This week, Jay and Sean zoom out from the ongoing immigration enforcement debate to talk about the history and politics of immigration. In the spirit of Stubborn Things, Jay and Sean try to make sense of various views – right, left, and center – on immigration and discuss the radical politics that prevents compromise and consensus. During the second half of the episode, they talk about Senate dysfunction and the upcoming Senate election in Texas. Take a listen!

Remember to rate and follow Stubborn Things and stay up to date by following us on X @aei_STpodcast.

Comments? Suggestions? Email us at StubbornThings@aei.org.

This week, Jay and Sean talk the Donroe Doctrine. They address the centuries-old historical precedent of American military intervention in the Western Hemisphere and analyze how the Trump admiration's forays into Venezuela fit into this story. On the second half of the episode, Jay interviews Sean about his experiences as an election lawyer and congressional map-drawing extraordinaire. Take a listen!

Remember to rate and follow Stubborn Things and stay up to date by following us on X @aei_STpodcast.

Comments? Suggestions? Email us at StubbornThings@aei.org.

On Stubborn Things’ first episode of 2026, Jay and Sean talk about elections both past and future. How will President Trump’s approval rating, partisan redistricting, and other factors affect the outcome of the midterms this November? Our hosts discuss whether the midterm results and the results of the 2028 GOP presidential primary are foregone conclusions. Plus, how do current election procedures differ from ones of centuries past, and why are some Americans prohibited from getting drunk on election day? Come for an analysis of JD Vance’s 2028 odds, stay for Sean’s humming of The Imperial March.

To stay up to date with all things ST, follow Stubborn Things on your favorite podcast platform and follow the podcast on X @aei_STpodcast.

Comments? Suggestions? Email us at stubbornthings@aei.org.