Reading the Globe #017: Democracy in Peril, Eric Adams’ Brother, Nukes in Vietnam

Reading the Globe: A weekly digest of the most important news, ideas and culture around the world. by Michael Washburn

Episode notes

The Future of the Union

The Economist’s January 1 issue features a bold lead editorial, entitled “Walking away,” about the perceived fragility of democracy in America one year out from the trauma of the January 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol. It sounds a dire note about the growing polarization in the country and the tendency of members of either major political party to view the other side with suspicion and fear.

Eric Adams Becomes Mayor

Many people concerned about the crime surge in New York City have welcomed new mayor Eric Adams, a former cop who did not mince words during the electoral race about the problems facing the city and the tough measures needed to turn things around. This past weekend, a robber at a Burger King in East Harlem fatally shot a 19-year-old cashier who had rece ... 

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