5 chapters across the catalog
The Supreme Court is reviewing the Chevron deference doctrine, which currently allows federal agencies to interpret ambiguous laws. Overturning this 1984 precedent would return legislative power to Congress and prevent "kangaroo court" agency hearings from imposing massive fines without direct statutory authority.
Elliott Abrams and Latin American Policy Criticism
US Special Envoy to Venezuela Elliott Abrams is facing calls for removal from the Holocaust Memorial Museum's committee due to his controversial history in Latin America. Critics cite his support for US-backed forces in Guatemala during the 1980s, which a court later defined as genocide. Abrams's past strategies, including using humanitarian aid to deliver weapons, are being scrutinized as the US pushes for regime change in Venezuela.
Former NSA Director Bobby Inman's career is examined, including his reported anger over the USS Liberty incident. The hosts discuss the NSA's historical recruitment practices, which were once heavily focused on screening for homosexuality. Adam Curry mentions his desire to interview Inman, who currently resides in Austin.
Anita Hill's Religious Background and Oral Roberts University
A New York Times article reveals that Anita Hill was a professor at Oral Roberts University at the same time Michele Bachmann was a student. The hosts argue that Hill has been mischaracterized as a leftist, when she was actually a deeply religious Pentecostal conservative during the Reagan era. They suggest her offense at Clarence Thomas's behavior was rooted in religious morality rather than secular feminism.
Consumer Protection Laws, Payday Loan Predation
The weakening of consumer protection laws in the United States is traced back through several administrations, leading to the rise of legal "loan sharking." Payday loan companies are criticized for targeting veterans and low-income individuals with exorbitant fees. The discussion notes a lack of focus on these issues during recent political campaigns.
