-19. The Trump Admin. asks SCOTUS to strike down the ACA, a move which would leave as many as 23 million Americans without health insurance. Trump held a “town hall” on Fox News yesterday and although the questions were softballs to say the least, he still very much struggled to string together coherent thoughts. It seems like Trump might be dragging the entire GOP down with him. Tucker Carlson loses it completely, claiming all protesters should be charged as “domestic terrorists,” and “put in shackles.” It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Elie Mystal LIVE on why a few weeks of protests will never be enough to actually reform the police and what we need to do to keep that same energy up for years to come.
3x126 - June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
Trump retweets a video of a MAGA head shouting “White Power,” but then deletes it. Kayleigh McEnany claims Trump “did not hear that phrase” before retweeting it, but that he “stands for” the people in the video and is happy to see their “tremendous enthusiasm.” Trump really wants us to believe that the pandemic is over and doesn’t care how many lives he puts at risk while doing so. Siberia is experiencing an abnormally high number of forest fires as temperatures in the Arctic continue to surge. Kayleigh McEnany tries to gaslight you about Trump repealing the ACA, attempting to blame the Democrats for taking coverage away from millions amidst a global pandemic. Fox News’ take on BLM is all over the place but one thing is clear: they’re using demands for equality as fuel for their racist “culture war” narrative. Judd Legum LIVE on the dirty secret behind Ben Shapiro’s success on Facebook.
3x127 - June 30, 2020
June 30, 2020
Establishment candidate Amy McGrath narrowly defeats progressive Charles Booker in the KY Senate primary. Trump has allegedly come to the realization that he might very well lose the general election. As most states still struggle to contain the spread of Covid-19 after having re-opened, Arizona is issuing a new shutdown order altogether. Even McConnell, Pence and Fox News hosts think wearing a mask is the right thing to do. Kayleigh McEnany came out to defend Trump’s refusal to do so, arguing that he thinks it should be a “personal choice.” Don Jr. doesn’t really know where he stands on masks, arguing that they’re important but not wearing one himself. A new strain of flu that has the potential to become a pandemic has been identified in China. Susan Collins pretends she had no idea Kavanaugh would be so anti-choice. Alex Emmons LIVE on progressives’ plan to push big cuts to defense spending soon --as long as Democrats are able to beat Trump on messaging.
3x128 - July 1, 2020
July 1, 2020
Fox News fires Ed Henry following a sexual misconduct allegation by a former network staffer. D&D moves away from the concept of “innately evil races.” Tlaib’s to pass a .5 billion infrastructure bill that would replace lead infested pipes all over the nation. The right-wing believes that Covid-19 is a political stunt. Throwback to Brett’s Garbage Person a few weeks back, who’s popped back up again to argue that wearing masks is an act of “slavery.” Red states are being ravaged by Covid-19 & the GOP & right-wing media figures are being the worst about it. MI Gov. signs bill changing the state’s flag. Trump refuses to read any intelligence reports. Breaking News: the Trump Admin. believe that conservatice Justice Thomas is most likely to retire this year, potentially opening up a new seat on the SCOTUS. Nayyera Haq on why Stacey Abrams’ shouldn’t be attacked just for being ambitious, & how white people being anti-racist in private spaces can be even more meaningful than in public.
3x129 - July 2, 2020
July 2, 2020
Jeffrey Epstein’s ex & confidante, Ghislaine Maxwell, is finally arrested. US Covid-19 cases reach a new record, despite Trump saying the virus is going to “sort of, just disappear.” Aides in Trump’s inner circle are divided about his re-election strategy, w/ some arguing he should focus on the pandemic while others push him to concentrate on the economy instead. Service member Vanessa Guillen disappeared from the Fort Hood military base two months ago, & the details we do have about the ongoing investigation are disturbing. Covid-19 outbreaks at US meatpacking plants are purposefully being kept secret, w/ several officials refusing to speak about multiple employees testing positive. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Jason & you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Lois Beckett on the U.S. military failing to address white supremacy in its own ranks & the way in which many veterans also go on to play a central role in white supremacist organizing.
3x130 - July 6, 2020
July 6, 2020
Trump’s re-election strategy is all over the place, but the hill he seems ready to die on is passionately defending the use of the Confederate flag, protecting racist statues and more. Kayleigh McEnany comes out to defend Trump’s racist attacks against NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace. Summer Taylor was killed protesting in Seattle Saturday, murdered by a man who drove his car through the demonstration. Broadway actor Nick Cordero passes away due to complications from Covid-19. The right-wing is confused as to how mask-wearing became political, ignoring the fact that it’s literally their own fault entirely. Jeanine Pirro posts a very strange photo of herself, and it’s not just weird because she’s wearing a mask... Fox News cropped Trump out of a picture of him alongside Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Kanye West announces he is running for president.
3x131 - July 7, 2020
July 7, 2020
Trump‘s re-election strategy is to bank on Americans becoming “numb to the escalating death toll.” Brian Kilmeade echoed idea that we’re just gonna have to “live w/” Covid-19 & re-open regardless of risks. It doesn’t look like the strategy will work as the GOP hopes, as research indicates that Trump’s approval rating is slipping in areas most affected by Covid-19. Some small businesses received just in pandemic relief loans, while wealthy elite members raked in millions. ICE says intl. students whose universities are moving to online-only teaching in the fall will be banned from entering the country & forced to leave if they’re already here. Vanessa Guillen’s remains have been found & unarguable evidence of foul play has finally been uncovered. District court rules the Dakota Access Pipeline is to be shutdown pending review. Trump won’t stop attacking Bubba Wallace. Ken Klippenstein on Twitter beef w/ Elon Musk & the potential links between the Musk & Jeffrey Epstein.
