The Reason Roundtable

Latest Episodes:

Anti-War President Starts New War. Again. Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

This week, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch examine the latest U.S. military strike on Iran, unpacking the bipartisan pattern of anti-war campaign rhetoric followed by hawkish foreign policy once in office. They debate whether intervention is ever justified, what escalation might look like, and why Congress keeps abdicating its war powers. The hosts also tackle a listener question about public land sales and libertarian principles. Finally, they survey the baffling state of big city governance and the New York City mayoral primary battle between former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani.

00:22—President Donald Trump abandons "no new wars" promise

9:11—Vice President J.D. Vance kisses the ring

13:28—Are there any good arguments for war with Iran?

19:57—Israel set off a ticking clock

23:22—Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard contradicts Trump's narrative

26:27—What Congress should do now

36:24—Listener questions: public lands selloff

43:41—Big city governance and the NYC mayoral primary

55:32—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this Podcast

"Just Don't Call It a War," by Christian Britschgi

"The Attack on Iran Is Unlawful," by Eric Boehm

"Trump Shreds the Constitution By Bombing Iran," by Matthew Petti

"Now Let Us Give Thanks for War," by Nick Gillespie

"Is Trump's America a Reliable Ally?" by Open To Debate

"The Federal Government Owns Too Much Land. Selling It Helps Rural Communities," by Jack Nicastro

"Utah Tells the Feds To Pound Sand," by J.D. Tuccille

"28 Years Later Is Terrifying and Life-Affirming," by Peter Suderman

Upcoming Reason Events

Today's Sponsors:

Future of Freedom: If you're tired of cable news debates and Twitter shouting matches, and you're looking for serious, good-faith conversations between people who actually care about liberty then it's time to check out the Future of Freedom podcast. Each episode dives deep into a single topic—tariffs, campus speech, the Department of Government Efficiency—and brings together two guests who disagree on the best path forward. But here's the twist: This isn't a debate show. No interrupting. No dunking. If you believe the future of freedom depends on more than just winning arguments and you're ready for something deeper than the usual echo chambers, check out the Future of Freedom podcast. Real disagreement. Real ideas. Real conversations. Subscribe to Future of Freedom wherever you get your podcasts.

Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. As the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp connects you with mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise - so you can find the right fit. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post Anti-War President Starts New War. Again. appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Israel Strikes Iran. Is Escalation Inevitable? Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

This week, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, and Matt Welch are joined by Reason reporter Matthew Petti to break down the fallout from Israel's strike on Iran, the likelihood of escalation, and what role the U.S. is already playing in the conflict.

They also cover the Minnesota assassinations and the growing fears of political violence, and offer a firsthand account from one of the nationwide No Kings protests. Finally, they answer a listener's question about libertarian reactions to anti-ICE demonstrations and examine the broader implications of President Donald Trump's shifting immigration enforcement policies.

0:00 - Political violence in America

8:17 - What role does America play in the Israel and Iran conflict?

17:56 - The risk of escalation and expansion in the Middle East

25:26 - How Trump differs from Bush on foreign policy

28:41 - What have we learned from this Middle East conflict?

33:09 - Listener question: Why are libertarians critical of the anti-ICE protests?

38:59 - Observations on the No Kings protests

46:29 - Trump's shifting stance on the ICE raids

51:27 - Is Trump policy driven by personal enrichment?

54:31 - Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this Podcast:

"Israel Attacks Iran—and Burns Down the Off-Ramp With America," by Matthew Petti

"Are We Going to War With Iran or Not?" by Matthew Petti

"Cutting Off Israel," by Matt Welch

"Prediction: 2024 Will See Deadly Political Violence in the Streets," by Matt Welch

"The Tom Cotton Do-Over," by Matt Welch

"More Than 1,800 'No Kings' Protests Aim for Nonviolent Pushback Against Trump Policies," by Nancy Rommelmann

"ICE on Ice," by Eric Boehm

"California Immigration Raids Are Hurting American Citizens Too," by Autumn Billings

"Los Angeles Is Not Burning," by Nancy Rommelmann

"Brian Wilson Was an Exemplary American," by Brian Doherty

Upcoming Reason events:

Today's sponsors:

Reliance College: What if one day could change how you think—how you lead—and how you shape your future? Join Reliance College for Reliance Day—Saturday, June 28th in Los Angeles! This one-day, high-impact experience is designed for students, professionals, and lifelong learners ready to level up their thinking in an AI-driven world. At Reliance Day, you'll dive into collaborative Socratic discussions and sharpen the critical thinking and leadership skills that drive success in college, business, and life. It's a full day of intellectual challenge and creative exploration—rooted in the Great Books and Montessori-inspired methods that have transformed over 400 lives. Go to RelianceCollege.org/reliancedays to register today
Future of Freedom: If you're tired of cable news debates and Twitter shouting matches, and you're looking for serious, good-faith conversations between people who actually care about liberty then it's time to check out the Future of Freedom podcast. Each episode dives deep into a single topic—tariffs, campus speech, the Department of Government Efficiency—and brings together two guests who disagree on the best path forward. But here's the twist: This isn't a debate show. No interrupting. No dunking. If you believe the future of freedom depends on more than just winning arguments and you're ready for something deeper than the usual echo chambers, check out the Future of Freedom podcast. Real disagreement. Real ideas. Real conversations. Subscribe to Future of Freedom wherever you get your podcasts.

The post Israel Strikes Iran. Is Escalation Inevitable? appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Fake Immigration Crisis Triggers Actual Violence Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

This week, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, and Nick Gillespie are joined by Reason reporter Eric Boehm to discuss the political fallout from President Donald Trump's immigration raids and deployment of the National Guard to riots in Los Angeles. They also cover last week's feud between Trump and Elon Musk over the GOP's mega spending bill. Finally, they examine the evolving role of drone warfare, particularly in Ukraine, while expressing concerns about technological militarization.

0:00—Protests over illegal immigration in L.A.

6:08—Trump and California Gov. Gavin Newsom are "too happy" about the protests in L.A.

9:03—U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is rounding up immigrants who are working in jobs and contributing to society.

11:04—The importance of "rule of law"

18:24—Is it OK to call in the National Guard to handle protests in L.A.?

21:12—The big, beautiful breakup between Musk and Trump

27:00—An important moment for debts and deficits

34:19—Markets for the win

38:07—Listener question: Should we sunset older laws to stop lawmakers from using obscure laws today?

44:18—Drone strikes increase in the war between Russia and Ukraine

55:08—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"Americans' Views of Deportations," by Luis Noe-Bustamante and Jens Manuel Krogstad

"Migrant Arrests at US-Mexico Border Near Record Low in February," by Ted Hesson and Kristina Cooke

"Full List of Republicans Who Voted Against Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill'," by Sonam Sheth

"Full List of Senate Republicans Who Might Vote Against Trump's Tax Bill," by James Bickerton

"Ukraine Changes the Face of War Forever," by Nick Gillespie and Regan Taylor

Upcoming Reason events:

Today's sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago from July 26 through August 2. Designed for students ages 16 to 24, this weeklong experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Thomas Jefferson—not through lectures but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships are available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason.
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The post Fake Immigration Crisis Triggers Actual Violence appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Artificial Intelligence Is Making Everything Weird Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

This week, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is already reshaping jobs, education, politics, and personal identity—sharing examples from scam calls and students cheating to Darth Vader swearing in Fortnite. The panel also discusses how Democrats are failing to attract young men, no matter how much money they spend. Finally, they examine President Donald Trump's latest trade policy contradictions from the past week.

0:32—What is one way AI has made life weird?

3:08—Writing with AI is about to get a lot weirder

9:12—Excitement and fear about AI

11:13—How to make entry-level workers more productive

16:12—Has AI created any cultural problems?

22:49—Is AI helping students "cheat" in college?

26:27—How is AI affecting grade school students?

29:18—The AI race with China

36:20—Do Democrats have a problem with men?

44:42—Listener question: Is White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller correct in saying that the 'big beautiful bill' will actually reduce the deficit?

49:28—What is going on with Trump's tariffs in the courts?

53:19—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"Budget Reconciliation: Tracking the Trump 2025 Tax Cuts," by Erica York, Garrett Watson, William McBride, Alex Muresianu

"MP holds up a naked photo of herself in parliament to prove an important point," by Sarah Hooper

"The Southern Surge: Understanding the Bright Spots in the Literacy Landscape," by Karen Vaites

"Stephen Miller Egregiously Misrepresented a Supreme Court Order While Trump Nodded Along," by Damon Root

Nick Gillespie on X: "After almost two decades of waning interest in recorded music, Napster rekindled my interest in buying CDs, mostly by acting as a listening service."

Upcoming Reason events:

Reason Versus debate: Jacob Sullum and Billy Binion vs. Charles Fain Lehman and Rafael Mangual, June 24

Reason Speakeasy: Nick Gillespie and Elizabeth Nolan Brown on the MAHA Movement, June 25

The Reason Roundtable Live in NYC! July 15

Today's Sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago from July 26 through August 2. Designed for students ages 16 to 24, this weeklong experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Thomas Jefferson—not through lectures but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships are available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason.
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post Artificial Intelligence Is Making Everything Weird appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Trump's War on Harvard May 27, 2025

Show notes

In this week's The Reason Roundtable, editors Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch are joined by The Gist's Mike Pesca to discuss the Trump administration's escalating campaign against Harvard. The conversation explores how government overreach in education threatens civil liberties and stable institutional governance. They also discuss corruption concerns they have over Donald Trump's memecoin.

0:00—Introduction

2:53—Trump continues to attack Harvard

7:10—Trump is using the power of the state to punish his enemies

13:35—Are taxes on endowments a good idea?

17:23—Trump wants to give Harvard's money to trade schools instead.

23:41—Trump's memecoin dinner corruption

32:02—Listener question: If someone magically waved a wand and got rid of all federal discretionary spending, would it actually feel like government only got a 25 percent to 30 percent haircut?

37:49—The U.S. Mint has made its last order of pennies.

38:47—Should we eliminate the Institute for Peace?

40:08—Should we eliminate the Saturday service of USPS?

41:31—Should we get rid of everything that is free for congressmen at the U.S. Capitol?

43:34—Should we eliminate the Selective Service?

49:11—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"Seizing Harvard's Federal Funds," by Liz Wolfe
"Harvard's Best Protection Is To Get Off the Federal Teat," by Autumn Billings
"Statement on Academic Freedom and Harvard by Right-of-Center Scholars, Lawyers, and Former Government Officials," by Eugene Volokh
"Steven Pinker: Can Harvard Be Saved?" by Nick Gillespie
"To Cut Government Spending, Trump Targets Pocket Change," by Rossana Pineyro
"Dump the Draft Forever Instead of Making Women Register," by J.D. Tuccille
"In Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning, Tom Cruise Does What the U.S. Government Can't," by Peter Suderman

Today's Sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago from July 26 through August 2. Designed for students ages 16 to 24, this weeklong experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Thomas Jefferson—not through lectures but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships are available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason.
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The post Trump's War on Harvard appeared first on Reason Magazine.

The GOP Budget Is Big, Bloated, B.S. May 19, 2025

Show notes

This week, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch critique President Donald Trump's proposed tax legislation and its fiscal irresponsibility, discuss the national deficit and credit rating downgrade, examine the media and political cover-up of former President Joe Biden's cognitive decline, and highlight the broader consequences of institutional failure and partisan denial.

0:00—"Big beautiful bill" breakdown

2:21—The MAGA (Money Account for Growth and Advancement) baby account boondoggle

13:54—SALT cap debate and wealthy blue state subsidies

19:12—Proposed Medicaid cuts and "fiscal illusions"

23:02—Moody's Ratings downgraded the U.S. credit rating system. Does this matter?

27:09—The Supreme Court takes up birthright citizenship and nationwide injunctions

34:41—Who pays tariffs? Trump vs. Walmart

40:24—Listener question: Is the economic inequality data bad?

46:09—What did we know about Biden's health and when did we know it?

48:24—How the media didn't responsibly report on Biden's health

1:01:04—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"GINI Index for the United States", by St. Louis Federal Reserve

"Everyone Agrees Government Is a Hot Mess. So Why Does It Keep Getting Bigger?" by Nick Gillespie

"The Long and Whining Road: The Beatles, Boomers, and Boredom," by Nick Gillespie

"Still Fab: Why We Keep Listening To the Beatles," by Charles Paul Freund

"Equal Pay for Equal Work: Appreciating the Female Half of Power Couples," by Nick Gillespie

"Trump's Tax Plan Is a Leftist Economic Agenda Wrapped in Populist Talking Points," by Veronique de Rugy

"Republican Reconciliation Package Will Lead to $3 Trillion Annual Deficits," by Christian Britschgi

"Trump Threatens Walmart Not To React to His Tariffs," Joe Lancaster

"Trump's 'Deal' With China Leaves American Consumers and Exporters Facing Higher Tariffs Than Before," by Eric Boehm

"The Supreme Court May Rule for Trump on Nationwide Injunctions but Probably Not on Birthright Citizenship," by Damon Root

"Trump's Case Against Birthright Citizenship Is a Constitutional Loser," by Damon Root

