Sec. Acosta Gives A Defiant Self-Defense, But Questions Remain
Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta gave a defiant press release Wednesday in the face of growing calls for him to resign off of a plea deal he made in 2008 as U.S. Attorney in Florida, with accused pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Acosta defended his decision-making, saying that his intervention in the case actually helped to put Epstein behind bars — albeit for a short time — rather than letting him off the hook entirely. But questions still remain, as a Miami Herald investigation last year pointed to the significant amount of evidence that law enforcement had at the time regarding the severity of Epstein’s crimes.
Jim Braude was joined by Jennifer Braceras, a former classmate and close friend of Alex Acosta who is also an Independent Women’s Forum forum, and Scott Harshbarger, former Massachusetts Attorney General.
When Brands Decide To Take A Stand
From Gillette’s ads featuring a transgender teen and challenging notions of masculinity, to Nike’s commercials featuring women athletes and Colin Kaepernick, many brands seem to be making the calculation that it’s worth it for them to take a stance on political or social issues. But how do they make those decisions, and what happens if it backfires on them? And how should companies approach the new era where not just consumer activism, but employee activism — like the recent Wayfair worker protests — is becoming more popular?
Jim Braude was joined by Susan Fournier, dean of the Boston University Questrom School of Business, and Sandy Lish, co-founder of the Castle Group.
Gloucester Lobster Industry Feeling The Pinch From China Trade War
China has become a major lobster importer of the local seafood dish. But one year into the U.S. trade war with China, coastal communities are taking a hit. Stephanie Leydon tells us about an effort to influence trade policy and protect the local lobster industry.
IMHO: The Case Against Cy Vance
Jim Braude shares his thoughts on the Manhattan prosecutor’s efforts to lower Jeffrey Epstein’s sex offender status — and why he should probably be in a cell right next to the rich and powerful man he let off.
