Digest

The episode begins with introductions, welcoming listeners to the Slate Political Gabfest. David Plotts hosts, with Emily Vaslon and Juliet Kayam filling in for John Dickerson, who is on vacation. The episode then dives into the selection of Tim Walls as Kamala Harris's running mate, discussing his background, political leanings, and how his selection contrasts with Trump's choice of JD Vance. The hosts then discuss a federal judge's ruling that Google violated antitrust laws by making exclusive deals with phone companies to be their default browser. They explore the implications of this ruling for Google and the future of internet search. Next, the episode covers Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's decision to cancel plea agreements with three 9/11 plotters, including Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. The hosts discuss the reasons behind this decision and its implications for the future of Guantanamo Bay. The hosts then engage in cocktail chatter, discussing their thoughts on the Paris Olympics. They share their observations about the games, including the unique serve in table tennis and the use of safety pins for runners' tags. The episode concludes with a listener's email about the concept of democracy in the nervous system and a discussion of the upcoming bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, which will focus on RFK Jr. and a story about a bear he dumped in Central Park.

Outlines

00:00:00

Kamala Harris's Running Mate and Google Antitrust Ruling

The episode begins with introductions and then dives into the selection of Tim Walls as Kamala Harris's running mate, discussing his background, political leanings, and how his selection contrasts with Trump's choice of JD Vance. The hosts then discuss a federal judge's ruling that Google violated antitrust laws by making exclusive deals with phone companies to be their default browser. They explore the implications of this ruling for Google and the future of internet search.

00:01:24

Defense Secretary Cancels Plea Agreements with 9/11 Plotters

The hosts discuss Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's decision to cancel plea agreements with three 9/11 plotters, including Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. They explore the reasons behind this decision and its implications for the future of Guantanamo Bay.

00:01:39

Cocktail Chatter: Olympics and Listener Chatter

The hosts engage in cocktail chatter, discussing their thoughts on the Paris Olympics. They share their observations about the games, including the unique serve in table tennis and the use of safety pins for runners' tags. The episode concludes with a listener's email about the concept of democracy in the nervous system and a discussion of the upcoming bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, which will focus on RFK Jr. and a story about a bear he dumped in Central Park.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are the key differences between Tim Walls and JD Vance, and how do those differences play out in the political landscape?

  Walls is a progressive with a record of passing liberal legislation, while Vance is a conservative who aligns with Trump's views. This contrast in ideology and background creates different vibes and media coverage for each candidate.

• What are the potential consequences of the Google antitrust ruling, and how might Google respond?

  The ruling could lead to Google being forced to give access to its platform to other search engines, or even being broken up. Google is likely to appeal the ruling and may also consider offering solutions to address the court's concerns.

• Why did Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin cancel the plea agreements with the 9/11 plotters, and what are the implications of this decision?

  The decision is shrouded in mystery, with some speculating that it was politically motivated. It throws into question the future of Guantanamo Bay and the military commissions, and could potentially lead to a lengthy and costly trial.

• What are some of the unique aspects of the Paris Olympics, and how do they reflect the post-COVID world?

  The Olympics are the first major international sporting event to be held since the COVID-19 pandemic, and they are a celebration of athleticism and international cooperation. The hosts discuss the unique serve in table tennis and the use of safety pins for runners' tags, as well as the overall sense of joy and excitement surrounding the games.

Show Notes