"Defenders of Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order Offer an Implausible Take on a 127-Year-Old Precedent," by Jacob Sullum

"Joe Biden's Cancer Diagnosis Shouldn't End Scrutiny of the Cognitive Decline Cover-Up," by Robby Soave

"Biden's Cancer," by Liz Wolfe

"Andor Is a Star Wars Show About the Brutality of Bureaucracy," by Peter Suderman

"64 Reasons To Celebrate Paul McCartney," by Ian Leslie

Upcoming Reason events:

Reason Speakeasy: Susannah Cahalan on The Acid Queen, June 3

Reason Versus debate: Jacob Sullum and Billy Binion vs. Charles Fain Lehman and Rafael Mangual, June 24

Today's sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago, July 26–Aug 2. Designed for students 16–24, this week-long experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Jefferson—not through lectures, but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post The GOP Budget Is Big, Bloated, B.S. appeared first on Reason Magazine.

What Did We Learn From DOGE? May 12, 2025

Show notes

This week, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch critique the apparent wind down of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, highlighting its lack of transparency and failure to achieve meaningful spending cuts. They also analyze the GOP's new tax plan, which contradicts promises of fiscal responsibility by significantly increasing the deficit. Finally, the hosts defend classical liberalism against critics like C. Bradley Thompson, arguing that libertarians do fight cultural and policy battles—just not by wielding state power.

0:00—Introduction

2:11—Musk exits DOGE

11:47—Why we need to start paying for government spending

14:57—Extending President Donald Trump's tax cuts

19:08—Is classical liberalism losing?

35:09—Listener question: What domestic policy changes would entice manufacturing to come back to the U.S.?

43:22—Is Trump getting a free plane from Qatar?

46:13—Prescription drug price controls

49:47—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"Elon Musk Discovers That Serious Spending Cuts Are 'Really Difficult,'" by Jacob Sullum

"DOGE Has Been a Smashing Success," by Christian Britschgi

"Raising the SALT Cap Is a Gift to High-Tax States," by Jared Dillian

"Trump's New Budget Is Another Blueprint for Big Spending," by Veronique de Rugy

"Trump Wants To Increase Military Spending by $113 Billion," by Jack Nicastro

"The New Right Isn't So New," by Stephanie Slade

"Abundance Makes the Case for 'Supply-Side Progressivism,'" by Virginia Postrel

"Idiot Wind," by David Weigel

"The Idiocracy Candidate," by Matt Welch

"The Mind of Mike Judge," by Jesse Walker

"Is America Entering Her Kakistocracy Era?" by Steven Greenhut

Upcoming Reason events:

Rise Above: Nick Gillespie and Scott Barry Kaufman in Conversation, May 19

Reason Speakeasy: Susannah Cahalan on The Acid Queen, June 3

Reason Versus debate: Jacob Sullum and Billy Binion vs. Charles Fain Lehman and Rafael Mangual, June 24

Today's sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago, July 26–Aug 2. Designed for students 16–24, this week-long experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Jefferson—not through lectures, but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post What Did We Learn From DOGE? appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Trump's War on Childhood May 05, 2025

Show notes

In this week's The Reason Roundtable, editors Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch are joined by Reason reporter Christian Britschgi to discuss President Donald Trump's proposal for a 100 percent tariff on foreign-made films and his broader attacks on cheap consumer goods, arguing that it represents a bipartisan slide into anti-consumer, anti-capitalist populism. They also criticize the federal government's creeping surveillance and bureaucratic overreach, especially when it comes to Real ID and public broadcasting.

0:00—Introduction

1:46—Trump's attack on families and foreign films

7:20—Why cheap consumer goods are great

12:05—Political movements won't solve spiritual yearning

16:28—How do tariffs affect local zoning?

18:35—Trump's new proposed budget

22:15—Why we need to cut the Department of Homeland Security budget

28:25—Listener question: Are we finally defunding NPR and PBS?

37:28—Every American citizen now needs a Real I.D.

51:07—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"Suspected Terrorist," by Brian Doherty

"Trump's War on Foreign Films," by Liz Wolfe

"5 Times the Trump Team Told Americans To Accept Being Poorer," by Eric Boehm

"When Tariff Shortages Arrive, Here's What Might Be Missing," by Eric Boehm

"Trump Admits Tariffs Could Create Shortages, Hike Prices," by Eric Boehm

"Tariffs Won't Fix What's Ailing American Men in the Work Force," by Veronique de Rugy

"You Will Work in the Factory and You Will Like It," by Liz Wolfe

"Trump's Budget Calls for $17 Billion Cut to NIH, Citing Lax Oversight of Gain-of-Function Research in Wuhan," by Christian Britschgi

"Trump Says His Budget Proposal Will End the 'Green New Scam,'" by Jeff Luse

"Can the President Refuse To Spend Money Authorized by Congress?" by Peter Suderman

"Trump Tries To Defund NPR and PBS by Executive Order," by Jesse Walker

"Is REAL ID Actually Happening?" by Emma Camp

"Same energy: Trump on dolls, Sanders on deodorants. Horseshoe theory in action. What a difference a decade makes," by Nick Gillespie

"Take the Public Out of Public Broadcasting," by Nick Gillespie

"How 'Disinformation' Became Public Enemy No. 1," by Zach Weissmueller and Nick Gillespie

"What we are facing in America is not a pandemic, or economic malaise, or resurgence of inequality, racism, xenophobia, homophobia, or lack of options, food, shelter, you name it. What we are facing is a crisis of meaning," by Nick Gillespie

"Brick. Cool lighting. But it's all about the mannequin. Need background story. 8/10 @ nickgillespie," by RoomRater

"Bernie Sanders: Don't Need 23 Choices of Deodorant, 18 Choices of Sneakers When Kids Are Going Hungry," by Ed Krayewski

Upcoming Reason events:

Reason Speakeasy: Robert Rosenkranz on The Stoic Capitalist, May 6, 2025

The Soho Forum Debate: Dave Smith vs. Alex Nowrasteh on Immigration, May 21, 2025

Today's sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago, July 26–Aug 2. Designed for students 16–24, this week-long experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Jefferson—not through lectures, but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post Trump's War on Childhood appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Trump's Independent Voter Problem Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

In this week's The Reason Roundtable, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch discuss how many current political frustrations— with tariffs, executive overreach, and economic stagnation—are vindicating longstanding libertarian critiques, even as the public resists identifying as libertarian. They also explore Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s "Make America Healthy Again" agenda.

1:34—Libertarians were right

10:06—The best case for libertarianism in the Trump era

16:52—Are the Democrats pushing a libertarian-ish agenda?

24:40—Tech leaders regret supporting President Donald Trump?

39:47—Weekly listener question: What books should libertarian ladies suggest to their book club?

47:39— What is RFK Jr. doing to "Make America Healthy Again"?

59:03— Weekly cultural recommendations

We're hiring a producer for this show, find more information and submit your application here.

Mentioned in this podcast:

"The Libertarian Moment," by Nick Gillespie and Matt Welch

"The Libertarian Movement Needs a Kick in the Pants," by Nick Gillespie

"Are Seed Oils Actually Bad for You?" by Alice Callahan

"Food Freedom Is Personal Freedom," by Jeffrey A. Singer

"Alton Brown: A Culinary Legend Offers Food for Thought," by Nick Gillespie

"Nick Gillespie's Last Meal," by Tom Nash

"[Lexi Freiman's The Book of Ayn] Punches up, down, and all around town. A great Xmas gift for Objectivists and Red Scare communistas alike, if such ppl exchange gifts," by Nick Gillespie

"The Big U," by Neal Stephenson

"How Media and Public Health Failed Our Kids (w/ David Zweig)," by Matt Welch

"In Covid's Wake: How Our Politics Failed Us," by Stephen Macedo and Frances E. Lee

"Trump's Understanding of Due Process Is Just As Farcical As His Definition of 'Alien Enemies,'" by Jacob Sullum

"As the Economy Tumbles, so Does Trump's Approval Rate," by Matthew Petti

"Will the 'Abundance' Agenda Make California Great Again?" By Steven Greenhut

"Is This Constitutional? Here's How Due Process Works," by Billy Binion

"By Openly Retaliating Against Disfavored Law Firms, Trump Attacks Free Speech and the Right to Counsel," by Jacob Sullum

"The Trump Administration Continues To Attack Due Process," by C.J. Ciaramella

"George Will: Brace Yourself for Donald Trump & the Authoritarian Moment," by Todd Krainin, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch

"DOGE Has Been a Smashing Success," by Christian Britschgi

"We Don't Need RFK Jr. To 'Make America Healthy Again,'" by Kelvey Vander Hart

"Reopen the Schools!" By Robby Soave

"The Accountant 2 Is a Shaggy, Silly Bro-Hangout Movie," by Peter Suderman

Upcoming Reason events:

Reason Speakeasy: Robert Rosenkranz on The Stoic Capitalist, May 7, 2025

The Soho Forum Debate: Dave Smith vs. Alex Nowrasteh on Immigration, May 21, 2025

Today's sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago, July 26–Aug 2. Designed for students 16–24, this week-long experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Jefferson—not through lectures, but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post Trump's Independent Voter Problem appeared first on Reason Magazine.

