Let's Get After it with Chris Cuomo - SiriusXM

An important conversation with IAVA's Jeremy Butler Nov 11, 2021

On Veterans Day, on every day, we should be following up talk of support with action. In todays' Episode, Chris speaks with Jeremy Butler, the head of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) about the work they are doing to support veterans, get action on covering health concerns after exposure to Burn Pits, what the Biden Administration is doing and could do better, and how veterans are very much still working to help our Afghan allies.

Visit them at www.iava.org to see how you can help: with support, with advocacy, with your voice.

It's Us Who's On Trial Nov 10, 2021

In today's episode, Chris takes a moment to analyze what's next after a Judge blocked Trump's efforts to keep documents out of the hands of the Select Committee, and then takes a deep dive on the surge in inflation, as reports show it reaching a 30 year high.

While Chris sees inflation as cyclical, what are the reasons behind it? How volatile is it and what are the ongoing indicators to watch? Who wins and who loses in the policies put forward? A brief tutorial on Inflation 101.

And Another Thing: The trial of Kyle Rittenhouse is about all of us and how we see the events that played out in Kenosha. Do you see a scared kid on the stand who was just trying to protect himself and the city during a protest? Or a vigilante who put himself into a bad situation with an illegal gun and killed 2 people? The divisions around how we see this case is as much about us as it is about Kyle.

Are We Sabotaging Ourselves? Nov 10, 2021

Listen all y'all it's a sabotage: In todays episode, Chris drills down on the question of whether Dems, GOP and frankly, all of us are sabotaging what matters instead of fixing what's broken. This applies to the continuing issuance of House Committee subpoenas in the wake of Bannon's no show, as the DOJ still mulls what's next. Or whether Dems could have/should have pushed through Build Back Better or if it's better to work in good faith and settle up once the CBO has a chance to score the cost. Are we our own worst enemy?

Is Karen Tumulty's opinion right that perhaps Dems slowing their roll and allowing the CBO to score the cost of BBB can show moderate voters that the Dems are being thoughtful here and want responsible government? Should progressives be thanking them? Last Tuesdays elections in part seem to suggest that people want action, but responsible action.

And Another Thing: The Travis Scott festival's tragedy was avoidable and an unforced error. By setting up festival seating when it's known that fans tend to rush the stage, it puts into question who is liable and how they could have done better to protect concert-goers.

The Need for Effective Government Nov 08, 2021

BONUS EDITION: Cuomo is back! After traveling to Italy to cover the G20, Chris is back in the New York groove and ready to get after it!

In today's episode, a look at what is in the massive bipartisan infrastructure bill that the House passed late Friday, and some caution from Chris to go slow on analyzing Build Back Better, as well as a warning to Democrats in the form of some alliteration: Price tag politics present a paradox.

Chris also takes a moment to remind us not to forget the need for accountability when it comes to our ingrained social media platforms.

And another thing: Chris' take on the Packer's star quarterback Aaron Rodgers not being straight on whether he'd been vaccinated.

It's Just Politics Oct 26, 2021

In today's episode, Chris looks at the incremental progress with the Democrats reconciliation bill and whether immigration reform can make the cut. Also some back and forth on whether this has always been a priority or whether getting this through is a 'Johnny come lately' attempt to cram as much in as possible, despite the parliamentarian's ruling on the subject.

Plus: a beat on the continuing market watch as inflation concerns hit up against supply chain issues, and whether this is a short term problem or will need a longer term market correction. How much should be blamed on President Biden vs. overall economic conditions in a pandemic?

And Another Thing: The shooting on the set of the film 'Rust' was tragic and avoidable. Analysis on what went sideways and how to fix it moving forward.

Don't Believe The Hype Oct 25, 2021

In todays episode, Chris urges Dems to leave the Price Tag politics alone and to keep pitching the human infrastructure programs to the American people. He thinks Biden helped his own case during last week's Town Hall, but he needs to do more of it. We all see the problems, but what are you going to do about it?

Chris thinks something will happen this week on the reconciliation piece, but beware the false headline of "framework achieved"- the reality is that parts of the framework will continue to be negotiated.

Also, Chris and Vick take a look at the latest trends in the Great Resignation. We see the what, but why??

And a beat on the Facebook Papers...

And Another Thing: Chris (live from Zoom after a tech glitch!) gives some insight into the old adage in the media: "If it bleeds, it leads...", how Facebook could/should be regulated by Congress, and how the Voting Rights bill needs to be the hill Dems are willing to die on.

Biden's Big Sell Oct 21, 2021

In today's episode, Chris contends that a lot of the noise around 'if' the reconciliation bill will get done is overly hyped. He thinks it's a given that the Dems will get it done, it's more a question of what it will look like. But the same measure does not apply to the push for voting rights, after the Senate GOP torpedoed any chance of overriding the filibuster and reaching the 60 vote threshold to even debate Joe Manchin's paired down version. So where does this leave the Dems? The GOP? Us?

And Another Thing: Now that the FDA is preparing to review and likely approve the COVID vaccine for our 5-11 year olds, will you give it to your kiddos?

Power plays/Playing with powers Oct 19, 2021

In today's episode, Chris looks at the long game of former President Trump suing the National Archives in order to stop or at least slow documents getting into the hands of Select Committee members. As Chris rightly put it, people can evade and blur facts but documents can't. And with some added insight from Norm Eisen last night on Cuomo Prime Time, Chris give us a sharper focus on the WHY.

Also on the docket: Is Joe Manchin out of step with his party on clean energy? Why does he continue to prop up a receding coal industry that even in his state is costing constituents more in utilities and creating less opportunities and jobs then it did 20 years ago?

And Anther Thing: Another aspect of General Colin Powell's legacy is shining a light on the need to protect the immuno-compromised among us, when even with vaccinations, they are vulnerable.

Remembering Colin Powell Oct 18, 2021

In today's special Bonus episode, Chris remembers the leadership and life of General Colin Powell, who, after serving his country for decades, succumbed to complications from COVID, having a suppressed immune system as he battled cancer.

After his early military career had him serve in combat in Vietnam, General Powell went on to many firsts, as:

-the first Black National Security Adviser (Ronald Reagan)

- the youngest and first African American Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (George HW Bush)

- the first Black Secretary of State (George W Bush), making him the highest ranking African American official of the time.

His legacy was one of integrity and strength of both purpose and conviction.

And Another thing: Chris takes a beat on whether President Biden is pushing hard enough to sure up voting rights.

Cooperation should not be a dirty word Oct 13, 2021

Whether applied to the push and pull of civil liberties vs vaccine mandates, or the Democrats squabbling over what could be a huge win for their party and their President, Chris uses today's episode to look at the break down of any form of movement for the betterment of us all. Cooperation is no longer a term uttered in our politics or in this pandemic.

