The Chuck ToddCast: Meet the Press

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks the latest government shutdown and the political brinkmanship that created it. He explores how shutdowns—once unthinkable—have become a partisan weapon, wasting money while allowing leaders like Donald Trump to punish opponents and play to their base. With Democrats at risk of shouldering equal or greater blame, Chuck asks whether the public is even paying attention, and what role figures like Russ Vought could play in reshaping government permanently. Beyond the shutdown, the conversation turns to the bigger picture: why voters never saw Trump as an aberration, why 2020 wasn't a full repudiation of 2016, and what Democrats must do to win back Trump voters in 2028. From Harris's struggle to differentiate herself from Biden to Clinton's careful dance with Reagan's legacy, Chuck argues that Democrats may need to admit Trump identified real problems—even as his solutions and behavior, especially with military leaders, remain deeply troubling.Finally, Chuck presents his ToddCast Top 5 senate races most likely to flip parties, answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment, and recaps a frustrating night at the Cowboys/Packers game. Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction - Government begins shutting down01:15 Congress created shutdown conditions for political leverage02:00 Could shutdown trigger the end of the senate filibuster rule?02:45 Democrats have always messaged that shutdowns are bad04:30 Democrats could shoulder equal or more blame for shutdown06:30 Shutdowns are a massive waste of money07:30 Trump seems excited for shutdown to punish opponents09:15 Terrible trend of politicians only governing for their base 11:15 Independents are pretty sour on Trump's presidency13:00 Russ Vought at OMB could use shutdown to reorient gov't permanently14:30 Big danger for Democrats is whether the public is paying attention15:30 Chuck Schumer is “Mitch McConnell” level unpopular18:45 If Dems want to win in 28 they'll have to win over some Trump voters20:15 Democrats thought Trump was an aberration, voters didn't21:15 2020 wasn't a repudiation of why Trump was elected in 201624:00 Voters don't want status quo, which is why they elected Trump twice26:15 Harris needed to prove she was different from Biden and didn't27:45 For Clinton to win, he couldn't repudiate everything Reagan did30:00 Trump's behavior in front of military leaders was outrageous31:30 The military leaders handled the situation exactly as they should32:30 Hegseth lectured leaders of far higher rank than he earned in military33:45 Democrats will have to admit that Trump correctly identified problems34:45 Voters picked “political division” as the 2nd biggest problem after economy37:30 ToddCast Top 5 Senate races most likely to flip parties 38:00 #1 North Carolina 39:45 #2 Georgia 41:45 #3 Michigan 43:30 #4 Maine 45:30 #5 New Hampshire 51:00 Honorable mentions 51:30 Ask Chuck 51:45 Why is the lie that shutdown is over money for illegal immigrants pervasive? 54:45 Democrats feeling disheartened after talking to Trump supporters? 58:45 Would the country be better off if Trump was reelected in 2020? 1:03:00 Will Des Moines superintendent arrest derail Iowa senate campaign? 1:04:45 Chuck's experience at Cowboys/Packers game in Dallas 1:10:00 It was a great weekend of college football Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, NewsNation host Leland Vittert opens up about his personal journey growing up on the autism spectrum, the struggles his family faced, and the lessons that shaped his outlook on life and journalism. From being misunderstood in school and learning to navigate social cues, to the pivotal role his mother played in holding the family together, Vittert reflects on why he chose to go public with his story and how his experiences inform his new book—a parenting guide told from the child's perspective. He also explores how autism has served as both a challenge and, at times, a superpower in his career and personal life.The conversation widens to America's media landscape, where Vittert argues for a “radical center” approach and a journalism that calls balls and strikes on both sides rather than chasing flashy headlines. He stresses the importance of reviving local news, curating coverage around what matters most, and confronting the biases not only in how stories are told, but in which stories get told at all. This candid discussion is part memoir, part media critique, and a call for greater honesty—both in parenting and in public life.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Leland Vittert joins the Chuck ToddCast01:45 The public doesn't grasp autism and child development issues03:00 Autism wasn't well understood in the 80s03:45 Parents struggle to raise neurodivergent children05:00 Adapting to the world you live in, not expecting world to adapt to you06:45 Leland's father didn't want him to be defined by his disability07:30 PE teacher put Leland in with the girls “to protect him”08:15 The struggle with learning to pick up social queues13:15 Everyone in DC always wanted to be student body president14:00 Why go public with your story of being on the spectrum?16:30 There's a “parental reckoning” happening in America17:30 There are lots of broken young men susceptible to radicalization19:00 Nobody has definitive answers about causes of autism21:15 Scientists need to be humble enough to say “I don't know”22:30 80% of parents with disabled children get divorced24:30 Leland's mother held the family together, hero of the story26:30 Telling this story publicly is like going to therapy on live TV28:00 How did you share the story of your autism with your wife?31:00 You don't “get over” autism32:30 Where has autism showcased itself as a superpower in your life?34:30 Book is a parenting book written from the child's perspective36:15 There's no one answer to America's media problem37:45 What works and doesn't work in the news media??39:00 There is a “radical center” that's sick of extremes on both sides39:45 Journalists should call balls and strikes and call out both sides41:45 Cable news tends to obsess over stories that are flashy over substantive43:00 Journalists should curate stories that are most important44:45 Bias isn't just how you cover the news, it's what you cover46:30 Local news was a character reference for the national network journalists48:15 How to revive local news/journalism?51:00 Leland really put himself out there with this book Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks the latest government shutdown and the political brinkmanship that created it. He explores how shutdowns—once unthinkable—have become a partisan weapon, wasting money while allowing leaders like Donald Trump to punish opponents and play to their base. With Democrats at risk of shouldering equal or greater blame, Chuck asks whether the public is even paying attention, and what role figures like Russ Vought could play in reshaping government permanently. Beyond the shutdown, the conversation turns to the bigger picture: why voters never saw Trump as an aberration, why 2020 wasn't a full repudiation of 2016, and what Democrats must do to win back Trump voters in 2028. From Harris's struggle to differentiate herself from Biden to Clinton's careful dance with Reagan's legacy, Chuck argues that Democrats may need to admit Trump identified real problems—even as his solutions and behavior, especially with military leaders, remain deeply troubling.Then, Chuck is joined by NewsNation host Leland Vittert, who opens up about his personal journey growing up on the autism spectrum, the struggles his family faced, and the lessons that shaped his outlook on life and journalism. From being misunderstood in school and learning to navigate social cues, to the pivotal role his mother played in holding the family together, Vittert reflects on why he chose to go public with his story and how his experiences inform his new book—a parenting guide told from the child's perspective. He also explores how autism has served as both a challenge and, at times, a superpower in his career and personal life.The conversation widens to America's media landscape, where Vittert argues for a “radical center” approach and a journalism that calls balls and strikes on both sides rather than chasing flashy headlines. He stresses the importance of reviving local news, curating coverage around what matters most, and confronting the biases not only in how stories are told, but in which stories get told at all. This candid discussion is part memoir, part media critique, and a call for greater honesty—both in parenting and in public life.Finally, Chuck presents his ToddCast Top 5 senate races most likely to flip parties, answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment, and recaps a frustrating night at the Cowboys/Packers game. Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction - Government begins shutting down01:15 Congress created shutdown conditions for political leverage02:00 Could shutdown trigger the end of the senate filibuster rule?02:45 Democrats have always messaged that shutdowns are bad04:30 Democrats could shoulder equal or more blame for shutdown06:30 Shutdowns are a massive waste of money07:30 Trump seems excited for shutdown to punish opponents09:15 Terrible trend of politicians only governing for their base 11:15 Independents are pretty sour on Trump's presidency13:00 Russ Vought at OMB could use shutdown to reorient gov't permanently14:30 Big danger for Democrats is whether the public is paying attention15:30 Chuck Schumer is “Mitch McConnell” level unpopular18:45 If Dems want to win in 28 they'll have to win over some Trump voters20:15 Democrats thought Trump was an aberration, voters didn't21:15 2020 wasn't a repudiation of why Trump was elected in 201624:00 Voters don't want status quo, which is why they elected Trump twice26:15 Harris needed to prove she was different from Biden and didn't27:45 For Clinton to win, he couldn't repudiate everything Reagan did30:00 Trump's behavior in front of military leaders was outrageous31:30 The military leaders handled the situation exactly as they should32:30 Hegseth lectured leaders of far higher rank than he earned in military33:45 Democrats will have to admit that Trump correctly identified problems34:45 Voters picked “political division” as the 2nd biggest problem after economy39:45 Leland Vittert joins the Chuck ToddCast 41:30 The public doesn't grasp autism and child development issues 42:45 Autism wasn't well understood in the 80s 43:30 Parents struggle to raise neurodivergent children 44:45 Adapting to the world you live in, not expecting world to adapt to you 46:30 Leland's father didn't want him to be defined by his disability 47:15 PE teacher put Leland in with the girls "to protect him" 48:00 The struggle with learning to pick up social queues 53:00 Everyone in DC always wanted to be student body president 53:45 Why go public with your story of being on the spectrum? 56:15 There's a "parental reckoning" happening in America 57:15 There are lots of broken young men susceptible to radicalization 58:45 Nobody has definitive answers about causes of autism 1:01:00 Scientists need to be humble enough to say "I don't know" 1:02:15 80% of parents with disabled children get divorced 1:04:15 Leland's mother held the family together, hero of the story 1:06:15 Telling this story publicly is like going to therapy on live TV 1:07:45 How did you share the story of your autism with your wife? 1:10:45 You don't "get over" autism 1:12:15 Where has autism showcased itself as a superpower in your life? 1:14:15 Book is a parenting book written from the child's perspective 1:16:00 There's no one answer to America's media problem 1:17:30 What works and doesn't work in the news media?? 1:18:45 There is a "radical center" that's sick of extremes on both sides 1:19:30 Journalists should call balls and strikes and call out both sides 1:21:30 Cable news tends to obsess over stories that are flashy over substantive 1:22:45 Journalists should curate stories that are most important 1:24:30 Bias isn't just how you cover the news, it's what you cover 1:26:15 Local news was a character reference for the national network journalists 1:28:00 How to revive local news/journalism? 1:30:45 Leland really put himself out there with this book1:31:15 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Leland Vittert 1:31:45 ToddCast Top 5 Senate races most likely to flip parties 1:32:15 #1 North Carolina 1:34:00 #2 Georgia 1:36:00 #3 Michigan 1:37:45 #4 Maine 1:39:45 #5 New Hampshire 1:45:15 Honorable mentions 1:45:45 Ask Chuck 1:46:00 Why is the lie that shutdown is over money for illegal immigrants pervasive? 1:49:00 Democrats feeling disheartened after talking to Trump supporters? 1:53:00 Would the country be better off if Trump was reelected in 2020? 1:57:15 Will Des Moines superintendent arrest derail Iowa senate campaign? 1:59:00 Chuck's experience at Cowboys/Packers game in Dallas 2:04:15 It was a great weekend of college football Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck looks at new polling showing just how unsettled Americans feel heading into yet another potential government shutdown. With 93% of the country agreeing that political violence is a problem and a majority believing we're in a full-blown political crisis, partisanship has hardened to the point where disagreement itself is seen as betrayal. Chuck traces how government shutdowns—once unheard of before 1980—became a recurring political weapon, thanks to Justice Department rulings, congressional maneuvering, and laws that reduced the political pain by exempting things like military pay and Social Security. The result: contractors left stranded, bipartisanship all but eliminated, and a system designed to fail.Finally, Chuck takes a trip in the ToddCast Time Machine to 1974, when congress gave the Freedom of Information Act teeth, plus answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:00 New polling out leading into potential government shutdown 02:00 93% of the country believe political violence is a problem 03:00 Majority of the country believes we're in a "political crisis" 04:00 Democrats less likely to talk politics across the aisle 05:30 Partisans believe you're on "the other side'' if you don't agree with them 07:45 People need to feel secure in having political debate 09:00 Independent voters are disenfranchised relative to D & R voters 11:15 Before 1980 America never had a government shutdown 12:30 Two Justice Department opinions created the legal basis for shutdowns 15:00 Government shutdown threats are now an annual occurrence 16:15 Two laws passed to make political cost of a shutdown less painful 17:45 Exemptions for military pay and social security make shutdowns easier 18:45 Proposals for automatic government funding haven't passed 21:15 Government contractors can't work under shutdowns or CR's 22:30 Politicians deliberately created the conditions that lead to shutdowns 23:45 Congressional leadership wanted to create artificial leverage 25:00 The incentive structures for bipartisan compromise are gone 27:30 Congress had the power to deal with shutdowns and didn't30:30 The ToddCast Time Machine 31:00 October 5th, 1974 Congress put teeth in the Freedom of Information Act 32:30 Cheney and Rumsfeld argued transparency would hurt national security 33:00 Lawmakers overruled the presidential veto 35:00 Florida has some of the strongest government transparency laws 35:45 Multiple states created their own transparency laws after FOIA 37:00 Pentagon demanded restrictions on journalists, no outlets agree 39:00 We can't have a democracy without transparency 41:45 When your party is out of power you're more likely to believe nonsense 43:00 Ask Chuck 43:15 Parallels between LDS church in UT & OK nearly becoming a black state? 46:00 Chances the Republican gerrymanders backfire? 50:45 How can Americans abroad stay civically engaged and bring about change? 55:45 Where do you get your optimism from in this political climate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck looks at new polling showing just how unsettled Americans feel heading into yet another potential government shutdown. With 93% of the country agreeing that political violence is a problem and a majority believing we're in a full-blown political crisis, partisanship has hardened to the point where disagreement itself is seen as betrayal. Chuck traces how government shutdowns—once unheard of before 1980—became a recurring political weapon, thanks to Justice Department rulings, congressional maneuvering, and laws that reduced the political pain by exempting things like military pay and Social Security. The result: contractors left stranded, bipartisanship all but eliminated, and a system designed to fail.Then, veteran journalist for The Economist, James Bennet joins Chuck to break down Donald Trump's scathing U.N. speech and what it reveals about his worldview: not isolationist, but relentlessly self-centered, with his personal interest framed as national interest. Bennet warns that Trump's grip on power is existential for him and his administration, and if institutions like the Supreme Court allow unchecked presidential firings, the rule of law itself could unravel. From the Cold War's stabilizing influence to the fractures of today's four-party system crammed into two, Bennet and Chuck explore whether America can navigate its political turmoil without mass violence, and how drone warfare, refugee flows, and the collapse of the international rules-based order are reshaping global politics.The conversation also turns inward, examining how journalism has struggled to adapt in the Trump era. Bennet reflects on writing for international audiences, the dangers of catering to niche media bubbles, and why legacy outlets must rediscover local reporting. He argues that deplatforming Trump was a massive mistake that accelerated the collapse of resistance, while public pressure against platforming controversial voices continues to erode open debate. From Biden's misunderstood mandate to the Senate's paralysis and the rise of cult-of-personality politics, this episode considers what reforms will be necessary both in government and in journalism.Finally, Chuck takes a trip in the ToddCast Time Machine to 1974, when congress gave the Freedom of Information Act teeth, plus answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction 06:00 New polling out leading into potential government shutdown07:00 93% of the country believe political violence is a problem08:00 Majority of the country believes we're in a “political crisis”09:00 Democrats less likely to talk politics across the aisle10:30 Partisans believe you're on “the other side'' if you don't agree with them12:45 People need to feel secure in having political debate14:00 Independent voters are disenfranchised relative to D & R voters16:15 Before 1980 America never had a government shutdown17:30 Two Justice Department opinions created the legal basis for shutdowns20:00 Government shutdown threats are now an annual occurrence21:15 Two laws passed to make political cost of a shutdown less painful22:45 Exemptions for military pay and social security make shutdowns easier23:45 Proposals for automatic government funding haven't passed26:15 Government contractors can't work under shutdowns or CR's27:30 Politicians deliberately created the conditions that lead to shutdowns28:45 Congressional leadership wanted to create artificial leverage30:00 The incentive structures for bipartisan compromise are gone32:30 Congress had the power to deal with shutdowns and didn't35:00 James Bennet joins the Chuck ToddCast 36:30 Trump scolds other nations in scathing U.N. speech 37:30 Trump behaved like Hugo Chavez in U.N. speech 38:45 Trump is not an isolationist, but it's all centered around him 39:30 Trump sees his interest as the national interest 41:15 How alarmed should we be? 42:15 Things have gotten pretty dark in the past two weeks 43:00 Staying in power is existential for Trump & his administration 44:30 If you lose the rule of law, you lose the country 45:15 If SCOTUS allows fed firing, there's no going back 46:00 John Roberts desperate to avoid constitutional showdown 47:30 Government will require major reform after Trump 50:00 The cold war was a stabilizing force in American politics 52:00 America is a four party system crammed into two parties 54:00 Public sentiment has been pessimistic the entire 21st century 55:45 Can we get through this without mass violence? 57:30 It's hard to imagine a productive modern constitutional convention 59:00 The last "protectionist race" led to a world war 1:00:15 We're no longer living in the international rules based order 1:01:30 Drones are massively changing the dynamics of warfare 1:03:00 Refugee flows are causing political instability worldwide 1:03:30 Trump has no interest in leading internationally 1:05:00 Trump is constantly campaigning and only for his base 1:07:00 Did we export our politics to Israel, or the other way around? 1:08:45 Only Obama had a majority of the vote in the 21st century 1:09:45 Governors are the only politicians that campaign beyond their base 1:12:00 Biden misunderstood his 2020 mandate and overreached 1:13:30 Who is the Economist reader? 1:15:30 Writing about American politics for an international audience 1:17:30 If you had more resources, what would you focus on covering? 1:18:30 Legacy media needs to give more attention beyond D.C. and NYC 1:20:00 Need to find a new model in order to bring back local journalism 1:22:45 There's too many journalists in D.C. and not enough in America 1:24:30 Journalism now caters to niche audiences 1:26:15 Deplatforming Trump was a massive mistake 1:27:00 Once ABC caved in lawsuit, resistance to Trump collapsed 1:29:00 Public pressures journalists to not platform people they disagree with 1:30:00 Michael Bennet was consensus candidate to replace Schumer 1:31:45 Nothing gets done in the senate, many senators leaving 1:35:15 In the TV era, successful presidents have had cults of personality 1:36:15 Newsom having success emulating Trump's style1:39:00 The ToddCast Time Machine 1:39:30 October 5th, 1974 Congress put teeth in the Freedom of Information Act 1:41:00 Cheney and Rumsfeld argued transparency would hurt national security 1:41:30 Lawmakers overruled the presidential veto 1:43:30 Florida has some of the strongest government transparency laws 1:44:15 Multiple states created their own transparency laws after FOIA 1:45:30 Pentagon demanded restrictions on journalists, no outlets agree 1:47:30 We can't have a democracy without transparency 1:50:15 When your party is out of power you're more likely to believe nonsense 1:51:30 Ask Chuck 1:51:45 Parallels between LDS church in UT & OK nearly becoming a black state? 1:54:30 Chances the Republican gerrymanders backfire? 1:59:15 How can Americans abroad stay civically engaged and bring about change? 2:04:15 Where do you get your optimism from in this political climate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, veteran journalist for The Economist, James Bennet joins Chuck to break down Donald Trump's scathing U.N. speech and what it reveals about his worldview: not isolationist, but relentlessly self-centered, with his personal interest framed as national interest. Bennet warns that Trump's grip on power is existential for him and his administration, and if institutions like the Supreme Court allow unchecked presidential firings, the rule of law itself could unravel. From the Cold War's stabilizing influence to the fractures of today's four-party system crammed into two, Bennet and Chuck explore whether America can navigate its political turmoil without mass violence, and how drone warfare, refugee flows, and the collapse of the international rules-based order are reshaping global politics.The conversation also turns inward, examining how journalism has struggled to adapt in the Trump era. Bennet reflects on writing for international audiences, the dangers of catering to niche media bubbles, and why legacy outlets must rediscover local reporting. He argues that deplatforming Trump was a massive mistake that accelerated the collapse of resistance, while public pressure against platforming controversial voices continues to erode open debate. From Biden's misunderstood mandate to the Senate's paralysis and the rise of cult-of-personality politics, this episode considers what reforms will be necessary both in government and in journalism.