Special Episode: It's Like Deja Vu All Over Again

Fascists want to control what we talk about and how we think about it. To save democracy, we have to weirdify what fascists desperately want to make normal.

On July 24, 2024, President Biden ended his candidacy for reelection, acknowledging it was best for America that he “pass the torch to a new generation” as “the best way to unite our nation.” But, writes Steven Beschloss, "It was much more: This was his profound articulation of what’s at stake that supersedes his personal ambition."

Jennifer Mercieca writes: "Democrats can learn from the Swifties: when you see anti-Kamala content or trending topics, co-opt it and flood their zone with positivity. Re-frame trending topics to lessen their power to control the conversation."

Rick talks to Michael Steele about the candidacy of Kamala Harris and the excitement and energy she brings to the campaign. They also touch on the lack of a “plan B” from the Trump campaign, and the need to prepare for potential election challenges from the right. Follow Michael Steele on X at @MichaelSteele, listen to his podcast - The Michael Steele Podcast - on your favorite podcasting platform, and watch him on The Weekend on MSNBC. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com.

America is at a crossroads, starring potential autocracy dead in the face. As the election inches closer, we are forced to consider the implications of autocrats and their impact on society. In today's episode Rick is joined by acclaimed author Anne Applebaum to discuss her new book, "Autocracy, Inc. The Dictators Who Want to Run the World." Anne shares insights into the modern autocratic landscape, detailing how today's dictators prioritize power and wealth over ideology and support each other to maintain control. The conversation covers the troubling rise of authoritarianism globally and its implications for the United States, the role of technology in repression and manipulation, and the potential consequences of a second Trump administration on international democracy and alliances. Anne's book, "Autocracy, Inc. The Dictators Who Want to Run the World," available now.