He remarks what a sad state of affairs we've arrived at that we can all assume that no one on the Republican side is going to touch any part of Biden's Build Back Better push, let alone getting all the Dems to sort out their disagreements. And this applies to things like Pre K and child care, not traditional wedge issues.

Plus, a beat on the continuing breakdowns in our supply chain and why we should all be paying attention to what's happening at our ports and with our long haul truckers.

And Another thing: Congrats to William Shatner for reaching the final frontier, and the latest in the Gabby Petito case, after the autopsy report is released.

Standards, and the lack thereof... Oct 13, 2021

For today's episode, Chris applies the lens of 'standards': what standards we hold in our own lives (think: how we look, how we feel, how we live, our behavior) and why we apply them on a personal level, but not in our public life.

Use the lens of the standards you hold in most areas of your life, and you quickly see there is a disconnect between what we hold ourselves to vs our political leaders.

And Another Thing: Applying these standards to Senator Mike Lee, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, among others who back the Big Lie, and it becomes clear accountability is lacking when lying is the standard.

A Conversation with General Stan McChrystal about Risk Oct 12, 2021

In this special Bonus episode, Chris has an extended dialogue with General Stan McChrystal, US Army (Retired) about his new book: Risk: A User's Guide, co-authored with Anna Butrico. They talk through assessing risk in our own lives: amid the pandemic and persistent uncertainty at work and at home, with real world examples of how to systematically detect and respond to it. This is a conversation not to miss.

General Stanley McChrystal retired in July 2010 as a four-star general in the U.S. Army. His last assignment was as the commander of the International Security Assistance Force and as the commander of the U.S. forces in Afghanistan. He had previously served as the director of the Joint Staff and as the commander of the Joint Special Operations Command. The author of My Share of the Task, Team of Teams, and Leaders, he is currently a senior fellow at Yale University's Jackson Institute for Global Affairs and the cofounder of the McChrystal Group.

It's Not Over... Oct 07, 2021

On today's episode, Chris digs into the importance of paying attention to the ongoing investigations into former President Trump's efforts to thwart the results of the 2020 election. Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin just released a Committee report detailing some of the events in the White House leading up to January 6th, along with some revelations about how intentional Trump was (and continues to be) about spreading the 'Big Lie'.

Trump and his team never really tried to find hard proof, they just worked to echo accusations and question election results as a form of fueling suspicion. There were so many around him that knew it was a false premise and were complicit in their silence.

And what Chris finds almost more instructive is reading the GOP's rebuttal to the Judiciary report from Senator Chuck Grassley.

And another thing: Chris had a good day fishing.

Rep. Ro Khanna joins Chris to offer the latest outlook on infrastructure Oct 06, 2021

With little movement in negotiations on infrastructure, and the GOP doing whatever it can to obstruct Democrats from doing their job in raising the debt ceiling, Rep. Ro Khanna offers optimism when he joins Chris on today's podcast. Khanna doesn't hold a crystal ball, but he does see a path forward at some point with Senators Manchin and Sinema reaching a compromise with the rest of their party. He admits that overcoming the issue of the debt ceiling is a challenging one, but offers reasoning as to why he does not see the United States defaulting.

Rep. Ro Khanna on the Democratic party: We have a higher bar. We need to be the party of aspiration.

Plus: Chris asks if the Facebook outage happened to them or for them. The timing has to raise a few eyebrows. It happened on the heels of the company's former employee Frances Hougen revealing herself as the company's whistleblower on 60 Minutes. Whether it did happen to them or for them, Chris makes it clear that Facebook needs to be better at what it does. We all need to be better.

A chat with Paul Begala about what Democrats really want Sep 30, 2021

On today's episode, Chris chats with Paul Begala, veteran Democratic strategist, author and former advisor to President Bill Clinton (@PaulBegala) about the state of affairs in within the party. What do progressives want? What about moderates? Can they find a way forward? And can they get something done?

Plus: Why is X Mas gonna suck? Chris and Vick look at the breakdown in our national and global supply chain and why you should care. Think: the T.P. 'crisis' of April 2020 x1000. And Cuomo's take on the Reason for the Season and why he is not a fan of the consumer aspect of the holidays.

Dems hold their fate in their own hands.... Sep 29, 2021

On todays episode, a beat on the GOP opposition to raising the debt ceiling and the Dems C.R. solution on the budget, after which Chris and Vick go through the Socratic exercise of what the infrastructure negotiations are about. Do these machinations matter to you? Is Biden going to get bruised here? What is the problem? And who is the problem?

Progressives or moderates? Manchin and/or Sinema? Schumer or McConnell? Pelosi or McCarthy?

Also, A Closer Look: at the genius of The White Stripes and on an unfair headline decrying that Joe Manchin is rejecting Nancy Pelosi's call for a deal.

We Have To Do Better Sep 28, 2021

Today's episode brought to you by the K.I.S.S. principle: Keep it simple, Stupid. We can all do better, and it is all in our control. Chris knows we are in control of how we live in our world, and we can apply this to every facet of what's before us:

- Joint Chiefs Chair General Milley testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee about the Afghanistan withdrawal.

- The effects of COVID becoming more and more a reflection of where you live and what party your state tends to vote for

- Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell refusing to raise the debt ceiling

- Dems not able to come together on the bipartisan bill and reconciliation piece of infrastructure

How do we get past this?

Plus an anecdote from Chris about helping a stranded driver with a flat tire.

And a Deeper Dive: on the nasty politics of all those slamming General Milley for 'going rogue' who won't amend their criticism when they hear that Sec Pompeo, Miller and Sec Esper were all in the know about his calls to his Chinese counterpart, and his chat with Speaker Pelosi.

Our Ride or Die Politics Sep 27, 2021

SPECIAL BONUS EDITION: When you remove all the filters, all the lenses, all the allegiances, you can just see what's obvious: whether applied to the pandemic, the debt ceiling showdown, the infrastructure in-fighting among Dems and even Title 42 as applied to immigration. The common denominator is the poison of our politics.

When the messaging changes but it doesn't fit with our Ride or Die politics, criticism is wrong and it's the critic who sucks, instead of new information leading to an evolving understanding.

Politics is poison right now and "don't trust" is pervasive.

PLUS:

A Deeper Look: at a WP opinion piece from columnist Michele Norris who coined "Covertigo": the sense of never ending uncertainty in this pandemic, and the toll the stress of consistent inconsistency takes on our lives. We are all going to need a little help from our friends to get past not only this moment, but as we re-enter society.

Making Something Of This Moment Sep 23, 2021

In today's episode, Chris gives a positive nod to the bubbling recognition that is happening around coverage of Gabby Petito: it's giving the media cause to shine a prolonged light on many other people that are missing, especially in minority communities after many calls to do so.

Their loved ones hope for the same sort of national recognition and police and FBI involvement to aide them in finding answers.

And not for nothing- much of the media that are complaining about a lack of coverage of missing people in black and brown populations, are the same that are not in the habit of covering it themselves. We can all do better.

Chris hopes this is a usable moment to shift the dynamic and keep a light on all of these missing people.

And Another Thing: A deeper look at the Daniel Robinson case out of Arizona, as national media begin to draw attention to the case.

Can The Leopard Change It's Spots? Sep 22, 2021

In today's episode, Chris tells the story of an overheard conversation about why not to take the vaccine, and what it says about how we convey what we hold true and convince ourselves to believe the unbelievable. Repetition can make things more persuasive, but it can't make things more true.

He then turns to Congress and his view that the Democrats are flirting with suicide with the party infighting and distrust of fellow members. If this skepticism is pervasive and unchecked, the Dems may blow up President Biden's agenda and their chances at a majority in 2022.

A woman recently told Chris to "stop trying to make us something we're not", in terms of looking for better than the darkness of our politics these days. While Chris doesn't consider himself a romantic or a foolish optimist, in the political realm, can a leopard change it's stripes?

And Another Thing: The absence of Gabby Petito's fiancé Brian Laundrie has many ascribing blame to him for her death, but don't get out over your skis. There are more questions then answers right now, though talking definitely helps if he is innocent.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "The media is a reflection of us, to be honest. You like to talk about the media like it's something else but it really isn't. It's you. It reflects you."

The Reset Sep 21, 2021

In today's episode, Chris offers the autumn season as an opportunity for a reset on our politics of opposition and animosity. Let's look for solutions.

On immigration, both sides see advantage in using it as an issue to galvanize, but not in actually solving the problem. While the images coming from the border are a gut punch, he argues that neither side benefits from a fix, but we can't get better alone. We need each other.

When everything is wrong and no one wants to make it right, it is time for a recalibration: Do you want better than this? The same goes with the majority of vaccinated people being held in check by a minority of unvaccinated.

On all these issues, we accept in politics what we never would in our own lives.

And Another Thing: Chris takes a beat on the importance of messaging from the Biden administration as vaccine approval for 5-11 year olds is on the horizon.

The Only Thing That Matters Is Who Votes Sep 16, 2021

In today's episode, Chris drives home the point that no matter the issue in our politics, the only thing that matters at the end of the day is who votes. There is no need to complicate the obvious.

As the General Milley news is flushed out, we find that the loudest voices saying he had 'gone rogue' and was a national security threat, are now silent when the facts don't bare that out. And they are silent because all that matters is who votes. In many politicians' estimation, 'talking tough' is all that is often remembered when election season comes around. Not being right. Or amending a false premise.

If you are motivated by a loss of rights, it is not enough to talk or think or feel, you most vote.

And Another thing: Chris takes a beat on why he is covering these two crime stories of the Alex Murdaugh family and his botched assisted suicide, and the missing 22 year old Van Life enthusiast Gabby Petito.

Hobson's Choice: Did Gen. Milley Do the Right Thing? Sep 15, 2021

Did General Milley do the right thing? It's a question being asked in all corners. Was he a cool head keeping the ship righted during a chaotic storm? Or an overzealous General who went over and above the head of the Executive Branch? Depends who you ask.

But in todays' Episode, Chris challenges the question itself. The loudest voices hammering Milley for convening top brass after January 6th, are the same who stood silent during the insurrection and after, never mentioning President Trump's role in it or calling him to account for inciting his followers that day, Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz among them.

What is to be done when the Executive Branch operates outside of political and lawful norms, but the other co-equal branches do nothing to check that power?

Also: A Second Guess on what the results of the California Governor's recall election says about how Newsom ran his campaign and the issues that lie ahead for the Golden State's GOP.

Don't Pet the Snake... or the Hornet Sep 14, 2021

In todays episode, Chris shares an anecdote about a run in with a hornet in his house this morning as an instruction on how Dems need to play their hand. He hits on the idea that playing nice will not get it done when it comes to Democrats getting their dual infrastructure plans passed, as the window is closing for action before the midterms.

Not to mention the hill to die on in Chris' estimation: getting the Freedom to Vote Act passed, like, yesterday.

The opposition of Senator Manchin and Senator Sinema to the $3.5 trillion reconciliation is a problem for Dems they need to figure out and fix. Voters will not forgive them for "Manchinema's" blockage, they will see it as a failure of the whole party.

And Another Thing: Chris takes a beat on tennis star Novak Djokovic being able to play at the U.S. Open despite saying no to the vaccine. Contrasted with Naomi Osaka's pile on over protecting her own mental health, Chris shines a light on this selective outrage.

Never Forget.... We Are Connected Sep 10, 2021

In this special bonus episode, Chris reflects on the 20 year anniversary of the September 11th attacks, and shares his personal experience that day and in the aftermath.

"Never Forget" was never just about the events of 9/11, but in Chris' estimation, taking care to remember our inter-connectedness. And when he looks at how we have faired collectively two decades later, in the midst of COVID and mis/disinformation, he's concerned we have forgotten that were are all interwoven and linked together as Americans.

How have we aged? Where is our resolve?

And Another Thing: A look at President Biden's moves to mandate the vaccine more broadly and the pushback it incurred.

"You Can't Make Us..." Sep 09, 2021

On today's episode, Chris takes a beat at the top to call it as he sees it: good on the Biden administration for listening to military leadership and creating a 'public/private partnership' to centralize information and unify purpose in aiding those who are still trying to leave Afghanistan. #DigitalDunkirk

And then he Gets After It: how long will the majority of Americans stand for being held hostage by the minority who refuse to get vaccinated? Biden's E.O. mandating the vaccine for federal employees and contractors is a step toward saying 'enough is enough', but Chris is concerned that the unintended consequence of a mandate is that it can also create deeper resistance.

PLUS: A Deeper Look: As the Los Angeles Unified School District decides whether to mandate vaccines for their students aged 12 and up, the question remains: should they?

We've Grown Beyond the Binary System Sep 08, 2021

On today's episode, Chris digs deep into the concept of a multi-party political system, where representation is more focused on bringing ideas and being results oriented, and where the choices are beyond just A or B.

He argues that the binary system of our R's and D's has essentially failed in that there is no position other than opposition, and compromise is seen as weakness.

It's no longer enough to say either party has a 'big tent'- there has been such an expansion of our ideological spectrum in recent years that our society is ripe for a multitude of parties with the potential to build coalitions to move the ball forward. Any ball.

A NY Times opinion piece by Lee Drutman also gets Chris thinking about ways to make this happen: Drutman's idea centers around six parties, and how they'd represent broader, more diverse districts through passage of The Fair Representation Act.

And another thing: When can kids under 12 get the vaccine??

