DSR's Words Matter

The midterm elections are five days away and all signs indicate an impending Democratic tsunami. But don’t get distracted by trans athletes and the Cheesecake Factory, folks - Donald Trump is going to try to steal this election. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf examine what to expect in the coming days and why these midterms matter more than ever. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 52nd Harvard Youth Poll makes it clear: America’s young voters demand change. Corruption and political polarization have jaded America’s youth, but there are even more reasons to be optimistic about America’s future in the hands of this massive voting bloc. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf return to break down the poll’s findings and share why the key to winning elections lies in winning over the hearts of youth voters.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are eighteen days away from truly monumental midterm elections. There is reason for optimism - polling looks good, Republican efforts to cheat have been thwarted in the courts, and Donald Trump is starting to lose control over his own party. But we also know that Donald Trump and his cronies in Stephen Miller, Marco Rubio, and the rest of his Cabinet will do anything they can to stay in power. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss the importance of these midterms and how the next two years will be a battle for America’s soul. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican crooks across the administration are now trying to distance themselves from Donald Trump ahead of November’s elections. Yet these Republicans like Mike Rogers and Thom Tillis are corrupt to the core themselves, leading to the question: how far will these politicians go to save their reputations despite their own histories of corruption? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf ponder the gathering storm ahead and whether or not the stains left by this administration may ever truly wash away. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are reasons for optimism as we head into the 2026 midterms. Polling is showing that people are fed up with Trump and his policies, courts are holding firm against the president, and some Republicans are beginning to distance themselves to a greater degree than we have previously seen. Yet winning in November will not mend the cracks in our democracy alone, and real challenges in our political system remain. Author and historian Timothy Snyder joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein to reflect on our democratic system and the need for political resilience against tyranny. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump gave Xi Jinping quite the welcome after his arrival in Washington. At the same time Trump is trying to cuddle up to Beijing, he continues his attacks against freedom of the press by banning certain media outlets from the White House. Trump is actively trying to turn the United States into some amalgamation of China, Russia, and North Korea, and he is consistently enabled by his cronies in Congress, including our “Lickspittle of the Week:” Tommy Tuberville. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington, Trump’s admiration for authoritarianism, and those in power responsible for enabling it. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is shutting down the Kennedy Center because he can’t put his name on it. The Center, of course, being a memorial to a slain US president, not just an arts center. He wants “Donald J. Trump” there to steal glory, because he’s not getting it on his own. Meanwhile, the Republicans in Congress are silent about his flagrant narcissistic transgressions. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the lunacy surrounding the Kennedy Center, Trump’s obsession with his legacy, and the Trump family’s mafia-esque connections with criminals at home, in Russia, and elsewhere. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Almost every key official in the US government is currently playing a role to disrupt the upcoming midterms - whether it’s Todd Blanche, Howard Lutnick, or Donald Trump’s promise of $5,000 for US citizens. The 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks should remind us what happens when there’s a danger from terrorists - and that such threats against our democracy and rule of law can also come from within. Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss the legacy of 9/11 and the internal threats facing the United States. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump just signed an executive order to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America. This, of course, gives us a fitting new acronym to remember the names of the Great Lakes: S-H-A-M-E. But it also comes amidst an intensifying, nonsensical trade war with Canada that will have serious economic consequences for millions of Americans. And all this for what? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the administration’s trade war with Canada, the current situation with Iran, and the political landscape as we inch closer to the midterm elections. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The “Big Beautiful Bill” is certainly big, but it is the opposite of beautiful. The bill includes a trillion dollars in cuts to Medicaid, which have been postponed until after the midterm elections. Take these social service cuts alongside skyrocketing national debt, looming bond market issues, and a potential ballooning defense budget - and yet the situation is still somehow worse than that. Join Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf as they discuss the chilling implications of Medicaid cuts and the broader impact on healthcare and the economy. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scandals and controversies abound in the Republican Party. Between serious allegations against Ohio Representative Miller and bitter infighting over Todd Blanche, a political melee is in full swing in the GOP. Join Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf as they dissect the latest GOP turmoil, preview the upcoming Michigan Democratic primary, examine AIPAC’s shifting influence, and unpack what it all means for the country. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are fast approaching midterm elections which Trump and his cronies will try to corrupt. Pete Hegseth is asking for more money to fund the most unpopular war in American history, and social programs are being cut left and right. It’s not just the quagmire of a war in Iran - Donald Trump is waging a war against the American people. There’s no other way to put it: “We are so f*cked by this guy, it’s hard to imagine.” Listen in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss the never-ending corruption and greed that is literally killing Americans. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump and his cronies are already laying the groundwork to get involved in this years’ elections. As Trump prepares to give a major speech on Thursday night where he will undoubtedly speak on "election fraud", it's clear there is no accountability for their corruption. So the question is - what do we do when Trump tries to steal the next election? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein address what’s at stake. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court would not be what it is today without Mitch McConnell. We would not have the six-person, ultra-conservative, corrupt majority that we have now without him. As our democracy continues to die in front of our eyes, and as Donald Trump continues to destroy our relationships with our allies, the US is at a crossroads - can we ever recover? Do we have any emerging politicians to lead us out of this mess? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss Mitch McConnell’s tenure, Trump’s geopolitical disasters, and the future of our democracy. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Independence Day, we’re face with a stark reality: the values and ideals that lay the foundation of our democracy are consistently being undermined by a corrupt, authoritarian president. The Supreme Court rulings of the past week have effectively cemented Trump as the most powerful executive in U.S. history - isn’t this exactly what our Founding Fathers fought against? This 250th celebration feels tainted by this regime and brings us as a nation to a crossroads. How do we celebrate our democracy amidst such political turmoil? Grab yourself a hot dog, eat a slice of apple pie, and tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf examine the United States on the eve of its 250th birthday. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our Supreme Court can’t even pretend to uphold the integrity of the law anymore. We essentially have a lawless court, not a conservative court. Their latest disturbing ruling? A ruling in favor of deporting Haitians and Syrians currently legally residing in the United States. Could this lead to another impeachment of Donald Trump? How could Dems use impeachment as a political tool ahead of the next presidential election? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the Courts and the long road ahead for Dems. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The indecency and sociopathy of Donald Trump’s presidency is in sharp contrast with the leadership of past presidents. While Clinton, Obama and Bush all had their faults that have led us to our current political situation, they at least maintained some sort of professionalism and decency. Donald Trump, on the other hand, is a psychopath. David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss the implications of this shift in presidential leadership, as well as the rise of democratic socialism and emerging political leaders across the country. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is more concerned with a UFC fight at the White House than he is with the well-being of Americans. Surprised? The administration that is so focused on money and power is stripping civil rights and throwing away any concerns about the economic tolls millions of Americans are currently facing. Your favorite political heavyweights Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss this lunacy. Tune in here. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is becoming more and more dangerous as his physical and mental health unravels. This cognitive decline, however, has serious implications for American democracy, far beyond simply falling asleep during meetings. Mary Trump joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein to recount her personal experiences with her uncle, his current mental state, and what this all means for America. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crime, crime, crime. Donald Trump and his cronies have absolutely zero concept of humility, of decency, or of anything other than corruption. No one is being held accountable while the US is enduring what very well might be the most contemptible administration in its history. What the hell is going on in our country? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back for another weekly therapy session and to take stock of our hideous political situation. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is playing Grand Theft: US Treasury. The corruption is absolutely mind-boggling, and we need to call it like it is - he is stealing our money for his own personal gain. This is CRIME. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to dive into this criminality as we head into Memorial Day weekend. Listen here.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our democracy is failing. As we approach the midterm elections this year, the Republicans are doing all they can to corrupt our electoral process. With the Supreme Court in Trump’s pocket, what does this mean for the Democrats? Will corruption rule the November elections? Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss the upcoming midterms and the bleak future of US politics. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justice Department is unrecognizable. It continuously violates and obstructs true justice. Instead, it effectively as Donald Trump’s own private law firm. The blatant corruption and cronyism is sickening across all of DC’s institutions under the Trump administration. Where is Donald Trump and the Supreme Court leading our country? Tune in for this week’s therapy session with Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court is taking away your rights. The ruling gutting the Voting Rights Act isn’t based on sound legal decision-making - it represents strategic moves to reshape the future of our country. How did we let partisan politics overrule constitutional integrity? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein delve into the ramifications of these rulings, the never-ending destruction of our democracy from the Trump administration, and the potential paths forward. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congress is broken. Justice is gone. Corruption runs rampant in our government, and our most vile politicians get off scot-free. Meanwhile, many still view the Democrats negatively, and this perception is going to present significant hurdles for the midterms this year and beyond. What is missing within the Democratic party? What is the most effective strategy here to save our democracy? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss why we need scorched earth Democrats and where we go from here. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The lunatics are truly running the asylum formerly known as the White House. Sadly, a man who collects raccoon genitalia running the HHS isn’t even the craziest of the bunch. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to try and navigate the insanity of this Trump’s self-imposed Iran quagmire and the levels of nuttiness in Trumpworld.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Corruption, dark money, and dangerous leadership - three elements that have characterized the Trump administration. We are governed by a maniac and his corrupt cronies, such as Howard Lutnick. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the rampant corruption within the current administration, the degradation of integrity within our public institutions, and the mess of Trump’s war in Iran. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pam Bondi is out as attorney general. Todd Blanche is set to replace her, at least according to Trump. Why did Bondi’s firing come now? Was it the result of her mismanagement of the DOJ, or did this decision have more to do with Donald Trump and the Epstein Files? And what does her supposed processor Todd Blanche have in store for our justice system? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the state of the DOJ, Bondi’s firing, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump’s war in Iran is turning into quicksand. With every decision he makes, we sink deeper into this conflict, and our President is nowhere close to achieving his goals. So what will the next phase of the war look like? Representative Adam Smith, ranking Democrat of the House Armed Services Committee, joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein to share his perspective from Congress on this war and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump cannot avert a national embarrassment even if he tried. From alienating our closest European allies, to destabilizing the global economy with his attack on Iran, and now to joking about Pearl Harbor to the face of Japan’s Prime Minister - things are only getting worse. Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf reflect on our current state of global affairs and Trump’s domestic and foreign policy agenda. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration is a shining example of every terrible -ocracy you can imagine. As global oil prices skyrocket and conflict with Iran rages on, it’s clear that this administration continues to succumb to its worst impulses. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf breakdown the uniquely corrupt dealings of Trump and how the battle for American democracy is about to reach new heights. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is clearly declining - mentally, physically, and at the polls - and he knows it. What does this mean for the rest of Trump 2.0? What does the dismissal of Kristi Noem and appointment of Markwayne Mullen tell us about loyalty and competence within the administration? Mary Trump joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein to discuss our sunsetting president’s personal and political downfall. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The SAVE Act is the next assault on democracy by this administration — and it might just be the biggest yet. Trump and his cronies are focusing on pulling out all the stops to get this voter suppression bill passed including calls to end the filibuster. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to break down the cataclysmic effects this bill would have on our democracy and the mounting danger that threatens to pass the point of no return.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court has ruled against Donald Trump’s tariff agenda in a major blow to his economic policy. Are we finally seeing real pushback against this administration? What does this decision mean for our democracy? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf react to this evolving story, discussing the SCOTUS decision, the SAVE Act, and the corruption within the Trump administration.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Concerns about an impending government shutdown are growing, and it is critical that the Democratic Party can adopt strong messaging to voters. There is no oversight for the Republican cult in Washington - Bondi, Bovino, Blanche, the list is endless. If we can still save our democracy, we need to do so now. Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss the looming government shutdown, the threats to voting rights, and the hideousness of Pam Bondi.   Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another week in Trump’s America. The President is “renovating” the Kennedy Center a la the East Wing of the White House, the Washington Post continues it’s descent into darkness, and MAGA cronies are looking for any way to undermine democratic elections this November. What is going on in America? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex Pretti was murdered by ICE agents in Minneapolis. Where is the accountability? The Republican Party appears more concerned with public relations than addressing the violence and intimidation of MAGA. What path forward do we have? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss all this and more. Tune in here. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If Donald Trump is right about one thing, it’s that “we’ve never seen anything like this.” From the disastrous alienation of our NATO allies over Greenland, to his actions in Venezuela and Jack Smith’s congressional testimony against Trump, our political situation is at an all-time low. How do we save our country? How do we fight back against the evils of the Trump regime? Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf address the current political situation and our future. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is now threatening to invoke the Insurrection Act to send federal troops to Minneapolis. The public outrage and protests over the killing of Renee Good is testing the limits of Trump’s authoritarianism, yet he continues to double down against his growing negative public perception on both sides of the political spectrum. Would Trump try to suspend elections or declare martial law to maintain power? How do we fight back against this administration’s authoritarian thuggery? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss the events in Minneapolis and what we must do to stop this violence. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Wednesday, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer brutally murdered Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis. Meanwhile, Donald Trump and other MAGA officials have defended the agent’s action, marking another step in the growing militarization of the agency and disregard for civil rights. Where is the damn accountability when Trump loyalists are out on the streets committing brutal acts of violence? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss these tragedies and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been a disastrous year in American politics. Donald Trump is going around naming everything after himself and proclaiming everything is great while the economic realities for millions of Americans continue to sour. Is there anything to be optimistic about as we approach 2026? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein take stock of our current situation and look forward to the new year. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rob Reiner and his wife Michelle were tragically murdered. Their son, who has history of struggles with addition and mental health, is currently the lead suspect. Across the country, mental health issues have and continue be poorly treated and often stigmatized, when we desperately need compassionate policy reform. On this week’s episode of Words Matter, Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss Rob Reiner’s artistic and social justice legacy, the inadequacies of our nation’s mental health policies, and how we can address political reform. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Republican Senate just voted against extending the Affordable Care Act. Twenty million people could lose their healthcare coverage soon, and the Republicans have yet to present a viable healthcare plan. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss this MAGApocalypse, the GOP implosion, and the dangerous consequences of a lame-duck Trump. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday was a surprisingly difficult victory for the Republicans in red Tennessee. The speical election’s electoral results have a lot to tell us about the increasing tensions and discontent within the Republican party. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the fragile state of GOP leadership, the absurd levels of political corruption within MAGA, and the implications Tuesday’s results could have for 2026 and beyond. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we approach Thanksgiving in our current political climate, Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf ask - what is there to be thankful for? Donald Trump’s influence appears to be waning and Democratic leaders have started to push back on Republican policies in significant ways, yet there are many major challenges that remain. Tune in as Norm and David attempt to find thankfulness in the midst of political chaos. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the current political climate wasn’t bleak enough, Donald Trump is now calling for his political enemies to be executed. The transgression of these military and CIA veterans? Calling on their military colleagues to uphold the Constitution. The president is calling for unprecedented levels of political violence and his administration cronies are supporting him. David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein are back to discuss the terrifying implications for our democracy. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As deeply disturbing as our current political situation is, the consequences of dysfunction in Washington on average Americans is what really matters. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the devastating impact on real people of everything from DC corruption to MAGA efforts to gut essential healthcare and social services upon which tens of millions of us depend. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tuesday elections were a massive success for the Democrats and a beacon of hope for the United States. Nevertheless, we are still living under a Donald Trump presidency, and the impact of these victories are yet to be seen. Will these successes have a lasting effect for the Democrats? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein are back to discuss the elections, Nancy Pelosi’s retirement, California's Proposition 50, and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may think you’ve seen crazy, but when it comes to Trump, you ain’t seen nothing yet. With SNAP benefits set to expire and the effects of the shutdown mounting by the day, Republicans face a difficult political question: is it time to do the right thing? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf break down this fraught moment, why Republicans just might cave, and the lights at the end of the tunnel for Democrats.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump just tore down the East Wing of the White House. Yup, that’s right - the President of the United States, in the middle of a government shutdown, decides that what America really needs is a new grand ballroom in Washington, DC. Where is the accountability? How is such corrupt politics being normalized? Join David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein as they search through the rubble and try to find answers. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Words matter to the Trump administration, and their willingness to accept and embrace the most vile language and discourse is despicable. At the same time, popular media is normalizing the administration's antidemocratic agenda while we slide further into authoritarianism. Why can’t anybody call out the Trump administration for the authoritarian regime it is? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss this chilling behavior, the dangers of Trump’s political discourse, and the state of our slowly dying democracy. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When they go low, we go high" is officially dead—and David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein are here to unleash a scathing critique of the Democratic Party's refusal to fight back. We need to ask: how do Democrats confront the "fuck around and find out" economy, quadrupled healthcare costs, the National Guard invasions, and finally make the Republican Party pay for their blatant disregard for our democracy? Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The current government shutdown is unlike any we have seen before. President Trump is turning this into a political assault on blue states, energy projects, infrastructure projects, and more. What does this shutdown really mean for our democracy? Where are the bold politicians, either left or right, who can take a stand against Trump’s excesses? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss the current state of our government and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Make no mistake - we are headed towards a government shutdown and it is a strategic move from the Trump administration. So what are the Democrats doing to avert a disaster? What does this signify about the current political landscape in America and why aren’t news outlets calling out this clear constitutional crisis? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein tackle all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“This is a 10,000-meter race to a full-blown police state, and they’re picking up speed.” The Trump administration is using the Charlie Kirk assassination as a tool to attack free speech at an alarming rate. Under the guise of “hate speech,” Trump and his cronies are taking aim at everyone from ABC reporters to Democratic organizations and NGOs. What comes next for free speech in America? Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday, on September 10th, 2025, Charlie Kirk was assassinated. Today, September 11th, marks the 24th anniversary of the largest terrorist attack in U.S. history. Laurie Garrett joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein in a sincere conversation to memorialize 9/11, as well as discuss the tough challenges we’ve faced since, including the alarming upwards trend of political violence. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democratic leadership doesn’t seem to be up to the challenge of this new Trump era. Despite some strong Democratic figures fighting back, the party has been lethargic to say the least. So what do Democrats need to do to reenergize? Tara McGowan and Simon Rosenberg are back with David Rothkopf to diagnose the problem and prescribe solutions to cure this malaise.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump met with Vladimir Putin and listened to him warn against mail-in voting. Then, Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders visited the White House as a united front in an attempt to gauge their transatlantic ally and secure peace. Meanwhile, the National Guard continues to loiter around D.C.’s tourist areas, not to stop crime but to display a show of force and distract American voters. What is the root of Trump’s admiration for Putin? Why is D.C. at the center of national media coverage? And how is this administration attacking election integrity beneath the surface? Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss all of this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As if Trump’s authoritarian transgressions weren’t already blatant, the President has now deployed National Guard troops to “protect” our nation’s capital - but we know these actions are politically motivated. Why haven’t media pundits treated this actions as existential threats to our democracy? Why is a Subway sandwich-wielding protestor treated more harshly than January 6th protestors? And what is going on with Laura Loomer and Arby’s? Tune in to this week’s edition of Words Matter as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein tackle all of this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Thank God for South Park.” Words Matter is back for another weekly edition of political therapy with Dr. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf. Tune in as Norm and David discuss the current administration’s attacks on education, their ever-increasing political abuses, and how South Park is doing a better job than the Democratic party at laying bare the horrors of this administration. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we were unable to record a new episode of Words Matter this week. The following show is an episode of Deep State Radio recorded on July 30, 2025. The conditions in Gaza are hellish, and they are about to get much worse. Thousands more Palestinians are at risk of dying from famine all while the Israeli government makes plans to annex more of the territory. Refugees International President Jeremy Konyndyk joins Rosa Brooks, Ed Luce, Kori Schake, and David Rothkopf to shine a light on the horrifying crisis underway in Gaza. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

South Park is back, and they don’t care about pissing off Donald Trump… unlike Columbia University. While Trump fumes about his disastrous PR and anybody who dares to even joke about him, the sinister undercurrents of his regime continue to flow. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to discuss the challenges facing universities, the complete erosion of legal norms under Trump, and the latest episode of South Park.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Make no mistake - the Justice Department is actively fostering Trump’s authoritarian regime and increasingly rewarding loyalty over legality. Between the blatant partisanship, abuse of the shadow docket, the cuts to the Department of Education and Emil Bove’s nomination - where has our justice gone? Dahlia Lithwick joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein to discuss the erosion of our democracy and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The United States is a country in need of saving. From the blatant illegality of numerous White House decisions to the fecklessness of Congress, wide-ranging changes are clearly needed. David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein break down the erosion of democratic norms, the complicity of the main stream media, and the desperate need for Democrats to be a real opposition party again.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before we grab a hotdog and head out to the 4th of July fireworks, we have to reflect on the current state of our country and ask ourselves, "is this really what the Founding Fathers would have wanted?" David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein discuss the significance of Independence Day, reflecting on the founding fathers and the current political landscape. They explore the challenges facing democracy today, including corruption, the impact of policies on everyday lives, the role of young voters in shaping the future and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump’s actions regarding Iran are raising important questions for America: how reliable is our intelligence? How is disinformation warping public reality? Here in the US, Zohran Mamdani’s victory in NYC is a glimmer of hope for the Democrats, but the party needs to unite against our biggest challenges… or else. Tune in as David Corn joins Norm Ornstein to tackle all of these issues and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The recent events in Minnesota, where a gunman assassinated one congresswoman and injured another, is part of clear and troubling rise in political violence in the U.S. At the same time, President Trump and MAGA continue to normalize violence in political discourse. How do the events of the past week reflect a changing political climate? What does the discourse around political violence tell us? And what is the connection between MAGA and American gun culture? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein address all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump’s deployment of the National Guard to California is not just about immigration and Los Angeles - it is a damning step in his long-lasting effort to to exploit and deploy the U.S. military to act as his own personal police force. Miles Taylor, former DHS Chief of Staff who endured persecution for his criticisms of the Trump administration, joins Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf to discuss the disastrous implications of Los Angeles and explain why “people should be more worried about this than anything they’ve seen so far in the second Trump administration.” Tune in here. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Donald Trump and Elon Musk are currently feuding in a King Kong vs. Godzilla battle on social media, the devastating impact of their short-lived union continues to unfold. ICE is picking people off the street like a quasi American Gestapo, while the issue of foreign students is set to hamper US higher education for years - and not just in Ivy League schools, but on the global stage. Where has our fundamental decency gone? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to address this chilling political combination of nihilism, sadism, and chaos. Tune in here. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of Words Matter, Leah Litman, legal expert and author of Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes, joins David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein to discuss the current realm of law and lawlessness. What messages are the courts sending by striking down Trump’s tariff policies? How promising is it that these judges are standing up to Trump, and what major concerns still remain, even with these recent steps forward? Tune in as Leah, Norm and David discuss all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump’s Domestic Policy Bill is akin to a murder-suicide pact. Not only could it be political suicide for the Republicans, but it was also have damning effects on the American public. How is this bill going to affect social welfare programs? Will this bill actually present a turning point in the Trump administration? Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf tackle all of this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court’s decisions on birthright citizenship and nationwide injunctions could have significant implications for executive power. What does this mean for the future of our nation? How can we rebuild government structures post-Trump? What reforms, such as an expansion of Congress, should Democrats be prioritizing? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein tackle all of this and more: Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a new American Pope—one who has been openly critical of the U.S. government. What does this mean for Trump? Meanwhile, in the background of this major news from the Catholic Church, Trump is striking tariff deals with the UK. But is the deal all that Trump says it is? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to break down all the latest—from the Vatican to the White House. Tune in for all this and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s special DSR-Words Matter mash up episode, Ed Luce and Norm Ornstein join David Rothkopf to talk about all the chaos of the Trump administration. What is going on with Mike Waltz’s “promotion” to the UN, and who is next on the Trump chopping-block? How are leading Democrats responding to this ongoing mess? Tune in for all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of Words Matter, founder of Talking Points Memo Josh Marshall joins Norm Ornstein to discuss everything wrong with the Trump administration. What is so uncanny about Trump’s foreign policy towards Russia and Ukraine? What message are we signaling to our allies? And how much worse could this all become? Tune in for all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re not three months into this presidency and we’re already witnessing our democracy crumble. Trump’s administration continues to bless Putin with political gifts, our president is trying to hijack the IRS to punish Harvard University, and the administration continues to challenge the courts on the Abrego Garcia case. How can our president subvert the rule of law so flagrantly, and dismantle the institutions at the bedrock of our democracy? Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to break down everything from the past week and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump’s tariffs and economic policies are continuing to eviscerate the American economy. The markets are tanking, the administration is actively destroying our social security system, yet Republicans continue to be confirmed. On top of all this, too, Trump’s police state tactics are snatching people off the street and in a series of illegal deportations. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are back to breakdown this absolute disaster of a week. Tune in for all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s no other way around it - Donald Trump’s tariffs reek of idiocy piled high with stupidity with devastating ramifications for 99% of Americans outside of the filthy rich. Democrats are beginning to make waves, both in the Wisconsin election and with Cory Booker’s filibuster. But is it enough? Or do we need to be doing more, and what does that look like? Tune in as David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein tackle all of this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Signal-gate has dominated the news cycle over the past few days, but it's not the only thing going on in this administration. Trump is issuing executive orders, RFK Jr. is gutting HHS and state health programs, JD Vance is on his way to Greenland, and the White House just pulled Elise Stefanik’s nomination. Is MAGA realizing they are more politically vulnerable than before? Tune in as Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of DSR’s Words Matter, Slate journalist and Supreme Court expert Dahlia Lithwick joins Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf to discuss America’s ongoing legal crisis. Are we actually in a constitutional crisis? Can we count on the courts to protect us when they continue to hand concessions to Trump? What roles do figures such as Justices Roberts and Boasberg play in this authoritarian showdown? Tune in as Dahlia, Norm and David tackle all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are currently on the verge of a government shutdown. It’s clear that Donald Trump and his cronies are trying to get away with something, and the cult in the Republican Party is all for it. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf are here to ask: What the hell is going on? Is there any way to avoid a government closure? Are the Democrats showing any signs of resistance? And is there anything at all to be optimistic about? Tune in to hear all this and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After years of attacking Democrats for America’s economic woes - and promises that he would turn everything around once in office - Trump is already confronting the possibility of a 2025 depression. At the same time, rather than attack Trump for the current economic downturn or raising awareness amongst the public, Democratic politicians have settled for little more than exclaiming their distaste for the president while wearing pink suits in protest. Why can’t the Democratic Party coordinate an effective counterattack to the Trump administration? What does the party need to do to fight back effectively? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein are back to address all these questions and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will the real opposition party please stand up? Republicans are marching towards political suicide with the passage of Trump’s bad budget bill, but Democrats are nowhere to be found. Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf break down why dems need to find their courage before it’s too late.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since last week, the United States is now pro-Russia, anti-NATO, and anti-democracy. Kash Patel runs the FBI, Pete Hegseth is slashing the DoD, and the Trump administration is taking the official position that they don’t have to listen to the courts. Everything we feared is real, and it’s only going to get worse. What can we do about all of this? Where do we go from here? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein tackle all of these pressing questions and more. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What the hell is happening this past week? Between Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center, Pete Hegseth’s dismissal of NATO allies in Europe, and Elon Musk’s increasing control within the government - where is the political resistance in Washington? David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein break all of this down and why Washington needs a Democrat who is going to stand up and say “f*ck you.” Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump and his DOGE cronies are continuing to upend and disregard traditional government procedure to illegally push their political agenda. All the while, the Democrats in Congress are asleep at the wheel. David Rothkopf and Norm Ornstein come together to discuss the real question at heart for the Democrats: what are you going to do to stop it? Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The clock is ticking down towards Donald Trump’s inauguration, and we are already witnessing the first steps of his second term. Norm and Kavita are here to analyze everything from the past week - from the confirmation hearings to the shortcomings of the Democratic Party - and address the lunacy which is to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If Donald Trump’s press conference at Mar-a-Lago was any indication, we’re in for a wild 2025. From threatening military action against US allies to fueling FBI Jan 6 conspiracies the conference ran the gamut of bad news. Norm and Kavita are back in the new year to break it all down, discuss the rising influence of Elon Musk, the need for robust counter-media networks, and more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New year, new congress. As Republicans take control of both houses, what can we expect over the next few months? Norm Ornstein joins David Rothkopf to break down the biggest challenges that await this new congress, including the search for a new speaker and more.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While we head into the holiday season and the final days of 2024, the second-term coming of Donald Trump gives us little optimism for 2025 and the years to come. Trump’s outrageous lawsuits, the takedown of the Al-Assad regime in Syria, and, of course, TikTok… What comes next? Norm and Kavita are back to tackle all these issues and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever since the election, the lead-up to Donald Trump’s second presidential term has been fraught with nonsensical politics, inane cabinet picks, and a sense of both confusion and worry. Norm and Kavita are back to help guide us through this uncertainty, analyze the situations surrounding figures like Kari Lake and Christopher Wray, and more. The members-only section also features an intimate conversation on the health insurance industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of Words Matter, Norm and Kativa are back to break down everything related to the upcoming presidential transition. Which of Trump’s current nominees will make it through to the next administration? What can and should the Democrats do now in the House and the Senate? Additionally, members will receive a bonus discussion on presidential pardons, both past and present. Tune in here: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since winning the election, Donald Trump has been quick to cement his new administration and lay the groundwork for his frightening and ludicrous political agenda. As news of his appointees comes out, we are forced to ask ourselves - where do we go from here? Norm and Kavita are back to take stock of this unfortunate situation and analyze what our future holds… as well as talk about puppies and the humanity in dogs. Listen here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Norm and Kavita are back to share their raw emotions after the election, discuss the grim realities facing the country, and break down the meaning and horrors of a second Trump presidential term. What will be different this time around? How can President Biden best serve his final days in office? Where do both parties stand and where do we go from here? DSR Network members will also get to listen to Norm and Kavita analyze Trump’s healthcare plans and the dangers of RFK Jr. and medical disinformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we approach the election's final days, the entire country has its eyes set on Tuesday. How are the candidates faring in this final stretch? Is Trump’s racist MSG rally a true October Surprise? Do we have any idea at all where we are headed between now and Election Day? Tune in to hear Norm and Kavita discuss all this and more: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Rothkopf joins Norm to break down the final twelve days of the presidential race, from Kamala Harris’ CNN Town Hall to Trump’s incredibly concerning and outspoken affinity for Nazis. How does the election landscape look as we head into the final stretch? How confident can we be in a Harris victory, and what is truly at stake if Trump wins? Tune in to hear Norm and David discuss all this and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been a whirlwind of a week, and Norm and Kavita are back to discuss it all: Hurricane Milton in Florida, Republican FEMA hypocrisy, the public health disinformation spewing from the RFK Jr-Trump alliance, Trump’s mental deterioration, and more. Members will also get to hear exclusive insider content on Kamala Harris’ healthcare plans.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Counsel Jack Smith’s 180-page report, filed on Wednesday, provides damning evidence against Donald Trump which could carry serious legal implications - why is this not the banner headline of every major media outlet? What does this report show, and what ramifications could it have on the election and beyond? Norm and Kavita are back to discuss this and more. Members will also get a discussion of the Harris campaign’s strategy and the VP debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Norm and Kavita are back to discuss the past week of events in each presidential campaign. Kamala Harris continues to outpace the GOP and previous Democratic candidates in fundraising, while the Trump campaign continues to make outrageous statements about women and abortion rights. What are the polls telling us about the state of these campaigns as we inch closer to Election Day? And, in the members-only section, what the hell is going on with Mark Robinson? Listen to all this and more here: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices