Dive into a critical examination of the Signal Gate scandal's implications for national security, featuring insights from Rep. Chrissy Houlahan. The episode explores the Democrats' messaging struggles and the need for unified strategy. Plus, fascinating conversations with 'Wicked' author Gregory Maguire about his new prequel 'Elfie,' and a powerful discussion on trans rights and political weaponization with ACLU's Chase Strangio.

Guests

• Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06)
• Gregory Maguire, author of WICKED & the new prequel ELPHIE
• Chase Strangio, Co-Director of the ACLU’s LGBT & HIV Project

An explosive report uncovers high-ranking officials, including the Secretary of Defense and National Security Advisor, discussing classified military operations in an unsecured Signal chat group. The incident exposes troubling patterns of disregard for federal records laws and national security protocols, potentially putting service members at risk. As lawmakers grapple with accountability measures, the breach highlights deeper concerns about the administration's approach to governance and democratic norms.

Guests:

• Roxane Gay, author of the books Ayiti, An Untamed State, The New York Times-bestselling Bad Feminist, the nationally bestselling Difficult Women and The New York Times-bestselling Hunger
• Rep. Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03)
• Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT)

The Atlantic's editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg found himself unexpectedly added to a Signal group chat where Trump's national security team, including Pete Hegseth and Marco Rubio, openly discussed classified war plans against the Houthis. The amateur-hour security breach included precise details about weapons, targets, and timing, potentially endangering American troops. This incident highlights serious concerns about the administration's handling of sensitive national security information.

Guests:

• Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY)
• Elie Mystal, The Nation + Author of the new book Bad Law: Ten Popular Laws That Are Ruining America
• Tressie McMillan Cottom, NYT Opinion Columnist + Sociologist

As Trump's influence grows, major law firms like Paul Weiss are providing pro bono services to conservative causes, raising concerns about institutional resilience. Zerlina delves into why relying on courts alone won't save democracy and emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing. The episode features discussions on gender politics with Mikki Kendall and Mallory McMorrow, exploring how toxic masculinity shapes American politics and what it means for women's leadership.

Guests

• Susan Kelechi Watson, star of Netflix’s THE RESIDENCE
• Mikki Kendall, writer, diversity consultant and author of HOOD FEMINISM
• MI State Senator Mallory McMorrow

In this powerful episode, experts and lawmakers discuss the alarming speed at which American democracy is being dismantled. From the controversial executive order to close the Department of Education to attacks on civil rights, the conversation explores how these changes affect everyday Americans. Distinguished guests share insights on protecting vulnerable students, preserving voting rights, and the critical importance of civic engagement in the face of rising authoritarianism.

Join Zerlina Maxwell for an urgent discussion on America's constitutional emergency, featuring powerful caller insights and interviews with actors from Tyler Perry's 'Duplicity,' Scranton's Mayor, and civil rights experts on defending democracy.

Guests

• Kat Graham, Meagan Tandy, Tyler Lepley, and RonReaco Lee: Cast of Tyler Perry’s DUPLICITY
• Mayor Paige Cognetti (D-Scranton, PA)
• Donna Lieberman, executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU)

Zerlina chats with White House Deputy Communications Director Herbie Ziskend, Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-04) and Cleveland, Ohio Mayor Justin Bibb!

Zerlina chats with U.S. Representative Jonathan Jackson of Illinois' first congressional district and Brian Tyler Cohen, progressive YouTuber and commentator about his new book SHAMELESS: Republicans’ Deliberate Dysfunction and the Battle to Preserve Democracy.