DMZ America with Ted Rall & Scott Stantis

How will AI affect (or afflict) cartooning?Artificial Intelligence is reshaping cartooning, hitting political cartooning especially hard while transforming the broader industry. In political cartooning, AI tools now generate satirical images in seconds, flooding social media with viral memes and caricatures that mimic editorial styles. This undercuts traditional artists who rely on sharp timing, cultural insight, and hand-drawn originality for publications. In general cartooning and illustration, generative AI has commoditized routine work. Studies show a surge in AI-generated images on platforms, driving human artists out and reducing commissions for illustrators and comic creators. San Diego Comic-Con banned AI art from its 2026 show, while animation faces massive job disruption—over 100,000 roles at risk. Artists adapt by using AI for rapid prototyping and backgrounds, focusing on human storytelling, emotion, and unique vision that machines still struggle to replicate. However, style theft, copyright battles, and market saturation remain major threats, forcing many to rethink careers. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) explore the Brave New World of cartooning in the age of AI.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Pat Oliphant, one of the most influential political cartoonists of the 20th and 21st centuries, has died. Considering his legacy on DMZ are editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left), Scott Stantis (from the Right) and Mike Thompson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning American editorial cartoonist known for his sharp wit and bold, expressive style. Born in 1964, he is widely syndicated. Thompson’s work frequently appears in USA Today and other major outlets. Born Patrick Bruce Oliphant on July 24, 1935, in Adelaide, Australia, he began his career as a news illustrator for The Adelaide Advertiser before moving to the United States in 1964.Hired by The Denver Post, Oliphant quickly gained national attention for his bold, fluid line work and savage wit. In 1974 he won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning. His cartoons appeared in over 500 newspapers through universal syndication, making him a daily fixture in American political discourse for more than five decades.Oliphant’s signature creation was “Punk,” a small, irreverent, tufted bird who often appeared in the corner of panels delivering a final dry or biting comment. His style blended elegant draftsmanship with ferocious satire, skewering presidents from Lyndon Johnson to Barack Obama with equal glee. He famously said he drew “not to change minds, but to make people angry enough to think.”Later in life he expanded into sculpture and fine-art painting while continuing to produce cartoons. Oliphant’s work is held in major collections including the Library of Congress. He died in 2026 at age 90, leaving behind a legacy as a defining voice of modern American editorial cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Why is American editorial cartooning in crisis? Sure, journalism is melting down. But the cartoonists might be guilty too. Joining cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss is DC-based cartoonist Alexandra Bowman.Alexandra Bowman is a versatile American political cartoonist, illustrator, satirist, journalist, and fine artist based in Washington, D.C. Born in March 2000 in Sierra Vista, Arizona, she graduated early from Georgetown University with a BA and MA in English while double-majoring in Art. Bowman served as editorial political cartoonist for The Hoya (Georgetown’s student newspaper) and has created work for The Lincoln Project, Our Daily Planet, World War Zero (John Kerry’s climate initiative), Voice of America, BBC Books, and the National Wildlife Federation. She is known for live political cartooning at events like the MSNBC Climate Forum and her role as Director of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Her syndicated work appears via Cagle Cartoons. A multi-medium artist skilled in traditional pen-and-ink, digital tools, murals, and fine art painting, Bowman also illustrates children’s books, designs costumes, and hosts The Hilltop Show, a student political comedy series. Her sharp, witty style blends cultural commentary, environmental advocacy, and satire, establishing her as a rising voice in editorial cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

As America turns 250, where are we now? DMZ America co-hosts and history buffs Ted Rall and Scott Stantis compare the state of the nation today to where we stood at year zero (1776) and at the previous 50-year benchmarks: 1826, 1876, 1926, and 1976. Join the guys for a fascinating trip down memory lane through our country’s history—its triumphs, struggles, and everything in between!We discussed:1776 – Revolution & Independence: The founders were divided roughly one-third each for independence, loyalty to Britain, and indifference. The war was a prolonged guerrilla effort aided by home advantage, French support, and British distraction with more valuable Caribbean colonies.1826 – Era of Good Feelings: Marked by westward expansion, prosperity, and the simultaneous deaths of rivals-turned-friends John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Slavery debates simmered beneath surface harmony under President Monroe.1876 – Centennial & Stolen Election: Celebrated 100 years amid Reconstruction's end. The disputed Hayes-Tilden election led to the Compromise of 1877, withdrawing Union troops from the South and enabling Jim Crow segregation and violence.1926 – Roaring Prosperity: America boomed under popular President Coolidge with economic growth, innovation, and the Sesquicentennial Exposition. Women had the vote, but storm clouds of socialism and labor unrest loomed.1976 – Bicentennial Recovery: Post-Vietnam, Watergate, and stagflation, Americans embraced commercialized but unifying celebrations with tall ships, fireworks, and the Freedom Train during a civilized Ford-Carter election year.2026 & 2076 Outlook: America faces imperial decline after losing wars including to Iran, eroding patriotism, truth decay, and capital flight. Speakers foresee climate devastation, possible balkanization, and deepening rich-poor conflict or socialist pressures.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Andrew Farago Upskirt Scandal: The curator of the San Francisco Cartoon Art Museum was arrested for secretly recording up to 20 people (including children) in his bathroom at a birthday party using a hidden phone. Farago admitted the act in an email as a “tremendous lapse in judgment” and has been fired. Broader Scandals in Cartooning: Discussion of multiple past incidents including Al Capp’s predatory behavior, Darrin Bell’s child pornography charges, Ben Sargent’s indecent exposure arrest, Mike Lester’s domestic violence case, and the Superman artist secretly drawing S&M comics. Why Cartoonists Behave Badly: Exploration of whether the solitary nature of cartooning, arrested development, abusive childhoods, and lack of socialization lead to higher rates of weird or destructive sexual behavior among cartoonists. Separating Art from the Artist: In-depth debate on whether immoral or criminal behavior by creators (Picasso, Woody Allen, Hitler’s paintings, etc.) should affect enjoyment of their work. Hosts largely agreed the art stands alone, especially after death. Forgiveness, Firing & Judgment: Should Farago have been immediately fired before conviction? Discussion of presumption of innocence, redemption, Jean-Paul Sartre vs. Ted Lasso philosophies, and how people are often judged by their worst actions. Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) bring you up-to-date on this bizarre case rocking the American cartooning world.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Robert Kuzovkov, 44, an exiled Russian political cartoonist whose work criticized President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and other leaders, was assassinated in eastern Poland. He was shot five times in the head and torso on Monday outside his house in the city of Biala Podlaska. Kuzovkov “engaged in public artistic activities, using the pseudonym Simon Skrepetski, among others, through which he expressed criticism of the current policies of the Russian authorities,” the prosecutor’s office said. Police detained two men from Belarus near the Belarusian Consulate in Biała Podlaska, but officials did not offer further details aside from their ages, 33 and 37. The city is less than 20 miles from the border with Belarus.It’s another reminder that political cartoonists are in physical danger—and rarely protected. Cartoonists Ted Rall and Mr. Fish (filling in for Scott Stantis) discuss the Kuzovkov killing and the news through their cartoons.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Sarah F. Davidson joins editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to check in on the Graphic Novels industry. (Ted has authored numerous graphic novels, including My War with Brian, The Stringer and The Year of Loving Dangerously.)Sarah is a graphic novelist, colorist, and Professor of Sequential Art at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Creator of the award-winning Jackson’s Wilder Adventures series (ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children), she specializes in middle-grade comics filled with magic, nostalgia, and feel-good vibes. She has colored for major publishers including Random House, Feiwel & Friends, and Webtoon.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Acclaimed Iranian-French cartoonist and filmmaker Marjane Satrapi, a prominent advocate for women's rights, has died at 56, the French presidency said Thursday.“Her passing marks the loss of a leading figure of French culture and an artist devoted to freedom, whose work carried a universal message and earned her immense international acclaim,” the French presidency said in a statement.French media reported Satrapi has “died of sadness” a little over a year after the death of her husband, Swedish film producer and actor Mattias Ripa, according to a statement from people close to the artist.Cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis break down Marjane’s legacy, her political influence and share their personal memories.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Politics is what happens when members of a society identify problems, determine which ones are most pressing, and debate proposed solutions to those priorities. It’s a messy process that, over time, hopefully leads to progress. But what happens when members of society live in completely different realities, in which the major problems that afflict one half of the population doesn’t exist, much less matter, to the other half? Politics don’t happen at all—and there’s no hope for building a better world. That’s where America is today.Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they’re best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they’re best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Ted and Scott react to the latest political absurdities making headlines this week. They break down fresh cartoon ideas that are already stirring controversy. And they tackle listener questions in today’s polarized landscape.“TK” is journalism jargon for “to come,” when you don’t have the info yet but you want to indicate where it will go. Today, we have no idea what we’ll be talking about, but if you want to chime in, please do, and that will help!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) disagree on quintessential issues like whether God is real, capitalism or communism is better, and whether Gregorian chants are more listenable than the Dead Kennedys. But they’re best friends, so those disagreements come from a place of mutual respect. Check out the conversation that is giving hope to more and more Americans!Today's special guest is cartoonist Rob Rogers, formerly of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Ted and Scott react to the latest political absurdities making headlines this week. They break down fresh cartoon ideas that are already stirring controversy. And they tackle listener questions in today’s polarized landscape.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The Pulitzer Prizes, administered by Columbia University, stand as the gold standard for American journalism, literature, and arts. A win launches careers, boosts sales, and cements legacies. Yet this year’s Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category—formerly Editorial Cartoons—faces serious questions about fairness. Finalist Peter Kuper appears syndicated by PoliticalCartoons.com, owned by Daryl Cagle. Cagle’s daughter Susie Cagle serves on the five-person jury. Industry rules demand recusal for any appearance of conflict of interest, especially when a syndicate boss’s family member judges entries from dozens of her father’s clients. Columbia stays silent. Jurors refuse comment. No answers emerge despite direct inquiries. This controversy hits at a time when public trust in media sits at a dismal 8%. With journalism hemorrhaging jobs and facing accusations of bias, favoritism, and sloppy process, many wonder if the institution anointing “the best” lives up to its own standards. Broader issues swirl too: category expansion diluting editorial cartooning, past complaints of ignored entries, and declining faith in the system. Ted Rall and Scott Stantis cut through the noise with sharp analysis on this high-stakes drama.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) as they interview veteran editorial cartoonist Marshall Ramsey—who has had a bird’s eye view of the South for decades—about cartooning, politics, and the news of the day.Marshall Ramsey is a renowned American editorial cartoonist known for his sharp wit, incisive commentary, and poignant memorial tributes. Born in New Jersey and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, he graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1991 with a marketing degree, where he cartooned for the student newspaper. After early work in San Diego, he moved to Mississippi in 1996 and spent 22 years at the Clarion Ledger in Jackson. A two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist (2002 and 2006), he has authored three cartoon collections, two short story collections, and a children’s book, and won a Southeastern Emmy. Formerly editor-at-large of Mississippi Today, Director of the Mississippi Media Lab, and a syndicated artist, Ramsey continues creating impactful cartoons while engaging communities through journalism and speaking.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss the impact of the Middle East War on the United States, cartooning, and Scott’s views of Israel.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Stephen Notley is a Canadian cartoonist, writer, and creator of the cult-favorite webcomic Bob the Angry Flower. Born in 1970 in Edmonton, Alberta, he launched the surreal, sharp-witted strip in 1992 featuring an easily enraged anthropomorphic flower who rants about everything from bad punctuation to global politics. Steven joins Ted and Scott today!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) as they hang out with cartoonist Mr. Fish to discuss the state of the world from the Iran War to the collapsing economy to ecocide to everything else you can think of that’s going seriously wrong during the End Times.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) for a collision of podcast worlds! Ted’s Deprogram co-host and CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou joins DMZ for a special cross-pollination episode in which Scott gets to ask John about the future of the republic, the Middle East War and anything else that happens to cross his mind.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The U.S. and Israel dominate the air, but it’s the water that matters to the global economy, and Iran is putting on the hurt in the Strait of Hormuz, where tankers are being bombed and 20% of the world’s oil supply is trapped. Join Ted and Scott for an in-depth discussion  about the U.S./Israeli War against Iran and what comes next.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Nikahang Kowsar, known as Nik Kowsar, is an award-winning Iranian-Canadian cartoonist, journalist, and water issues analyst born in Tehran, Iran, in 1969. He studied geology at the University of Tehran before launching his cartooning career in 1991 with the satirical magazine Gol-Agha. He contributed to numerous Iranian newspapers like Hamshahri and others, often facing censorship and prosecution for his sharp political satire. In 2000, he was imprisoned for a cartoon depicting a crocodile that critics linked to a hardline cleric, sparking death threats and forcing his exile in 2003. He fled to Canada, later settling in Washington, D.C. Kowsar received the Cartoonists Rights Network International Award for Courage in Editorial Cartooning in 2001. Today, he focuses on Iran's severe water crisis through journalism, a weekly video show Abangan, websites like AbanganIran.org, BBC Persian contributions, and TV analysis, while serving on CRNI's board.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Donald Trump certainly has good reasons to cancel the elections. Will he? Can he? The Washington Post reports that he is considering declaring a national emergency to justify federalizing the midterms—which is unconstitutional—on the grounds that China stole the 2020 election on behalf of Joe Biden.DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right), who predicted the January 6th Capitol Riot and have been following Trump’s flirtations with American fascism all along, discuss why, how and whether the president may choose to end America’s 250-year experiment with representative democracy later this year.Joining Ted and Scott to discuss is Charles Lipson. Charles is a political scientist and Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Chicago, where he held the Peter B. Ritzma Professorship and co-founded the Program on International Politics, Economics, and Security. He earned his undergraduate degrees in political science and economics from Yale and his Ph.D. from Harvard. Since joining Chicago in 1977, his work has focused on international relations, cooperation and conflict, and the political economy of global trade, debt, and investment. He is also a prolific columnist for outlets like RealClearPolitics and The Spectator, commenting on U.S. foreign policy and American politics.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Two-time Pulitzer-winning editorial cartoonist Mike Luckovich of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, joins DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to discuss cartoons, journalism and the news of the week:Economic challenges like inflation, affordability, jobs, and the deficit remain the dominant public concern, contributing to Trump’s approval rating dipping to around 36% as Americans feel his policies have failed to deliver relief. Immigration continues as a flashpoint, with aggressive enforcement, mass deportations, and reduced illegal crossings achieving some goals but drawing criticism over humanitarian issues, overreach, and mixed support amid ongoing DHS funding battles and the partial government shutdown. As the 2026 midterms approach, Republicans defend narrow majorities amid deepening polarization, with key battles over government funding, foreign policy isolationism straining alliances, voter integrity legislation like the SAVE Act.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Conservative syndicated editorial cartoonist and comic strip creator Steve Kelley, formerly of the San Diego Union-Tribune and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, joins DMZ America co-hosts and colleagues Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) to break down the current state of the Trump Administration in its second year.A partial government shutdown looms, Trump's approval ratings on immigration--a good issue for the president usually--are tanking and the nation increasingly looks and feels a lot like the chaotic late 1960s. MAGA world appears to be coming apart at the seams, yet Democrats seem unable to seize the moment. What IS the real State of the Nation?Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) dive deep with renowned political cartoonist Mr. Fish (Dwayne Booth). This sharp, subversive artist skewers power with bold, provocative illustrations that appear in Harper's Magazine, ScheerPost, and beyond. Known for his raw takes on politics, war, and society, Mr. Fish faces intense scrutiny over cartoons critiquing the Israel-Hamas conflict and U.S. policy. Critics blast some work as employing anti-Semitic tropes and leading to condemnation from University of Pennsylvania leadership. This firestorm culminates in his firing from lecturing at UPenn amid broader debates on free speech, academic freedom, and censorship in higher ed. Mr. Fish pushes back hard, framing it as part of a McCarthyist crackdown on dissent against genocide, apartheid, and fascism. Expect fireworks as these three editorial powerhouses clash and connect over cartooning's role in cutting through BS.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The DMZ America Podcast dives headfirst into one of the most explosive issues rocking the nation right now: the transformation of ICE from a border security agency into a violent, unaccountable domestic force under the current Trump administration. ICE touts itself as DHS's top law enforcement arm, fighting transnational threats while protecting communities, legal immigration, trade, travel, and financial systems. But in practice, the administration ramps up agent numbers aggressively, deploys recruitment tactics that echo white nationalist themes—like using lyrics from "We'll Have Our Home Again" in ads—and slashes training about de-escalation and rules of engagement.A bombshell 233-page court order from Judge Sara L. Ellis in Chicago exposes widespread duplicity, lies, and abuse of power by ICE and DHS officials. She slams agents for using force that "shocks the conscience"—pepper-balling clergy, tear-gassing kids and pregnant women, tackling protesters without justification—finding no legitimate government interest in many actions.Top officials push narratives of “absolute immunity,” with Stephen Miller and JD Vance assuring agents they're untouchable, even as former ICE leaders like Deborah Fleischaker call it dangerous overreach that emboldens aggression and erodes public safety. As ICE becomes the biggest military force on Earth, against which Americans will they turn when they run out of illegals to deport?You and me.Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) break it down—no holds barred, cutting through the spin with sharp analysis and dueling perspectives that make you think hard about power, accountability, and where this all leads.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Tune in to the DMZ America Podcast as hosts Ted Rall from the left and Scott Stantis provide a rare behind-the-scenes remembrance of “Dilbert” cartoonist Scott Adams, who took comics syndication and critiques of office culture to dazzling heights before shifting Right, being canceled, and succumbing to cancer this week.Ted Rall, a top executive at United Media when “Dilbert” was at its peak, got to know Scott well as his editor and supervisor. He also crossed paths with him when Scott’s TV show was on air and Ted had a show in development at the same network that was intended to air following “Dilbert.”Scott and Ted consider Scott Adams’ place in the cultural firmament, the future of comics, and the political and racial controversies at the end of his life. Don’t miss this exclusive broadcast!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Tune in to the DMZ America Podcast as hosts Ted Rall from the left and Scott Stantis check in with former Pittsburgh Post-Gazette political cartoonist Rob Rogers. Fired for criticizing Trump in his work, Rogers worked for decades at the Post-Gazette, the highest-profile newspaper top shut down in the journalism bloodbath. Ted and Scott bring you the exclusive dish.The three will also discuss Trump’s shocking moves to overthrow the president of Venezuela as well as his threats against Colombia, Iran, Cuba and other countries.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Political cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) preview the year ahead in politics and culture.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Tune in to the DMZ America Podcast as hosts Ted Rall from the left and Scott Stantis check in with groundbreaking animated political cartoonist Mark Fiore.Mark Fiore, born 1970, is an acclaimed American political cartoonist specializing in Flash-animated editorials. Shaped by California upbringing and Idaho wilderness, he majored in political science at Colorado College, graduating in 1991 amid Dick Cheney's speech.Starting in print for The Washington Post and LA Times, Fiore joined San Jose Mercury News before pioneering online animation in the late 1990s. His cartoons appear on SFGate.com, NPR, Mother Jones, and KQED.Hailed as "the undisputed guru" by The Wall Street Journal, he won the 2010 Pulitzer—the first for non-print work—plus a 2016 Herblock Prize, 2004 RFK Award, and multiple Online Journalism honors. From San Francisco, Fiore satirizes politics via markfiore.com.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) are joined by Alice Giordano to handicap next year's midterm elections. Alice Giordano is a reporter for Newsmax Magazine. She's a former political and news correspondent for The Epoch Times, The Boston Globe, and Associated Press and currently writes a monthly political column for The Boston Broadside and has been a contributor to The Federalist and American Thinker.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Hosts Ted Rall and Scott Stantis chat with and showcase the work of liberal editorial cartoonist Pat Bagley of the Salt Lake City Tribune, who decided to leave the United States in part because of the presidency of Donald Trump. Pat Bagley, born in 1956 in Salt Lake City, Utah, is an award-winning editorial cartoonist renowned for his sharp wit and incisive commentary. Since 1979, he has been the staff cartoonist for The Salt Lake Tribune, where his bold, often provocative illustrations tackle politics, religion, and social issues with a distinctive liberal slant. A Mormon by upbringing, Bagley frequently critiques the intersection of faith and conservatism, earning both praise and controversy in his conservative home state.His work has appeared in The Washington Post, The New York Times, Time, and Newsweek. Bagley has authored over 20 books, including children's titles like I Spy a Nephite and satirical collections such as Clueless George Goes to War. He has won the Herblock Prize (2009), multiple National Headliner Awards, and recognition from the Society of Professional Journalists. A graduate of Brigham Young University, Bagley remains a pivotal voice in American political cartooning.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Hosts Ted Rall and Scott Stantis chat with and showcase the work of conservative editorial cartoonist Chip Bok. Chip Bok draws editorial cartoons for Creators Syndicate, syndicating his work to over 150 newspapers worldwide. A Copley News Service alum since 1985, he crafts biting commentary on politics, society, and pop culture from his Akron Beacon Journal perch. Bok's style blends sharp wit with intricate detail, earning him accolades like the 2017 Clifford K. & James T. Berryman Award for Editorial Cartooning. He authored The Book of Bok: The Illustrated Guide to the American Presidency and exhibits globally. Beyond ink, Bok lectures on visual journalism and mentors young artists, pushing boundaries in a digital age. His cartoons fearlessly skewer both sides, blending humor with hard truths to spark debate.