Hal Sparks - Legislating transparency in the digital age

In this episode, Brian Karem, Mark Zaid, and John T. Bennett discuss the latest news, including Elon Musk's controversial access to federal data, the implications of Trump's trade war, and the changing dynamics of media access within the Department of Defense. The conversation highlights concerns over national security, the potential impact of Trump's policies on his supporters, and the broader implications of these developments for democracy and governance. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the ongoing political targeting within the FBI, the implications of revealing the identities of agents involved in politically sensitive cases, and the intimidation tactics being employed against them. They also explore the lack of due process in disciplinary actions against FBI personnel, the scrubbing of health information related to DEI policies, and the broader implications of extreme political discourse in America.Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastFollow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jatqpodcast.bsky.socialIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" 

  A preview of things to come. Brian Karem, Mark Zaid, and John T. Bennett discuss what could happen in Donald Trump's First One Hundred Days in office. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastFollow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jatqpodcast.bsky.socialIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" 

In this episode, Brian Karem and his guests discuss the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, the federal response, and the misinformation surrounding the crisis. They reflect on the recent funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, highlighting the themes of decency and hope. The conversation shifts to Donald Trump's sentencing, examining the implications of his legal challenges and the political landscape as he prepares for a potential return to the presidency. The conversation delves into the recent resignation of Jack Smith from the Justice Department, the implications of this event for Trump and the ongoing legal battles, and the dynamics of the Trump-Smith narrative. It also critiques Biden's recent press conference, highlighting communication failures and the press's frustrations. The discussion anticipates Trump's upcoming executive orders and their potential impact, concluding with light-hearted Super Bowl predictions.Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastFollow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jatqpodcast.bsky.socialIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" 

In this year-end review, host Brian Karem and guests John T. Bennett and Mark Zaid reflect on the major stories of 2024, including the legacy of Jimmy Carter, Donald Trump's legal challenges, the assassination of a healthcare CEO, parental responsibility in school shootings, the influence of billionaires in politics, and the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party. They also discuss the unprecedented political power of Elon Musk and the potential future relationship between Musk and Trump. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the most under-reported stories of the year, the challenges faced by the media in reporting on Biden's health, the changing landscape of media consumption influenced by Trump, and predictions for 2025. They highlight the impact of civil lawfare, the media's struggle to report on sensitive topics, and the evolving nature of news consumption in the digital age.Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastFollow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jatqpodcast.bsky.socialIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press"  

In this episode of Just Ask the Press, host Brian Karem, along with guests John T. Bennett and Mark Zaid, review a tumultuous week in politics. They discuss the recent government shutdown that was averted, the influence of Donald Trump and Elon Musk on Congress, and the challenges facing the new Speaker of the House. The conversation also touches on Biden's absence during critical negotiations and the implications for the Democratic Party. Additionally, they explore the state of journalism in light of Trump's legal threats against the press, highlighting the chilling effect on media reporting. The conversation delves into the implications of anti-SLAPP legislation, the impact of litigation on media and journalism, concerns regarding the mental acuity of GOP leadership, the fallout from health issues in Congress, and the media's handling of the recent drone sightings. The speakers discuss the challenges faced by journalists in the current political climate, the hypocrisy within Congress regarding mental health, and the transient nature of media coverage on sensational topics like drones.Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastFollow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jatqpodcast.bsky.socialIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" 

In this episode of 'Just Ask the Press', host Brian Karem, along with national security expert Mark Zaid and chief White House correspondent John T. Bennett, delve into the pressing issues of the week, including the mysterious drone sightings in the Northeast and the recent wave of pardons and clemency granted by President Biden. The conversation explores the implications of these drone sightings on national security, the lack of transparency from the government, and the complexities surrounding the pardons, particularly in relation to political figures and their potential legal ramifications. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the communication failures of the Biden administration, the Democrats' strategy in response to Trump, and the anticipated shift in foreign policy with Trump's return. They emphasize the need for moderation and bipartisanship in a polarized political landscape, reflecting on personal experiences and the importance of unity moving forward.Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastFollow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jatqpodcast.bsky.socialIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" 

In this engaging conversation, Brian Karem and Hal Sparks delve into the complexities of media's influence on politics, the challenges posed by social media, and the need for transparency in online interactions. They discuss the implications of AI on society, the current political climate, and strategies for navigating conversations across political divides. Sparks emphasizes the importance of questioning and understanding the nuances in political discourse, while also addressing the societal challenges that arise from a polarized environment. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" Follow Brian's Salon articles!

In this episode of Just Ask the Press, host Brian Karem and guests Mark Zaid and John T. Bennett discuss significant news events of the week, including the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, societal reactions to violence, and the implications of populism in American politics. They also delve into Cash Patel's legal threats against Olivia Troy and the potential future of Trump's administration, highlighting concerns about anarchy and the normalization of extreme actions in political discourse. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the overwhelming presence of Donald Trump in political discourse, the challenges of navigating nominations in the Senate and House, and the dynamics of power between these two chambers. They delve into the legislative challenges ahead, particularly with a slim majority, and the implications of Biden's recent pardons for his son, Hunter Biden, on his credibility. The conversation concludes with a critique of the Biden administration's communication strategies and the optics surrounding recent political decisions. 

In this episode of 'Just Ask the Press', host Brian Karem, along with national security expert Mark Zaid and editor John T. Bennett, delve into the week's significant political news. They discuss the controversial nomination of Kash Patel as FBI Director, exploring his background and the implications for the rule of law. The conversation then shifts to Charles Kushner's appointment as ambassador to France, highlighting his criminal past and the political motivations behind his nomination. The episode emphasizes the potential impact on the media and law enforcement under the new administration. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the implications of the upcoming inauguration, focusing on the potential retaliation against whistleblowers and the legal preparations being made. They also delve into Elon Musk's controversial comments regarding treason and the broader political climate, highlighting the desensitization of the public to political turmoil and the potential consequences of this shift in perception. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press" 

In this episode of 'Just Ask the Press', host Brian Karem discusses the latest political developments with experts Mark Zaid and John T. Bennett. The conversation covers Donald Trump's controversial nomination for Attorney General, the implications of Pam Bondi's potential appointment, the future of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) under a second Trump administration, and the importance of the Press Act in protecting journalists' rights. The conversation delves into the complexities of journalism, particularly the use of confidential informants and the challenges faced by journalists in the Trump administration. It also discusses the Democrats' recent judicial appointments, the implications of the Vice President's absence during critical Senate votes, and anticipates the future of press relations under a potential Trump presidency. Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JATQPodcastIntragram: https://www.instagram.com/jatqpodcastYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCET7k2_Y9P9Fz0MZRARGqVwThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon supporters here:https://www.patreon.com/justaskthequestionpodcastPurchase Brian's book "Free The Press"