Talking the Talk vs. Walking the Walk Sep 07, 2021

Chris sees Labor Day as a forced reset. And on today's episode, he looks to the wisdom of Yoda: "Do or do not- there is no try"... with caveats, of course.

While explaining the talk is crucial, walking the walk is essential when it comes to following through on political promises to make them reality. And right now, walking the walk is everything for President Biden: how can he actually intervene in the Texas abortion law? How can he guide the nation past COVID? How can he get his agenda passed with such a slim Senate majority and the 60 vote filibuster in tact?

Plus: A Personal Note: A window into Chris' family life as he navigates back to school with three kids, and the funny reality of the media covering him getting coffee as a news story.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "The law is our national religion. That is how we walk the talk."

Tyranny of a Minority Sep 02, 2021

In today's Episode, Chris argues that when 50% of the representation represents 20% of the population, it allows for a Tyranny of a Minority. We see this in cancel culture as well as laws crafted from extreme views within the parties. The state of Texas' abortion law is reflective of a minority interest.

Chris also looks at the SCOTUS decision not to freeze the state law, by and large tilting their hand as to how they might rule in the coming Mississippi case this fall that asks for a 15 week viability standard.

And while abortion is being restricted in the most significant way since Roe v Wade was decided in 1973, Texas in the same week enacted a law to allow gun owners to open carry in public with no license or training.

Also on the table: a Second Guess on #Digital Dunkirk as veterans and U.S. citizens outside the government work to help get people out of Afghanistan after the U.S. evacuation and withdrawal has ended.

The Prayer of St. Francis Sep 01, 2021

In this Episode, Chris applies the Prayer of St Francis to our current state of play: on the Afghanistan withdrawal as well as COVID. It also applies to the Texas abortion law that just banned the procedure beyond six weeks, after the Supreme Court failed to rule on emergency requests by providers.

Do you believe in 'to each their own' or do we have an interdependence and an interconnectedness? Chris sees little forgiveness in the public square anymore to tolerate views outside of our own.

The Prayer of St. Francis says this: be an instrument of peace. Where there is hatred, bring love; where there is offense, bring pardon; let me not seek as much to be consoled, as to console. Chris asks in a secular sense, who thinks of others first anymore in any of our collective struggles.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "One of the main rules of crisis is, 'Don't blame during the crisis, get out of the crisis'. We've forgotten that."

A Pretend Finality Aug 31, 2021

In today's episode, Chris urges a reframe on the idea that 'the 20 year war is over". Nothing is over.

He argues that we all as a nation wanted out of Afghanistan. No one cared when President Trump invited the Taliban to Camp David, Chris included. And Biden got dealt a bad hand that he didn't play well.

But we are doing ourselves dirty time and time again, when a 'War on Terror' and also a pandemic can be made political and divisive.

Chris thinks the remedy for all that ails us is Common Concern and Collective Will. Can we find this in any cause?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "A war is about an oppositional side that either you conquer or you don't. That's not what this was."

A deck of bad cards Aug 27, 2021

If you get a bad hand and have no choice but to play, you do the best with what you've got. In the case of Afghanistan, Biden may have gotten a raw deal, but this doesn't mean that folding is an option. Nor does it mean that we have the time to place blame on previous presidents like Trump, Obama, or even Bush when it comes to the current state of play in Kabul. With explosions near Kabul airport causing casualties that include U.S. service members, focusing decisively on the now is the only path ahead.

A political pandemic: The politicization of COVID isn't new. However, the pandemic being used for political gain continues to shape our national identity.

Cuom'ote of the day: "We are where we are as a function of our own bad intention."

Fixated on Blame Aug 19, 2021

What is the role of blame in our analysis of what's happening with the Afghanistan withdrawal? In today's episode, Chris makes the case that we are fixated on blame, and while its comforting and satisfying, it is also reductive and destructive.

'Get Them Out' and 'Fix It' should be the sole focus.

This applies to the the Afghanistan withdrawal but also to the pandemic.

Also up to bat: Chris' take on this emerging demographic as a new voting block: Vaccinated vs Unvaccinated. That is the new constituency politicians should be talking to.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "There is an 'us' and a 'them', but it is not the one that is pitched to you by the media and by politicians. It's not red/blue. It is reasonable and unreasonable, as evidenced in vaccinated and unvaccinated."

Owning Our Mistakes Aug 18, 2021

We settle for too little from our leadership and Chris thinks it is long over due for us to demand more. We should expect President Biden to acknowledge the mistakes amid the withdrawal from Afghanistan and tell us exactly how he is going to fix it. The lives of Americans and our allies are at stake and we should see swift, decisive action should the Taliban interfere with or stall our efforts to evacuate. The U.S. must honor the promises made to the people who have helped us in Afghanistan for the last 20 years.

Failing of the collective: Opposition continues to be the position as the pandemic rages on. Beat COVID? We're still too busy arguing about masks.

Cuom'ote of the day: "Criticizing America is part of our signature freedom."

The Graveyard of Empires Aug 17, 2021

In today's episode, Chris focuses on how we are processing the 'right now' in Afghanistan: the chaos of today, and the mistakes being made, of which there are plenty. Whether Biden or Trump, both administrations got us to where we are. And while many Americans agree that we should be leaving the 'Forgotten War' after 20 years in-country, the 'how' we leave is among the most important, and seemingly, the most miscalculated.

But the longer view of what we wanted to accomplish and what our Armed Forces sacrificed and carried out needs focus as well.

Front and Center: Beyond our own diplomats and civilians, some 18,000+ Afghan citizens and their families are scrambling to get out of Afghanistan. The interpreters, the drivers, the cultural advisers, are among those that aligned with the U.S. and our interests, and are now in direct threat from the Taliban. How do we get them out? Is it not our moral obligation to protect them after they helped us? Why wasn't this happening first? Chris looks at the long game and argues it happened for two reasons: poor planning and not understanding this as a priority.

At Issue: How do you now keep us safe?

MISinformation vs DISinformation Aug 05, 2021

In today's episode, Chris shakes his head over Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' exec order disallowing local school districts to mandate masks in schools in high risk areas, coupled with a threat to take away funding if they defy him. Why?

If there were one motivation to bring us together to protect against the virus, it would be for our kids, right? Despite the Delta variant being an increasing threat to young and old, there is still messaging from some state leaders that kneecaps those on the local level aiming to keep kids healthy and in school. Chris takes some time to make sense of it all.

Also: Will those resisting the vaccine come around when it's FDA approved? Maybe, but millions will still remain eligible and likely continue to say no to the shot.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Common concern should cause collective will."

"Younger, Sicker, Quicker" Aug 04, 2021

In todays episode, Chris looks at the rise in hospitalizations among younger adults, people in their 20's and 30's, as well as the uptick in cases among children. While there is good news in more people getting the shot, if we stay at this pace of vaccinations (averaging around 446,000ish a day), it would take until February for every eligible American to get vaccinated.

