Episode 500: Defining the Next Era of National Security

·43 min·4 clips

On the 500th episode of Fault Lines, the team reflects on how 9/11 reshaped U.S. national security and the challenges ahead.

The episode begins with host Martha Miller introducing the 500th milestone and setting the focus on 9/11's impact. Jamil Jaffer describes the traumatic events of 9/11, linking them to current threats like domestic terrorism and adversarial nation-states. Lester Munson shares his personal experience from the Dirksen Senate office building and emphasizes the need for U.S. leadership. Morgan Viña recalls being a high school student near D.C., highlighting the shock of realizing external threats. Jessica Jones discusses the West Coast perspective and contrasts post-9/11 unity with today's internal political divisions. The panel debates whether the U.S. missed threats like Russia's aggression and China's ambitions. Jamil argues that political complacency undermines preparedness, while Lester calls for moderation and diplomatic approaches. Morgan points out resource shortages in defense, and Jessica warns about undermining U.S. systems through internal discord. The conversation shifts to the use of military force, with Jamil advocating for stronger capabilities and Lester stressing it as a last resort. Martha shares her Senate experience on 9/11, noting the vulnerability felt. The episode concludes with reflections on NSI's mission and a call for civil debate, ending with promotional notes for future episodes.

As heard by us

A 500th-episode look back at 9/11 and the policy fight that followed.

Fault Lines marks its 500th episode by returning to the show's start and to the national security debates that followed 9/11. Martha Miller brings back Jameel Jaffer, then talks with Lester Munson, Morgan Binia, and Jessica Jones in a conversation that looks back at the attacks…

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want a milestone panel that treats national security as a live argument.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Fault Lines