Rachel Maddow's 'Ultra' Podcast Returns for Season 2

A Mysterious Suicide, American Extremism, and the Rise of a New Authoritarian Movement

In the 1950s, a Democratic Senator from Wyoming took his own life under mysterious circumstances. Now, a new podcast series from Rachel Maddow explores the forgotten story behind his death and its chilling implications for the present day.

Ultra Season 2: Uncovering a Troubling History

The second season of Rachel Maddow Presents Ultra dives deep into the hidden history of American extremism, uncovering a dark chapter that has been all but forgotten. The podcast examines the rise of the John Birch Society, a radical right-wing organization that spread fear and paranoia throughout the country in the post-war era.

The Mysterious Death of Senator Lester Hunt

At the heart of the Ultra story is the mysterious suicide of Senator Lester Hunt. On a cold January night in 1954, Hunt was found dead in his car, an apparent suicide. But as Maddow investigates, she uncovers troubling questions about the circumstances surrounding his death and the involvement of the John Birch Society.

A Warning for Today

Ultra Season 2 not only sheds light on a forgotten episode in American history but also serves as a chilling warning for the present day. As the country faces a resurgence of authoritarianism and extremism, the lessons of the 1950s take on new relevance. Maddow's podcast forces us to confront the dangers of unchecked fear and the power of those who seek to undermine democracy.

Listen to Ultra Season 2 starting June 10, 2024, on MSNBC and all major podcast platforms.