Both President Biden and Donald Trump have agreed to two Presidential debates, and have bypassed the process of the Debate Commission. This may have more drawbacks than we think, and voters are often the ones who suffer when candidates and parties can collude with each other to get the most favorable circumstances. What should we be watching for closely leading up to the June debate? Jay Evensen from the Deseret News and Boyd unpack this issue.

In a counterbalance to the embarrassing display we saw in the House Oversight Committee last week, the Senate foreign affairs committee held a hearing as they do every year, where the Secretary of State gives a report of the state of the world and U.S. strategy, and makes a budget request for the coming year. There was no yelling, no insults being thrown around, and despite a disruption from a protestor, the hearing was actually productive and professional. During the Senate Hearing, Senator Romney and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have an important interaction concerning China. Boyd weighs in on the plan with China and what that means for us.

In the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd in the summer of 2020, the "abolish the police" movement gained traction in American politics. However, in the years that followed, we learned more about policing in our communities. In the latest research, it doesn't show that Americans want fewer police. We all want better, more ordered, and safer police practices. Billy Binion is an associate editor at Reason Magazine and talks with Boyd about the ways to improve policing in America.

Public discontent with America's foreign policy is on the rise. Critics allege a troubling trend: a "uniparty" mentality where both major parties prioritize short-term fixes over long-term strategies. This, they argue, leads to a cycle of endless wars and missed opportunities. Dalibor Rohac from American Enterprise Insitute argues that a biparisan consensus in foreign policy can be the cornerstone of American diplomacy - if we let it. What are the solutions and leadership qualities needed for a more effective US role in the world? And how can we adjust our foreign policy to the ever changing world dynamic?

In our increasingly technology-driven world, the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence have opened up intriguing possibilities, including the development of AI companions. But profound questions about the value of genuine human connection about the digital partners. Could AI appease the fundamental nature of human connection or will it devalue the intrinsic value we place on genuine interpersonal relationships? Jessica Grose from The New York Times answers the question and guides through the nuanced issue. Through an open and inclusive dialogue, we can collectively shape a future where technology serves to enhance, rather than diminish, the essence of what it truly means to be human.

The persistent achievement gap between high-poverty and affluent schools remains one of the most pressing challenges facing our education system. While the issue of funding disparities has long been a focal point of debate, recent research suggests that the relationship between school funding and academic outcomes is far more nuanced than previously thought - turns out the problem with school funding is not the lack thereof. Emma Camp from Reason Magazine shares the data and shares that as we work to develop solutions that address the unique needs of our most vulnerable students, we can ensure that every child has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Explore Monday’s headlines with Boyd Matheson. Danielle Pletka joins the show to share what is next after news of the Iranian president’s death surfaced this morning. A hearing from the SBA that involved Rep. Maloy happened this weekend and she recaps what is to come. The internship crisis has hit the nation’s capital. What does that mean for those starting their professional careers? Michael Shaffer sheds a light on the situation. Dig into the crisis of confidence that higher education is facing with Austin Sarat and More!

Boyd finishes the day by talking about the border security bill trying to be passed and what is happening at the Capital this week. With those in Congress juggling elections, public sentiment, and the amendment process; there is a lot going on. Despite everything, debates on the floor are needed to improve the process, not the politics. When we follow the process, we get good results for everyone. We need to look past the headlines and politics to get to where true change happens - in the process.

Washington DC is one of the most expensive in the nation to live in, and childcare in the city is even more expensive. There are a lot of working professionals, making the demand for quality daycare high. Justin Zuckerman meets with Boyd to discuss a newly implemented city regulation that could make the situation even more unsustainable for families by requiring a college degree to be eligible to work in DC childcare. Do you think a university degree is the most important requirement for these workers to have? What will the effect be on the availability and cost of an already expensive necessity for DC workers?

The crisis of confidence facing higher education institutions across America is a complex and multifaceted issue that demands our attention. As centers of learning and innovation, universities play a vital role in shaping the minds of future leaders and driving societal progress. However, rising costs, concerns over academic freedom, and a perceived disconnect from the needs of students and communities have eroded public trust. Austin Sarat from Amherst College shed a light on the fact that it is more crucial than ever that we engage in discussions and reforms to restore faith in these esteemed institutions, ensuring they continue to serve as places of knowledge and catalysts for positive change.