The Stunning Rise of the Democratic Socialists of America
26 August - 50 minsThis summer, the Democratic Socialists of America have mounted their biggest and most successful attempt yet to redefine the Democratic Party. They have defeated its candidates in primary after primary from coast to coast.
As its electoral success grows, the organization is confronting big, unresolved questions about what it stands for and what level of compromise is required to become a lasting political force.
Charles Homans, who talked to more than 30 D.S.A. candidates, organizers, members and volunteers across the countries, discusses the rise and limitations of the D.S.A.
Guest: Charles Homans writes about national politics for The New York Times and The Times Magazine.
Background...
Series Episodes
Canada Is Done With Trump
Canada suspended trade negotiations this week, setting off President Trump’s 50 percent tariffs on a range of Canadian goods.
37 mins
25 August Finished
Natalie Harp’s Devotion to Trump
One of the president’s closest aides seems to have limitless access to him and the information he receives.
22 mins
24 August Finished
Think Baseball Is Boring? The Savannah Bananas Are Here to Fix That.
Jesse and Emily Cole created the Savannah Bananas with a simple mission in mind: to make baseball as entertaining as possible. They introduced some innovations to America’s pastime, including twerking umpires, stilt-walking pitchers and TikTok-ready choreographed dance numbers. They tinkered with the rules of baseball, making a game that was shorter and faster, with plenty of opportunities for fan engagement. The result? A sports sensation. In the 10 years since its founding, the team has become one of the most popular sports organizations in the world, reaching tens of millions of fans online, with a waiting list of millions of others hoping to see a game in person. For many, the Bananas are the ultimate sports success story, one that shows a path forward for teams and leagues concerned about fan retention in an era of shortened attention spans and endless entertainment options. But others take a less rosy view of the Bananas and their hyper-energetic brand of baseball, seeing them as an existential threat to a game that fans have loved for more than a hundred years. On today’s show, our host Natalie Kitroeff talks with Jonathan Abrams, a Times reporter who covers culture news, about the Bananas phenomenon, and then heads to a Banana Ball game to see things for herself.
36 mins
23 August Finished
An Expert on Conflict Says Your Relationships Are Doomed Without It
The author Priya Parker says the key to human connection is to lean into the fight.
42 mins
22 August Finished
When Private Equity Comes for Your Favorite Team
The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold for a record $12.5 billion, the latest sign that huge pools of institutional money are flooding into professional sports.
34 mins
21 August Finished
