Experts in the News | Miller Center

‘The Afghanistan Papers: A Secret History of the War’

Drawing extensively from the Miller Center's presidential oral histories, Craig Whitlock's new book, The Afghanistan Papers, tells the story of how three successive presidents and their military commanders deceived the public year after year about America’s longest war, foreshadowing the Taliban’s recapture of Afghanistan. The author discusses his book with Miller Center senior fellow Spencer Bakich, an expert in U.S. national security policy.

Spencer D. Bakich

Media studies professor on Asian film and television taking on Hollywood

The film industry has traditionally been dominated by studios in Hollywood, but there seems to have been a shift in the tide. The biggest movie in the world right now is a Chinese propaganda movie. The Battle at Lake Changjin is on track to become the biggest movie of the year, and the highest grossing Chinese film of all time. That alongside South Korea's Squid Game, has some in Hollywood nervous, and realising they may face more competition from Asian productions. Media studies professor at University of Virgina and author of "Hollywood made in China" Dr Aynne Kokas joined Kate Hawkesby.

Aynne Kokas

When it comes to U.S.-Cuba policy, Biden must lead with human rights and the internet

President Joe Biden has a unique opportunity to pressure the Cuban government on human rights reform, as his administration continues its review of Cuba policy and prepares for the possible resumption of consular services at the U.S. Embassy in Havana.

Cristina Lopez-Gottardi Chao

Is U.S. Foreign Policy Too Hostile to China?

U.S. foreign policy with regard to China needs greater nuance in areas of potential engagement. China is a strategic competitor, and that presents risks to the United States. At the same time, the United States still benefits from cooperation in important aspects of climate, education, and health. By painting “China policy” with a broad brush, valuable opportunities for collaboration get lost.

Aynne Kokas

America’s electoral future: Where are the parties headed?

Three political experts discuss the state of America’s political parties during these extraordinary and unsettling times. The panelists will consider polarization, challenges that current partisanship pose to American democracy, and the deep historical roots of contemporary political developments.

Sidney Milkis

America’s electoral future: Where are the parties headed?

Jennifer Lawless