Newt's World

Newt talks with Dr. Eric Cole, a renowned cybersecurity expert, entrepreneur, and author of “Cyber Crisis: Protecting Your Business from Real Threats in the Virtual World.” Dr. Cole discusses the pervasive issue of cybersecurity threats, highlighting the frequent breaches by foreign entities such as Chinese, Russian, and Iranian hackers. He emphasizes the need for federal cybersecurity laws in the U.S. and the importance of redesigning systems to protect against vulnerabilities. Their conversation covers the global nature of cyber warfare, the inadequacy of current U.S. cybersecurity measures, and the necessity for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation's cyber infrastructure. Dr. Cole provides practical advice for individuals to enhance their own cybersecurity, such as using two-factor authentication, minimizing the use of free apps, and avoiding clicking on suspicious links.

President Trump met separately this week with President Emmanuel Macron of France and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom to discuss potential terms for a ceasefire in the Ukraine-Russia war. Trump highlighted significant progress in talks with Russia and other parties, aiming to end the conflict. The Trump administration is also negotiating the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Victoria Coates, former Deputy National Security Advisor and current vice president at The Heritage Foundation joins Newt emphasizing the importance of diplomatic progress and criticizing the Biden administration's approach. Coates highlights the need for a strategic and decisive resolution to the war, the significance of defense spending in Europe, and the potential benefits of the US-Ukraine mineral deal. Their conversation also covers the broader implications of US foreign policy and the evolving political landscape in Europe.

Newt talks with bestselling author Robert D. Kaplan about his new book, “Waste Land: A World in Permanent Crisis,” which explores the current global landscape marked by war, climate change, technological advancements, and geopolitical tensions. Kaplan argues that the interconnectedness of today's world, driven by technology and urbanization, means that crises in one country can quickly become global issues. He suggests that prioritizing order and stable governance over mass democracy could prevent future chaos. Their conversation also delves into historical parallels with the Weimar Republic, the impact of the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan on global perceptions, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kaplan emphasizes the importance of constructive pessimism in foreign policy and highlights the unique challenges faced by Israel in the Middle East.

Newt discusses federal budget spending priorities and the budget reconciliation process with Richard Stern, Director of the Grover M. Hermann Center for the Federal Budget at The Heritage Foundation. They explore the complexities of the reconciliation bill versus regular spending bills, the historical context and evolution of the reconciliation process, and the challenges of passing significant legislative changes in a divided Congress. Stern emphasizes the importance of bold leadership and public education on fiscal issues, drawing parallels between current political dynamics and historical figures like Andrew Jackson. Their conversation also touches on the impact of pork barrel spending and the need for a cultural shift towards fiscal responsibility and transparency.

Thousands of opponents to Iran's authorities rallied in Paris, organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), to call for the fall of the government in Tehran. The protest coincides with President Trump's maximum pressure campaign against Iran. Alireza Jafarzadeh, deputy director of NCRI, discusses the Iranian resistance, highlighting the regime's use of its space program to camouflage nuclear weapons development and the importance of international support for the Iranian opposition. Their conversation covers the history of Iran's political landscape, the role of the NCRI in exposing the regime's activities, and the potential for significant change in Iran through internal resistance and external pressure.