3x132 - July 8, 2020
July 8, 2020
A new academic model predicts that if we keep to our current path, the U.S. will experience more than 208k Covid-19 deaths by November 2020. Brian Kilmeade actually pushed back when WH spokesperson Hogan Gidley claimed life is “undoubtedly” better now than it was in 2016. The Trump Admin formally signals the US withdrawal from WHO. Trump wants schools reopened and is threatening to cut funding if he doesn’t get his way. Tucker Carlson not only wants schools to reopen in the fall, he also doesn’t want ANY pandemic-prevention measures to be implemented. SCOTUS upholds the Trump Admin’s decision to allow employers to decide whether or not their employees are given access to birth control coverage. WH Trade Advisor Peter Navarro claims that he simply does not “see race.” Judith Matloff LIVE on her new book, How to Drag a Body and Other Safety Tips You Hope to Never Need, and how being well-prepared can help you manage all of life’s crises, from natural disasters to personal loss and grief.
3x133 - July 9, 2020
July 9, 2020
SCOTUS rules that Trump can't block the release of his financial records from prosecutors-but documents may still be barred from the public until after the election, at the very least. Angered by the ruling, he tweeted his disdain in all caps. Healthcare workers on the frontlines of the pandemic are still in dire need of PPE; but the WH is claiming concerns over shortages are overblown. The #DefundThePolice movement sparked by George Floyd’s murder & the protests that ensued have had a significant impact on American attitudes surrounding race. The far-right’s latest tactic of ramming their vehicles through crowds of peaceful protesters is becoming increasingly popular, w/ over 50 of these attacks having occurred in just the past few weeks. Debra Messing thought she could win a debate w/ Nina Turner. Ramsey Denison on his latest film Money Machine, which examines the 2017 Vegas mass shooting, exposing the corporate & political corruption that covered up the incident in its aftermath.
3x134 - July 10, 2020
July 10, 2020
Trump says he “aced” a recent cognitive test and claimed that the doctors were “very surprised.” Trump has been kind of sulky recently, so his aides have been trying to cheer him up with big trucks and video mashups of his “adoring fans.” There might be a second round of stimulus checks --but the GOP is working hard to restrict those eligible to receive the financial aid. Florida has now become one of the biggest Covid-19 hotspots, but that won’t stop GOP Gov. DeSantis from pushing for schools to reopen in the fall. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Trauma therapist Ashley McGirt LIVE on how black therapists have been working overtime since George Floyd’s murder by police, the concept of racial trauma and how it so often goes ignored in the field of psychology.
3x135 - July 13, 2020
July 13, 2020
Trump wore a mask. Trump Admin. are still hell-bent on peddling conspiracy theories about Covid-19 as part of his re-election strategy. GOP takes home the gold medal in mental gymnastics this week as Trump wears a mask & they fall over themselves complimenting him. NYC records no new Covid deaths in 24h for the first time since March, while Florida becomes the world’s latest hotspot. Trump commutes Roger Stone’s sentence. Top Tucker Carlson Tonight writer resigns after being caught racist & sexist on online forums. As Puerto Rico struggled to handle Hurricane Maria’s devastation w/ little to no federal aid, Trump was asking advisors whether the U.S. might be able to “sell” the territory. Kenya Evelyn on how young people of color face an increased risk of contracting Covid-19 & Virginia passing the Crown Act, a law intended to protect Black Americans from hair discrimination. Chuck Rocha on Biden vs. Trump, the importance of the Latino vote & his experience as Senior Advisor to Bernie.
3x136 - July 14, 2020
July 14, 2020
The Trump re-election strategy and current WH position when it comes to dealing with historic unemployment is for you to go and “find something new.” Dr. Fauci has started to speak out against the WH, pointing out its obvious failures in tackling Covid-19 --and Trump and his team are not happy about it at all. The first federal execution in 17 years was carried out in Indiana this morning after a 5-4 SCOTUS decision cleared the way. Tucker Carlson is being sent on the classic Fox-News-host-post-scandal “vacation” after one of his top writers resigned for being racist and sexist online. Tucker Carlson can’t quite make his mind up about masks. Exclusive: is the US military using Twitch as a newfound means of recruitment? Mario Alejandro Ariza LIVE on his new book Disposable City, which examines Miami’s present and future as the reality of the climate crisis looms over the city.
3x137 - July 15, 2020
July 15, 2020
The Trump Admin. is now taking full control over Covid-19 data, ensuring all information used to track the pandemic is withheld from the public and stripping the CDC of its most basic responsibility. Trump’s interview with CBS news yesterday featured him claiming we’re over-testing for Covid-19, attacking BLM and defending the use of the confederate flag. Biden has released a new, more ambitious climate plan --but does it go far enough? Geraldo Rivera is, for some reason, defending Ghislaine Maxwell. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt was vocal in supporting Trump’s Tulsa rally a few weeks ago… and surprise, surprise: after attending the event, he’s now tested positive for Covid-19.
3x138 - July 16, 2020
July 16, 2020
GOP’s debate over masks is in full swing, as GA Gov. Brian Kemp suspends mask mandates in the state, fmr. WH Dr. Ronny Jackson claims he doesn’t wear masks “that often,” & Brian Kilmeade is confused at why masks even exist. How to deal w/ bad faith actors in politics? The right-wing is pushing the narrative that kids are “immune” to Covid, despite no data existing to back that up. Woman who refused to wear a mask at Starbucks claims she deserves half of the 100k her barista raised for refusing to serve her. Trump dumps campaign manager Brad Parscale & replaces w/ aide Bill Stepien. Advanced Covert Technology is selling Inspector-Gadget-like spy equipment to law enforcement. Bari Weiss resigns & no one cares. New anti-Trump ad highlights the President’s… weaknesses. Rep. Ro Khanna on co-chairing the CA delegation at the upcoming DNC, second stimulus package that’s possibly in the works, as well as Trump forcing schools to reopen in the fall & seizing control over all Covid-related data.
