4 chapters across the catalog
The hosts speculate on a "shadow presidency" involving Barack Obama, noting his prominent appearance at the COP26 climate summit. They suggest Obama sees himself as a modern FDR, pushing for a "Great New Deal" through piecemeal legislation like the infrastructure bill. They argue that the current administration is moving toward Universal Basic Income (UBI) and a cashless society to increase state control.
Pete Buttigieg promotes the $17 billion for ports included in the infrastructure bill, while the hosts point to California's climate regulations as the real bottleneck for truckers. They reference the TV show *The Wire* to explain the power structures and corruption inherent in the docks. They suggest that the current slowdown may be a concerted effort by workers to resist government leverage.
The destruction of the Hayti District is attributed to "urban renewal" projects, specifically the construction of the Durham Freeway through the heart of the community. This pattern of using highway infrastructure to dismantle black neighborhoods is described as a recurring tactic supported by local politicians.
John Perkins explains the mechanism of the "economic hitman," where the World Bank arranges massive loans for infrastructure projects in developing nations. These projects primarily benefit Western corporations and local elites while leaving the host country with unpayable debt. If economic pressure fails, "jackals" are sent to overthrow governments, with the military acting only as a last resort.
