Podcast Summary: "The Empire Is Showing Its Cracks"

Introduction In the June 27, 2025 episode of As The World Churns, hosts Andy Levy and Danielle Moody delve into significant political developments in New York City and broader national concerns. The episode titled "The Empire Is Showing Its Cracks" explores the recent Democratic primary victory, rising Islamophobia, controversial Supreme Court decisions, and the role of unions in shaping political landscapes.

1. Zorin Mamdani's Primary Victory in New York City The episode begins with the hosts celebrating a noteworthy political development: Zorin Mamdani, a 33-year-old Democratic Socialist and child of Ugandan immigrants, secured a primary win in New York City's Democratic race for mayor.

• Danielle Moody (01:03): "We never get to start out anything with good news, which is by now you have heard about the Merrill primary win in New York City by Zorin Mamdani."

• Andy Levy (02:44): Discusses the significance of elected officials like Mamdani overthrowing traditional candidates such as Andrew Cuomo, highlighting the power of grassroots movements over billionaire-backed campaigns.

2. Rising Islamophobia and Racism in Politics The conversation shifts to the alarming increase in Islamophobia, particularly in the lead-up to the general election. Danielle expresses concern over the surge in hate crimes and the Republican Party's blatant racist rhetoric.

• Andy Levy (02:44): "It's unbelievable that the overt and blatant racism has been emboldened in the Republican Party. They just come right out and say that Zorin Mamdani, who is Muslim, should be deported, is a jihadi terrorist."

• Danielle Moody (05:44): Criticizes Andrew Cuomo's campaign for running anti-Muslim ads targeting Mamdani, noting the hypocrisy given Cuomo's Jewish endorsements.

3. Supreme Court's Decision on Planned Parenthood A significant portion of the episode addresses the Supreme Court's recent ruling allowing states to block Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid funds, a decision seen as a severe setback for women's healthcare access.

• Andy Levy (10:21): "On Thursday, the Supreme Court ruled 6 to 3 that states can block Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid money. This threatens essential health services beyond abortion, like cancer screenings and contraception."

• Danielle Moody (12:29): Argues that the Roberts Court may become the worst in American history, comparing its decisions to those of the Dred Scott and Plessy v. Ferguson cases.

• Andy Levy (14:17): Expresses frustration with the Court's erosion of healthcare rights, emphasizing the ongoing struggle against a conservative majority.

4. Interview with Chris Melody Fields Figueiredo of Ballot Initiative Strategy Center (BISC) Danielle welcomes Chris Melody Fields Figueiredo, the executive director of BISC, to discuss the organization's efforts in promoting progressive ballot initiatives amidst a hostile political environment.

• Chris Fields (21:58): "The Ballot Initiative Strategy Center helps individuals at the national level put their community-focused dreams on the ballot, whether it's expanding healthcare or protecting LGBTQ+ rights."

• Danielle Moody (24:30): Highlights the Supreme Court's negative impact on civil liberties and queries Chris on the current state of democracy.

• Chris Fields (25:40): Emphasizes the importance of anticipating legislative trends and preparing initiatives in response to court decisions, citing the successful defeat of abortion bans post-Dobbs decision.

• Discussion on Local Legislation (30:44): Chris discusses the need for local measures to ensure law enforcement accountability, such as requiring masked officers to display badges and license plates.

5. Interview with Brandon Mencia of UAW Region 9A Andy introduces Brandon Mencia, a leader from UAW Region 9A, to discuss the union's endorsement of Zorin Mamdani and the broader implications for labor movements.

• Brandon Mencia (41:34): "Our union represents over a million members across various sectors. We endorsed Mamdani because his platform on cost of living and universal childcare directly addresses the struggles our members face."

• Discussion on Union Politics (44:23): Brandon explains the UAW's strategic decision to rank Mamdani first over Andrew Cuomo due to past disappointments, such as Cuomo's lack of support during the 2019 GM strikes.

• Brandon Mencia (48:29): Debunks claims that businesses will flee NYC if Mamdani wins, arguing that his policies are beneficial for the majority and necessary for addressing economic disparities.

• Andy Levy (56:21): Questions why many unions supported Cuomo, to which Brandon responds by emphasizing UAW's proactive organizing and commitment to a progressive labor agenda.

6. Hosts' Closing Remarks and Critiques The episode concludes with Andy and Danielle expressing their frustrations with political figures who impede legislative processes and demonstrate unprofessional behavior.

• Andy Levy (59:56): Criticizes Representative Dan Crenshaw for his reaction to Senate decisions, labeling him as a figure who exhibits childishness and extremism.

• Danielle Moody (63:25): Continues the critique, urging politicians to take responsibility and stop sending ineffective representatives to Congress.

Conclusion In "The Empire Is Showing Its Cracks," As The World Churns provides a comprehensive analysis of current political dynamics, highlighting the triumph of grassroots movements, the dangers of rising racism and authoritarianism, and the critical role of unions and ballot initiatives in shaping a more equitable future. Through insightful discussions and expert interviews, the hosts underscore the importance of collective action and vigilance in the face of escalating political turmoil.

Notable Quotes:

• Andy Levy (02:44): "There are people on the right using straight up Islamophobia to attack candidates like Zorin Mamdani."

• Danielle Moody (05:44): "Andrew Cuomo's campaign ran anti-Muslim ads darkening Mamdani's complexion, but the city saw through it."

• Chris Fields (21:58): "Ballot initiatives are crucial for expanding healthcare and protecting marginalized communities."

• Brandon Mencia (48:29): "The policies proposed by Mamdani are not only feasible but essential for the majority of New Yorkers."

• Danielle Moody (63:25): "Democrats are complicit in failing their constituents by not pushing forward necessary impeachment actions."

Final Thoughts This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing battles within the political system and the importance of informed, active participation in shaping policies that promote equity and justice.