Ep 295. Wed, May 13, 2015

The Young Turks, a progressive news and commentary show, aired its 295th episode of season 1 on May 13, 2015. The episode covered a variety of current events in the United States and around the world, as well as offering opinion and analysis on each topic.

The show began with a segment on the ongoing scandal surrounding FIFA, the international soccer organization. The hosts discussed the recent indictments of top FIFA officials on charges of corruption, bribery, and money laundering, and explored the possible consequences for the sport and its future.

Next, the show turned to national news, with a segment on the growing movement for a $15 minimum wage. The hosts discussed the recent successes of the Fight for $15 movement, which has won wage increases in several major cities and is gaining support across the country. They also examined the arguments of opponents of the minimum wage increase, including claims that it will hurt small businesses and lead to job losses.

The Young Turks then covered a story that had been making headlines around the world: the massive earthquake that had struck Nepal on April 25, 2015. The hosts discussed the scale of the disaster, which had killed over 8,000 people and left millions homeless, and the international aid efforts to help the people of Nepal.

The show then turned to more controversial topics, beginning with a discussion of the protests in Baltimore following the death of Freddie Gray in police custody. The hosts examined the root causes of the protests, including years of systemic racism and police brutality in the city, and criticized the media's coverage of the events.

The next segment focused on the case of Kalief Browder, a young man from the Bronx who had spent over three years in solitary confinement at Rikers Island prison without ever being convicted of a crime. The hosts discussed the brutal conditions of solitary confinement, which can cause severe psychological harm, and the need for criminal justice reform to prevent such abuses.

Moving on to lighter fare, the show then featured a segment on the controversy surrounding the upcoming film Aloha, which had faced criticism for casting mostly white actors in roles that were meant to be Asian or Pacific Islander. The hosts discussed the broader issue of Hollywood's lack of diversity, and how it affects both representation in films and opportunities for actors of color.

Finally, the show wrapped up with a segment on the latest news from the 2016 presidential campaign. The hosts discussed the crowded field of Republican candidates, including frontrunners like Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio, as well as the potential challengers on the Democratic side, such as Bernie Sanders. They also analyzed the latest polls and fundraising numbers, and offered their own predictions for the election.

Overall, The Young Turks episode 295 offered a mix of serious news and lighthearted commentary on the day's events. The hosts brought their trademark passion and wit to each segment, and offered sharp analysis on topics ranging from politics to pop culture.