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Tune in to the “DMZ America Podcast” as nationally-syndicated editorial cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis interview Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Matt Wuerker of “The Politico.” They’ll discuss their own cartoons about the news and issues of the week, as well as those of their peers. Don’t be surprised if the state of the media and cartooning come up as well.Matt Wuerker, born in 1956, is renowned for his incisive, visually rich commentary on the absurdities of power. A graduate of Lewis & Clark College with a BA in 1979, he honed his craft as chief editorial cartoonist for the student newspaper, The Pioneer Log, blending satire with masterful draftsmanship inspired by Saul Steinberg and 19th-century masters like A.B. Frost.Since 2006, Wuerker has been Politico's founding staff cartoonist, his watercolors, cross-hatching, and animated works appearing on front pages and gracing outlets like The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The Nation. A 2009 and 2010 Pulitzer finalist, he clinched the prize in 2012 for cartoons that "persuade rather than rant," alongside the 2010 Herblock Award for courageous editorial art. Based in D.C. near the National Zoo, Wuerker delights in the "political circus," wielding humor to illuminate truth with minimal supervision.TranscriptSupport the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Tune in to the “DMZ America Podcast” as nationally-syndicated editorial cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis handicap the first phase of President Trump's Gaza Peace Plan, kicking off a possible end to the brutal two-year Israel-Hamas war. Israeli forces pull back from ravaged zones, and now Hamas is expected to release all 20 living hostages—plus remains of the deceased—within 24 hours in exchange for 250 Palestinian life inmates and 1,700 Palestinian hostages. Ted and Scott will also show and discuss their latest cartoons about the conflict, as well as those by some of their colleagues.Daily aid trucks are rolling in, easing famine's grip after 45,000+ Palestinian deaths and proving that Israel had been keeping out food and water. Both Israelis and Palestinians are celebrating.But shadows loom: Will next phases—demilitarizing Hamas, deploying international stabilizers, and rebuilding the Strip—actually occur? Who will rule Gaza after Hamas abolished all domestic opposition? Ted predicts a Hamas rebrand, as in Ireland after the Troubles. Will Netanyahu’s government survive? Genocide accusations from rights groups will be amplified as mass graves and other evidence of Israeli war crimes surface; can Israel’s reputation in the US rebound? Polls show young Americans souring fast, splitting the Jewish vote and pressuring Biden-era holdovers. Ted and Scott have vehemently disagreed about the war for two years, while managing to remain respectful throughout. Now it’s time to consider what comes next.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Conservative Scott Stantis has been the editorial cartoonist for the Chicago Tribune since 2009, succeeding Jeff MacNelly. He created the syndicated comic strip Prickly City (2004–present), appearing in over 400 papers. Past president of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists (2003–2004), his awards include the 1996 Sigma Delta Chi Award.Leftist Ted Rall is an American syndicated editorial cartoonist, columnist, and graphic novelist. His multi-panel political cartoons blend comic-strip and editorial formats, and appear in over 100 U.S. newspapers via Andrews McMeel Syndication. Past president of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists (2008–2009), his awards include two Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Awards, and Pulitzer Prize finalist.Today’s episode inaugurates a new format, in which two working political cartoonists show their cartoons and discuss where they got their ideas and what they think about the news stories they’re discussing. DMZ is a unique forum for graphic political commentary by Rall, Stantis and their colleagues.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (left-leaning firebrand) and Scott Stantis (right-wing straight shooter) ask why over half of Americans say democracy is on the ropes, unpack Zohran Mamdani's jaw-dropping poll surge in the NYC mayor's race, probe if social democratic vibes—like beefed-up welfare and worker protections—can actually work in the USA's cutthroat system. Plus, they dissect the bizarre Dallas ICE HQ shooting where the official story just doesn't add up, and break down chaos at Area 51 with shots popping off amid wild conspiracy buzz. Serious stakes, real talk, and that signature left-right sparring keeps it electric.  • Democracy in Distress: A Quinnipiac poll reveals 53% of Americans believe U.S. democracy isn't working, up sharply from earlier surveys, with 74% of Democrats echoing the gloom versus just 22% of Republicans. Amid rising political violence fears—71% call it a "very serious problem"—top voter worry is preserving democracy at 32%. Controversies swirl over partisan rifts and recent events like the Charlie Kirk assassination fueling national pessimism. • Mamdani's Poll Surge: Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani leads NYC mayoral polls by 20 points over Andrew Cuomo in a Suffolk University survey, with 45% support in Quinnipiac's four-way race. His edge stems from affordability (21% voter priority) and crime concerns, but critics slam his anti-Israel stance, NYPD critiques, and bold plans like free buses and rent freezes as too radical for the city.  • Social Democracy's U.S. Fit?: Experts debate if Nordic-style policies—universal healthcare, paid leave, active labor markets—can thrive in America's polarized landscape. Proponents argue flexicurity boosts work and equity; skeptics cite racial divides, weak unions, and GOP resistance as barriers. Recent pushes like Medicare for All highlight feasibility but face extremism and funding hurdles in a capitalist powerhouse.  • Dallas ICE Shooting Spin: A sniper fired on Dallas ICE HQ from a rooftop, killing two detainees and critically wounding one in a van; the gunman, Joshua Jahn, died by suicide, supposedly leaving "ANTI-ICE" ammo casings. DHS calls it targeted hate, but narrative gaps—like indiscriminate shots and Jahn's sparse politics—spark skepticism. • Area 51 Shots Fired: Guards at Nevada's secretive Area 51 base fired on a gunman blasting the gate in a brazen breach attempt, echoing 2019's viral "raid" memes. No injuries reported, but the incident reignites UFO conspiracies and security debates over the site's classified ops, from drone tests to alien lore, in a year of escalating U.S. mass shootings.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

