POLITICO Playbook Audio Briefing

Social media posts from Gov. Gavin Newsom's weekend trip to Michigan suggest a tapped in politician, but the reality is a different story – one of internal fumbles and missed opportunities with key Democrats. Does Newsom have the political chops to resonate with the Midwest? Then Playbook co-authors Dasha Burns and Adam Wren discuss what the Wisconsin primary results reveal about the future of the Democratic party and Trump's Air Force Once deception.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Francesca Hong may be leading the polls, but she's heading into Wisconsin's gubernatorial primary without some of the progressive movement's biggest names at her side. Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Alexendra Ocasio-Cortez, and even far left streamer Hasan Piker won't be campaigning for Hong today. Then Playbook co-authors Will Steakin and Adam Wren invite Playbook contributor Megan Messerly to discuss Darlene Graham's bid in South Carolina's special election, the fallout post Trump's latest executive order on vaccine schedules, and the legacy of “Woke 1.”    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

The movement taking shape around Tucker Carlson, Marjorie Taylor Greene and other Trump defectors is attracting major donors. How viable is a third party and what does this post-MAGA moment mean for the midterms? Then, Playbook co-authors Dasha Burns and Will Steakin invite Playbook reporter Irie Sentner to discuss Francesca Hong's final sprint ahead of Tuesday's Wisconsin primary and Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez take on “Woke 1.”  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Speaker Mike Johnson sits down with Dasha for a wide-ranging interview as Republicans fight to hold onto the House majority. Dasha presses Johnson on why voters remain unhappy with the economy despite Republican promises, whether rising gas prices and the conflict with Iran could derail the GOP's midterm hopes, and why he believes Republicans can overcome decades of history working against the president's party. Dasha asks Johnson about his relationship with President Trump – questioning whether he ever tells the president "no" and why Senate Majority Leader John Thune appears more willing to publicly push back. Johnson also addresses the mounting allegations against Rep. Max Miller and weighs in on what Abdul El-Sayed's victory says about the direction of the Democratic Party. Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

Michigan is emerging as the center of gravity for the 2028 Democratic primary. Who are the potential candidates testing their own appeal in the Great Lake state? Then Playbook contributor Megan Messerly joins co-authors Adam Wren and Will Steakin to discuss  Sen. Mitch McConnell's return home, why Rep. Max Miller's latest moves aren't surprising, and Sen. John Fetterman's interview with Jon Stewart. Plus, the inside story of one of the more unexpected political cameos we've seen lately: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro appearing in a Meek Mill music video.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

House Speaker Mike Johnson has a particular campaigning message to reporters and voters alike. But can Republicans rely on last year's legislative wins to carry them through the midterms? Then, Playbook co-author Dasha Burns, and contributor Megan Messerly invite senior congressional editor Mike DeBonis to discuss Johnson's relationship with President Trump, Max Miller updates, and a MAGA burrito debate. And finally, Francesca Hong declares that she does not wish to cancel Thanksgiving.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

In Michigan, progressives didn't get the showstopping night they were hoping for as tight race ensued between Abdul El-Sayed and Rep. Haley Stevens. Plus, Playbook's co-authors Dasha Burns, Adam Wren, and Will Steakin get to the other stories Washington's talking about: Francesca Hong's Thanksgiving blunder, and what House Speaker Mike Johnson has to say about Rep. Max Miller's refusal to step down. And finally, Jeanine Pirro still stands in limbo over her court filing on the Reflecting Pool.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

The Democratic party's left wing is celebrating a string of victories this primary season, but who can drive this momentum to the 2028 presidential election? Then, Playbook co-authors Dasha Burns and Will Steakin sit down with POLITICO's Kyle Cheney to talk about the stories animating Washington:  Todd Blanche's Senate Judiciary Committee vote, the future U.S. attorney Jeanine Pirro, who's in hot water over her Reflecting Pool filing, and ramped up activity in Cuba. Finally, what does Pete Buttigieg have to say about a Kamala Harris nomination for 2028? Tune in for a preview of POLITICO's On the Road with Jonathan Martin.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

MAGA has a new target within the Trump administration: Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. So who are immigration hardliners suggesting should take his seat? Plus, Playbook co-authors Dasha Burns and Will Steakin sit down with POLITICO's California Bureau Chief Melanie Mason to discuss the questions around Kamala Harris' 2028 bid, Marjorie Taylor Greeen's America First who's who tweet, and a contentious CNN interview with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

