Staff writer for The Atlantic
Van Newkirk II on KCRW
More from KCRW
Anaheim renews contract with tourism bureau despite COVID scandal
Orange CountyCalifornia prosecutors recently investigated the tourism bureau, Visit Anaheim, for misusing COVID pandemic funds.
White House and federal judges battle over deportation policy
PoliticsA federal judge ordered the return of a wrongfully deported man — will the White House comply? What’s the likelihood of Harvard University losing $2 billion over antisemitism laws?
Is Entertainment Moving to the Right?
EntertainmentHollywood networks are scrapping trans storylines, DEI pipelines set up after 2020 are shutting down, and the conservative universe is thriving online.
Congress debates executive war powers after Trump decides to strike Iran
PoliticsIs it time to revisit Congress’ war powers authority? NATO makes a new commitment to defense spending. Plus, a democratic socialist could end up as NYC’s new mayor.
Dept. of Defense ‘chaos’ and the political legacy of Pope Francis
PoliticsCan the “chaos” at the Department of Defense be resolved, or is it just how this White House operates? Plus, KCRW examines the political legacy of Pope Francis.
Democrats fight Trump agenda, Russia seeds AI with misinfo
PoliticsHecklers at a recent town hall accused Congresswoman Laura Friedman of not fighting hard enough against the Trump administration. She says she understands the frustration.
26. Who's Behind the Raids? A Mystery in Marion (Part One)
LawOn a Friday morning in rural Kansas, the publisher of a tiny local newspaper hears a knock at the door. It’s the police—with a search warrant.
21. Pounding Beers in a Shed, and Other Dispatches from the War on Free Speech
LawLast episode we discussed the campaign to overturn the Supreme Court decision that protects reporters’ ability to criticize and investigate people in power.
Work at ports, in warehouses? Expect to feel impact of tariffs
Business & EconomyTrump’s tariffs could cause problems for Southern California’s logistics industry, from the ports to trucking and warehouses.