There are calls from the NIH that in order to get a handle on this spread, we'd need to reach upwards of 1 million shots per day.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Division is such a zero sum game, that as soon as somebody says, 'I am against who is criticizing me'... or questions the questioner, it kinda becomes zero sum and everybody goes back to looking at it through the lens of their own political pre-disposition. And that is part of the deep denial that is making us sick."

Messaging Matters Aug 03, 2021

In today's episode, Chris breaks down the reality: we failed to tackle the pandemic head on with a unified and measured approach from jump. What now? Is it time for businesses beyond Walmart and Google to require proof of vaccination? How about municipalities as NYC just announced? Will messaging in these confusing times ever be fully trusted? And how concerned should we be about Breakthrough cases?

There is no magic number on vaccinations, but hospitalizations and deaths are a lagging indicator, so this will take time to claw our way back from.

On the numbers: The Delta variant is spreading faster than we thought. Vaccination rates are up but positivity rates are not going down. Chris breaks down what this means as it relates to what lies ahead.

Cuom'ote of the Day: Your rights end where my rights begin.

Don't Make America Sick Again... Jul 29, 2021

In today's episode: Chris talks through a new approach for his show: to create a COVID Control Room. It is time to be all in.

Our fate is in our own hands, and while vaccine hesitancy continues to befuddle many of us, the Mo' Man takes a beat to outline some of the numbers around who and why people are not getting the shot. A recent You Gov poll analyzed by Philip Bump of the Washington Post finds an overlay of about 1 in 8 people who are not worried, not vaxxed and not wearing a mask.

Also on the table: Chris outlines what he sees as a new coalition to tap into: the vaccinated among us. Both left and right who are fully vaxxed and getting fed up with the continuing lackadaisical response from their fellow Americans. Those who don't or won't get the shot, are in essence holding the rest back from a return to normalcy. This could be a substantial voting block come 2022.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "I like them because the vaccinated are people who are openly reasonable and they are not defined by party. It's not fair to say it's all Republicans..."

A trilogy of tragedies Jul 28, 2021

In today's episode, Chris looks at these three pieces to our collective puzzle that should be obvious:

- That all of our leaders should advocate for vaccination

- That the election results were legitimate

- That January 6th was one of the darkest days in our history

But somehow there is not consensus on any of the above. To understand why you are on one side or the other, ask yourself the following questions. Do you choose to have faith? What is your why? What do you want to be about?

Cuom'ote of the Day: Opposition is too much of a viable position.

Do you see the Two Americas? Jul 27, 2021

**Be advised- offensive language in playback of Officer testimony**

On Vaccine hesitancy: There is no high ground on any of this. People all around the world, for generations have fought to live in reality, to live in the truth. Seeing the vaccine as an infringement to freedom is in defiance of reality.

On the January 6th Select Committee: Chris weighs concerns of whether the work of the Committee will yield any results beyond a straight reckoning for history. As he plays back the harrowing account of Officer Harry Dunn, who was confronted by insurrectionists as racial epithets were hurled at him, Chris urges the question: will this change any hearts or minds?

One way it might: There is power in exposing the reality of what happened to people who may not have seen the footage or heard the officer accounts of what happened. Maybe it can shift the, 'it was just a peaceful, loving crowd' lament.

Welcome back!

The "Why" Matters Jul 16, 2021

The choices we make in our own lives are largely based on what information we receive through the internet, media, and our leaders. Chris addresses the reasoning behind what we choose to believe and what we don't. The healing of our collective health has been hindered by false information on why not to get vaccinated. Yet, so many continue to believe the falsehoods. The 2020 election has been proven indisputably to be legitimate. Still, partisan perspective encourages millions to believe the big lie. Critical race theory's core use should be an academic exercise in how slavery has caused racial inequalities. But somehow there are many who see it as some sort of degradation of whites in America. It's all not true but so many believe it. Why?

Also on the Table: McCarthy's unwavering allegiance to Trump continues undoubtedly due to McCarthy's lust for power. Will it pay off?

Cuomo on Vacation: Chris will be getting some much deserved rest and relaxation next week, but will be back to get after it with you when he returns the week of July 26th..

An insightful chat with Commander Ted Johnson Jul 15, 2021

What is critical race theory? Do you truly know, or do you only know if you are for or against it being taught? To move passed how the concept has been weaponized, and on to a place of clear understanding, Chris speaks with Commander Ted Johnson. Johnson is the Director of the Fellows Program at the Brennan Center for Justice at the NYU School of Law. He and Chris take pause to explain critical race theory as it applies to systemic inequality today.

Also on the Table: The troubling reality that there are many holdingoffice who leverage unprincipled leadership just to hold on to power.

Johnson on Overcoming Systemic Inequality: "The only way out of this doomed spiral is to recognize that government is under-delivering on the promise of America to all Americans."

What matters most Jul 14, 2021

What do you care about when voting? How do you choose which media outlet to digest? Where is your line on what matters regarding Covid and what does not? Do you see those who are not vaccinated as the opposition? Chris implores us all to see questions like these through the scope of pragmatism rather than the ideal.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "There are a lot of different levels of accountability for the current state of suck."

This is the game Jul 13, 2021

There is so much of the "game" being played for advantage by fringe media outlets that we can get lost in the deception. To simplify things, Chris uses the reckless disregard of truth that is used against him in reports of what he has said about critical race theory and the Black Lives Matter movement.

Cuom'ote of the Day: There is opportunity in opposition

Choose your hard Jul 08, 2021

Everything in life can be hard. It's how we choose to interpret and address the circumstances before us that dictate our outcome. If you choose to ignore January 6th, you will remain ignorant. If you fail at separating your view of government and politics, you will lose your understanding of how and if we can make progress. If you can't bring yourself to see Trump as antagonistic and the lack there of in Biden, you are succumbing to partisanship. And if you aren't able to do your best, you will never be at your best. These are the concepts that Chris weaves through to evaluate what we face both individually and collectively.

Also on the Table: Biden has shifted to pitching his American Families Plan. What it includes is surely needed by both red and blue states. The question is what will it take to get it to them?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Whatever you're doing should be enough, and if it's not, you should be doing something about it."

Weak people create hard times Jul 07, 2021

Do you accept the type of inferior ethics and values in your personal life that you do in politics? Chris sees the obvious answer as no. In our personal lives, we strive to do what is right. But in politics, far too may of us choose what wins over what is right. The January 6th Commission will be fraught with finger pointing instead of question answering. The lingering cloud of doubt over President Biden's election legitimacy will continue to leave a stain on our democracy. The political decision by some Republicans not to get vaccinated will achieve nothing more than holding the partisan line. None of this reflects strong people creating good times. It is weak people creating hard times.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "You are what you do, not what you say".