FCC chairman Brendan Carr sits down with POLITICO's Dasha Burns for a wide-ranging interview on the growing power of the FCC under President Trump. Dasha presses Carr on his warnings that broadcasters could lose their licenses, accusations that the agency is being used to target the president's critics and concerns that the FCC has become increasingly politicized.  Carr also weighs in on what he believes the FCC's role should be in a media landscape increasingly dominated by social media and streaming. Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

Rahm Emanuel joins POLITICO's Jonathan Martin at Michael's Original Pizzeria on Chicago's North Side for a wide-ranging conversation about his political future, the Democratic Party's identity crisis and why he's seriously considering a run for president in 2028.    The former Chicago mayor, Obama chief of staff and U.S. ambassador to Japan reflects on the biggest mistakes of both parties, argues Democrats need to win back the political center, weighs in on Israel, China and Donald Trump, and explains why he believes America is at a political turning point.    Plus: Chicago tavern-style pizza, growing up on the North Side and the childhood experience that still drives Emanuel today. 

LeBron James' move to the Philadelphia 76ers made headlines last week, but behind-the-scenes, Gov. Josh Shapiro lobbied for the deal. Is Shapiro making a political play for male voters disillusioned with the Democratic party? Meanwhile, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes dropped out of a crowded Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor, so who's leading the charge? And a preview from POLITICO's podcast, The Conversation, where Dasha Burns sits down with the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Brendan Carr.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Establishment Democrats are wringing their hands as candidates of the insurgent left, like Abdul El-Sayed, take center stage in Michigan. Meanwhile, what we're taking away from the Federal Reserve's interest rate vote yesterday. And Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general is hanging on by a thread.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

The Senate confirmed Jay Clayton as the next director of national intelligence last night, but current acting director Bill Pulte hopes to delay the hand-off. Either way, expect to see more of Pulte, who has become “bros” with President Trump. Meanwhile, after glowing reports on Trump's meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Washington is watching for what comes next. And a familiar pandemic-era face returns to the nation's capital today.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Power players convene today in the nation's capital to honor the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.  Attendees include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who both will be meeting with Trump. Meanwhile, Laura Loomer is on a mission to dig up dirt on fellow conservative influencers, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman makes his way to the White House to discuss Trump's June AI executive order.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

President Donald Trump is pushing for polarizing legislation to be folded into a budget resolution. But will Senate Majority Leader John Thune even bring the resolution to the floor? Meanwhile, there's a long list of other items on the Senate's agenda as it heads into crunch time before its August recess. And the late Sen. Lindsey Graham's funeral is brining foreign leaders—including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—to Washington, teeing up high-stakes conversations on the wars in Iran and Ukraine.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

California Attorney General Rob Bonta joins Dasha to explain why he's trying to block Paramount's proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, and defends California's antitrust agenda. He also weighs in on AI regulation, election security and why says his office will keep suing President Trump whenever it believes the law has been broken.  Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

This weekend kicks off with take-two of the White House Correspondents' Dinner, but this time around expect higher tensions and fewer attendees in the room. Meanwhile, the Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee is debating which states will vote first in the 2028 presidential primaries. And Maine Democrats prepare to nominate their Graham Platner replacement for a critical Senate race just months before the midterms.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

As Congress races toward the August recess, one bipartisan bill is glaringly missing from the House agenda. The Defiance Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, passed the Senate unanimously, so what's the hold up in the Senate? Meanwhile, President Donald Trump announced a new round of tariffs on Canada. Are they a key negotiating chip or a political liability headed towards the midterms?  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Anxiety over the war in Iran ripples across Trump's orbit as some GOP operatives warn that the White House is caught in an “escalation trap” ahead of the midterms. Meanwhile, MAGA Inc., the megadonor-funded super PAC, sits on a $400 million war chest. But when will Republican candidates get access to this bounty? And on Capitol Hill, Trump is seeing some victories as Congressional allies prioritize war funding and the SAVE America Act, but key hurdles lie ahead.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

It's kitchen sink week on Capitol Hill as House Speaker Mike Johnson rushes to schedule votes on key issues like a CR and the NDAA before lawmakers leave for August recess. But with no recent legislative wins, how will Congress members stump in their districts ahead of the midterms? Meanwhile in the Grand Canyon state, Republicans are attempting to bridge the divide between hard-liner politicians and a more moderate voter base. And filings for Sen. Lindsey Graham's replacement open today, with Darline Graham already in the mix.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

