Counterpunch Radio

This week Eric welcomes author and journalist David Dayen to the show to discuss his recent investigation into ICE contractors and his coverage of the anti-ICE activist groups around the country. Eric and David discuss the privatized detention and deportation system, and how corporate profits and impunity are driving the child separation and domestic removal policies. From there, David provides some insights into the courageous and determined activist groups and local movements that are fighting back against Trump and the entire immigration machine. The second half of the conversation takes a look back 10 years after the subprime housing crisis. David, who literally wrote the book on the human costs of that crisis, explains how little has changed since 2008. Eric and David discuss everything from those impacted in 2008 to the changing nature of the housing market post-2008 which has shut out millions in favor of Wall Street. All this and a lot more in this week's CounterPunch Radio. Don't miss it!

This week Eric sits down with education and labor activist and Green Party candidate for Lt. Governor of New York, Jia Lee. Eric and Jia explore everything from the neoliberal assault on education to the disaster capitalism at work in Puerto Rico. The conversation begins with a discussion about the ways in which Wall Street and billion-dollar corporations are privatizing and capitalizing public education while undermining teachers unions and destroying teaching as a profession. From there, Jia discusses her experiences this past summer in Puerto Rico, and how the devastation post Hurricane Maria mirrors what we've seen in New Orleans and elsewhere. The last part of the interview focuses on the campaign, the relevance of an issue-centered "activist" campaign, and the need for unity in the face of this right wing attack. All this and so much more on the latest CounterPunch Radio. Music: The Orwells - "Who Needs You"

This week Eric welcomes to the show Israeli dissident, activist, and co-founder of Boycott from Within, Ronnie Barkan, to discuss the current situation in Palestine, some of the important history that has led to the current moment, and various forms of resistance to Israeli oppression and apartheid. The conversation begins with an exploration of Jewish society and the distinctions between liberal Zionists and the right-wing Zionists, the importance of the Israeli legal system in upholding apartheid, and much more. Ronnie provides some critical insights into nuances of Israeli law and society to highlight how deep the brainwashing and propaganda of the Israeli state has penetrated. Eric and Ronnie discuss the recent passage of the Israeli "Nationality Law" and what it means for the future of Arab-Israelis and, especially, Palestinians both in Palestine and the diaspora. Ronnie also explores the importance of Ahed Tamimi, and how her heroic resistance has led to a crisis in Israeli social discourse. Finally, Ro

This week Eric welcomes author and Yale professor Jason Stanley to discuss his brand new book How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them. The conversation opens with a discussion of the motivation for writing the book, and what "Us" and "Them" means for understanding fascist politics of the past and today. From there, Eric and Jason touch on some of the key elements of fascism discussed in the book while providing examples of how those ideas are being expressed in the context of Trumpism and the global march to the far right. The second half of the conversation touches on other examples internationally, from Salvini in Italy to Orban in Hungary to Netanyahu in Israel, fascism is here and must be understood. From nostalgia and mythology to the notion of shared, collective oppression, fascism is rearing its ugly head all over the world. This in depth interview and new book should provide the tools we need to understand and fight it. Music: Chumbawamba - "Bella Ciao"

This week Eric welcomes to the show award-wining journalist Barrett Brown to discuss his recent and very public falling out with Julian Assange, his perspective on Wikileaks and the role of Assange within it, and his exciting new Pursuance Project. The first half of the conversation explores Brown's work, his relationship to Assange/Wikileaks, and the circumstances that led to Brown's serving four years in prison. Barrett explains how his conflict with Assange developed, and provides insights into some of the internal conflicts roiling Wikileaks now, and in the recent past. The second half of the show provides a detailed exploration of Pursuance: what the project is, why it's critically important, and how it could fundamentally transform journalism, among other things, in the 21st Century. This is an explosive, jam-packed show...don't miss it! Music: The Coup - "Laugh/Love/Fuck"

Warning: this interview between Louisa Willcox and actress and activist Margot Kidder could change your life. Margot was a brilliant spokesperson for the underdog and the dispossessed, who cared deeply about wilderness and the fate of the planet. Margie was also my friend, and one of the most generous, hilarious, smart and beautiful people I have ever met. Margie enjoyed a successful career acting, known, in particular, for her role as Lois Lane in the Superman Series alongside Christopher Reeves. This interview was done in December, 2016, shortly after Margie returned from unprecedented protests at the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation in North Dakota, aimed at stopping a pipeline from being built under the Missouri River. Within a week of this interview, the Trump administration ordered the razing of the protest site, forcible removal of all remaining protesters, and completion of the pipeline. The time then did not seem ripe to publish this piece, but Margie passed in May, 2018, and I feel that others could

This week Eric welcomes back to the show author and journalist Arun Gupta to discuss everything from being a journalist in the Trump era to immigration, trade wars, and the sorry state of analysis on the left today. The show begins with a discussion of the Trump news cycle, the importance of sticking to issues, and some banter about Russia and what is, or isn't, important to our political reality. From there, Eric and Arun discuss Trump's trade wars, and whether it's a brilliant move from a position of strength, or a dangerous play that could harm his political fortunes. The second half of the show focuses on immigration, and how the Trump Administration has used immigration "enforcement" as a form of ethnic cleansing. Also, Eric and Arun explore the obsession in some quarters of the left with Obama, and the new mantra of whataboutism that Obama has come to represent. So much covered in this wide-ranging interview. Don't miss it. *Note: Some minor audio issues just before the break, which last a few minutes.