Negativity is a proxy for insight Jul 06, 2021

How can it be wrong to be conscious of racial discrimination or the plight of minorities? It can't be, but there is a varying degree of awareness throughout the country. This is why Chris sees the importance of using caution before embracing cancel culture or shunning those who you see as supposedly not woke enough. The challenge is that our major source of information is the media, and much of its content has to be checked because it too often feeds the part of us that wants to know about the worst of us.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "It doesn't matter if you win an argument if you lose the person you beat in the argument."

What is your 'Why'? Jul 01, 2021

As an instructive exercise in today's episode, Chris asks, "What is your 'why'?". This can apply to every part of your life, including your political dispositions.

Why you feel the way you do about the SCOTUS decisions? Why do some of us see Bill Cosby's conviction being overturned through the lens of the victim while others view it strictly through a legal framework? Why are you paying attention to the indictments of The Trump Organization and its CFO Allen Weisselberg?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "This is America. People don't have to like what you like."

Look at what you reward, and that's what you get Jun 30, 2021

Can S.D. Governor Kristi Noem use private GOP donor funding to deploy the National Guard to another state? That's the question on the table in today's episode. While it is blatant politics from a likely 2024 contender in order to look 'Commander-in-Chief-y', can the National Guard really be summoned as a mercenary army of sorts?

Also on the Table: While a pro-Trump group performed their version of a GOP autopsy, claiming that the path to 2024 is to be MAGA heavy and all-in on decrying 'woke-ism', Chris asks if that is a good long-term strategy, based on the results from 2020. Is Trumpism on the wane?

On Infrastructure: Dems are having a tough time herding all their cats. Joe Manchin being open to reconciliation is not the same as a vote for it, a lot will depend on the deal they can work out. So will both the bi-partisan effort and the Dem only reconciliation piece have a chance in the Senate, let alone the House?

Plus: The inside scoop on Chris' cold regimen.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Look at what you reward, and that's what you get. It's really as simple as that."

Speaking truth to power comes at a price Jun 29, 2021

A lot of news is popping from upcoming books about President Trump's time in the White House- showing his negligence, recklessness, etc. Chris asks why the reporting and the honesty from those in power is happening now, and not while he was still in office. AG Barr now calls Trump's election fraud claims "Bullsh*t"; on January 6th Trump waited hours to ask his supporters to stand down; during last summer's protests, Trump pushed hard for a military response as a show of force in our cities. Why were the officials making these calls not pushed to own their actions in real time?

Also of Note: On the Surfside, Florida building collapse: there is nothing wrong with looking to the state to work on finding the cause while search and rescue is still underway. The families deserve the comfort, the solace and the closure of knowing that the process of finding answers is beginning.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "You dont get to come forward now and say 'I was a member of the administration and I was appalled'... Forget you. You should have said it then. That was your job. Say it then. That was the public trust".

Correlation but not causation Jun 24, 2021

There is an uptick in violent crime President Biden needs to own and then strive to mitigate its cause(s). Is bail reform part of the problem? Does it hamstring a judge's discretionary ability to keep violent criminals off the street while awaiting trial? While bail reform was needed to some extent, is it an over-correction in places like New York?

Chris continues the theme of the criminal justice system and asks if this is the time to abolish cash bail, a system which perpetrates inequities disproportionately upon black and brown communities.

Also on the table: Critical Race Theory popped up again yesterday, as General Mark Milley schooled Matt Gaetz and Michael Waltz at a House Armed Services Committee hearing, as to why he thinks it is important to understand and study systemic inequity. Beyond this moment in a Budget hearing, Chris sees it as a tough nut to crack with those who can't even acknowledge that systemic inequality exists.

What's your brand? Chris reflects on how he identifies what his "brand" is, and what it means to have one.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Everything in politics banks on ignorance."

A conversation w Michael Eric Dyson on "Critical Race Theory" Jun 23, 2021

In todays episode, Chris talks with Michael Eric Dyson to get his take on what Critical Race Theory is (a 40+ year old academic concept), where it is actually being discussed (in college settings, not in Kindergarten) and how it is being twisted into a boogeyman instead of reckoning with the present-day systemic inequality that was born out of slavery in our founding days, but continues to fester.

Dr. Dyson speaks to how inequality is not singularly a Black issue, but is also a class and cast issue.

NTBM: This is a not to be missed episode. Dr. Dyson can break it down, toss in some wry humor, historical context and not miss a beat on how the smaller concept relates to the larger dynamic.

Everything is antagonistic Jun 22, 2021

Do you feel that there is a reward in doing the right thing anymore? Or is it fair to say that politics is about calling out who or what is worse?

If you're unsure, do as Chris did in today's episode and take to social media. There you'll find that the ugly comments dominating threads are on topics that should be civil discussions. It doesn't matter if it is a story on Barack Obama or Billy Eilish, the hate parade is loud, proud, and ready for a fight.

Also on the Table: Chris pokes at Marsha Blackburn's comments on S1 eliminating state and local election authority. You need look no further than Article I, Section 4, Clause 1 for an answer to her charge if you're into the whole Constitutional thing.

Then and Now: 58 years ago, Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of the dangers of "a minority of misguided Senators" wielding the filibuster to suppress voting rights. And here we are today, same Bat time, same Bat channel.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "We are in the midst of an unholy period".

A chat with former Biden Senior Advisor on COVID, Andy Slavitt Jun 17, 2021

We all lived the chaos of what was and somewhat still is our country's collective response to the pandemic. And when looking at American leadership throughout this crisis, one can't help but ask how they chose the best path forward along the way.

Former Senior Advisor to Biden's COVID team Andy Slavitt joins Chris to offer perspective on the U.S. response to COVID, the misguided attacks on Dr. Anthony Fauci, the concept of vaccine passports, and Slavitt's book Preventable.

Andy Slavitt on Dr. Fauci: "It is a little bit unforgivable and typical for people to try and fire the guy who actually is the one that is most responsible of anybody we know for getting us out of this mess."

Mental health is health Jun 16, 2021

Navigating the last year has laid bare the fragility of our physical and mental health. Anxiety and estrangement are elevated, creating an even more vital need to identify and own the struggles we face every day. What before may have been a strain has been magnified by the pandemic for all of us. Take it seriously. Would you not see a doctor if you were having a heart attack?

Plus: Chris' origin story of how he got into media after starting a career in law and finance, while listening to some advice from broadcast legend Tim Russert.

And: A beat on President Biden's summit with Putin.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "I know people dont talk about this and I think and it's a mistake. If I were on an insulin regulating drug, would there be a problem with me telling you that? Would you care? No."

Why aren't Dems all over modifying the filibuster? Jun 15, 2021

In today's episode, a look at a few beats:

Modifying the filibuster: Chris and Vick look at four ways to do this without blowing up the practice entirely, and the modifications over the years that remind us, this is not an antiquated or unused tool in the toolbox.

