Episode 5.13: The Erosion of Democracy: Dr. Robin S. Brooks on Democratic Backsliding

DR. ROBIN S. BROOKS, career diplomat and former Special Advisor to the Vice President for Europe, Russia, Multilateral Affairs, and Democracy, delves into the intricacies of democracy. The discussion explores the pivotal role of elections and the alarming phenomenon of democratic backsliding, particularly evident in ex-Soviet States. Dr. Brooks sheds light on the influence of American foreign policy in the region and dissects the corrosive impact of corruption on democratic institutions. The term "democratic backsliding" is analyzed, pondering whether it signifies a shift towards new forms of authoritarianism. Additionally, the challenges facing the American liberal democratic system are explored, exacerbated by partisan politics and the global surge of populism. Moderated by RAFAEL KHACHATURIAN.

This episode focuses on the recent passage of a foreign aid package by the House of Representatives, which includes aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The delay in passing the bill raised concerns about America's reliability in fulfilling its international commitments. The episode explores how partisan divides are reshaping views on foreign policy, with conservatives showing skepticism toward Ukraine but strong support for Israel, and some on the left adopting a critical stance toward Israel while backing Ukraine. Despite these divisions, bipartisan consensus prevailed in Congress, highlighted by overwhelming support for the aid packages. Representative MIKIE SHERRILL of New Jersey shares insights into the evolving landscape of foreign policy and the importance of bipartisan cooperation in shaping America's role abroad. In partnership with Democracy Paradox.

AUDREY JAQUISS interviews RHIANA GUNN-WRIGHT, Climate Policy Director of the Roosevelt Institute. They delve into discussions on the intersection of climate policy with issues such as white supremacy, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and economic concerns. Gunn-Wright explores the importance of universality in climate policy and strategies for navigating reactionary political landscapes. 

Barbara McQuade, a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC, discusses her new book Attack from Within: How Disinformation is Sabotaging America. Barbara argues disinformation is a threat to democracy. However, the larger threat is not from foreign adversaries, but those within the country who use disinformation for political gain. Still, the even larger attack comes from within ourselves. She argues we need a moral reckoning to preserve democracy in an era where disinformation and misinformation is so widespread. Justin Kempf, host of the Democracy Paradox, interviews Barbara in a wide-ranging conversation about propaganda, social media, and democracy in the 21st century.  Episode in partnership with Democracy Paradox.    

JONATHAN BLITZER, staff writer at The New Yorker, discusses his recent book Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here: The United States, Central America, and the Making of a Crisis. According to Blitzer, immigration policy happens at the intersection of international relations and domestic politics. In this episode, he uses personal stories to help explain his points. JUSTIN KEMPF, host of the Democracy Paradox, interviews Blitzer about immigration, Central America, and the many people affected. Episode in partnership with Democracy Paradox.

Join Secretary MARCIA LIMA and Penn Professor MICHAEL G. HANCHARD in a candid conversation on the pervasive nature of anti-blackness in Brazil and the United States. Lima currently serves as the Secretary of Affirmative Action Policies and Combatting and Overcoming Racism at the Ministry of Racial Equality in Brazil. This conversation examines parallels and disparities between the two countries in addressing systemic racism, as well as the ways in which the fight against racism is portrayed in the media and popular culture. The episode confronts the complexities of racial identity and governance as well as possibilities for global solidarity in the fight for racial justice.

Interviewer: AUDREY JAQUISS. Director of the Institute for Global Sustainability and Professor at Boston University, BENJAMIN SOVACOOL, delves into the crucial concept of energy justice. Sovacool unravels its definition and examines the demographics and locations where it is most pertinent. Distinguishing energy justice from climate or environmental justice, he offers insights into the nuances of this evolving field. Sovacool shares policy recommendations aimed at achieving energy justice and explores the unique roles that individuals and nations play in this collective endeavor. From the interconnectedness of social and environmental concerns to the responsibilities that we all bear in the pursuit of a just energy transition, Sovacool aims to broaden our understanding. Disclaimer: The audio quality varies throughout this episode. We decided it was best to release it nonetheless, due to the quality of the conversation.  

Interviewer: JOSHUA ROSE. Associate Professor at Georgetown University, JOSHUA CHERNISS, explores the dynamic relationship between diversity of thought and democracy, acknowledging it as both a core element of democracy's existence while also a significant challenge to its sustenance. He challenges the assumption that democracy will endure, emphasizing the need for active reflection to safeguard its foundations. In this conversation, Professor Cherniss navigates the nuanced terrain of liberal democracy, delving into the depths of political philosophy and its implications for the future of democracy.  

Interviewer: JOSHUA ROSE. Philadelphia is a city grappling with complex dynamics surrounding policing, criminality, and a commitment to rehabilitation. HELENA VON NAGY, an Assistant District Attorney in the Municipal Court, delves into the intricacies of Philadelphia's criminal justice system, narrating her day-to-day experiences working at the heart of Philadelphia's legal landscape. She sheds light on the multifaceted world of criminal justice in the City of Brotherly Love.

Interviewer: MATTHEW BERKMAN. On the cusp of a crucial election for Virginia, political activist JOSH STANFIELD discusses the stakes in his second AMC podcast appearance in an interview with political scientist Matthew Berkman. With this being the first legislative election for both Congressional chambers under new maps designed after the 2020 census, the status quo has shifted – aligning with a period of significant political turnover. Stanfield emphasizes the lack of faith that Virginia citizens have in elected officials and in large-scale development projects, culminating in underhanded tactics to bring in tourism and development at the risk of popular discontent and environmental harm. He also discusses how he is able to carve out a living while engaging in frequent freedom of information work and the various legal processes which accompany it.