Join Jeff Hoffmann and his co-host Elliott Baretz on Check the Balance a political podcast, 'By Everyday Americans For Everyday Americans,' as they delve into a variety of pressing topics. In this episode, they discuss the arrest of Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Anna Dugan for allegedly obstructing ICE, and the implications of such actions on judicial integrity. They also explore the concept of competitive authoritarianism, referencing Steven Levitsky's analysis from his book 'How Democracies Die.' The episode highlights how various countries like Turkey, India, and Venezuela have struggled with maintaining democratic institutions amidst authoritarian practices. The hosts also engage in a reflective conversation on media biases, the role of journalism, and the challenges of navigating through differing media ecosystems. They conclude with a light-hearted conversation about the nostalgic appeal of 'The West Wing' and its portrayal of American politics. This episode encourages thoughtful discussion and critical thinking in these contentious times.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Beginnings

00:49 Breaking News: Wisconsin Judge Arrested

02:31 Discussion on Competitive Authoritarianism

03:33 Comparing Global Authoritarian Trends

08:08 Trump's Popularity and Democratic Guardrails

11:39 Controversial Deportations and Legal Challenges

20:04 Media Ecosystems and Misinformation

28:23 The Role of Journalism in Democracy

32:53 Nostalgia for 'The West Wing' and Conclusion