The Byrd Bath: Remembering this is the process in reconciliation, made law by the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, wherein a provision in the budget has to pass muster that it will directly effect the budget, and so goes through the vetting process of the “Byrd Bath”, with the Parliamentarian ruling yay or nay. If it doesn’t pass the sniff test, those parts of the bill are sometimes referred to "Byrd Droppings". You can't make that up.

Pressure on the Acting AG: Following reporting last month, this series of e mails released from the House Oversight Committee show an intense pressure campaign on Acting AG Jeffrey Rosen in late December 2020 through early January, who, to his credit, understood the sandwich being served and refused to take a bite. Rejecting Italian satellite conspiracies, no to meeting with Giuliani and his 'witnesses', declining baseless ‘ballot irregularities’ in GA, MI, NM and other states, are just some examples of acting AG Rosen resisting efforts to have the DOJ get involved in throwing shade on the legitimacy of the 2020 election.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "The filibuster has not always been, in fact, has never been what it is now."

Using the lens of common sense Jun 14, 2021

Do you want the real story or the one that is politically convenient? Right now Republicans have a 'wait and see' attitude and an ever-evolving narrative. And if you flip the R and the D, you'd have the exact same dynamics coming in opposite directions.

For Example: The Wuhan lab theory on the origins of COVID is getting more politicized by the day. What's worse? Not knowing, or only wanting to know the information that fits your agenda politically? Manipulating the narrative can be cautioned across every story, from Trump's DOJ, to COVID origins, election 'security', even Biden's coming summit with Putin. Context is key.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "The only thing that magically disappears in real life is the truth. Everything else is ascertainable."

Is piecemeal the way? Jun 10, 2021

A major concern over the sheer volume of unemployment relief payments during COVID was always the potential for fraud. Well, that fear may have become a reality. And, as Chris surmises, if the amount the imposters stole is anywhere near what Axios has reported, then foreign crime syndicates have surely won this battle.

Also on the Table: We'd all prefer something rather than nothing, right? This same logic may apply to how to get a stagnant Senate to move. Case and point: the Senate passing the Innovation and Competition Act with a 68/32 vote. Is it time to consider doing HR1/S1 in pieces to get more Senators on board?

You've Been Warned: Never mess with another person's Lip Smackers. But if you do, you better be as fast as Chris was in the hilarious childhood story he tells that didn't end well for his sister.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "The Mo Man was fat, but quick and crafty."

De Jure vs De Facto on Voting Rights Jun 09, 2021

"Give me a way to not lose by helping the other side and I'll do it". So goes the sentiment of many in the GOP according to Chris' logic. While part of Republican resistance to any Dem proposal is a natural push and pull of ideas, the intensity is heightened right now out of fear of consequence. Not from voters, but from their own party.

These "election integrity" laws moving through many state legislatures seem to fail a basic sniff test: is there any proof of a lack of integrity in the voting process that needs correcting?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "One of the things that's killing us in our dialogue is mangling context for advantage."

You don't understand what you're up against... Jun 08, 2021

Are Dems playing the game the way it needs to be played in our new political 'normal'? Chris asserts that the sentimental adage of love beating out hate has no place when there is an existential threat posed on the future of our democracy.

Sen Joe Manchin has stated his case. Now it is time for all Senate members to cast votes on the floor and let the opposition be seen and heard. If the GOP don't play ball in the bipartisan way Manchin hopes, will he and other moderate Dems shift their thinking on the filibuster?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "We are at a point of inflection and no one is paying attention."

Common concern can create collective will Jun 07, 2021

There has always been xenophobia, there has always been animus, there has always been the 'other' when it comes to each new generation of immigrants. Who is embracing this dynamic and who is rejecting it?

In this bonus episode, Chris recounts getting to know a first generation immigrant who came to his house to handle some electrical work. The conversation gives Chris pause to reflect on the Cuomo family's immigration experience, and understanding this man as just one generation removed from his own family story.

Still on the Table: Joe Manchin is the greatest Rorschach test for where we are politically. How do you see Manchin's choice not to support the For The People Act while still holding out hope for a deal on the John Lewis Voting Rights Act? Is he right to continue to stand on principle when a large swath of the Republican party sees more value in obstruction than acting in good faith?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Common concern can create common will."

Passivity has no place in progress Jun 04, 2021

We all should maintain hope that we will be better prepared the next time there is an international viral outbreak. But are we? Does our government have a plan in place for a future pandemic? Rather than focusing every moment we have to equip ourselves, we're currently caught up in weaponizing the virus through a debate on it's origin.

Also on the Table: The pervasive nature of conspiracy theories, often applied to unknown events like Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, have found their way into what should remain objective. What is true? What is real? Shouldn't these debates on UFO's and extra-terrestrial life be held to the high bar of undisputed facts?

Weekend Homework: Watch the movie Contagion and be awed by how telling this film was for things to come during this pandemic.

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Passivity has no place in progress."

It can't happen here... Jun 03, 2021

In this episode, Chris owns that the two party system is breaking down. We need rational actors in positions of power who are motivated by the voters that put them there. Are we at an inflection point we can get beyond?

While recognition of a problem is a meaningful part of finding a solution, it can't end there. That's tough on an individual basis, even tougher on a collective one.

Cliché's aside (and Chris rattles off many!) how do we nullify or at least reduce our divisions to get the gears turning again? Is filibuster reform a path?

Cuom'ote of the Day: "Democracy is because you want it- not because you have to have it. It is not a 'must'."

Collective will, collective conscience Jun 02, 2021

The state of play: Everything is through the looking glass- things are seen only as we hope them to be.

If politics are played at the state level with suppressive voting laws, is the fix at the federal level? If Democrats blow up the filibuster, will it come back to bite them when the GOP regain power? All our frustrations are part of this unending game, and the players are doing what you allow and reward.

Plus: The pushback on young Tennis star Naomi Osaka for not speaking to the press was unrelenting. Chris looks at this story though the lens of increasing mental health awareness. If she broke her wrist would there be this same backlash? Mental health is health.

Final Five Voting Jun 01, 2021

In this episode, Chris chats with A.B. Stoddard about her recent RCP piece that takes a deep dive on Katherine Gehl's concept of Final Five Voting. A.B. digs into how it works and where it is working (currently in Alaska, in consideration in the legislature in Wisconsin).

Chris and A.B. then break down potential pitfalls and if, how and where this could be implemented.

Can this scratch our collective itch for better representation that more closely reflects our ideals, be it GOP, Dem or somewhere in between?

The Wuhan Lab theory... May 27, 2021

Chris kicks the tires on this idea that the Wuhan lab theory hasn't been brought up before. It is being politicized and weaponized. Yes, Trump talked about it but he never offered up any sort of proof. And the proof, as you may remember, is in the pudding.

