The Deciding Decade with Pete Buttigieg

We are likely about to close the chapter of the Trump presidency and begin a new one. The road ahead is complicated, but filled with opportunity. Pete is joined by critically acclaimed author and journalist Jonathan Alter, an expert on presidential politics, to talk about how the next president’s first 100 days could compare to those of Roosevelt, Carter and Obama, what this election means as a moment in our history, and how the past isn’t necessarily a predictor of the future.

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Many of the most powerful voices for change aren't candidates for office. In fact, many are not yet even old enough to vote. As we prepare for the decade ahead, it's important to think about what you might call the next, next generation. Helping launch our special series with youth leaders is 15-year-old climate activist and founder of Earth Uprising Alexandria Villaseñor, who joins Pete to discuss the ways young people are getting their messages heard, how to get involved in decision-making conversations with political leaders, and specific steps in taking action and creating change.

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What does the political landscape look like today for young people who are watching the profound dysfunction in our highest office? As part of our special series with youth leaders, Pete talks with René Otero, the breakout star from the documentary Boys State, about how his participation in the American Legion's annual program about government left him disappointed with campaigns, the power of protesting, and why his generation is more cynical about the country.

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Music represents such a vital perspective with the potential to cut across boundaries, habits, and prejudice, and musicians have a lot to offer, not just within, but beyond the world of entertainment. John Legend is a perfect example, having blessed our screens and ears with beautiful, powerful, and important music, television, and movies over the years. But he is also working passionately to restore rights and gain equality for so many in this nation. John joins Pete to discuss why he won't just "shut up and sing," the fine line between free speech and censorship on social media, and his work with his organization, FreeAmerica, which aims to tackle mass incarceration.

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Restoring the credibility of the United States and repairing our reputation around the world will be an urgent task for the next administration and an ongoing effort in the years to come. It will be daunting but it is exceptionally important, not just for America's future, but the world's. One person who understands this well is Susan Rice, a longtime respected diplomat who served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and was President Obama's National Security Advisor. She joins Pete to discuss this issue and what the next generation of diplomatic service might look like, reflect on leadership and how to overcome challenges, and talk about how to restore the trust our government once inspired around the world.

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