3x139 - July 17, 2020
July 17, 2020
Trump has deployed federal officers to Portland to crack down on BLM protesters & videos depicting the violence show a terrifying abuse of executive power. SCOTUS rules in favor of disenfranchising felons as the general election approaches. RBG announces a recurrence of cancer but says she is undergoing treatment & will remain on the Court. Kayleigh McEnany’s WH briefing folder is exposed and… it’s even more ridiculous than you think. The “debate” over reopening schools in the fall is still in full swing, despite polling indicating that a substantial majority of Americans don’t support the effort. Trump’s approval rating drops as Covid-19 continues to ravage the nation. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett & you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. David Dayen on his new book, Monopolized: Life in the Age of Corporate Power, in which he examines the pivotal effect of corporate monopolies & offers ideas on how we can fight back against them.
3x140 - July 20, 2020
July 20, 2020
Civil Rights icon Rep. John Lewis passed away on Friday at 80 years old. Trump’s interview with Chris Wallace was a mess, featuring Trump pretending that Covid-19 is a case of the “sniffles,” claiming that masks “cause problems too,” and insisting that the cognitive test he passed was “very hard.” Portland protesters are being attacked and kidnapped by unmarked federal officers --and Trump wants to deploy these forces in other major U.S. cities too. Federal Judge Esther Salas was attacked last night in a deadly shooting at her home that resulted in her son being murdered and her husband being critically wounded. Trump is still sad so his aides are trying to cheer him up in the best way they know how… Trucks! Big, heavy, trucks! John Jackson LIVE on the Schott Foundation’s Loving Cities index and how we can dismantle systemic racism and build loving, caring systems.
3x141 - July 21, 2020
July 21, 2020
A tribute to Michael Brooks, host of The Michael Brooks Show and The Majority Report, as well as a close friend of the TYT Network, who passed away yesterday. Fox News and hosts Ed Henry, Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and more are being sued for workplace harassment. As the lawsuit is made public, Carlson’s “pre-planned” vacation following his head writer’s resignation for being a white supremacist online now doesn’t seem so “pre-planned.” AOC will introduce legislation requiring federal law enforcement officials to clearly identify themselves. AOC was accosted by GOP Rep. Yoho, who was overheard calling her “disgusting.” More information is uncovered about the attack on Judge Salas’ home.
3x142 - July 22, 2020
July 22, 2020
Trump’s insane press conferences are back, but this time with a twist. Kellyanne Conway pretends Trump has always been pro-mask. The media fawns over Trump’s “change of tone” when it comes to Covid-19, ignoring how he’s gone back and forth about the seriousness of the pandemic since its very inception. Trump’s links to Jeffrey Epstein are even more suspicious as he wishes “well” to Ghislaine Maxwell. Geraldo Rivera seems to really want to defend Ghislaine Maxwell as well. The DHS Sec. defends the “pro-active” arrests and significant abuse of power against Portland protesters. Sen. Tom Cotton and Sean Hannity have...opinions about what’s going on in Portland. GOP Rep. Ted Yoho refuses to apologize to AOC. Ihssane Leckey LIVE on bringing progressive priorities to MA-4 and how she plans to take over Rep. Kennedy III’s previous seat.
3x143 - July 23, 2020
July 23, 2020
Trump brags about remembering 5 words IN ORDER. As secret police continue to terrorize Portland, Trump announces he will send more federal forces to cities across America. Trump again tries to weaponize the census. Dr. Fauci’s Senate testimony debunked a whole bunch of Trump’s favorite lies about Covid-19. Trump’s record on masks has been inconsistent to say the least --but Kellyanne Conway doesn’t seem to think so. Joni Ernst says she would vote to confirm a lame-duck SCOTUS judge --even if Trump loses. AOC does not accept Rep. Yoho’s fake apology for accosting her on the Capitol steps, but she does thank him for being a perfect example of modern-day misogyny. With the per-week added unemployment benefits due to expire, Congress considers a measly weekly benefit for struggling Americans. Bob The Drag Queen LIVE on intersectional activism, the importance of the Black Queer experience, and her new HBO show, We’re Here.
3x144 - July 24, 2020
July 24, 2020
In a press conference about Covid-19 yesterday, Trump ignored the severity of the pandemic yet again --despite the fact that more than 1000 deaths a day were reported for the 3rd day in a row. COVID-19 continues to cripple healthcare systems across America. The Cook Political Report forecasts clearer skies for Democratic candidates across the US --but Trump crony Hogan Didley claims all polling that doesn’t show Trump winning is “fake” anyway. Trump wants to deploy unmarked federal law enforcement officers nationwide, seeing Portland as a model for other states. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Professor Juliet Schor explains how the sharing economy can be made more equitable.
3x145 - July 27, 2020
July 27, 2020
GOP Senator Tom Cotton clams up on Fox & Friends after being asked about his comments calling slavery a “necessary evil”. Millions of renters across the country are under threat of losing their homes as the federal moratorium on eviction expires. While Texas is ravaged by COVID-19, Ted Cruz goes on CBS to remind his future waiters that he believes workers don’t deserve a continuation of the extra a week unemployment benefits. The manager was rightfully called in at a Walmart in Minnesota after a couple wore Nazi flags over their faces to protest the state’s mask order. Melania has decided to do her part during these difficult times by...revamping the White House rose garden. Baseball’s big return has struck out after a COVID-19 breakout hit 14 players and coaches on the Miami Marlins. Reporter and podcast host Terrell Starr speaks to John about his new podcast Black Diplomats.
3x146 - July 28, 2020
July 28, 2020
As eviction moratoriums are lifted nationwide, Black & Latino households are at higher risk of losing their homes. Trump’s new favorite doctor, Stella Immanuel, is a pediatrician & religious minister who spews COVID-19 conspiracies & once claimed the Disney Channel show Hannah Montana was a “gateway to evil”. An hour before Dr. Fauci threw out the first pitch at the Yankees season opener, Trump falsely claimed on Twitter that he had been asked to do so. Yankee officials called foul. On Monday the DNC Platform Committee rejected several proposed amendments. Fort Hood still hasn't taken repsonsibilioty for the violent murder of Vanessa Guillén. GOP Senate Candidate David Perdue has released a blatantly anti-semitic advertisement depicting his opponent Jon Ossoff w/ an enlarged nose. A new ad highlights the administration’s utter failure to stop the spread of the virus in Texas. Professor Jonathan Metzl talks about his new piece, “Trump’s Pandemic Attack on the Affordable Care Act”.
3x147 - July 29, 2020
July 29, 2020
1,144 COVID deaths were reported yesterday as Trump’s approval continues to fall far below that of Dr. Fauci & Dr. Birx. After refusing to wear a mask during a house judiciary hearing, Louie Gohmert’s tested positive for COVID. A German study has found that COVID can cause serious heart damage even in relatively young COVID patients. While schools around the country consider how to reopen safely, a South Korean study found that middle & high school kids are just as likely to infect others w/ the virus as adults. A Pew Research study has found that less-educated Americans are more likely to find truth in COVID conspiracy theories. NYC has become the latest city to see Federal Law Enforcement Officers trample on citizen’s civil liberties. AOC has introduced a pair of amendments that would bar the US military from using funding to maintain a recruiting presence in US public schools or on streaming platforms like Twitch. Charles Booker discusses his new organization, Hood to the Holler.
3x148 - July 30, 2020
July 30, 2020
President Trump floats the idea of delaying the election, despite not having the authority to do so. Former presidential candidate Herman Cain has died after contracting Coronavirus. Louie Gohmert hasn’t let COVID-19 stop him from being terrible. It’s been a mixed news week for those living the “Suburban Lifestyle Dream”, as Trump overrides an Obama-era fair housing rule, and AOC immediately introduces a pair of amendments blocking the rollback. Republicans in Congress are willing to leave millions uncounted in this year’s census, rushing to meet this year’s October deadline. Manny Fidel explains how Fox News uses White Supremacist rhetoric. Fred Guttenberg discusses the new documentary, “Parkland Rising”.
3x149 - July 31, 2020
July 31, 2020
Donald Trump’s new love of masks may stem from COVID-19 hitting Republican-lead states, or “our people”, as a senior administration official called them. Trump’s campaign has been forced to rethink their messaging strategy as Biden’s March tweets remind voters the kind of tweets a president should have been sending out back at the beginning of the pandemic. Despite being a mail-in voter himself, Trump doubles down on discrediting the practice. Ted Cruz puts on his human suit to talk about masks. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week.
3x150 - August 3, 2020
August 3, 2020
Just one day after Trump floated the idea of postponing the November election, the White House condemned Hong Kong’s decision to do so. White House officials refuse to say if Donald Trump will accept the results of the election. Steve Mnuchin and Larry Kudlow continue to misunderstand the purpose of added unemployment benefits. A new study out of Yale shows that those receiving added benefits returned to work at similar rates as those not receiving benefits. Nancy Pelosi and Donald Trump go after Dr. Deborah Birx as COVID-19 cases rise across the country. After previously calling the use of masks “dehumanizing”, Judge Jeanine Pirro is all-in on mask wearing. The GOP considers the future of their party post-Trump. AOC’s effort to ban military recruitment on sites like Twitch continues to gather steam. Lizz Winstead talks about her organization, Abortion Access Front.
3x151 - August 4, 2020
August 4, 2020
Donald Trump BRINGS THE CHARTS to his insane interview with Axios. The source of a huge explosion in Beirut is under investigation. Police in Aurora, Colorado have been forced to apologize after handcuffing and drawing their weapons on a woman with her young daughter and nieces. A new ad highlights Trump’s horrible treatment of female journalists. Max Burns discusses Trump’s efforts to meddle in the 2020 election.
3x152 - August 5, 2020
August 5, 2020
Justice Democrat Cori Bush becomes the latest progressive to pull off a primary victory. Reports of Rashida Tlaib’s demise have proven to be greatly exaggerated. Despite being a mail-in-voter himself, Trump continues his attack on the practice in an interview with Fox & Friends. Democrats in Congress continue to negotiate with Republicans and the White House over increased unemployment and moratoriums on evictions. In some entirely unsurprising news, a new book has revealed Jeffrey Epstein was a member of Mar-A-Lago. As the race for a Coronavirus vaccine intensifies, former Fox host Jeanine Pirro makes it very clear her love of masks does not extend to a potential vaccine. Dave Levinthal discusses why Trump’s top donor in 2016 has decided not to support his reelection. Habib Buttah joins us from Lebanon to report on the current situation in Beirut.
3x153 - August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
As of this morning, nearly 5 million people in the US have tested positive for COVID-19. A new poll shows that roughly 50% of white voters would vote to re-elect Trump if the election was held today. Donald Trump claims to have done more for the Black community than any President since Lincoln. Meanwhile on Fox, Trump’s lawyer Rudy Giuliani calls Black Lives Matter a “domestic terrorist group”. New research shows that Americans in the lowest quintile of income have suffered 3 times as many job losses as those who make the highest incomes. Dr. Bandy Lee shares her thoughts on Trump’s cognitive test. Ken Klippenstein joins to discuss his latest piece for The Nation.