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 James Bennet joins the Chuck ToddCast01:30 Trump scolds other nations in scathing U.N. speech02:30 Trump behaved like Hugo Chavez in U.N. speech03:45 Trump is not an isolationist, but it's all centered around him04:30 Trump sees his interest as the national interest06:15 How alarmed should we be?07:15 Things have gotten pretty dark in the past two weeks08:00 Staying in power is existential for Trump & his administration09:30 If you lose the rule of law, you lose the country10:15 If SCOTUS allows fed firing, there's no going back11:00 John Roberts desperate to avoid constitutional showdown12:30 Government will require major reform after Trump15:00 The cold war was a stabilizing force in American politics17:00 America is a four party system crammed into two parties19:00 Public sentiment has been pessimistic the entire 21st century20:45 Can we get through this without mass violence?22:30 It's hard to imagine a productive modern constitutional convention24:00 The last “protectionist race” led to a world war25:15 We're no longer living in the international rules based order26:30 Drones are massively changing the dynamics of warfare28:00 Refugee flows are causing political instability worldwide28:30 Trump has no interest in leading internationally30:00 Trump is constantly campaigning and only for his base32:00 Did we export our politics to Israel, or the other way around?33:45 Only Obama had a majority of the vote in the 21st century34:45 Governors are the only politicians that campaign beyond their base37:00 Biden misunderstood his 2020 mandate and overreached38:30 Who is the Economist reader?40:30 Writing about American politics for an international audience42:30 If you had more resources, what would you focus on covering?43:30 Legacy media needs to give more attention beyond D.C. and NYC45:00 Need to find a new model in order to bring back local journalism47:45 There's too many journalists in D.C. and not enough in America49:30 Journalism now caters to niche audiences51:15 Deplatforming Trump was a massive mistake52:00 Once ABC caved in lawsuit, resistance to Trump collapsed54:00 Public pressures journalists to not platform people they disagree with55:00 Michael Bennet was consensus candidate to replace Schumer56:45 Nothing gets done in the senate, many senators leaving1:00:15 In the TV era, successful presidents have had cults of personality1:01:15 Newsom having success emulating Trump's style Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Dr. Michael Osterholm, one of the nation's foremost infectious disease experts, joins Chuck to confront the unsettling reality that Covid-19 was not “the big one.” From SARS and MERS as early warnings to the looming possibility of coronaviruses that are far more deadly than Covid, Osterholm argues that pandemics are inevitable—and the U.S. is dangerously unprepared. He discusses the political failures that prevented a serious after-action review, the collapse of government vaccine infrastructure, and why misinformation and anti-vaccine sentiment have left public health more vulnerable than ever.The conversation also looks forward: how mRNA technology could still be a game-changer, why developing respirators and updating building codes matter, and the urgent need for leadership with real bio-threat experience. Osterholm warns that everything from resurging childhood diseases to the rise of avian flu and the risk of bioterrorism are on the horizon, and he offers a sobering reminder—science is not fixed truth, it's the pursuit of truth. This episode is a wake-up call about what it will take to be ready for the next pandemic, which could be far worse than Covid-19.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Dr. Michael Osterholm joins the Chuck ToddCast01:15 Are American leaders ready for the next pandemic?02:30 Covid wasn't “the big one” pandemic03:30 SARS & MERS gave a warning about coronaviruses04:30 Coronaviruses in the wild that are as infectious as covid but more deadly05:15 Death rate of Covid was relatively low, could be much worse06:45 Pandemics are inevitable, and could be much worse than covid07:30 Politics didn't allow for an after action report on pandemic response09:00 We'll never know if covid was from a lab or nature10:30 We could have vaccines ready before pandemics begin, not doing the work11:15 Did you write your book assuming a crank like Kennedy would run HHS?11:45 Kennedy is the biggest challenge public health has faced in decades12:30 Pandemics cause society to lose its collective mind14:00 Anti vaxx anger came from people being angry about the pandemic14:30 How do you prepare for a pandemic if the government isn't leading?15:15 MRNA vaccines are easier to produce at scale15:45 $500 million in funding cut for MRNA vaccines16:45 CDC vaccine board is now completely dysfunctional19:15 Where does medical research go without government backing?19:45 PEPFAR was one of the best uses of American soft power21:00 There's nobody in the White House with bio threat experience21:45 Trump 1.0 had a credible pandemic response plan. 2.0 doesn't.23:00 We will see diseases come back that we thought were gone24:45 What preventative measures can be taken without the government?25:30 Lockdowns don't work, surges of cases are inevitable26:15 Lockdowns were over by June, impact was overstated27:30 Lockdowns should only be based on hospital use/capacity29:15 Don't do lockdowns, maximize medical care instead30:30 Public misconception that vaccine would make people immune 31:30 News media needs to be better at messaging public health info33:30 Risk to kids raised significantly with new covid variants34:45 Updates to scientific info get labeled as “flip flopping” when it's normal35:30 Science is not truth, it's the pursuit of truth36:30 Kennedy now linking acetaminophen to autism38:30 People dismiss health risks that fit their lifestyle, like drinking red wine39:45 Half the country was anti-expert, now anti-expert's are in charge41:30 BARDA was the envy of the world43:00 What else should we be doing in preparation for the next “big” pandemic?44:45 We need to develop a comfortable N95 respirator for the public45:45 Updating building codes to help prevent respiratory virus transmission48:15 MMR vaccine doesn't require a booster, likely confirms lifelong immunity51:30 Theme parks in Orlando will pressure government over vaccine mandate52:30 What's the status of H5N1 bird flu?54:15 There will be another flu virus pandemic, we just don't know when55:00 We're producing more poultry than ever, lots of opportunity for exposure56:00 We should be vaccinating livestock and poultry57:00 We're more vulnerable than ever to a bioterrorism attack Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks how Donald Trump's Department of Justice has become a political weapon, from targeting perceived enemies like James Comey to sweeping bribery cases under the rug, all while eroding public trust in law enforcement. He explores how Trump's strategy of framing his own criminal charges as political has worn down the public and set fire to the credibility of the legal system. Chuck also looks at the Democratic Party's internal strife over whether to embrace figures like Zohran Mamdani, the rising prospects of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and even murmurs of Lisa Murkowski eyeing a gubernatorial run. And beyond politics, he flags troubling signals in the economy—from surging Hamburger Helper sales to a slump in cardboard demand—that suggest things may not be as strong as the stock market makes them appear.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and previews an incredible weekend of sports. Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:15 Trump's DOJ targeting his perceived enemies 02:30 Trump convinced his base that all his criminal charges were political 04:00 Poor coordination by law enforcement allowed Trump to evade charges 05:00 Trump fired attorney who wouldn't bring charges against enemies 05:30 DOJ wants to charge James Comey with lying to congress 07:15 Trump has telegraphed this prosecution 10:30 Trump accused Biden DOJ of politicization, now his DOJ is overtly political 11:15 Trump's DOJ swept Homan bribery under the rug 12:15 Public trust in law enforcement is being destroyed 13:45 Trump is wearing out the public 14:45 Comey did his share of damage to the FBI's credibility 15:45 We need a better system for staffing top law enforcement job 17:00 Christopher Wray serving under Biden was good thing 18:00 Trump is taking a blowtorch to the credibility of the legal system 18:45 Mainstream Democrats are refusing to endorse Zohran Mamdani 20:15 Kamala Harris gives tepid endorsement of Mamdani 22:30 Party either wants the Dem socialists in the coalition or they don't 23:45 Fence sitting on Mamdani makes everybody mad 25:15 Leadership can't have it both ways 27:30 Democratic handwringing over Mamdani doesn't inspire confidence 28:00 AOC may run for senate or the presidency 29:00 AOC could win Chuck Schumer's seat 30:30 Don't expect Chuck Schumer will run again 31:30 Lisa Murkowski won't rule out gubernatorial run in 2026 34:00 Senators looking for options to get out of D.C. 35:15 Sales of Hamburger Helper way up, warning sign for economy 37:30 Cardboard box demand slumping, another warning sign 38:30 Economy looks better than it is due to AI boost to stock market41:30 Chuck's thoughts on the interview with Dr. Osterholm 42:00 Ask Chuck 42:15 Will Trump ever target podcasts the way he targets other media? 49:15 Comparing party platforms vs what they actually do while governing? 53:30 Why have Republican voters gone along with Trump's authoritarianism? 1:03:00 Weekend sports preview Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks how Donald Trump's Department of Justice has become a political weapon, from targeting perceived enemies like James Comey to sweeping bribery cases under the rug, all while eroding public trust in law enforcement. He explores how Trump's strategy of framing his own criminal charges as political has worn down the public and set fire to the credibility of the legal system. Chuck also looks at the Democratic Party's internal strife over whether to embrace figures like Zohran Mamdani, the rising prospects of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and even murmurs of Lisa Murkowski eyeing a gubernatorial run. And beyond politics, he flags troubling signals in the economy—from surging Hamburger Helper sales to a slump in cardboard demand—that suggest things may not be as strong as the stock market makes them appear.Then, Dr. Michael Osterholm, one of the nation's foremost infectious disease experts, joins Chuck to confront the unsettling reality that Covid-19 was not “the big one.” From SARS and MERS as early warnings to the looming possibility of coronaviruses that are far more deadly than Covid, Osterholm argues that pandemics are inevitable—and the U.S. is dangerously unprepared. He discusses the political failures that prevented a serious after-action review, the collapse of government vaccine infrastructure, and why misinformation and anti-vaccine sentiment have left public health more vulnerable than ever.The conversation also looks forward: how mRNA technology could still be a game-changer, why developing respirators and updating building codes matter, and the urgent need for leadership with real bio-threat experience. Osterholm warns that everything from resurging childhood diseases to the rise of avian flu and the risk of bioterrorism are on the horizon, and he offers a sobering reminder—science is not fixed truth, it's the pursuit of truth. This episode is a wake-up call about what it will take to be ready for the next pandemic, which could be far worse than Covid-19.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and previews an incredible weekend of sports. Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction04:00 Trump's DOJ targeting his perceived enemies05:15 Trump convinced his base that all his criminal charges were political06:45 Poor coordination by law enforcement allowed Trump to evade charges07:45 Trump fired attorney who wouldn't bring charges against enemies08:15 DOJ wants to charge James Comey with lying to congress10:00 Trump has telegraphed this prosecution13:15 Trump accused Biden DOJ of politicization, now his DOJ is overtly political14:00 Trump's DOJ swept Homan bribery under the rug15:00 Public trust in law enforcement is being destroyed16:30 Trump is wearing out the public17:30 Comey did his share of damage to the FBI's credibility18:30 We need a better system for staffing top law enforcement job19:45 Christopher Wray serving under Biden was good thing20:45 Trump is taking a blowtorch to the credibility of the legal system21:30 Mainstream Democrats are refusing to endorse Zohran Mamdani23:00 Kamala Harris gives tepid endorsement of Mamdani 25:15 Party either wants the Dem socialists in the coalition or they don't26:30 Fence sitting on Mamdani makes everybody mad28:00 Leadership can't have it both ways30:15 Democratic handwringing over Mamdani doesn't inspire confidence30:45 AOC may run for senate or the presidency31:45 AOC could win Chuck Schumer's seat33:15 Don't expect Chuck Schumer will run again34:15 Lisa Murkowski won't rule out gubernatorial run in 202636:45 Senators looking for options to get out of D.C.38:00 Sales of Hamburger Helper way up, warning sign for economy40:15 Cardboard box demand slumping, another warning sign41:15 Economy looks better than it is due to AI boost to stock market44:15 Dr. Michael Osterholm joins the Chuck ToddCast 45:30 Are American leaders ready for the next pandemic? 46:45 Covid wasn't "the big one" pandemic 47:45 SARS & MERS gave a warning about coronaviruses 48:45 Coronaviruses in the wild that are as infectious as covid but more deadly 49:30 Death rate of Covid was relatively low, could be much worse 51:00 Pandemics are inevitable, and could be much worse than covid 51:45 Politics didn't allow for an after action report on pandemic response 53:15 We'll never know if covid was from a lab or nature 54:45 We could have vaccines ready before pandemics begin, not doing the work 55:30 Did you write your book assuming a crank like Kennedy would run HHS? 56:00 Kennedy is the biggest challenge public health has faced in decades 56:45 Pandemics cause society to lose its collective mind 58:15 Anti vaxx anger came from people being angry about the pandemic 58:45 How do you prepare for a pandemic if the government isn't leading? 59:30 MRNA vaccines are easier to produce at scale 1:00:00 $500 million in funding cut for MRNA vaccines 1:01:00 CDC vaccine board is now completely dysfunctional 1:03:30 Where does medical research go without government backing? 1:04:00 PEPFAR was one of the best uses of American soft power 1:05:15 There's nobody in the White House with bio threat experience 1:06:00 Trump 1.0 had a credible pandemic response plan. 2.0 doesn't. 1:07:15 We will see diseases come back that we thought were gone 1:09:00 What preventative measures can be taken without the government? 1:09:45 Lockdowns don't work, surges of cases are inevitable 1:10:30 Lockdowns were over by June, impact was overstated 1:11:45 Lockdowns should only be based on hospital use/capacity 1:13:30 Don't do lockdowns, maximize medical care instead 1:14:45 Public misconception that vaccine would make people immune 1:15:45 News media needs to be better at messaging public health info 1:17:45 Risk to kids raised significantly with new covid variants 1:19:00 Updates to scientific info get labeled as "flip flopping" when it's normal 1:19:45 Science is not truth, it's the pursuit of truth 1:20:45 Kennedy now linking acetaminophen to autism 1:22:45 People dismiss health risks that fit their lifestyle, like drinking red wine 1:24:00 Half the country was anti-expert, now anti-expert's are in charge 1:25:45 BARDA was the envy of the world 1:27:15 What else should we be doing in preparation for the next "big" pandemic? 1:29:00 We need to develop a comfortable N95 respirator for the public 1:30:00 Updating building codes to help prevent respiratory virus transmission 1:32:30 MMR vaccine doesn't require a booster, likely confirms lifelong immunity 1:35:45 Theme parks in Orlando will pressure government over vaccine mandate 1:36:45 What's the status of H5N1 bird flu? 1:38:30 There will be another flu virus pandemic, we just don't know when 1:39:15 We're producing more poultry than ever, lots of opportunity for exposure 1:40:15 We should be vaccinating livestock and poultry 1:41:15 We're more vulnerable than ever to a bioterrorism attack1:43:45 Chuck's thoughts on the interview with Dr. Osterholm 1:44:15 Ask Chuck 1:44:30 Will Trump ever target podcasts the way he targets other media? 1:51:30 Comparing party platforms vs what they actually do while governing? 1:55:45 Why have Republican voters gone along with Trump's authoritarianism? 2:05:15 Weekend sports preview Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Congressman Chris Deluzio joins Chuck Todd to talk about the political transformation of Western Pennsylvania, the challenges of running as a Democrat in a swing district, and the lessons he's learned since succeeding Conor Lamb. From the hollowing out of factory towns to the rare but pivotal swing voters who decide elections, Deluzio reflects on the realignment that has reshaped the region's politics. He also opens up about how 9/11 led him to serve in the Navy, why he believes American democracy is at risk, and the urgent need for reforms to restore voter trust.The conversation also dives into big debates in Washington: partisan gerrymandering, government shutdown brinkmanship, establishing limits on presidential power, and the dangers of politicizing the military. Deluzio weighs in on rail safety after East Palestine, social media's effect on kids, and congressional corruption—from stock trading to pay structures that keep working-class Americans from serving. Plus, Chuck gets his take on the rising cost of energy, Pittsburgh sports, and whether Democrats can win back voters by focusing squarely on economic issues.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Congressman Chris Deluzio joins the Chuck ToddCast00:45 How much has your district changed since Connor Lamb won it?01:45 How did the Pittsburgh area swing from Democratic to Republican?02:30 The hollowing out of factory towns was key to political realignment in PA03:15 Who is the McCormick/Deluzio voter?04:15 Swing voters still exist but are rare06:00 How difficult is it to talk to voters with the “D” next to your name?07:45 9/11 sealed Chris's decision to join the navy09:45 We should be very concerned about the state of American democracy11:00 Younger generations will have a worse standard of living than their parents12:45 Democrats mixed message on redistricting13:30 We should have a federal ban on partisan gerrymandering14:15 Democrats can't unilaterally disarm15:15 Gerrymandering makes it hard to earn trust back with voters16:45 Senate Democrats should use their leverage in shutdown fight17:45 Only open to six week extension if Republicans willing to work with Dems19:00 Thoughts on Fetterman's intention to vote to fund the government20:30 There's been a scrambling of the centrist & progressive wings of the party22:00 The fissure in the party is more about fighting than ideology22:45 Fighting the imperial presidency is the priority24:30 We need to put limits on the executive to prevent overreach25:45 We can't be at the mercy of the whims of the president26:15 Kash Patel's FBI shut down investigation into Tom Homan taking cash bribe27:30 We need to formal guardrails and can't rely on norms28:15 Trump's efforts to politicize the naval academy and military30:00 Efforts to politicize the military are dangerous and erode trust30:45 Military lawyers ignored,extrajudicial killings in Caribbean are illegal32:45 Presidents have abused war powers for years, Congress needs to intervene34:00 Defense is one of the few areas of bipartisan cooperation34:45 Republicans willing to work on rail safety after East Palestine derailment36:15 Can congress work together on internet/social media safety for kids?37:15 Banning smartphones in classrooms has 80/20 support38:45 There's a huge concentration of power in tech and media39:45 It's harder for a president to bully a diverse market that isn't consolidated41:15 Voters agree that there's corruption, but they think all politicians are corrupt42:15 We should ban congressional stock trading, corruption breeds distrust43:30 Congress deserve pay raise in exchange for stock trading ban46:15 You shouldn't have to be wealthy to serve in congress47:00 Working class candidates need to be supported47:45 Can Democrats drop cultural issues and purely run on economics?49:30 The rise in energy bills could become a huge issue in coming months50:30 The Big Beautiful Bill will make the energy prices problem worse51:30 Tempted to go to the Steelers game in Ireland?53:00 Pittsburgh Pirates ownership issue55:00 More PSU or Pitt fans in your district? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Todd unpacks the escalating chaos around Donald Trump's second term, from his doom-and-gloom rhetoric to the brazen decisions that have left few guardrails in place. Voters may not reject Trump's ideas outright, but his nonstop turbulence—from shaming pregnant women over Tylenol to undermining global allies—has created deep political vulnerabilities. Todd explores how small businesses, foreign policy, and even health guidance have been rattled by Trump's need for instability, while noting that divided government historically forces presidents to govern more broadly. The monologue also turns to Vice President Kamala Harris, whose new book reveals her frustrations with the 2020 ticket and her uneasy positioning for the future, raising tough questions about her political style and prospects.Finally, he gives his “ToddCast Top 5” football coaches on the hot-seat and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction00:15 Trump speeches create heightened sense of doom & gloom 01:30 Trump's actions the past few weeks have been brazen 02:30 Far fewer people standing up to Trump in his second term 04:15 Voters don't reject Trump's ideas, they disapprove of the chaos 06:30 Trump's political prospects are deflating every day 08:30 The last 3-4 elections have been "vote against" elections 10:15 Divided government forces presidents to govern broadly 12:00 The goal of bringing order to chaos is popular 12:30 Trump has brought nothing but chaos to health & vaccine policy 13:30 Trump & team shamed pregnant women & blamed Tylenol for autism 15:00 Trump showed no evidence to support Tylenol recommendation 16:00 Trump only tries to please his base 16:30 Trump trashes Europe and UN in speech to the UN 17:45 Trump wants constant instability & chaos 19:30 The lack of certainty is upending small businesses 20:45 Trump is incapable of preaching a message of unity 23:30 The constant chaos is Trump's biggest political vulnerability 24:45 Voters wanted Trump 1.0, a Trump with guardrails 25:30 A voters lived experience will Trump perception 27:30 Trump's post on Ukraine didn't sound like it was written by Trump 28:30 Trump's post cancelling meeting with Schumer had a Trump tone 30:00 Marco Rubio is clear eyed about the threat from Russia 32:00 Trump cancels meeting with Democrats, headed for gov't shutdown 33:15 Trump is not interested in negotiating with Democrats 34:30 Kamala Harris reveals her true feelings in new book 36:00 Harris admits she settled for Tim Walz, Buttigieg was her first choice 37:30 The book makes it harder for her to win the presidency is the future 39:00 Harris's style doesn't match the mood of the voters 40:00 Harris was put in a near impossible situation41:45 ToddCast Top 5 football coach hot seats 42:15 Mike Gundy fired by Oklahoma State 44:45 #1 Mike McDaniel of the Miami Dolphins 45:45 #2 Brian Callahan of the Tennessee Titans 46:45 #3 Luke Fickell of Wisconsin 48:30 #4 Dabo Swinney of Clemson 51:30 #5 Billy Napier of Florida + Honorable mentions 55:15 Ask Chuck 55:30 Why has the term "writ large" become used so much in news & podcasts? 