On Monday, August 3rd, 2026, Reason editors Peter Suderman, Nick Gillespie, and Matt Welch, joined by Associate Editor Liz Wolfe, explored whether democratic socialism is expanding beyond the U.S. coasts and what the emergence of candidates like Francesca Hong and Abdul El-Sayed signifies for the Democratic Party's future.

The discussion also covered President Donald Trump's decision to resume negotiations with Iran amid ongoing political fallout, described as "Trump Backs Down From Yet Another Empty Threat to Iran."

The panel debated the proposed Warner Bros.-Paramount merger, noting that 12 states have filed lawsuits calling the merger an antitrust violation. Despite this, it was argued that "Paramount's Acquisition of Warner Bros. Wouldn't Be the End of Hollywood or Press Freedom."

Additionally, the editors revisited the COVID-19 pandemic response following Dr. Anthony Fauci's congressional appearance, questioning what lessons America has learned.

Economic concerns were highlighted by referencing a study by Veronique de Rugy stating the Foxconn deal cost Wisconsin $20 billion in lost economic growth.

Matt Welch also criticized media coverage of the 2024 campaign, calling it "an embarrassment for elite media."

Sources