3x154 - August 7, 2020
August 7, 2020
Donald “Two Corinthians” Trump attacks lifelong Catholic Joe Biden calling him, “against god”. Larry Kudlow’s past comments on COVID-19’s potential effect on the economy come back to haunt him. Right wing media continue their ill-fated campaign to portray Biden as the president of ANTIFA. Trump seizes on Biden’s latest gaffe about diversity in the Black community. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage People of the Week. Jason Harrow discusses age discrimination in vote-by-mail.
3x155 - August 10, 2020
August 10, 2020
Trump signs an executive order slashing unemployment benefits by and forcing cash-strapped states to pick up 25% of the tab. Larry Kudlow has no idea what’s actually in the order. The White House’s 2020 budget proposal aims to cut spending on Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare. Trump takes credit for Veterans Choice legislation signed by President Obama. New reports reveal social media companies have been giving preferential treatment to prominent conservative accounts. Joe Biden’s VP selection is winding down and heating up. Fox News parrots Donald Trump’s misinformation regarding kids contracting Covid. Peppermint joins to discuss Trans activism and the Black queer experience.
3x156 - August 11, 2020
August 11, 2020
As of Monday, over 163,000 Americans have died from COVID-19. Kayleigh McEnany insists Donald Trump’s executive orders are nothing like the ones Trump criticized Obama for signing. Communities across the country are at risk of being misrepresented in this year’s census. The Trump administration is expected to lift Obama-era restrictions on the release of Methane. Republicans freak out over reports that the Big 10 is likely to cancel their fall football season. The “cool kids philosopher”, Ben Shapiro, inexplicably performs WAP to make a point about feminism??? Anti-mask crusaders continue to harass essential workers across the country. Cathy Kunkel joins to discuss her campaign for WV-02.
3x157 - August 12, 2020
August 12, 2020
Trump courts the votes of “suburban housewives” by touting his repeal of a housing discrimination rule. Kamala Harris is announced as Joe Biden’s vice presidential pick: reaction ensues. Ilhan Omar becomes the latest progressive to win her primary against an opponent with a sizable cash advantage. David Kim joins to discuss his campaign for California’s 34th congressional seat.
3x158 - August 13, 2020
August 13, 2020
The Trump administration doubles down on their efforts to sabotage the Postal Service. In comparing the US’s COVID-19 infection rates to other countries, Trump highlights the United States’ abject failure to control the virus. Although he publicly pushed the DOJ to investigate Joe Biden, Rudy Giuliani claims the US would turn into a “banana republic” if a President Biden were to pursue criminal charges against Trump. Trump calls into Fox to call AOC “a poor student” and Kamala Harris “a mad woman”. The DNC has given AOC a generous 60 seconds to speak at the DNC. Andrew Yang has been added to the speaker’s list after outcry. Whoever’s running the late Herman Cain’s twitter account is honoring his memory by tweeting out Biden attack ads. Journalist Jesselyn Cook joins to discuss her new article for The Huffington Post.
3x159 - August 14, 2020
August 14, 2020
With Americans across the US at risk for hunger, eviction, job loss, and um, CORONAVIRUS(!), the Senate decides to take a vacation. As Trump’s approval rating tanks, a new poll shows the top reason Biden supporters give for voting for him is that he’s not Trump. A new ad from the Biden campaign hits the President hard on his lack of leadership on COVID-19. In Massachusetts, Progressive Senator Ed Markey increases his lead over Democratic Golden Boy Joe Kennedy. TELL YA FATHA! Epic Games, the company that owns Fortnite, is at war with Apple after encouraging users to bypass Apple’s payment system. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week. Dolores Huerta joins to discuss what’s at stake this November.
3x160 - August 17, 2020
August 17, 2020
Trump won’t negotiate a new stimulus deal because in his opinion, “The country’s doing very well right now.” Nancy Pelosi is calling house members back into session over concerns about the Postal Service. The White House is blatantly attempting to delegitimize November’s election. A complaint filed in Texas alleges guards in an El Paso immigrant detention center routinely sexually assaulted and harassed detainees. A new CNN poll shows Joe Biden with a narrow lead over Donald Trump. Could Melania be on #TeamJoe?
3x161 - August 18, 2020
August 18, 2020
The first night of the DNC included great speeches from Bernie Sanders and Michelle Obama and some not-so-great speeches from Republicans. Trump repeats his 2016 claim that he will only lose if the election is rigged. At an event honoring Susan B. Anthony, Trump suggests the election might have to be held again if universal mail-in-voting is implemented. Schools across the country are sending kids back home after COVID-19 outbreaks. Jared Kushner sees 170,000 dead Americans as a success. At a rally on Monday, Trump admitted his decision to move the American Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem was, “for the evangelicals”. Tamara Toles O’Laughlin joins to talk about 350.org’s work in the lead up to November’s election. Jackson White discusses his app Politiscope.
3x162 - August 19, 2020
August 19, 2020
AOC’s DNC-sanctioned remarks at night two of the convention have been misrepresented by many in the media. After widespread outcry, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has suspended his campaign to weaken the Post Office. The Trump administration has finalized its plan to open up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas development. A new USC poll looks at how voters have evolved since 2016. Trump pays tribute to his late brother by talking about himself. Tucker Carlson is triggered by Michelle Obama and Cardi B. Adam Eichen discusses how Congress is bailing out lobbying groups.
3x163 - August 20, 2020
August 20, 2020
Nancy Pelosi endorses Joe Kennedy in his Senate race against progressive incumbent Ed Markey. Donald Trump FREAKS OUT over Obama’s speech at the DNC. Kamala Harris accepts the vice presidential nomination. Despite the FBI declaring QAnon as a possible domestic terrorism threat, Trump and his family continue to promote QAnon conspiracy tweets. Facebook has announced their plans to regulate QAnon activity on their platforms. Steve Bannon becomes the third of Trump’s former campaign managers to be arrested (and on a boat no less!). At least 20% of American meatpackers may have contracted coronavirus. Trump’s former DHS chief of staff recalls how Trump suggested selling “dirty” Puerto Rico in order to buy Greenland. Congressman Ro Khanna joins to discuss his decision to vote no on the DNC's platform.
3x164 - August 21, 2020
August 21, 2020
Biden’s speech at the DNC impressed even those at Fox News. Meanwhile at a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump ranted about removing seals to save sharks (?) and complained about the water pressure in the WH showers. A new poll shows a majority of Biden and Trump voters would not change their vote for anything. Steve Bannon could NOT have been more obvious about his crimes if he tried. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett, and you (yes,you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week. Natalia Antonova joins to discuss the situation in Belarus.
3x165 - August 24, 2020
August 24, 2020
The RNC begins today after the party voted to adopt the same platform it ran on in 2016. Of those scheduled to speak, half are Trumps. Protests have broken out in Wisconsin after footage released by the city of Kenosha shows a Black man being shot in the back by police. Jacob Blake was getting in his car with his 3 sons when officers opened fire. 75% of Republicans think the US is in BETTER condition than it was 4 years ago, with 57% of GOP voters believing that the nearly 180,000 COVID-19 death toll is acceptable. Multiple outlets are reporting that the president is pushing the FDA to approve an unproven British vaccine for release before the election. As her daughter tweets about starting the process of emancipating herself, Kellyanne Conway announces she is leaving the White House to spend more time with her children. Thom Hartmann discusses his new book, The Hidden History of Monopolies.
3x166 - August 25, 2020
August 25, 2020
Happy Tuesday woketopians! The RNC’s first night kicked off with some truly wild (and LOUD) speeches from Kimberly Guilfoyle and her boyfriend. The criminals who threatened peaceful protestors in St. Louis gave Cori Bush a shoutout. Jacob Blake, the man shot in the back several times by police in Wisconsin, is in serious but stable condition. A new CBS poll shows only 5% of Republicans plan to vote for Joe Biden, a lower number than those GOP voters who supported Obama and Hilary Clinton. Over the weekend, police in Portland decided to step back as far-right groups attacked and intimidated anti-fascism protesters. Varshini Prakash joins to discuss her new book, Winning The Green New Deal.
3x167 - August 26, 2020
August 26, 2020
Police in Kenosha, WI have confirmed 2 people have died and a third has been injured after being shot during protests. This comes after militia groups called on their members to “take up arms” to defend the city. The second night of the RNC saw violations of CDC guidelines and The Hatch Act. Many news networks have dedicated significantly more airtime to the RNC vs. last week’s DNC. COVID-19 outbreaks are hitting newly reopened schools across the country. Protestors in DC confronted diners outside a restaurant in the Columbia Heights neighborhood. Rashad Robinson and Xander Schultz discuss their new campaign, Defeat By Tweet.
3x168 - August 27, 2020
August 27, 2020
Excuses are already being made for the 17-year-old arrested for first-degree murder in Kenosha. Mike Pence spoke to yet another unmasked crowd at night 3 of the RNC. Multiple sports leagues have postponed games after the Milwaukee Bucks refused to play their matchup in solidarity with Jacob Blake. The CDC has modified its guidelines to no longer recommend those who may have been exposed to the virus but are not yet showing symptoms be tested. Hurricane Laura has made landfall in Texas and Louisiana. Elie Mystal discusses his new article, “Could Wonder Woman Save Us From Covid-19?”.
3x169 - August 28, 2020
August 28, 2020
Trump closes the RNC on federal property with an hour-long speech in front of hundreds of maskless fans. Nancy Pelosi isn’t doing Joe Biden any favors by suggesting there should be no presidential debates. “Clean” comedian Jim Gaffigan explicitly denounces Trump on Twitter. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week. Donna Imam discusses her race for TX-31.
3x170 - August 31, 2020
August 31, 2020
Actor Chadwick Boseman has passed away at the age of 43 after a private battle with colon cancer. The President spent his weekend tweeting his support for Trump fans contributing to violence in Portland. Twitter has labeled a video tweeted out by House Minority Leader Steve Scalise as “manipulated media”. The video Scalise posted shows a conversation with Joe Biden and activist Ady Barkan, whose voice has been doctored to suggest Joe Biden supports defunding the police. One of Trump’s top medical advisors is pushing a “herd immunity” strategy to combat the pandemic. The late Herman Cain’s Twitter account has shared an article with disputed claims regarding the deadliness of coronavirus. An anti-masker at an Alaska Walmart threw a tantrum of biblical proportions. Alastair Gee discusses his latest article for The Guardian.
3x171 - September 1, 2020
September 1, 2020
Trump refuses to denounce Kyle Rittenhouse, the 17-year-old charged with the shooting death of two in Kenosha. In a wild interview with Fox’s Laura Ingraham, the President takes issue with the BRANDING of Black Lives Matter, promotes Antifa conspiracy theories and endorses a herd immunity strategy to combat COVID-19. Joe Biden asks, “Do I look like a radical socialist?”. Dave Levinthal joins to discuss his latest work for Business Insider.
3x172 - September 2, 2020
September 2, 2020
During his visit to Kenosha, Trump hosted a roundtable event where he urged attendees to take their masks off, refused to acknowledge widespread police violence, and used the word “choke”...a lot. Ed Markey has won his primary in Massachusetts, fending off a challenge from Congressman Joe Kennedy III. The rollout of funds from Trump’s August executive action has been slow to reach those in need. A new poll finds 50% of Americans are worried an unexpected health event could result in bankruptcy. Nancy Pelosi is caught violating San Francisco’s COVID-19 rules during a trip to a salon. A new book reveals previously unknown details about Trump’s visit to Walter Reed last September. Lindsey Ellefson discusses her latest work for TheWrap.