It’s time for the DMZ America Podcast, where Left-leaning cartoonist Ted Rall and Right-wing firebrand Scott Stantis tackle the political firestorm that won’t go away no matter how much Democrats would like it to! The main event: Kamala Harris admits she knew about President Biden’s dementia, a revelation that’s shaking Washington to its core. This bombshell raises serious questions about transparency, leadership, and who’s really been calling the shots in the White House. Should Harris be punished for her complicity in hiding Biden’s condition? Why did it take so long for the truth to surface in a “democracy”? The controversy is sparking heated debates about trust in government and accountability at the highest levels. Ted and Scott dive into the facts, unpacking the timeline, the fallout, and what this means for the 2028 election. Plus: • Trump’s bold plan to deploy troops in Chicago to curb violence—genius move or overreach? • Is America’s global dominance fading fast in a multipolar world?Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join Chicago Tribune editorial cartoonist Scott Stantis and his colleague Ted Rall on the DMZ America podcast to discuss Donald Trump’s plan to invade the Windy City with thousands of National Guard troops and federal law enforcement goons to Chicago, as part of his “law and order” push to go after crime and deport working-class immigrants to Third World war zones where they could be killed. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker despises the invasion, citing the Posse Comitatus Act limiting federal military action on U.S. soil. Critics fear this is a political stunt to intimidate Democrat-run cities, with comparisons to “martial law.” Republicans, however, point to Chicago’s high crime rates—over 600 homicides in 2024. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) goons will target “sanctuary city” policies, sparking protests from Mayor Brandon Johnson.Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign promise of “retribution” is in full swing, kicked off by a FBI raid on John Bolton’s home and office, probing alleged leaks of classified info. Trump’s team is targeting a long list of critics, with over 100 individuals and entities in the crosshairs, including former CIA Director John Brennan, former FBI Director James Comey, and New York AG Letitia James. Trump’s DOJ, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, is digging into figures like Barack Obama for 2016 election meddling, while Ed Martin’s “Weaponization Working Group” is naming and shaming foes like Senator Chuck Schumer. Could more raids be in the works, against Trump haters like Liz Cheney, Anthony Fauci, and Mark Milley?Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

It’s a rare topic for the DMZ America Podcast, where editorial cartoonists Ted Rall (Left) and Scott Stantis (Right) discuss something the world of print journalism doesn’t see often anymore: the launch of a new daily print newspaper.Right-wing Australian company NewsCorp is launching the California Post, a brash new daily tabloid, in Los Angeles in early 2026! This isn’t just a newspaper—it’s a Murdoch empire move, modeled after the New York Post with its in-your-face headlines, celebrity gossip, and conservative-leaning lens. NewsCorp’s $10.1 billion media giant is banking on California’s 7.3 million Post readers to embrace this print and digital venture, led by editor Nick Papps. But critics slam its right-wing bias, fearing it will inflame California’s already polarized media scene. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Times is bleeding millions and slashing staff—reeking of death—leaving a gap NewsCorp aims to fill with “common-sense” journalism. Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Israel's War in Gaza is the focus of this to episode of the "DMZ America" podcast with political cartoonists Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right). There have been some major developments in the war over the last week: •  French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly this September, becoming the first G7 nation to do so. •  The Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalists’ union said that its reporters in Gaza are starving to death due to Israel’s aid blockade, with some, like photographer Bashar, too weak to work. AFP, alongside BBC, AP, and Reuters, issued a statement noting that Gaza’s journalists face dire hunger. •  Doctors in Gaza, such as those at Nasser Hospital and Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, are fainting from hunger while treating malnourished patients, with the UN reporting a massive spike in severe malnutrition cases in children under five. Images of skeletal Gazan children are going viral. •  France’s foreign ministry stated that the famine in Gaza is Israel's fault, joining the UK and Germany in demanding an immediate end to the “humanitarian catastrophe.” •  Over 100 aid organizations, including MSF and Oxfam, reported that their staff, including doctors and aid workers, are “wasting away” due to starvation, with 900,000 children facing hunger. •  Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain stalled. •  Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu called its bombing of an iconic Catholic church a “mistake.”Scott and Ted are best friends who pride themselves on finding common ground despite the fact that they're on opposite sides of the political divide. But agreement has been elusive on Gaza. Scott is an ardent supporter of Israel whereas Ted is a harsh critic of what he calls genocide.Get ready for a thoughtful yet passionate argument about the crisis in the Middle East.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Time for another episode of the “DMZ America Podcast,” where editorial cartoonist buddies Ted Rall (Left) and Scott Stantis (Right) go where mainstream media fears to tread in the story that proves that, for four years, a pen wasn’t just a pen! President Biden used an auto-pen to sign documents—not just when he was away from Washington, but even when be was at the White House. Why? Was he unable to do his job? Was he even aware of the important documents signed under his name? Who was really running the country? Did his team hide cognitive decline? Former Biden deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini took the Fifth Amendment before the House Oversight Committee, joining other aides like Anthony Bernal and Biden’s doctor in refusing to talk about Biden’s mental state or auto-pen use, intensifying claims of a cover-up. Plus the White House Counsel’s Office has launched a full investigation, pulling over 27,000 documents from the National Archives to examine whether Biden’s aides used the auto-pen to sign documents without his full knowledge. Ted and Scott give you the facts, from the legal implications to the political fallout, as this scandal shakes up D.C. Tune in for a clash of perspectives from two sharp minds who don’t pull punches!Plus: RussiaGate drags on with new twists in the ongoing investigation.Colbert’s firing shocks late-night TV. Was this censorship or just about money?Public Broadcasting faces massive cuts, threatening local stations and emergency alerts.