Why Due Process Matters Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

In this week's The Reason Roundtable, editors Peter Suderman, Katherine Mangu-Ward, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch discuss how President Donald Trump is de-prioritizing due process by not adhering to a ruling from the Supreme Court. They also talk about how Harvard University's tax status could be in jeopardy and reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis.

0:00—Introduction

0:12—The Pope's legacy

5:56—Is the democracy emergency here?

15:27—Deportations without due process

29:19—Harvard funding pause

41:25—Weekly listener question

48:11—Lightning round: What's happening at the Pentagon? What's going on with tariffs now? And what's next for AI?

54:33—Weekly cultural recommendations

Mentioned in this podcast:

"On the 'Invasion' of 'Libertarianism,' Pope Francis' Ignorance Is Showing," by Stephanie Slade

"Pope Francis Is Wrong. Property Rights Are Human Rights," by Steven Greenhut

"The Pope Who Helped Bring Down Communism," by Stephanie Slade

"Alex Nowrasteh and Bryan Caplan: The Case for More Immigration," by Nick Gillespie

"Mass Deportations Are Bad for Everyone's Liberty," by Steven Greenhut

"You know who admitted that Abrego Garcia's deportation was a mistake? The Trump admin," by Nick Gillespie

"Anti-US Sentiment Could Deliver a $90 Billion Hit to US GDP This Year," by Rachel Wolff

"Trump Advisers Took Advantage of Navarro's Absence To Push for Tariff Pause," by Alexander Saeedy and Josh Dawsey

"Trump Tariffs: The Economic Impact of the Trump Trade War," by Erica York and Alex Durante

"Peter Navarro's No-Good Economic Nationalism," by Eric Boehm

"U.S. Confidence in Higher Education Now Closely Divided," by Jeffrey M. Jones

"Steven Pinker: What Went Wrong at Harvard," by Nick Gillespie

"Pope Francis Has Died," by Liz Wolfe

"Pope Francis Supports Free Speech, Unless It Offends People," by Jacob Sullum

"What Happens When Presidents Defy Court Orders?" by Damon Root

"Ignoring SCOTUS," by Liz Wolfe

"Federal Appeals Court Rejects Trump Administration's Attempt To Block Return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia," by C.J. Ciaramella

"The Trump Administration's Increasing Hostility to Basic Due Process," by Joe Lancaster

"Federal Judge in Deportation Case Finds Probable Cause To Hold the Trump Administration in Contempt," by Jacob Sullum

Reason Events

The Soho Forum Debate: Eric Brakey vs. Andrew Heaton, April 26, Concord, New Hampshire

Reason Speakeasy: Robert Rosenkranz on The Stoic Capitalist, May 6, New York City

The Soho Forum Debate: Dave Smith vs. Alex Nowrasteh on Immigration, May 21, New York City

We are looking for a producer for our show! Please submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@reason.com with the subject of the email labeled as "Podcast producer."

Today's sponsors:

Join the 2025 Great Connections Seminar in Chicago, July 26–Aug 2. Designed for students 16–24, this week-long experience builds the core skills of entrepreneurship: critical thinking, persuasive communication, and intellectual independence. This year's theme, "Reason and Free Will," explores great minds like Aristotle, Ayn Rand, and Jefferson—not through lectures, but in dynamic, small-group discussions that train students to lead and innovate. Outside the classroom, they'll tour Chicago's museums, try improv, and connect with ambitious peers. In a world of AI and automation, original thinking is your competitive edge. Tuition is just $800, including room and board. Scholarships available. Apply today at www.reliancecollege.org/reason
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as your physical health. Let's talk numbers. Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast, but with BetterHelp online therapy, you can save, on average, up to 50% per session. With BetterHelp, you pay a flat fee for weekly sessions, saving you big on cost and time. Therapy should feel accessible, not like a luxury. With online therapy, you get quality care at a price that makes sense and can help you with anything from anxiety to everyday stress. Your mental health is worth it—and now, it's within reach. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com/roundtable today to get 10% off your first month.

The post Why Due Process Matters appeared first on Reason Magazine.