3x173 - September 3, 2020
September 3, 2020
Trump encourages voters in South Carolina to vote twice in order to test the state’s anti-fraud efforts. Attorney General William Barr doesn’t believe systemic racism exists in the American justice system. CDC Director Robert Redfield has asked governors and state health departments to waive requirements that would potentially slow the release of a COVID-19 vaccine. Facebook announced it will bar political ads on the platform in the week leading up to the election. 33% of Republicans believe the QAnon theory is mostly true, with another 23% believing at least some parts of the conspiracy.
3x174 - September 4, 2020
September 4, 2020
A bombshell new story in The Atlantic reveals Trump’s utter disrespect for American POWs and Service Members, who the president refers to as “losers" and “suckers”. As more sources come forward confirming the report, The White House denies everything. Two men have been charged with illegal possession of firearms in Wisconsin after traveling from Missouri to Kenosha to “pick people off.”. A new poll shows 44% of Americans believe it will take 6 months or more for things to get back to normal. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week. Kimberly Ambler-Jones discusses Justice for Javier.
3x175 - September 8, 2020
September 8, 2020
In a new book out today, Michael Cohen recounts years of racist and sexist incidents he witnessed as Trump’s former lawyer and “fixer”. The Trump White House continues to play defense after last week’s bombshell Atlantic article. Yet another “Gender Reveal” party has ended in a disastrous wildfire. A new report from the University of Washington predicts US deaths from COVID-19 will reach 410,000 by the end of 2020. Cardi B fires back after Candace Owens calls her “illiterate” during an interview with Ben Shapiro.
3x176 - September 9, 2020
September 9, 2020
In an unprecedented move, The Department of Justice has requested to defend the President in a defamation suit brought by E. Jean Carroll, who has accused Trump of rape. After protestors called for action in reaction to the death of Daniel Prude, Rochester Police Chief La’Ron Singletary has announced he will retire. With no evidence, Fox News continues to stoke fears of election fraud by Democrats. Meanwhile on Fox Business Network, Brian Kilmeade compares peaceful protestors to Al Qaeda. A closer look at coverage of progressives shows outlets routinely emphasize drama over facts.
3x177 - September 10, 2020
September 10, 2020
A new book by Bob Woodward reveals Trump purposefully downplayed the threat of the coronavirus. The president has added GOP Senators Ted Cruz and Tom Cotton to his list of possible Supreme Court nominees. At least 8 people have died as a result of raging wildfires on the West Coast. A former DHS official has filed a whistleblower complaint alleging he was told to stop reporting on Russian election meddling because it “made Trump look bad.” A new Trump ad attacks Joe Biden’s supporters.
3x178 - September 11, 2020
September 11, 2020
The NFL season opened with a touching display of unity between players and staff...and disrespectful boos from fans. Trump defends his comments to Bob Woodward by claiming he was “showing strength” and continuing to repeat misinformation about how the US fares in comparison to other countries. Meghan McCain claims Democrats and the Media are just as responsible as Trump for lying about COVID-19. Senate Republicans failed to pass their “skinny” coronavirus relief bill Thursday, falling 8 votes short of the 60 votes needed. Three federal judges in NY have ruled that Donald Trump’s order excluding undocumented immigrants from the census count is unlawful. Donald Trump Jr. gives the Kenosha shooter a pass. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who Brett, Ben, and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week.
3x179 - September 14, 2020
September 14, 2020
Over the weekend, nearly 6,000 unmasked Trump supporters crammed into an indoor campaign rally in Nevada, violating the state’s emergency directives. During an interview with Jeanine Pirro, Trump voiced his approval of the U.S. marshals who fatally shot an unarmed man suspected of killing a Trump supporter. At least 35 people have died in the fires that continue to engulf large parts of California, Oregon, and Washington state. The Trump labour department has fined a meatpacking plant a measly ,615 after it failed to protect its workers from COVID. Bernie Sanders urges the Biden campaign to embrace policies popular with younger liberals.
3x180 - September 15, 2020
September 15, 2020
An anti-mask rally in Utah brought together a variety of insane COVID-19 conspiracies. A new study reveals the earth is on track to hit a warming threshold not seen in over 34 million years. A Facebook post made by Louisiana congressman Clay Higgins has been removed after Higgins threatened to “eliminate the threat” of Black militia groups. A whistleblower at an ICE detention facility has accused doctors underreporting cases of COVID-19. Federal authorities are investigating the death of Ronald Greene, a Black man who died in police custody last year. Jason Stanley discusses how Republicans used fascist rhetoric at the RNC.
3x181 - September 16, 2020
September 16, 2020
At an ABC town hall, Trump struggles to answer questions from voters and claims coronavirus will go away on its own. On Fox, Laura Ingraham calls the whole affair an DNC orchestrated “ambush”. ICE Whistleblower Dawn Wooten speaks to Chris Hayes about the unnecessary hysterectomies she witnessed at a facility in Georgia. Anti-maskers in Florida invade a Target, calling for patrons to “take it off!”
3x182 - September 17, 2020
September 17, 2020
Attorney General Bill Barr calls coronavirus lockdowns the “‘greatest intrusion on civil liberties’ since slavery.” CDC Director Robert Redfield testifies in front of the Senate about the importance of masks and a likely vaccine timeline. Almost immediately, Trump goes to the press room to dispute Dr. Redfield’s testimony. Top Democrats are privately urging the Biden campaign to consider physical canvassing efforts. Earlier this summer, military police considered using a “heat ray” to disperse protestors in D.C. A new ad from Meidas Touch highlights how #TrumpLied200kDied. In an appearance on CNN, Samantha Cohen calls “creepy” comments Trump made about her when she was 15. Nicki Blake Chafetz joins to discuss police brutality.
3x183 - September 18, 2020
September 18, 2020
Despite not having jurisdiction over school curriculum, Trump announces the creation of the 1776 Commission to promote “patriotic education”. A judge in Washington State has ruled that the changes to the Post Office brought by Postmaster DeJoy constitute “an intentional effort on the part of the current Administration to disrupt and challenge the legitimacy of upcoming local, state, and federal elections.” A former Pence aide and member of the Coronavirus task force has said she will vote for Joe Biden. The NYT reports CDC testing guidelines saying people without symptoms don’t need to get tested for COVID-19 was published against scientists’ objections. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week.Norma Mendoza Denton discusses her new book, Language in the Trump Era: Scandals and Emergencies.
3x184 - September 21, 2020
September 21, 2020
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has died at age 87. Despite blocking President Obama’s Supreme Court nominee in an election year, Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell vowed in a statement on Friday night that “President Trump’s nominee will receive a vote on the floor of the United States Senate". As two Republicans come out against confirming a nominee before the election, Democrats say no option is off the table in their fight to block Trump. During a rally in Minnesota, Trump launches attacks on Congresswoman of color and praises the “good genes” of people in Minnesota. A new Biden ad hopes to sway voters with the promise of never hearing from Trump again. Angelica Duenas discusses her campaign for CA-29th.
3x185 - September 22, 2020
September 22, 2020
Senator Mitt Romney has announced he will support a vote on Trump’s Supreme Court Nominee. U.S. Covid-19 deaths surpass 200,000. The CDC has removed information from its website that confirms Coronavirus spreads through airborne transmission. Florida Governor and Trump devotee Ron DeSantis has introduced legislation targeting protestors and cities that “defund the police.” AOC hits back at GOP Candidate and former QANON loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene after Greene tweeted that AOC “...put an end to all ‘dumb blonde’ jokes.” New reporting from The Washington Post reveals that shortly after Congress passed the Cares Act, the Pentagon began directing pandemic-related money to defense contractors. Jeremy Logan joins to discuss his arrest by unidentified police in Spokane, WA.
3x186 - September 23, 2020
September 23, 2020
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court rules that mail-in ballots cannot be counted if they are not returned in the proper envelope. In a state where Trump won by a margin of only 44,292 votes, the new rule could cause more than 100,000 mail-in votes to be rejected. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar responds to the President after he attacked her during yet another rally. A bombshell report from the Washington Post reveals Trump’s racist and anti-semitic comments. Former Florida AG Pam Bondi goes on Hannity to defend Kenosha killer Kyle Rittenhouse. A new ad from Meidas Touch highlights Kayleigh McEnany’s lies on Coronavirus. Floreo CEO Vijay Ravindran joins to discuss his work to deliver VR therapy to those with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
3x187 - September 24, 2020
September 24, 2020
Trump refuses to commit to a peaceful transfer of power after the election. New reporting details how the Trump campaign is actively preparing to steal the election. Protests have broken out in Louisville over the decision not to charge any officers over the killing of Breonna Taylor. A study by CitiGroup shows America could have been trillion richer if not for inequities between Black and White Americans. A resolution honoring the death of RBG has failed in the Senate after Ted Cruz objected to a line about her dying wish.
3x188 - September 25, 2020
September 25, 2020
Polls out from Fox showing Biden leading put the President on the defensive. Senator Cory Booker’s only plan to stop the Republicans from appointing a Supreme Court Justice is to, “appeal to the GOP's sense of decency”. Congressman Ro Khanna proposes 18 year term limits for Supreme Court Justices. A new poll has Biden leading Trump by double digits with seniors, a cohort no Democrat has won in 2 decades. A Seattle police officer has been put on leave after running over an injured protestor with his bike. It’s time to take out the trash! Find out who John, Brett and you (yes, you!) picked as the Garbage Person of the week.
3x189 - September 28, 2020
September 28, 2020
New reporting by The New York Times reveals Donald Trump paid a measly in federal income taxes the year he won the presidency. Tax documents obtained by The Times show a pattern of Trump declaring high losses to avoid paying any taxes. As the political world reacts, the President freaks out on Twitter. Conservative favorite Amy Coney Barrett has been named as President Trump’s 3rd Supreme Court Nominee. If confirmed, Barrett would likely strip healthcare protections brought by the ACA. Early voting data suggests Democrats are turning out in bigger numbers than their Republican counterparts.
3x190 - September 29, 2020
September 29, 2020
White House Deputy Press Secretary Brian Morgenstern short circuits defending Trump’s taxes on CNN. A judge in Kentucky has ordered the release of grand jury recordings in the Breonna Taylor case. Data obtained by Channel 4 news shows the Trump 2016 campaign compiled files on nearly 200 million American voters. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has vowed to defy a judge's order to continue the Census through the end of October. The USPS has admitted to an “inexplicable error’ in updating 1.8 million changes of address. Registered Independent Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has endorsed Joe Biden for president.
3x191 - September 30, 2020
September 30, 2020
During a dumpster fire of a debate last night, Donald Trump told extremist group the Proud Boys to, “stand by and stand back.” White Supremacist groups celebrate the president’s refusal to condemn their ideology. Biden goes out of his way to remind viewers how UNprogressive he is. Polls show viewers found Trump’s behavior “crackhead” like. Former aides to the President reveal he privately mocks his Christian supporters. Trump Max Burns joins to discuss the coronavirus Senate hearings.