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Steve Benson, former cartoonist for the Arizona Republic, a fierce critic of the Mormon Church despite his family’s prominence within it, and a notable creator of controversial cartoons during the 1990s and 2000s, has passed away. Born in 1954, Benson began his career at the Arizona Republic in 1980, where he won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning in 1993. His work sparked debate, reflecting his acidic stance on political and social issues, including his public critiques of the Mormon Church, which led to personal shunning and professional tensions. On the “DMZ America Podcast,” fellow political cartoonists Scott Stantis and Ted Rall discuss Benson’s life as they knew their colleague, both professionally and personally.For Scott, who was deeply wronged by Benson, this news carries a complexity that those left behind are rarely permitted to acknowledge, let alone discuss publicly. On DMZ, we explore that strange feeling when someone who passes leaves behind a mixed legacy.Tune in for a thoughtful, intelligent discussion about humanity and death.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Hey Elon! You’re going to need this history lesson. On the “DMZ America Podcast, Ted Rall (Left) and Scott Stantis (Right) consider the prospects for Elon Musk’s “America Party” and the wild ride of third parties in U.S. politics! On Saturday, Musk, the billionaire disruptor, announced the launch of his “America Party” after blasting Trump’s $3.3 trillion spending bill as “criminal.” Promising fiscal restraint and liberty, his party has MAGA World furious, with critics like Steve Bannon seriously annoyed. Third parties, like Perot’s Reform Party, Greens, Prohibition Party and Eugene Debs’ Socialist Party often shake things up but tend to crash against America’s winner-takes-all electoral college system. Can Musk’s cash and clout change the game, or will it fracture the Right? Does this flaky dude have the followthrough necessary to see this project through? Ted and Scott dive into the facts, the beef, and the history without pulling punches. This ain’t your average political chat—expect straight-up analysis off why third parties have an uphill battle under our system!  Plus:  Texas floods devastate communities, with relief efforts lagging amid chaos. And there’s little to reason to think it won’t happen again.The Trumpies’ embrace of cruelty, especially against trans soldiers and migrants, sparks debate: can America heal from this?  Support Civilized Discourse on the DMZ America Podcast!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

In a stunning upset, 33-year-old democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani clinched the Democratic primary for New York City’s mayoral race, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo, a centrist heavyweight backed by billionaire donors. Mamdani’s victory, declared on June 24, 2025, after Cuomo conceded, marks a seismic shift in the city’s politics, fueled by a progressive surge and ranked-choice voting. His grassroots campaign, emphasizing rent freezes, free public transit, and affordability, resonated with young and marginalized voters, drawing endorsements from figures like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Despite Cuomo’s early lead and establishment support, including from Bill Clinton and Michael Bloomberg, Mamdani’s momentum—bolstered by over $7 million from 16,000+ donors—overturned expectations.The race was volatile, with incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, indicted on corruption charges, opting to run as an independent after exiting the Democratic primary. Adams’ unpopularity and the dismissal of his charges in April reshaped the contest, setting up a potential four-way general election in November against Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and independent Jim Walden. Mamdani’s lead in the primary, where over 1 million voted, signals a generational revolt against the Democratic old guard. His platform, rooted in social justice and affordability, could redefine New York’s future, though his progressive stance may polarize voters in the general election. This upset underscores the city’s appetite for change amid rising costs and political disillusionment.Support Civilized Discourse on the DMZ America Podcast!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Get ready for an explosive episode of the “DMZ America Podcast,” where Left-leaning editorial cartoonist Ted Rall and Right-wing cartoonist Scott Stantis tackle the hottest geopolitical mess of the moment: Should Donald Trump throw the U.S. into Israel’s unprovoked air war against Iran? The past 24 hours have been wild—Israel bombed Iran’s nuclear sites, Iran retaliated with missiles that struck an Israeli hospital, and Trump’s White House announced that the president will decide within two weeks whether to join the war against Iran with 30,000 megabombs. With global powers like Russia and China both sides to de-escalate and Congress pushing to limit Trump’s war powers, insiders like DNI Tusli Gabbard warn that World War III could happen any moment. Ted and Scott break down the situation, slicing through the noise with their no-holds-barred takes and deep dives into historical precedent. Expect a raw, unfiltered clash of perspectives as two friends with very different views of Israel grapple with Trump’s next move and what it means for America and the world. Tune in for a convo that’s as intense as the headlines!Support Civilized Discourse on the DMZ America Podcast!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Time for the “DMZ America Podcast,” where best friends from opposite politics come together. Left-wing firebrand Ted Rall and right-wing sharp-shooter Scott Stantis dive headfirst into the wild revelations about Joe Biden’s mental acuity and physical state, as exposed in Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson’s explosive book, “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again.” Joined by political scientist Charles Lipson, the trio unpacks the alleged cover-up that hid Biden’s condition from voters, donors, and even insiders, fueling a political scandal that’s rocking the nation. This no-BS discussion cuts through the spin, exposing the raw truth behind a deception that tanked Biden’s campaign and reshaped America’s trust in its leaders. With Lipson’s expert insight, Rall’s progressive grit, and Stantis’ conservative edge, expect a fierce, bipartisan takedown of a constitutional crisis that’s got everyone talking. The “DMZ America Podcast” is your go-to for unfiltered takes on news, politics, and culture, recorded weekly by two cartoonists who don’t mess around. Don’t miss this electrifying episode—it’s a must-listen for anyone who cares about truth in politics!Support Civilized Discourse on the DMZ America Podcast!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

