To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes

Charlie Sykes is joined by Tom Nichols of The Atlantic to discuss the growing normalization of authoritarianism and the failure of America's institutions to push back. They cover everything from Trump’s war on the judiciary to Elon Musk’s growing influence, the alarming capitulations by law firms and universities, and Vladimir Putin's manipulation of global power dynamics. It’s a wide-ranging, sobering, and often darkly funny conversation about why, even after all this time, we’re still capable of being shocked.

Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger joins Charlie Sykes for a candid discussion on the state of American democracy, Donald Trump's threats, and the exhaustion of fighting political chaos. Kinzinger reflects on the lessons he's learned since leaving Congress, including the importance of resilience in the face of intimidation and the need to maintain a sense of humor. Together, they break down Trump’s continued fixation on revenge, the GOP’s deference to Vladimir Putin, and why strong leadership is essential for Democrats navigating this critical moment.

Charlie Sykes and David Frum discuss the volatile state of the U.S. economy, the Trump administration’s trade war with Canada, and the potential consequences of Elon Musk’s growing influence in government policy. They analyze Trump’s economic policies, including his fixation on tariffs and trade conflicts, and question the administration’s erratic geopolitical maneuvers, from Ukraine to Panama. The conversation also explores the Republican Party’s surrender to Trump’s agenda and the alarming speed of institutional capitulation in American democracy.

Charlie Sykes is joined by Nicholas Grossman, editor of Arc Digital and professor of political science at the University of Illinois, to dissect the latest political chaos. They explore Donald Trump’s bizarre loyalty to Vladimir Putin, the unraveling of U.S. alliances, and the dangerous shift in global power dynamics. From the potential government shutdown to the erosion of democratic norms, this conversation is a deep dive into the troubling state of American politics and its broader implications.

Charlie Sykes and Reed Galen discuss the latest political turmoil, including the potential government shutdown, economic uncertainty, and the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party. They examine the rise of authoritarian figures, the state of the opposition, and the disconnect between voters and the political establishment. The conversation also delves into the broader implications of America's shifting global role, the dangers of Trumpism, and how Democrats can counteract the MAGA movement in an increasingly fractured political landscape.

Charlie Sykes sits down with Politico senior writer Jonathan Martin to break down the latest political chaos, including the explosive clash between the Trump cabinet and Elon Musk. They explore the growing tensions within Trump's cabinet, the unpredictability of his policy decisions, and the broader implications for America's allies. Martin also offers insight into the Democratic Party’s struggles, Gavin Newsom’s surprising stance on transgender athletes, and the nervous atmosphere at the recent Munich Security Conference.

Charlie Sykes and Washington Post columnist Karen Tumulty react to President Trump's speech to Congress. They discuss the administration’s approach to governance, including its impact on national security, economic policy, and the broader implications of Elon Musk’s influence. Tumulty and Sykes analyze the Republican Party’s response, the weakening of institutional guardrails, and how the media is navigating this new political landscape.

Charlie Sykes and Susan Glasser discuss the significant geopolitical shifts occurring under Donald Trump's presidency, particularly regarding Ukraine and Russia. They analyze the implications of Trump's actions, including his confrontational meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, and the broader consequences for American foreign policy and alliances, especially in relation to NATO and Europe.