Also on the table: the January 6th Commission- how could anyone not want to know how it happened? The opposition to the Commission is all part of the game.

And lest ye not forget: a look at how populism is increasingly appealing to both parties; 10 Senate seats that have the potential to flip, and the reality that 18% of the population controls 50% of Senate.

Co-opted by the fringes May 26, 2021

Chris talks well water plumbing problems and the Mo' Man taking it upon himself to climb into a crawl space where he met up with a live electrical current. Zaaaaaaap! Home Ownership 101.

And he takes a bit of the air out of MTG's comments that are still being chewed on. She knows what she's doing, it's not a shock or even a new occurrence. But the focus on her is a continuing distraction from what matters. We don't accept this type of non-action in any other aspect of our lives other than politics.

Chris believes in the marketplace of ideas, but also owns that often we are co-opted by the fringes on both sides.

Also: Hunter S Thompson on the TV business...

What do you empower and what do you ignore? May 25, 2021

Marjorie Taylor Greene continues to be given a voice even when making nutty comparisons between the House mask mandate and the Holocaust. Should this be news worthy? Is it worth our time and attention?

In the end, everyone loses when it distracts from the real issues that we collectively face. This ongoing game sidetracks us all from progress.

More instructive: asking GOP leaders to talk about infrastructure and voting rights, when their main position so far is opposition.

The Class Gap May 24, 2021

TODAY'S BONUS EDITION: Chris' take is that class matters in some of the same ways that color does when it comes to systemic inequality. He believes there is a combined interest in addressing many of the same core issues- including policing, and argues it's not an either/or, it's an 'and'.

Also: In his Morning Newsletter, NYT’s David Leonhardt looks at the class gap that exists in people not yet vaccinated, and those who are skeptical. While the dividing lines most often talked about are Republicans and also Black and Latino populations (for different reasons) there is also an analysis beyond: the gap in class.

These groups each have working class populations. And when you look at the numbers (via Kaiser Foundation) divvied up by class (using college as a delineator) those most hesitant to getting the shot are non-college educated, regardless of race.

Survey Says... May 20, 2021

Chris sees it as a dangerous and toxic game to conflate the events of the January 6th insurrection and last summer's protests for racial equality. This thinking is often echoed by the same people who won't wear masks, and dont want to get vaccinated. And the numbers show the game being played is making us sick.

Polling, as detailed by a recent op ed by Catherine Rampell, shows almost half of GOP respondents think it better to make voting harder then to come up with good ideas on governance.

What's with the mask confusion? Are vaccine passports a panacea? May 19, 2021

Like almost every other phase in this pandemic, the CDC mask update has created more questions than answers. People are looking sideways at each other wondering if they are being honest about being vaccinated when not wearing a mask. If we can't trust each other, is the solution a federal vaccine passport? While there are upsides, there are also potential inequities a system like that could bring.

Chris also looks at the CDC's sloth-like pace when it comes to updating their guidance and remembers the Trump administration's denial of the threat of COVID early on. If the President had owned the pandemic from jump, would he still be our Commander in Chief today?

You only know what you show May 18, 2021

Chris urges transparency on the part of North Carolina authorities, as he reacts to DA Andrew Womble announcing that the shooting of Andrew Brown Jr. was justified and that no charges will be filed against the deputies involved.

While DA Womble showed some snippets of the body cam footage during the press conference, he said he will not release it to the public.

Dr. Leana Wen on the confusion around the new CDC mask guidelines May 17, 2021

Dr. Leana Wen, emergency physician, public health professor at George Washington University and former Baltimore Health Commissioner joins Chris to look at what the somewhat surprising new recommendations from the CDC mean for those who are vaccinated and for those who can't get the shot yet, if at all (kids under 12, immuno-compromised).

What's good and essential about the new guidance, what needs to be flushed out further?

Further reading: Dr. Wen's Washington Post Op Ed

A revised mask mandate; Stefanik is the new #3; Manchin has an idea on voting reform May 14, 2021

While it is welcome news that the fully vaccinated among us can now unmask in most places, it also brings more questions than answers in some ways. While Chris applauds the move, he asks, why not play it straight from the start? Both pre and post-Biden, the CDC has had a bit of a credibility dent for not being transparent in real time throughout the pandemic.

Also on the table: Elise Stefanik ascends to the #3 House leadership role with a vote this morning. What does this mean for the direction of the new GOP? Her argument for the job has been that, like McConnell, she will oppose any and all that President Biden puts forth and that she'll continue to back former President Trump's election claims.

Plus this on a Friday: WV Sen. Joe Manchin suggests a take on the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, making federal pre-clearance on any new voting laws a 50 state rule. So any states looking to change voting laws have to pass muster on the federal level of not disenfranchising minority populations before enactment. While it is a far cry from the For The People Act, it could immediately stop any questionable voting laws in their tracks until they are reviewed by the DOJ. Does he have/could he get the votes to do it?

Left, Right or Reasonable? May 13, 2021

Chris expounds on the notion that both political parties as we've known them are no more. They are not the same parties and it's not the same politics. He urges those stuck somewhere in between to go beyond left or right to REASONABLE.

We have to change the game.

Also up to bat: Looking at the realities of the filibuster and a strategy to tackle the For the People Act; Sen. Shelly Moore Capito of WV meeting Biden today on Infrastructure; how to use progressive pragmatism.

Bonus Sidebars: A family Safari story in which Chris' spirit animal was declared for him by his oldest daughter; getting the side eye from a two toed sloth while anchoring the news with Sam Champion on GMA.

Liz Cheney is out but not going gently into that good night May 12, 2021

Rep Liz Cheney knew it was coming, she wasn’t trying to whip votes in her favor, but she also isn’t taking her licks and going home quietly. She will continue to speak out about the Big Lie that the 2020 election was stolen, and now has no tether to leadership to keep it muted in any way.

The GOP has a problem: their internal squabbles are on full display at a time they'd rather be focusing on President Biden and 2022. Instead, all eyes are on them. And Cheney isn’t going anywhere.

"Fox-itis" and The Big Lie; McCarthy's Big Tent May 11, 2021

Chris had accused Capitol rioter Anthony Antonio on Cuomo Prime Time last night- not to litigate his case but to have him explain what his lawyer called a case of ‘Fox-itis”: the idea that he truly believed the 2020 election was stolen from Trump and that he needed to go to the Capitol to fight.

Whether he is credible is up to you, but Antonio's belief that he was fed a steady diet of mis-information about a stolen election, from what he saw as credible news sources and the President himself, is something none of us should sleep on.

This, as House Leader McCarthy announces a vote Wednesday to strip Rep. Liz Cheney of her leadership position in the House for continually countering "The Big Lie". In the same breath, in a letter to his members, he argues that their party has a big tent and is a haven for "free thought and debate." Tell that to your number three.

Trailer Mar 22, 2021

Coming soon!

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