The David Frum Show

To defend democracy, one has to believe in it. To believe in democracy, one has to understand it. Where it came from. How it works. What’s true. What’s not. What others did before you. How it could be better. How to make a difference. Each week, The David Frum Show digs deep into the big questions people have about our society, explains the progress Americans have made together, and reminds us that the American idea is worth defending.

Last refreshed: July 1st, 2026 at 7:14 PM

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Episodes

The American Experiment Is Worth Believing In

David Frum discusses the "fiasco" surrounding America's 250th anniversary, comparing current challenges to the Compromise of 1850 and highlighting the unforeseen benefits of historical delays. Joined by Jeffrey Goldberg, they assess the "American Idea" in the Trump era, the erosion of democratic norms, and the importance of The Atlantic's non-partisan stance against illiberalism. The episode concludes by tracing the origins and evolution of "City on a Hill," urging Americans to reclaim patriotism and work towards restoring the nation's foundational ideals despite present grime.

Jul 01, 2026•57 min•Ep. 65

Did Trump Surrender to Iran?

This episode delves into the complex aftermath of the US-Iran conflict, analyzing the controversial memorandum of understanding, the US's perceived defeat, and the varied reactions from Gulf allies and Israel. The discussion also critically examines the role of financial influence in US foreign policy. Later, David Frum offers a thought-provoking, spoiler-heavy review of Ann Patchett's 'Bel Canto,' exploring its themes of community, love, and a deeply disturbing ending.

Jun 24, 2026•56 min•Ep. 65

Cuba Is Collapsing. Will Trump Invade?

In this episode of “The David Frum Show,” The Atlantic’s David Frum opens with his thoughts on Trump’s new Iran deal and how it affects the future of the Republican Party and J. D. Vance’s presidential aspirations. David discusses the predicament that Vance finds himself in as the administration’s most vocal Iran War skeptic. Then, David is joined by CNN’s Patrick Oppmann, who has been reporting from Cuba since 2012. Patrick and David discuss the current state of the country, the pressure that t...

Jun 17, 2026•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 64

Republicans vs. the Fourteenth Amendment

In this episode of “The David Frum Show,” The Atlantic’s David Frum opens with his thoughts on the Brexit vote, which was cast 10 years ago this month. David explains why Brexit has not only been a failure but has led to years of political instability in the U.K. in the decade following the British vote to leave the European Union. Then, David is joined by professor David W. Blight to discuss the blood-soaked aftermath of the Civil War and the stumbling project to bring freedom to the former sla...

Jun 10, 2026•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 63

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