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and academic Stan Malinowitz to discuss the recent elections in Colombia, among other important developments. The conversation begins with a rundown and analysis of the elections, including a profile of the two main candidates from the left and far right. Eric and Stan then discuss the recent wave of political assassinations, and what this means for the incoming administration and the people of Colombia. Additionally, Stan explains how neoliberalism manifests in Colombia, and how the economic situation will likely evolve under a far right wing government. The second half of the show focuses on Colombia's role in regional and international issues, including the news that Colombia will be an observer-member of NATO. Eric and Stan also compare and contrast the right wing victory in Colombia with the victory of left-populist AMLO in Mexico. From Venezuela and Brazil to Nicaragua and Mexico, Colombia is a central actor in nearly every regional issue, and as such, commands

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and academic Rob Larson to discuss his latest book "Capitalism vs. Freedom: The Toll Road to Serfdom" and the ideologies and politics that inspired it. Rob explains why he felt it was important to combat the pernicious influence of right wing economic ideas, and the discourse by which it is spread. Eric and Rob examine the origins of neoliberalism and modern far right economics, and how they were translated into policy, both domestically and internationally. The conversation explores ideas about the nature of freedom, the ruthless efficiency of capitalism and privatization, and the need for dictatorships to carry out right wing Friedmanite economic policies. The second half of the show discusses some contemporary political questions, whether the Trump administration is truly neoliberal, how anarcho-capitalists and neoliberals explain away the glaring holes in their theories, and so much more. Don't miss this wide-ranging discussion. Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism I

This week Eric welcomes to the show undocumented activist and organizer Aly Wane to discuss refugees and migration, the Trump Administration's policies at the border, and the political trajectory that brought us here. Aly and Eric discuss everything from the horrific, fascistic enforcement policy of the Orange Beast to the complicity of Democrats and liberals in creating the infrastructure that Trump now employs. The conversation explores the connection between the refugee/migration issue and US imperialism, and how that understanding is critical to building a true resistance movement. Aly provides valuable insights from his many years of activism, urging listeners and aspiring activists to mobilize and show true solidarity with the victims of the deportation machine. This wide-ranging interview should be heard by everyone who truly wants to learn from the experiences of our brothers and sisters most affected by this. Music: Linton Kwesi Johnson - "Fite Dem Back"

This time Eric welcomes to the show researcher and activist John Ackerman to discuss the upcoming Mexican elections, the issues at play, and the significance of these elections for the country and the region as a whole. The conversation begins with an in depth examination of the front-runner, left wing candidate Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), his policy proposals, and the challenges he'll face as president. Eric and John discuss where big capital fits into this, whether they're united in their support of a candidate, and what a prospective AMLO presidency means for Mexico's corporate elites. The second half of the show focuses on the regional political dynamics, and the importance of these elections for the whole of Latin America. From taming the dotard Trump to addressing endemic corruption, AMLO will have his hands full. And yet, he may very well be the hope of a resurgent left in Latin America. Don't miss this informative discussion on CounterPunch Radio Music: The Coup - "Ride the Fence"

This time Eric welcomes to the show scholar and activist Edna Bonhomme to discuss her research on Tunisia, and how that country - a flashpoint during the Arab Spring - has evolved since protests erupted in 2010. Edna explains how the country has undergone a process of militarization, and that the US and other western powers have been behind the military in its expansion. Eric and Edna touch on everything from the role of Tunisia in the migrant crisis, to the US AFRICOM initiative and how that manifests all over the African continent. The second half of the show explores the role of neoliberalism in Tunisia and North Africa, drawing historical parallels to other countries in the region including Egypt. Edna discusses some of the social gains made since 2010 as well forms of resistance emerging today and so much more. This wide-ranging discussion is well worth your time. Music: The Coup - "Laugh/Love/Fuck"

This week Eric welcomes to the show UK-based Iranian exile Yassamine Mather to discuss the latest developments in Iran and the Middle East. Eric and Yassamine begin with an analysis of the Iran nuclear agreement (JCPOA) and the decision by the Trump administration to violate the treaty. From there, the conversation explores some of the political, economic, and strategic context within which these latest events must be understood. Yassamine provides her perspective on the regional and global issues at play, especially against the backdrop of the war in Syria. The second half of the show explores the social unrest in Iran, and how the neocons and their allies would like to exploit it for regime change. Russia, Turkey, Lebanon, Hezbollah, ISIS, Saudi Arabia, and many other players occupy a spot on the chessboard. CounterPunch Radio is here to make the game understandable. Music: Blackalicious - "Black Diamonds and Pearls"