AOC hit the campaign trail in Michigan over the weekend alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders. She's rallying for Abdul El-Sayed in his race against Congresswoman Haley Stevens, but is there subtext of an AOC 2028 bid? Meanwhile, the Vance-Rubio succession race is getting spicier. Polls show Vance at the forefront, but there's only one poll that matters in the White House: President Trump's. And, how the new Christopher Nolan's “The Odyssey” became the latest site of the culture wars.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Abdul El-Sayed – the progressive former public health official running for the Democratic nomination in Michigan's open Senate seat – joins Dasha to explain why he believes "both parties are lying" to working Americans, unleashes on the ‘hypocrisy' of the Democratic establishment, and defends his record on “Defund the Police,” ICE, socialism and more.  Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Gov. Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.) and Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) join POLITICO's Jonathan Martin at the Little Missouri Saloon in Medora for a conversation about the newly opened Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, why the Badlands helped shape one of America's most consequential presidents and how they're betting the landmark will transform North Dakota.    They also discuss President Donald Trump's agenda, the future of the GOP, the politics of conservation and why they believe Theodore Roosevelt's legacy still offers lessons for America as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday. 

Last night, President Donald Trump delivered a primetime address focused on newly declassified documents that he argued cast doubt on the integrity of the 2020 election. But the documents don't appear to substantiate his longstanding claims that the election was stolen. So why deliver this speech now, and who was the real audience? Plus, a preview of our conversation with one of Washington's buzziest figures: Abdul El-Sayed.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

President Trump is slated to make a primetime address this evening at 9 pm E.T. He's dropped breadcrumbs all week that he'll focus on election integrity and the SAVE America Act. But will he actually stick to the script? Meanwhile Republicans grapple with the fallout after two ICE-involved shootings in less than a week. Plus, it's day two of Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's confirmation hearing, where we can expect outside testimony from Epstein survivors.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Senate Republicans face a series of high-stakes decisions that rival last year's One Big Beautiful Bill. At the top of today's agenda — acting Attorney General Todd Blanche appears before the Senate Judiciary Committee. We'll give you a preview of his testimony. Meanwhile President Trump dropped hints about tomorrow's national address, where he's expected to return to a familiar message on the SAVE America Act. Plus, the latest on the war with no end in sight as Trump ramps up aggression towards Iran.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

The Michigan primary isn't for another few weeks, but the Democratic establishment is already putting their thumb on the scale, throwing support behind Rep. Haley Stevens. Her rival, Abdul El-Sayed, is showing strength of his own, reporting more than $4.5 million raised in the second quarter. What does the race say about the Democratic Party's establishment-versus-insurgent divide? Meanwhile, President Trump notified lawmakers that the U.S. is at war with Iran, again. What would the late Sen. Lindsey Graham make of Trump's increasingly hawkish posture?  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina died over the weekend at the age of 71. He served more than three decades on the Hill, was the president's Senate whisperer, and played a key role on the world stage. So, what happens next with his vacant seat in South Carolina – and how are insiders in Washington responding to this moment? Plus, everything else you need to jump-start your day – from renewed strikes on Iran to Congress' first day back in session.   For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

At the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara, Secretary General Mark Rutte joins Dasha to discuss NATO's historic defense spending overhaul, Russia's war in Ukraine, Greenland, President Trump's demands of the alliance, and whether NATO can withstand growing questions about America's future role in European security. Plus, POLITICO's diplomatic correspondent Felicia Schwartz and defense reporter Jack Detsch give their takeaways from the summit.  Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

The U.S.-Iran ceasefire is “over.” But how are Republicans responding to these renewed strikes and what does this all mean for the midterms? Meanwhile, the clock is ticking on the bipartisan Housing bill. The question on everyone's mind: will Trump sign it? Plus, an update on the saga unfolding in Maine as Democrats scramble to find their next Senate nominee.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

In a video statement, Graham Platner announced that he is suspending his campaign for the U.S. Maine Senate race. Since the aftermath of POLITICO's report on sexual assault allegations against Platner, Maine Democrats tentatively approved a nominating convention to identify their replacement, and a band of hopefuls are already raising their hands. So who is vying for the Democratic nomination, and what does this moment say about the future of the Democratic Party?  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

The political fallout continues after POLITICO's reporting on sexual assault allegations against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner. On this episode, host Jack Blanchard and White House reporter Myah Ward get into what this means for Democrats as they head into a highly contested seat for the 2026 midterms. Meanwhile, President Trump is still at the NATO summit where he's been bashing against allies on all fronts. Trump is expected to hold a press conference from Turkey later this morning.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

A woman who dated Maine U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner has accused him of sexual assault, in reporting exclusive to POLITICO. Platner denied the allegations, calling them "troubling, serious, and false." Today on the Playbook Podcast, host Jack Blanchard in conversation with the reporters who broke the allegation explores what this all means for Platner, the Democrats, and the battle for the United State Senate.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Donald Trump heads to Turkey for the NATO summit, where there's plenty of questions about defense spend, Ukraine, and the future of Greenland. POLITICO White House reporter Megan Messerly gives us the rundown on what she's looking out for this summit.  Plus, the Qatari-gifted jet serving as Air Force One makes its first international trip. And in an extraordinary twist ahead of tonight's World Cup U.S.-Belgium match, FIFA reversed U.S. star Folarin Balogun's suspension after Trump urged the organization to review the decision.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

As America marks 250 years since its founding, award-winning documentarian Ken Burns joins Dasha to reflect on what history can teach us about this political moment. In this wide-ranging interview, Burns discusses what lawmakers misunderstand about the founding of our nation, what George Washington would think of Donald Trump, and whether the American experiment can survive the next chapter. Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

What does MAGA make of the Democratic Party's insurgent wing? POLITICO White House reporter Megan Messerly shares insights from her interview with former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release their jobs report this morning. The White House is hoping for a boost in data, but will that matter if the numbers don't square up with consumer sentiment? Plus, a very special July 4th weekend lies ahead. So how did America 250 get so political?  Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Results from the Rockies have rolled in, and it's another big night for the insurgent Democratic candidates. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court wrapped up its term with major rulings, so what do they mean for the midterm elections? And, once again, a handful of hardliner Republicans froze the house floor, leading to several canceled votes and an early two-week recess for lawmakers.  Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

The Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver end-of-term decisions for several high-profile cases including birthright citizenship, state bans on transgender athletes in women's sports, and campaign finance limits. Meanwhile, Trump envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are in Qatar today for technical talks about the MOU with Iran and the contested Strait of Hormuz. Plus, a preview of Colorado's primary as Trump makes familiar attacks on the left.  Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Colorado voters head to the Primary polls on Tuesday. And there's one big question Democrats are wondering nationally: what's next for insurgent candidates? Meanwhile, the U.S. and Iran agree to another ceasefire. Will this one last longer than the last ? And after a week filled with surprises, can the Republicans finally get some business done in the House this week ahead of the Fourth of July? Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Dasha sits down with Finnish President Alexander Stubb in Helsinki for a wide-ranging conversation on NATO, Russia's war in Ukraine, Iran and the future of America's relationships with allies around the world.  Stubb, who has developed an unusually close personal relationship with Donald Trump, discusses how he approaches the president behind closed doors, why he believes Ukraine has the upper hand in the war against Russia and how he remains confident in NATO's future. Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

House Speaker Mike Johnson patches things up with Trump after the president canceled the signing of a bipartisan housing bill on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Democrats of all ilk prepare for the Colorado primaries next week, where newcomer Melat Kiros challenges Rep. Diana DeGette. And a sneak peek at how Gov. Wes Moore is complicating Trump's 250th anniversary narrative with his own event on Independence Day.  Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Is the roof collapsing on the Democratic Party? The New York primaries are fueling questions around where the party is headed as insurgent candidates gain ground. Meanwhile, after President Trump refused to sign the bipartisan housing bill into law, House Speaker Mike Johnson gears up for an afternoon meeting with the president. And it's SCOTUS decision day ... again. The high court could issue major rulings on birthright citizenship, mail-in voting, and other closely watched cases.  Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook 

Playbook Podcast host Jack Blanchard and POLITICO White House reporter Megan Messerly sit down for a primary postmortem. It's a big win for Democratic Socialists – so what do New York's results reveal about the Democratic establishment? At the same time, even everyone wants to be a political outsider, big money still packs a punch. Plus, Trump's off to a jam-packed day that captures the chaos on the Hill right now.  Follow POLITICO here:     ➤ X: https://x.com/politico/  ➤ Instagram:  / politico       ➤ Facebook:  / politico    For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook