Erik Torenberg and economist Noah Smith dissect the Democratic Party's path forward. Smith advocates for fiscal responsibility over progressive rhetoric, refocusing democracy concerns away from voter ID laws toward election integrity, and embracing patriotic messaging instead of identity politics.

Their exchange ventures into Elon Musk's influence on Republican effectiveness, the merits of Japanese bureaucratic models, and building a more competitive political landscape where both parties can harness entrepreneurial talent to implement practical governance solutions.

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RELATED LINKS:

How the Democrats can fight back against MAGA

https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/how-the-democrats-can-fight-back

Only fools think Elon is incompetent

https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/only-fools-think-elon-is-incompetent

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X / TWITTER:

@noahpinion

@eriktorenberg

@turpentinemedia

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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE

Three Recommendations for Democrats:

Tech Leadership Dynamics:

Biden's Economic Record:

Project 2025 Critique:

Social Media Transformation:

Alternative Economic Model:

Cultural Observations: