Breaking the Set Season 2 Episode 12 How Monsanto Runs Washington, Wal-Mart's War On Wages, and Ending the TPP

Breaking the Set is a news and current affairs show that looks beyond the headlines to explore important issues affecting society today. Season 2, episode 12 is titled "How Monsanto Runs Washington, Wal-Mart's War On Wages, and Ending the TPP" and features three distinct segments that delve into different aspects of corporate power and its effects on everyday people.

The first segment, "How Monsanto Runs Washington," takes a critical look at the multinational agricultural biotech company Monsanto and its influence on government policy. Through interviews with investigative journalists, academics and activists, presenter Abby Martin explores the ways in which Monsanto has been able to exert its power and shape policies related to genetically modified organisms (GMOs), pesticides and other issues. She also examines the revolving door between Monsanto executives and government positions, which raises questions about conflicts of interest and the regulatory capture of agencies tasked with protecting public health and the environment.

The second segment, "Wal-Mart's War On Wages," focuses on the impact of the retail giant's business practices on workers' rights and the broader economy. Martin speaks with workers and organizers from the non-profit organization OUR Walmart, which advocates for better wages and working conditions for Wal-Mart employees, and highlights the company's history of union-busting and other anti-worker practices. She also discusses the wider implications of low-wage jobs and exploitative business models for society as a whole.

Finally, "Ending the TPP" investigates the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a controversial trade agreement between 12 countries that was negotiated in secret and would have far-reaching implications for intellectual property rights, labor standards and environmental protections. Martin delves into the ways in which the TPP could damage democracy and national sovereignty, and highlights the growing movement of activists and organizations working to oppose it.

Throughout the episode, Martin uses her platform to shine a light on topics that often receive scant attention in mainstream media, drawing attention to issues that are both urgent and important. Her frank and unflinching approach to interviewing, along with her willingness to delve into complex and often controversial topics, makes Breaking the Set a valuable resource for anyone hoping to stay informed about pressing social and political issues.