This time Eric welcomes back to the show Brazil-based journalist and researcher Mike Fox to discuss the latest political developments in that country as it witnesses social upheaval resulting from a political crisis. Mike and Eric discuss former President Lula's dramatic surrender to the government, what the social movements have done in defense of Lula and democracy, and what it means for the future of the movements and the country. Mike explains how we got to this point, the role of the Temer government and its grand strategy, and what to expect in the upcoming elections, including a right wing in ascendance as a Trump-like figure emerges. The conversation also touches on the recent assassination of a prominent activist and leader and how that is connected to everything happening in the country. So many topics covered in this wide-ranging conversation...don't miss it. Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism Is Love"

This time Eric welcomes to the show CounterPunch editors Jeffrey St. Clair and Joshua Frank to mark the 100th episode of the podcast as the bombs of WWIII fall around us. While Jeff and Eric record from deep in their respective strongholds, Josh remains foolishly above ground, open to the elements and nuclear bombs. Nevertheless, the show must go on, so Eric, Jeff and Josh discuss everything from Trump's bombs over Syria to Putinmania, from Democratic Party orcs to the Great Syria Meme War of 2017. The guys discuss CounterPunch's close encounters with fake news and fake personas, the fractures and/or collapse of the Left, the total evisceration of regulatory agencies under Trump, and why the Degenerate-in-Chief is more like Bill Clinton than Barack Obama or George Bush. This was a fun conversation, don't miss it! Music: Jackson Browne - "Lawyers in Love"

This week Eric welcomes back to the show Kobani-based political scientist and activist Hawzhin Azeez to discuss the Turkish invasion of Afrin, the general attack on Kurdish autonomy and sovereignty, the role of jihadis in this strategy, and so much more. The conversation begins with an analysis of the attack on Afrin (at time of recording, the main battle was still ongoing), and the Turkish motivations in doing so. From there, the Hawzhin and Eric touch on everything from anti-Kurdish propaganda from various quarters, the strategic calculus within which the Kurds are operating, and the role of foreign powers (US, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, etc). The second half of the discussion examines the response from the international left, media coverage of the war, and what concerned people around the world should be doing. So much ground covered in this wide-ranging conversation that goes in depth where most media outlets won't dare. Don't miss it! Music: Max Romeo - "Socialism Is Love"

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and journalist Dahr Jamail to discuss climate change, climate politics in the Age of Trump, and our responsibilities to future generations. The conversation begins with a discussion of the emotional and psychological impact of an issue as enormous as climate change, and how we can even discuss it without falling into despondency. From there, Eric and Dahr discuss everything from climate change trends to polar ice, the impact of methane, agriculture and food production, and so much more. The second half of the show features an examination of the impact that the Trump Administration has had on climate science and environmental regulation, as well as the increased influence of China in renewable energy and environmental responsibility. All this and so much more in this wide-ranging interview on CounterPunch Radio. Music: Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings - This Land Is Your Land

This week Eric welcomes to the show author and academic Patrick Bond to discuss the political situation in South Africa domestically, as well as the role that the country plays on the African continent, and globally. The conversation begins with an analysis of recent developments as former President Zuma was ousted, replaced by the billionaire Cyril Ramaphosa, and what that portends for the future of the country. Eric and Patrick examine the other parties, the role of the trade unions, and the grassroots social movements in order to pain a clear picture of a complex and dynamic political situation in South Africa. The second half of the program features an in depth discussion of regional African issues, as well as a detailed examination of the role of China in Africa, the BRICS, and so much more. Don't miss this week's show! Music: William Onyeabor - "Better Change Your Mind"

CounterPunch Radio is back this week after a long hiatus as Eric welcomes returning guest, and regular CounterPunch contributor, Paul Street to the show. Eric and Paul discuss Russiagate and the competing narratives around it, how the Trump-Russia discourse has changed on the Left as new details emerge, and what we should look forward to, both good and bad. But fear not, this conversation goes well beyond the corporate media hysteria to touch on everything from Bernie Sanders' recent comments and what the motivation behind them might be, the impact of guns and the gun control issue on Trump's ability to connect with his base and core supporters, the dangerous trajectory of American political life and society, the end of US hegemony, and so much more. CounterPunch Radio is thrilled to be back on the air! Thanks for coming back to listen. Music: Chumbawamba - "Bella Ciao" #Trump #Russia #Russiagate #Putin #Mueller #FireAndFury #guncontrol #HillaryClinton #BernieSanders #fascism #socialmedia #imperialism #

CounterPunch Radio returns this week after more than two months away. Eric welcomes to the show investigative journalist Steve Horn to discuss the state of the Republican and Democratic parties and the ongoing conflicts, perceived or real, within them. Eric and Steve talk about the anti-environment, climate-denying degenerates appointed by Trump to head every relevant agency, the role of ALEC in shaping Trumpian policy, and more. The conversation also explores Steve Bannon and his role in maintaining and shepherding the Trump lunatic base. The second half of the show focuses on energy and the international political issues surrounding it. First, Eric and Steve examine the role of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the profit-seeking business equations of both energy companies and the Trump Administration. From there, the conversation explores everything from China and Iran as energy players in the minds of US strategic planners to the evolution of the former Soviet countries in Central Asia in the energy calcul