It's time for a payback episode of the "DMZ America Podcast"! Hosts Ted Rall (from the Left) and Scott Stantis (from the Right) dive into the jaw-dropping revelations of Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson’s Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again.The book confirms what Ted and Scott have been shouting from the rooftops for years: Joe Biden’s mental and physical decline started as early as 2015, after Beau’s death, with telltale signs like forgetting aides’ names, losing focus, and even blanking on George Clooney at a 2024 fundraiser. Despite being mocked and slammed as “conspiracy nuts,” Ted and Scott stuck to their guns, and now Tapper’s exposé backs them up, detailing a calculated cover-up by Biden’s family and aides to hide his condition from voters, donors, and even Cabinet members.This deception propped up Biden’s doomed reelection campaign, crashing in a debate disaster that paved the way for Trump’s comeback. Critics now blast Tapper for cashing in on a story some say he soft-pedaled before the election, while Biden’s team calls the claims overblown, insisting he led effectively. Ted and Scott unpack the facts, the vindication, and the fallout for America’s political trust. This ain’t just a podcast—it’s a no-BS reckoning of a scandal that’s got the nation buzzing. Tune in for a raw, bipartisan take that cuts through the spin!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

This week’s DMZ America podcast delivers a compelling deep dive into the Supreme Court’s high-stakes oral arguments on national stays, separation of powers, and the 14th Amendment. Hosts Ted Rall and Scott Stantis, joined by legal expert Ricardo Aparicio, unpack a case that could reshape the core of American governance. The Court is grappling with the controversial use of nationwide injunctions that halt federal policies, the boundaries of authority between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and the 14th Amendment’s role in safeguarding rights in today’s polarized climate.These arguments strike at the heart of how power is balanced and how laws are enforced across the nation. With the potential to set precedents that will echo for decades, the outcome could redefine judicial reach and constitutional interpretation. What’s at stake for democracy when the justices weigh these monumental issues? How will their rulings impact the fabric of American law? Tune in for an incisive, serious discussion that cuts through the complexity, offering sharp insights into a defining moment for the nation’s highest court.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Join Ted Rall and Scott Stantis as they dive into the enduring lessons of the Vietnam War, marking 50 years since the fall of Saigon. This episode unpacks America’s failure to learn from defeat, exploring the universal value of self-determination, the pitfalls of military hegemony, and the staggering costs of war—$1 trillion in today’s dollars, millions of lives lost, and a legacy of PTSD and neglected infrastructure. From the haunting parallels in Iraq and Afghanistan to the historical ramifications of colonial powers like the Netherlands and France, who turned defeat into domestic renewal, Rall and Stantis challenge us to rethink America’s global role. Tune in for a raw, thought-provoking left-vs-right dialogue on how the U.S. can finally accept defeat and invest in its own future.  Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

Get ready for an intimate episode of “DMZ America” with political cartooning giants Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Ted Rall, a fearless left-leaning cartoonist and author, has wielded his pen to challenge authority, sparking both praise and controversy. Scott Stantis, a razor-sharp conservative cartoonist, has drawn for The Chicago Tribune and created Prickly City, captivating audiences for decades. With a combined 90 years of experience, they offer a rare glimpse into the heart of political satire.This episode dives deep as Rall and Stantis confess their exhaustion with politics, even with the endless material provided by the daily firehose from Trump. They share raw, unfiltered insights on the perilous state of editorial cartooning, threatened not just by authoritarianism but by shrinking newsrooms and AI’s rise. Expect lively banter, clashing perspectives, and their trademark humor as they wrestle with the question: can cartooning survive in today’s world? From their creative struggles to their enduring passion, this is an insider’s look at two masters navigating a fading art form.Don’t miss this thrilling, candid conversation that’s equal parts frustration and inspiration. Will these legends rediscover their spark, or is political cartooning on its last legs? Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The DMZ America Podcast dives in! Buckle up for a MIND-BLOWING episode of DMZ America with political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis as they rip into the chaotic 21st-century economy! The securities markets are in a tailspin over tariffs, and it’s exposing a brutal truth: the way we pay our bills is BROKEN. Is the classic “work for pay” model dead in the water? This episode tackles the question head-on, dissecting how globalization, automation, and gig jobs have left workers scrambling.But it gets DARKER. A 2023 Gallup poll reveals 38% of Americans feel “mostly negative” about their financial future, while a 2024 CDC study reports depression rates spiking to 20% among adults. Rall and Stantis dig into the gut-punch reality of economic turmoil fueling widespread ennui. Are sky-high costs and stagnant wages sucking the life out of us? A 2022 Pew Research study ties financial stress to mental health declines, suggesting the link is REAL—and it’s brutal.Why are we so damn UNHAPPY? This episode isn’t just talk—it’s a wake-up call. From Wall Street’s tariff tantrums to the quiet despair in our daily grind, DMZ America lays bare the forces shredding our economic and emotional fabric. Can we fix this mess, or are we doomed to dystopia? Tune in for a raw, no-BS breakdown that’ll leave you questioning everything about how we live and work today. Don’t miss this economic EXPOSÉ—it’s the convo you NEED to hear NOW!Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com