City Journal's 10 Blocks

What are the consequences of a culture that undermines masculinity? Heather Mac Donald, Daniel Di Martino, and Rafael Mangual examine the complex forces fueling rising tensions in America. They discuss the recent attack on an ICE facility in Dallas, the cultural crisis of masculinity, the importance of fatherhood, and the need for positive male role models. Drawing on the legacy of figures like Charlie Kirk, they reflect on why it’s crucial to revive values like courage, heroism, and personal responsibility.

What does the Jimmy Kimmel episode reveal about free speech in America? Ilya Shapiro, Charles Fain Lehman, John Ketcham, and Rafael Mangual unpack the controversy surrounding the cancellation of Kimmel’s ABC show and explore how government influence, corporate media decisions, and public protest movements intersect in shaping the national discourse. The panel also discusses controversial figures like Woody Allen and what their continued relevance says about shifting political and cultural norms.

Howard Husock joins Stephen Eide to discuss his new book, The Projects: A New History of Public Housing.

Why are so many young men becoming radicalized online? Rob Henderson, Carolyn Gorman, and Isabella Redjai examine the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk and the radicalization of his alleged killer, Tyler Robinson. They explore how social media and college campuses influence political beliefs and discuss the growing epidemic of loneliness and isolation. The conversation also addresses the normalization of violence and the blurred line between mental illness and political extremism, and what these disturbing trends might signal for the future.

What does the assassination of Charlie Kirk reveal about the state of political discourse and public safety in America today? In this powerful episode, Stu Smith, Jesse Arm, Josh Appel, and Kerry Soropoulos discuss the shocking murder of the conservative activist. Their conversation explores Kirk’s legacy, the rise of online radicalization, and how progressive policies may be fueling crime in urban centers. They also examine the deepening ideological divide in American society and consider what it will take to restore civility—and security—in our country.

John Tierney, Nicole Gelinas, Park MacDougald, and Isabella Redjai pay tribute to Charlie Kirk, assassinated as he gave a talk on a college campus. Kirk was murdered the day before the nation marked the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. We share personal memories of that day, examine the city’s response, and discuss how the attacks reshaped American politics and culture. The conversation ends with a look at the day’s enduring lessons and prospects for American unity.

Isabella Redjai, Kerry Soropoulos, Charles Fain Lehman, and Renu Mukherjee discuss the fatal stabbing of a Ukrainian refugee on public transit and what it reveals about urban violence, mental health, and law enforcement. They also discuss CBS’s interest in buying The Free Press and Austin’s logo debate.

Rafael Mangual, John Ketcham, Isabella Redjai, and Kerry Soropoulos take a look at the high-stakes dynamics of the New York City mayoral race. From candidate strategies and the influence of social media to the surprising role of game theory in political decision-making, they break down how modern campaigns are evolving. They also explore how crime policy is shaping electoral outcomes and how Democrats are responding to public safety concerns. Plus, a timely discussion of how AI is disrupting fashion marketing and what it means for traditional advertising.

Nicole Nosek joins Judge Glock to discuss housing reform legislation spearheaded by Texans for Reasonable Solutions.

The panel unpacks President Trump’s latest executive orders on cash bail, National Guard enforcement, and flag burning—are they strong reforms or constitutional overreach? The panel also examines the uproar over Chinese student visas and considers how the U.S. should weigh talent acquisition against national security. Plus: Will the Travis Kelce–Taylor Swift engagement spark a marriage and baby boom?

Charles Fain Lehman, Jesse Arm, Judge Glock, and Renu Mukherjee discuss President Trump’s threat to send National Guard troops to Chicago, Baltimore, and New York; the government’s stake in Intel; and New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s attempt to bench press 135 pounds. 

Charles Fain Lehman, Neetu Arnold, Rafael Mangual, and Daniel Di Martino discuss voters’ increasing dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party and potential 2028 frontrunners, why President Trump is targeting the Smithsonian’s museums, and reporting that an Eric Adams adviser gave cash to a journalist in a potato chip bag.

Charles Fain Lehman, Ilya Shapiro, Carolyn Gorman, and John Ketcham discuss the federalization of the D.C. police under the Trump administration and what it signals for local governance in the nation’s capital. They explore New York City’s controversial proposal for involuntary commitment of individuals with substance-use problems, raising critical questions about civil liberties and public safety. The panel also examines the broader atmosphere of disorder in New York City and ponders the surprising rise in alcohol abstention among young Americans. 

Washington, D.C. is in crisis. Crime is surging, and the federal government has now stepped in. Charles Fain Lehman, Jesse Arm, Renu Mukherjee, and John Ketcham explain why Congress moved to rein in local control and what it means for public safety nationwide. Plus: Trump’s push to shake up college admissions, and AI-induced delusions.

Nicole Gelinas joins Brian Anderson to discuss the pattern of random acts of violence in New York City and what can be done to stop them. 

Douglas Murray joins Charles Fain Lehman to discuss last week’s shooting in Manhattan, along with broader urban disorder and examples of political violence throughout history. They also look at President Trump’s moves on immigration and what other western nations can learn from U.S. policy. Lastly, Murray discusses his recent win in a defamation claim against him, and how it has affected his views of press freedom.

Charles Fain Lehman, John Ketcham, Jesse Arm, and Rob Henderson discuss Chicago’s pension system and Illinois governor J. B. Pritzker’s presidential aspirations, the rising political divide between men and women, and the news that Sydney Sweeney is a registered Republican.

Charles Fain Lehman, Carolyn Gorman, Renu Mukherjee, and Ilya Shapiro discuss the deadly shooting in Manhattan on Monday, exploring issues of mental health, gun violence, and the political implications for the upcoming mayoral election. The conversation shifts to cultural reflections on violence, community responses, and the dynamics of public safety. The panel also delves into the backlash against American Eagle’s ad campaign with Sydney Sweeney and discusses the effectiveness of advertising in shaping consumer behavior.

Charles Fain Lehman, Jesse Arm, Tal Fortgang, and John Ketcham discuss the recent executive order from the Trump administration addressing homelessness, mental illness, and public disorder. They explore the implications of the order, the challenges of implementing it at the state and local levels, and the need for a more comprehensive approach to homelessness that includes mental health treatment. The conversation also touches on the political dynamics of redistricting and gerrymandering, highlighting the partisan posturing involved.

Charles Fain Lehman, Rafael Mangual, Tal Fortgang, and Carolyn Gorman discuss Columbia University’s deal with the Trump administration, the White House’s AI action plan, and the technology's usefulness in tasks at work.