Noah Smith on Taiwan's Future, Nuclear Proliferation, and Trump 2.0 [ChinaTalk]

This interview podcast features economist Noah Smith discussing geopolitical and economic issues, primarily focusing on the potential impact of a second Trump administration and the implications for East Asia. The conversation begins with an analysis of the constraints on Trump's power within his new coalition, particularly the influence of the "tech right." The discussion then shifts to the potential impact of this coalition on US policy regarding tariffs, export controls, and relations with China, with specific examples of potential conflicts of interest and the role of social media in shaping public opinion. Finally, the interview delves into the debate surrounding nuclear proliferation in East Asia, advocating for Japan and South Korea to acquire nuclear weapons as a deterrent against China, while also exploring potential scenarios for Taiwan's future. The expert guest offers several insightful predictions and policy recommendations, highlighting the unpredictable nature of a second Trump presidency and its potential impact on global politics.