1:02:15 Are journalists who stay silent in face of authoritarianism showing cowardice? 1:06:15 Shrinkflation showing up now at Costco Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Todd unpacks the escalating chaos around Donald Trump's second term, from his doom-and-gloom rhetoric to the brazen decisions that have left few guardrails in place. Voters may not reject Trump's ideas outright, but his nonstop turbulence—from shaming pregnant women over Tylenol to undermining global allies—has created deep political vulnerabilities. Todd explores how small businesses, foreign policy, and even health guidance have been rattled by Trump's need for instability, while noting that divided government historically forces presidents to govern more broadly. The monologue also turns to Vice President Kamala Harris, whose new book reveals her frustrations with the 2020 ticket and her uneasy positioning for the future, raising tough questions about her political style and prospects.Then, Congressman Chris Deluzio joins Chuck to talk about the political transformation of Western Pennsylvania, the challenges of running as a Democrat in a swing district, and the lessons he's learned since succeeding Conor Lamb. From the hollowing out of factory towns to the rare but pivotal swing voters who decide elections, Deluzio reflects on the realignment that has reshaped the region's politics. He also opens up about how 9/11 led him to serve in the Navy, why he believes American democracy is at risk, and the urgent need for reforms to restore voter trust.The conversation also dives into big debates in Washington: partisan gerrymandering, government shutdown brinkmanship, establishing limits on presidential power, and the dangers of politicizing the military. Deluzio weighs in on rail safety after East Palestine, social media's effect on kids, and congressional corruption—from stock trading to pay structures that keep working-class Americans from serving. Plus, Chuck gets his take on the rising cost of energy, Pittsburgh sports, and whether Democrats can win back voters by focusing squarely on economic issues.Finally, he gives his “ToddCast Top 5” football coaches on the hot-seat and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction02:45 Trump speeches create heightened sense of doom & gloom 04:00 Trump's actions the past few weeks have been brazen05:00 Far fewer people standing up to Trump in his second term06:45 Voters don't reject Trump's ideas, they disapprove of the chaos09:00 Trump's political prospects are deflating every day11:00 The last 3-4 elections have been “vote against” elections12:45 Divided government forces presidents to govern broadly14:30 The goal of bringing order to chaos is popular15:00 Trump has brought nothing but chaos to health & vaccine policy16:00 Trump & team shamed pregnant women & blamed Tylenol for autism17:30 Trump showed no evidence to support Tylenol recommendation18:30 Trump only tries to please his base19:00 Trump trashes Europe and UN in speech to the UN20:15 Trump wants constant instability & chaos22:00 The lack of certainty is upending small businesses23:15 Trump is incapable of preaching a message of unity26:00 The constant chaos is Trump's biggest political vulnerability27:15 Voters wanted Trump 1.0, a Trump with guardrails28:00 A voters lived experience will Trump perception30:00 Trump's post on Ukraine didn't sound like it was written by Trump31:00 Trump's post cancelling meeting with Schumer had a Trump tone32:30 Marco Rubio is clear eyed about the threat from Russia34:30 Trump cancels meeting with Democrats, headed for gov't shutdown35:45 Trump is not interested in negotiating with Democrats37:00 Kamala Harris reveals her true feelings in new book38:30 Harris admits she settled for Tim Walz, Buttigieg was her first choice40:00 The book makes it harder for her to win the presidency is the future41:30 Harris's style doesn't match the mood of the voters42:30 Harris was put in a near impossible situation44:30 Congressman Chris Deluzio joins the Chuck ToddCast 45:15 How much has your district changed since Connor Lamb won it? 46:15 How did the Pittsburgh area swing from Democratic to Republican? 47:00 The hollowing out of factory towns was key to political realignment in PA 47:45 Who is the McCormick/Deluzio voter? 48:45 Swing voters still exist but are rare 50:30 How difficult is it to talk to voters with the "D" next to your name? 52:15 9/11 sealed Chris's decision to join the navy 54:15 We should be very concerned about the state of American democracy 55:30 Younger generations will have a worse standard of living than their parents 57:15 Democrats mixed message on redistricting 58:00 We should have a federal ban on partisan gerrymandering 58:45 Democrats can't unilaterally disarm 59:45 Gerrymandering makes it hard to earn trust back with voters 1:01:15 Senate Democrats should use their leverage in shutdown fight 1:02:15 Only open to six week extension if Republicans willing to work with Dems 1:03:30 Thoughts on Fetterman's intention to vote to fund the government 1:05:00 There's been a scrambling of the centrist & progressive wings of the party 1:06:30 The fissure in the party is more about fighting than ideology 1:07:15 Fighting the imperial presidency is the priority 1:09:00 We need to put limits on the executive to prevent overreach 1:10:15 We can't be at the mercy of the whims of the president 1:10:45 Kash Patel's FBI shut down investigation into Tom Homan taking cash bribe 1:12:00 We need to formal guardrails and can't rely on norms 1:12:45 Trump's efforts to politicize the naval academy and military 1:14:30 Efforts to politicize the military are dangerous and erode trust 1:15:15 Military lawyers ignored,extrajudicial killings in Caribbean are illegal 1:17:15 Presidents have abused war powers for years, Congress needs to intervene 1:18:30 Defense is one of the few areas of bipartisan cooperation 1:19:15 Republicans willing to work on rail safety after East Palestine derailment 1:20:45 Can congress work together on internet/social media safety for kids? 1:21:45 Banning smartphones in classrooms has 80/20 support 1:23:15 There's a huge concentration of power in tech and media 1:24:15 It's harder for a president to bully a diverse market that isn't consolidated 1:25:45 Voters agree that there's corruption, but they think all politicians are corrupt 1:26:45 We should ban congressional stock trading, corruption breeds distrust 1:28:00 Congress deserve pay raise in exchange for stock trading ban 1:30:45 You shouldn't have to be wealthy to serve in congress 1:31:30 Working class candidates need to be supported 1:32:15 Can Democrats drop cultural issues and purely run on economics? 1:34:00 The rise in energy bills could become a huge issue in coming months 1:35:00 The Big Beautiful Bill will make the energy prices problem worse 1:36:00 Tempted to go to the Steelers game in Ireland? 1:37:30 Pittsburgh Pirates ownership issue 1:39:30 More PSU or Pitt fans in your district?1:40:30 ToddCast Top 5 football coach hot seats 1:41:00 Mike Gundy fired by Oklahoma State 1:43:30 #1 Mike McDaniel of the Miami Dolphins 1:44:30 #2 Brian Callahan of the Tennessee Titans 1:45:30 #3 Luke Fickell of Wisconsin 1:47:15 #4 Dabo Swinney of Clemson 1:50:15 #5 Billy Napier of Florida + Honorable mentions 1:54:00 Ask Chuck1:54:15 Why has the term "writ large" become used so much in news & podcasts? 2:01:00 Are journalists who stay silent in face of authoritarianism showing cowardice? 2:05:00 Shrinkflation showing up now at Costco Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck delves into the recent developments surrounding Donald Trump, beginning with his confrontational rhetoric against adversaries and the implications of his actions over the past week, which some argue could have driven impeachment efforts. He explores notable incidents such as Tom Homan's controversial cash exchange and highlights the fundamental challenges to our constitutional principles. The discussion also covers Trump's use of legal charges like mortgage fraud to target enemies, as well as his aggressive, and possibly legally unfounded, attacks on Venezuelan drug boats. He analyzes how such actions may have numbed the public to attacks and assess whether Trump's political standing is now eroding amidst these controversiesThen, journalist and historian Caleb Gayle joins to discuss his new book which highlights the power of untold history and the forgotten story of Edward McCabe—known by some as “Black Moses.” Gayle traces McCabe's ambitious but ultimately failed dream of building a “Black state” in Oklahoma, a vision that drew freedmen west during Reconstruction and briefly united Black settlers and Native Americans. From McCabe's hard-nosed political maneuvering to the competing interests that saw Oklahoma as a battleground for power, Gayle paints a picture of ambition, resistance, and the forces that shaped the region.The conversation also explores how Oklahoma's history—from the possibility of a Black state to the devastating Tulsa massacre—has been distorted or stripped down in traditional teaching. Gayle explains the deep tensions between northern Black elites and freed southern Blacks, the lingering influence of Jim Crow, and the ways Native tribes wielded wealth and power. Looking ahead, he reflects on how today's political climate shapes the writing of history, why context matters more than ever, and what stories he hopes to bring to light in the next decade.Finally, Chuck answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment”Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction03:00 Trump targets his adversaries12:00 Trump's actions in the past week would have driven impeachments 14:30 Tom Homan took a bag of cash 16:00 We have basic challenges to our constitution 17:30 Trump target enemies with mortgage fraud charges  22:00 Trump attacks Venezuelan drug boats without legal basis25:00 Unclear that there's legal basis for attacks30:30 Trump has numbed public to attacks36:00 Trump's political standing is eroding39:00 Caleb Gayle joins the Chuck ToddCast 40:45 What made you want to become a history biographer/writer? 42:00 History teaching in Oklahoma is stripped down to its most jingoistic parts 43:30 When did you discover the Edward McCabe/ "Black Moses" story? 46:30 McCabe was a polarizing dreamer who wanted a place to belong 47:30 Blacks and native Americans found common cause in Oklahoma 49:15 Many blacks moved west to escape tumult during reconstruction 49:45 How did Edward McCabe get to Oklahoma? 52:00 McCabe was a hard nosed political tactician but struggled to win office 52:45 Senators told McCabe that Oklahoma could be a "black state" 54:30 McCabe sold a vision of "if you build it they will come" 56:00 The Republican party was hesitant to create a black state 57:00 Why McCabe was the wrong person to create the black state 59:15 The role of the native American tribes in the early Oklahoma territory 1:01:00 Powerful interests competed to control Oklahoma knowing it'd become a state 1:03:15 McCabe spent his resources trying to fight Jim Crow up to the Supreme Court 1:04:00 McCabe concludes Oklahoma won't be a black state or place for black people1:05:00 What happened to McCabe's benefactors in the north? 1:06:30 What would it look like if McCabe had succeeded in making OK a black state? 1:09:30 The creation of "Black Wall Street" in Tulsa 1:11:00 The Tulsa massacre upended the idea of Oklahoma being a safe haven 1:13:15 The wealth of the tribes gave them political power 1:14:15 Gambling licenses were one of the only reparations tribes received 1:16:15 Oklahoma was a crossroads state 1:18:00 What other untold history stories are you diving into, what's next? 1:21:30 The divide between northern black elites and freed blacks in south 1:23:45 The conflict between lineage and freedom in American history 1:25:00 The influence of the current political climate when writing a historical book1:27:00 Handling the source material knowing media bias at the time 1:29:30 What do you want to cover in the next ten years? 1:30:00 The importance of history for giving context to the present1:34:00 Nixon takes to the airwaves1:45:00 Ask Chuck1:45:15 Could Mamdani's style of politics help independents?1:53:00 What do local news organizations need to be successful? 1:56:45 College football update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, journalist and historian Caleb Gayle joins to discuss his new book which highlights the power of untold history and the forgotten story of Edward McCabe—known by some as “Black Moses.” Gayle traces McCabe's ambitious but ultimately failed dream of building a “Black state” in Oklahoma, a vision that drew freedmen west during Reconstruction and briefly united Black settlers and Native Americans. From McCabe's hard-nosed political maneuvering to the competing interests that saw Oklahoma as a battleground for power, Gayle paints a picture of ambition, resistance, and the forces that shaped the region.The conversation also explores how Oklahoma's history—from the possibility of a Black state to the devastating Tulsa massacre—has been distorted or stripped down in traditional teaching. Gayle explains the deep tensions between northern Black elites and freed southern Blacks, the lingering influence of Jim Crow, and the ways Native tribes wielded wealth and power. Looking ahead, he reflects on how today's political climate shapes the writing of history, why context matters more than ever, and what stories he hopes to bring to light in the next decade.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Caleb Gayle joins the Chuck ToddCast01:45 What made you want to become a history biographer/writer?03:00 History teaching in Oklahoma is stripped down to its most jingoistic parts04:30 When did you discover the Edward McCabe/ “Black Moses” story?07:30 McCabe was a polarizing dreamer who wanted a place to belong08:30 Blacks and native Americans found common cause in Oklahoma10:15 Many blacks moved west to escape tumult during reconstruction10:45 How did Edward McCabe get to Oklahoma?13:00 McCabe was a hard nosed political tactician but struggled to win office13:45 Senators told McCabe that Oklahoma could be a “black state”15:30 McCabe sold a vision of “if you build it they will come”17:00 The Republican party was hesitant to create a black state18:00 Why McCabe was the wrong person to create the black state20:15 The role of the native American tribes in the early Oklahoma territory22:00 Powerful interests competed to control Oklahoma knowing it'd become a state24:15 McCabe spent his resources trying to fight Jim Crow up to the Supreme Court25:00 McCabe concludes Oklahoma won't be a black state or place for black people26:00 What happened to McCabe's benefactors in the north?27:30 What would it look like if McCabe had succeeded in making OK a black state?30:30 The creation of “Black Wall Street” in Tulsa 32:00 The Tulsa massacre upended the idea of Oklahoma being a safe haven34:15 The wealth of the tribes gave them political power35:15 Gambling licenses were one of the only reparations tribes received37:15 Oklahoma was a crossroads state39:00 What other untold history stories are you diving into, what's next?42:30 The divide between northern black elites and freed blacks in south44:45 The conflict between lineage and freedom in American history46:00 The influence of the current political climate when writing a historical book48:00 Handling the source material knowing media bias at the time50:30 What do you want to cover in the next ten years?51:00 The importance of history for giving context to the present Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck delves into the recent developments surrounding Donald Trump, beginning with his confrontational rhetoric against adversaries and the implications of his actions over the past week, which some argue could have driven impeachment efforts. He explores notable incidents such as Tom Homan's controversial cash exchange and highlights the fundamental challenges to our constitutional principles. The discussion also covers Trump's use of legal charges like mortgage fraud to target enemies, as well as his aggressive, and possibly legally unfounded, attacks on Venezuelan drug boats. He analyzes how such actions may have numbed the public to attacks and assess whether Trump's political standing is now eroding amidst these controversiesFinally, Chuck answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment”Timeline:00:00 Introduction03:00 Trump targets his adversaries12:00 Trump's actions in the past week would have driven impeachments 14:30 Tom Homan took a bag of cash 16:00 We have basic challenges to our constitution 17:30 Trump target enemies with mortgage fraud charges  22:00 Trump attacks Venezuelan drug boats without legal basis25:00 Unclear that there's legal basis for attacks30:30 Trump has numbed public to attacks36:00 Trump's political standing is eroding37:30 Ask Chuck37:45 Could Mamdani's style of politics help independents?46:45 What do local news organizations need to be successful?54:30 College football update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this special episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck reacts with alarm to ABC's decision to pull Jimmy Kimmel off the air after FCC Chair Brendan Carr issued unconstitutional, mob boss–style threats. Though Kimmel's comments weren't in violation of FCC rules, Carr's pressure—amplified by Trump's threats and Nexstar's influence—sparked a firestorm over government coercion, corporate capitulation, and the chilling effect on free speech. From the Nexstar/Tegna merger and Disney's vulnerability to the broader shift of “cancel culture” from the left to the right, Chuck examines how Trump and his allies are using state power to silence dissent in violation of the 1st amendment—and what it means for media credibility, democracy, and the rule of law. Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 ABC pulls Kimmel off air after threats from FCC chair Brendan Carr02:30 Kimmel's comments were pretty benign, not against FCC regulations03:15 Each side is finger pointing over whose ideology causes violence04:30 Brendan Carr issued unconstitutional, mob boss like threats 05:45 Carr didn't like that MAGA was criticized06:45 Nexstar's cancellation put pressure on Disney07:15 Disney opened the door to coercion by settling court case08:45 Nexstar/Tegna merger needs FCC approval10:00 If Carr didn't go public, public backlash could have been avoided11:15 JD Vance has encouraged doxxing people for their free speech12:15 Trump threatened Kimmel would “be next” after Colbert13:00 Trump is using the power of the state to silence dissent15:15 Media corporations that won't stand up to Trump should sell17:15 News organizations bowing to Trump have lost credibility19:00 Republicans used to push back on unconstitutional actions by Trump22:00 Trump didn't get 50% of the popular vote, but governs like he got 100%23:30 “Cancel culture” has moved from the left to the right24:30 Deplatforming Trump after J6 was a massive mistake25:45 Stephen Miller and Brendan Carr are drunk with power26:30 This is an extraordinarily unconstitutional act Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Todd unpacks the fallout from Charlie Kirk's assassination and what it means for public displays of democracy, as lawmakers debate whether fear should keep them from showing up for their constituents. He also dives into explosive Senate testimony from former CDC director Dr. Monarez, who detailed political interference in vaccine policy under the Trump administration. The conversation shifts to the economic strain of tariffs and subsidy cuts—driving up everything from prescription drugs to coffee prices—alongside predictions of mass white-collar job losses fueled by AI. From Trump's push to end quarterly earnings reports to the unresolved fight over TikTok, he highlights how politics, economics, and technology are colliding in ways that test both government accountability and public trust.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and previews the upcoming weekend in college football.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction02:00 Will we have public displays of democracy after Kirk's death?02:30 Lawmakers are reconsidering public events04:00 If public servants are afraid of the public, they need to leave public service05:30 Lawmakers should take precautions, but they have to show up06:30 Social media platforms suppress content criticizing them08:30 Former CDC director Dr. Monarez testified before senate committee09:30 Trump nominated Dr. Monarez in March 202511:00 Dr. Monarez was fired less than a month after swearing12:45 Kennedy instructed Monarez not to interact with members of congress14:00 Monarez testifies Kennedy had no science backing change in vaccine schedule15:30 Chief of staff at HHS says there would be political review of scientific data17:30 Monarez says the no evidence support change to under 2 vaccine schedule18:45 Republican senators seemed troubled by the testimony19:45 You have to be skeptical of any info that comes from the Trump admin21:00 Prescription drug prices skyrocketing due to tariffs & subsidy cuts23:00 Coffee prices will become the new gas prices as bellwether for economy25:00 Tariff impacts are really starting to show up in the economy26:00 Anthropic predicting massive job losses in the white collar sector26:45 Mark Kelly proposes AI companies set up special fund to offset job losses28:30 Trump comes out against quarterly earnings reports29:30 Quarterly reports make companies focus on short term profits31:15 Investors punish long term focus from companies and it's unhealthy32:00 Trump's motives are always questionable, but this isn't a bad policy34:00 A functional congress, wouldn't let the Chinese run TikTok's algorithm post-sale36:00 Why bother with TikTok ban at all37:15 Major corporations view fines as the cost of doing business39:30 Ask Chuck 39:45 If state senates duplicate their districts, why have the districts at all? 45:00 Why doesn't Minnesota get swing state attention like other midwest states? 53:15 Should we stop treating real debate the same as clickbait debate? 57:15 Is there any benefit to parties besides the rich being able to push their agenda? 1:02:45 College football preview - Miami vs. Florida 1:09:00 The Iron Skillet SMU vs TCU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Todd unpacks the fallout from Charlie Kirk's assassination and what it means for public displays of democracy, as lawmakers debate whether fear should keep them from showing up for their constituents. He also dives into explosive Senate testimony from former CDC director Dr. Monarez, who detailed political interference in vaccine policy under the Trump administration. The conversation shifts to the economic strain of tariffs and subsidy cuts—driving up everything from prescription drugs to coffee prices—alongside predictions of mass white-collar job losses fueled by AI. From Trump's push to end quarterly earnings reports to the unresolved fight over TikTok, he highlights how politics, economics, and technology are colliding in ways that test both government accountability and public trust.Then, he's joined by former director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Rohit Chopra for a deep dive into the role of the agency and the broader fight to regulate powerful financial institutions. Chopra explains why the agency has struggled to gain footing in Washington, the skepticism the public feels toward banks, and how past regulatory failures contributed to the 2008 financial crisis. They discuss how the CFPB uncovered systemic abuses, the resistance it faces from well-funded interests, and the ongoing debate over who should regulate emerging sectors like cryptocurrency and consumer data.The conversation also tackles the independence of the Federal Reserve, the risks of politicizing monetary policy, and how unchecked corporate power—from Wall Street to Silicon Valley—continues to shape the economy. Chopra pulls back the curtain on algorithmic lending practices, the dangers of personalized pricing, and why fines alone aren't enough to hold companies accountable. From junk fees to crypto, from AI abuse to executive impunity, this episode explores why Americans are increasingly demanding regulators who stand up to entrenched financial interests—and why another populist economic revolt may be closer than we think.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and previews the upcoming weekend in college football.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction02:00 Will we have public displays of democracy after Kirk's death?02:30 Lawmakers are reconsidering public events04:00 If public servants are afraid of the public, they need to leave public service05:30 Lawmakers should take precautions, but they have to show up06:30 Social media platforms suppress content criticizing them08:30 Former CDC director Dr. Monarez testified before senate committee09:30 Trump nominated Dr. Monarez in March 202511:00 Dr. Monarez was fired less than a month after swearing12:45 Kennedy instructed Monarez not to interact with members of congress14:00 Monarez testifies Kennedy had no science backing change in vaccine schedule15:30 Chief of staff at HHS says there would be political review of scientific data17:30 Monarez says the no evidence support change to under 2 vaccine schedule18:45 Republican senators seemed troubled by the testimony19:45 You have to be skeptical of any info that comes from the Trump admin21:00 Prescription drug prices skyrocketing due to tariffs & subsidy cuts23:00 Coffee prices will become the new gas prices as bellwether for economy25:00 Tariff impacts are really starting to show up in the economy26:00 Anthropic predicting massive job losses in the white collar sector26:45 Mark Kelly proposes AI companies set up special fund to offset job losses28:30 Trump comes out against quarterly earnings reports29:30 Quarterly reports make companies focus on short term profits31:15 Investors punish long term focus from companies and it's unhealthy32:00 Trump's motives are always questionable, but this isn't a bad policy34:00 A functional congress, wouldn't let the Chinese run TikTok's algorithm post-sale36:00 Why bother with TikTok ban at all37:15 Major corporations view fines as the cost of doing business40:15 Rohit Chopra joins the Chuck ToddCast 42:00 Why has it been so difficult for the CFPB to take root in DC? 42:45 The public is skeptical of financial institutions 43:30 What exactly is the CFPB and what is it supposed to do? 45:00 The fed board wasn't regulating leading up to financial crisis 46:15 Why were prior regulators ineffective? 47:00 The CFPB has discovered multiple systemic abuses 47:45 Multiple companies settled, and new head of CFPB is ripping them up 48:45 Russ Vought is currently running the CFPB 50:00 What's the difference between the FTC and the CFPB? 51:00 CFPB is responsible for regulating all financial institutions/lenders 52:45 Voters from both parties benefit from the CFPB protecting them 53:30 Deep pocketed interests want to defang the regulators 54:00 Who should be regulating crypto? 54:45 Is crypto a stock or a commodity? 56:15 Data from stablecoins can be used for targeting consumers 57:15 Which agency should protect Americans from abuse of their data? 59:00 Trump attempting to make more direct control of the Fed 59:45 The founders were against the president controlling the money supply 1:02:00 Federal Reserve hasn't been independent under Trump 1:03:30 The fed has saved the economy twice, but may not if corrupted 1:04:30 Inflation is just one piece of the equation if the fed loses independence 1:06:30 Libertarians argue against having a fed, what's the counter argument? 1:08:30 The fed should be focused on the entire economy and not just Wall St 1:10:15 Big moneyed interests wield huge power to avoid regulation 1:11:15 Did you ever look under the hood of a lending company's algorithm? 1:14:15 We need to outlaw AI being used for personal pricing 1:15:15 What is the legal justification for personalizing pricing? 1:17:45 The administration is destroying financial law enforcement 1:19:00 No consequences for bad behavior by banks & corporations 1:20:15 Fines aren't a deterrent, criminal charges are 1:22:30 Tech companies are never held accountable 1:24:00 How did you become a financial regulator? 1:27:00 Prior generations had an easier path to financial stability 1:28:15 Who deserved to be brought up on criminal charges for the financial crisis? 1:29:15 So many investigations were never even started after crisis 1:31:15 Potential market disruptions dissuaded DOJ from prosecuting executives 1:33:15 Federal agencies give white glove treatment to big firms 1:34:15 We are close to another populist economic revolt 1:36:00 Americans want the government to stand up to private interests 1:38:30 The CFPB helped billions of dollars in junk fees1:40:45 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Rohit Chopra 1:42:30 Ask Chuck 1:42:45 If state senates duplicate their districts, why have the districts at all? 1:48:00 Why doesn't Minnesota get swing state attention like other midwest states? 1:56:15 Should we stop treating real debate the same as clickbait debate? 2:00:15 Is there any benefit to parties besides the rich being able to push their agenda? 2:05:45 College football preview - Miami vs. Florida 2:12:00 The Iron Skillet SMU vs TCU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck is joined by former director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Rohit Chopra for a deep dive into the role of the agency and the broader fight to regulate powerful financial institutions. Chopra explains why the agency has struggled to gain footing in Washington, the skepticism the public feels toward banks, and how past regulatory failures contributed to the 2008 financial crisis. They discuss how the CFPB uncovered systemic abuses, the resistance it faces from well-funded interests, and the ongoing debate over who should regulate emerging sectors like cryptocurrency and consumer data.The conversation also tackles the independence of the Federal Reserve, the risks of politicizing monetary policy, and how unchecked corporate power—from Wall Street to Silicon Valley—continues to shape the economy. Chopra pulls back the curtain on algorithmic lending practices, the dangers of personalized pricing, and why fines alone aren't enough to hold companies accountable. From junk fees to crypto, from AI abuse to executive impunity, this episode explores why Americans are increasingly demanding regulators who stand up to entrenched financial interests—and why another populist economic revolt may be closer than we think.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Rohit Chopra joins the Chuck ToddCast01:45 Why has it been so difficult for the CFPB to take root in DC?02:30 The public is skeptical of financial institutions03:15 What exactly is the CFPB and what is it supposed to do?04:45 The fed board wasn't regulating leading up to financial crisis06:00 Why were prior regulators ineffective?06:45 The CFPB has discovered multiple systemic abuses07:30 Multiple companies settled, and new head of CFPB is ripping them up08:30 Russ Vought is currently running the CFPB09:45 What's the difference between the FTC and the CFPB?10:45 CFPB is responsible for regulating all financial institutions/lenders12:30 Voters from both parties benefit from the CFPB protecting them13:15 Deep pocketed interests want to defang the regulators13:45 Who should be regulating crypto?14:30 Is crypto a stock or a commodity?16:00 Data from stablecoins can be used for targeting consumers17:00 Which agency should protect Americans from abuse of their data?18:45 Trump attempting to make more direct control of the Fed19:30 The founders were against the president controlling the money supply21:45 Federal Reserve hasn't been independent under Trump23:15 The fed has saved the economy twice, but may not if corrupted24:15 Inflation is just one piece of the equation if the fed loses independence26:15 Libertarians argue against having a fed, what's the counter argument?28:15 The fed should be focused on the entire economy and not just Wall St30:00 Big moneyed interests wield huge power to avoid regulation31:00 Did you ever look under the hood of a lending company's algorithm?34:00 We need to outlaw AI being used for personal pricing35:00 What is the legal justification for personalizing pricing?37:30 The administration is destroying financial law enforcement38:45 No consequences for bad behavior by banks & corporations40:00 Fines aren't a deterrent, criminal charges are42:15 Tech companies are never held accountable43:45 How did you become a financial regulator?46:45 Prior generations had an easier path to financial stability48:00 Who deserved to be brought up on criminal charges for the financial crisis?49:00 So many investigations were never even started after crisis51:00 Potential market disruptions dissuaded DOJ from prosecuting executives53:00 Federal agencies give white glove treatment to big firms54:00 We are close to another populist economic revolt55:45 Americans want the government to stand up to private interests58:15 The CFPB helped eliminate billions of dollars in junk fees Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck explores the frustrations of the “mainstream middle” in red states and why Democrats can't seem to reach them, even as discontent with the country grows. From the poisonous information ecosystem that radicalizes voters to the outsized influence of social media and big tech money in Washington, the conversation digs into how extremism thrives while moderation is punished. Chuck also examines the rise of independents, the possibility of a third-party shake-up, and how redistricting battles in California, Missouri, and Georgia could reshape the political map. With major races in New Jersey and Virginia looming, and Democrats struggling to find the right message, the episode highlights both the dangers and the opportunities in an increasingly unsettled political landscape.Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states that could elect an independent candidate to the U.S. Senate and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction00:30 Feeling terrible about the state of the country, don't see a path out 02:00 We have a poisonous information ecosystem that radicalizes people 02:45 Social media is poisoning the well, but big tech doesn't shoulder blame 04:00 When algorithms curate content, it makes the platform a publisher 05:30 Public schools finally starting to ban phones in classrooms 06:30 The phones are toxic for adults too, not just kids 08:30 Big tech companies have saturated D.C. with money to avoid regulation 10:30 The administration is speaking in the language of the red scare 11:15 Bipartisanship hasn't been good for Donald Trump 12:00 The fastest growing political party is "no party" 13:15 The two major parties need a time out in order to course correct 14:15 Spencer Cox can't succeed in MAGA, but would be a great leader 15:30 A third party scare could sober up the two major parties 17:15 The one commonality between the parties is internet radicalization 19:00 We need a moderate temperament to lead the country 20:15 Our information ecosystem punishes moderation22:00 The big redistricting fight brewing in California 23:15 There are 3 big money entities trying to get CA voters to vote no 24:00 California voters are educated and want the redraw to be temporary 25:15 Missouri redistricting law could go before voters and be repealed 26:45 California Democrats have been very organized 28:15 Democrats' messaging problem over redistricting 30:15 The Georgia Democratic primary for governor is fascinating 32:30 GA governor primary could be bellwether for progressive vs moderate 33:15 Big money pouring into NJ and Virginia races 34:45 Virginia AG race will show whether law & order politics will be effective 37:00 Trump conceding the NYC mayor's race to Mamdani 38:00 Jeffries in a tough spot, can't be seen embracing a socialist39:45 ToddCast Top 5 states most likely to elect an independent to the senate 41:00 #1 & #2 - Vermont & Alaska 42:00 #3 Minnesota 43:30 #4 Arizona 44:15 #5 Florida 45:45 Runner ups 47:00 Ask Chuck 47:15 Is it possible for a candidate to run as a uniter in the current climate? 52:15 At congressional hearings, are the subjects provided questions in advance? 55:00 The importance of presenting multiple viewpoints in a fractured ecosystem 58:30 Instances of a political death being used to attack other side so soon? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck sits down with Brian Bengs, who challenged John Thune in South Dakota and is running for senate as an independent, and Todd Achilles, an independent from Idaho, to explore what it really means to run outside the two-party system. They open up about why they chose independence, the challenges of campaigning in red states where the word “Democrat” is a nonstarter, and the dysfunction they see as the product of both parties. From tariffs hurting farmers to the growing cost of attention in politics, the conversation highlights how America's political and economic systems reward division and extremism over pragmatism and compromise.The discussion also tackles the bigger picture: whether the Republican Party could split between MAGA and traditional conservatives, why democracy no longer serves as a pressure release valve, and how corporate power and money in politics further erode trust. Bengs and Achilles share lessons from Ross Perot's run, their views on immigration reform, and the importance of building bipartisan relationships in an age where the middle is punished. For them, independence isn't just about rejecting partisanship—it's about offering voters an alternative path forward in a system that too often feels broken.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Brian Bengs & Todd Achilles join the Chuck ToddCast01:30 Why are you running and why as an independent?02:45 Someone needed to challenge John Thune in SD03:45 Voters in red states hear “Democrat” and tune out despite agreement05:00 We have huge levels of debt, division and dysfunction06:00 70% of Idahoans identify as independent06:45 Democrats haven't provided a counter message in red states09:00 Will the MAGA and traditional wings of the Republican party split?10:45 Trump's tariffs hurting farmers, can they be won over?12:15 Republican leaders get in trouble for “not being MAGA enough”13:30 Tariffs and market concentration are squeezing farmers15:30 What does “caucusing on your own” look like?17:30 Deny both parties a majority and independents are swing votes18:15 Is Thune's leadership an impediment to your candidacy? 19:15 The status quo dysfunction is a product of both parties20:30 The information ecosystem punishes the middle & incrementalism22:15 Attention is incredibly expensive for candidates23:45 The attentional incentive structures reward extremism 25:30 The importance of meeting voters in person26:30 How did we get to the point where political violence isn't shocking? 27:30 Democracy is supposed to be a pressure release valve, but it isn't working28:30 Talking to the voter who prioritizes economics over democracy29:45 We need to fix democracy to fix other issues30:45 There's a “race to blame” in wake of Kirk shooting32:00 Corporations are pushing their operation costs onto taxpayers33:30 Guardrails on the private sector have been chipped away at35:00 The Big Beautiful Bill will shutter rural hospitals37:15 How can we make money in politics a salient voting issue?39:00 Lessons that can be learned from Ross Perot's run?41:30 Pragmatic immigration requires border security and path to citizenship43:45 Congress more worried about their own security than deescalation44:45 The importance of building bipartisan relationships46:45 What 2 senators would you most look forward to working with if elected48:00 Favorite Democratic and Republican president?49:45 Eisenhower was the closest to an independent of any modern president50:30 Military service doesn't lend itself to partisanship Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck explores the frustrations of the “mainstream middle” in red states and why Democrats can't seem to reach them, even as discontent with the country grows. From the poisonous information ecosystem that radicalizes voters to the outsized influence of social media and big tech money in Washington, the conversation digs into how extremism thrives while moderation is punished. Chuck also examines the rise of independents, the possibility of a third-party shake-up, and how redistricting battles in California, Missouri, and Georgia could reshape the political map. With major races in New Jersey and Virginia looming, and Democrats struggling to find the right message, the episode highlights both the dangers and the opportunities in an increasingly unsettled political landscape.Then, Chuck sits down with Brian Bengs, who challenged John Thune in South Dakota and is running for senate as an independent, and Todd Achilles, an independent from Idaho, to explore what it really means to run outside the two-party system. They open up about why they chose independence, the challenges of campaigning in red states where the word “Democrat” is a nonstarter, and the dysfunction they see as the product of both parties. From tariffs hurting farmers to the growing cost of attention in politics, the conversation highlights how America's political and economic systems reward division and extremism over pragmatism and compromise.The discussion also tackles the bigger picture: whether the Republican Party could split between MAGA and traditional conservatives, why democracy no longer serves as a pressure release valve, and how corporate power and money in politics further erode trust. Bengs and Achilles share lessons from Ross Perot's run, their views on immigration reform, and the importance of building bipartisan relationships in an age where the middle is punished. For them, independence isn't just about rejecting partisanship—it's about offering voters an alternative path forward in a system that too often feels broken.Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states that could elect an independent candidate to the U.S. Senate and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction02:00 There is a mainstream middle in red states, but Dems can't reach them03:00 Feeling terrible about the state of the country, don't see a path out04:30 We have a poisonous information ecosystem that radicalizes people05:15 Social media is poisoning the well, but big tech doesn't shoulder blame06:30 When algorithms curate content, it makes the platform a publisher 08:00 Public schools finally starting to ban phones in classrooms09:00 The phones are toxic for adults too, not just kids11:00 Big tech companies have saturated D.C. with money to avoid regulation13:00 The administration is speaking in the language of the red scare13:45 Bipartisanship hasn't been good for Donald Trump14:30 The fastest growing political party is “no party”15:45 The two major parties need a time out in order to course correct16:45 Spencer Cox can't succeed in MAGA, but would be a great leader18:00 A third party scare could sober up the two major parties19:45 The one commonality between the parties is internet radicalization21:30 We need a moderate temperament to lead the country22:45 Our information ecosystem punishes moderation25:00 It could be a tough year for incumbents26:45 The big redistricting fight brewing in California28:00 There are 3 big money entities trying to get CA voters to vote no28:45 California voters are educated and want the redraw to be temporary30:00 Missouri redistricting law could go before voters and be repealed31:30 California Democrats have been very organized33:00 Democrats' messaging problem over redistricting35:00 The Georgia Democratic primary for governor is fascinating37:15 GA governor primary could be bellwether for progressive vs moderate38:00 Big money pouring into NJ and Virginia races39:30 Virginia AG race will show whether law & order politics will be effective41:45 Trump conceding the NYC mayor's race to Mamdani42:45 Jeffries in a tough spot, can't be seen embracing a socialist 45:45 Brian Bengs & Todd Achilles join the Chuck ToddCast 47:15 Why are you running and why as an independent? 48:30 Someone needed to challenge John Thune in SD 49:30 Voters in red states hear "Democrat" and tune out despite agreement 50:45 We have huge levels of debt, division and dysfunction 51:45 70% of Idahoans identify as independent 52:30 Democrats haven't provided a counter message in red states 54:45 Will the MAGA and traditional wings of the Republican party split? 56:30 Trump's tariffs hurting farmers, can they be won over? 58:00 Republican leaders get in trouble for "not being MAGA enough" 59:15 Tariffs and market concentration are squeezing farmers 1:01:15 What does "caucusing on your own" look like? 1:03:15 Deny both parties a majority and independents are swing votes 1:04:00 Is Thune's leadership an impediment to your candidacy? 1:05:00 The status quo dysfunction is a product of both parties 1:06:15 The information ecosystem punishes the middle & incrementalism 1:08:00 Attention is incredibly expensive for candidates 1:09:30 The attentional incentive structures reward extremism 1:11:15 The importance of meeting voters in person 1:12:15 How did we get to the point where political violence isn't shocking? 1:13:15 Democracy is supposed to be a pressure release valve, but it isn't working 1:14:15 Talking to the voter who prioritizes economics over democracy 1:15:30 We need to fix democracy to fix other issues 1:16:30 There's a "race to blame" in wake of Kirk shooting 1:17:45 Corporations are pushing their operation costs onto taxpayers 1:19:15 Guardrails on the private sector have been chipped away at 1:20:45 The Big Beautiful Bill will shutter rural hospitals 1:23:00 How can we make money in politics a salient voting issue? 1:24:45 Lessons that can be learned from Ross Perot's run? 1:27:15 Pragmatic immigration requires border security and path to citizenship 1:29:30 Congress more worried about their own security than deescalation 1:30:30 The importance of building bipartisan relationships 1:32:30 What 2 senators would you most look forward to working with if elected 1:33:45 Favorite Democratic and Republican president? 1:35:30 Eisenhower was the closest to an independent of any modern president 1:36:15 Military service doesn't lend itself to partisanship1:39:00 ToddCast Top 5 states most likely to elect an independent to the senate 1:40:15 #1 & #2 - Vermont & Alaska 1:41:15 #3 Minnesota 1:42:45 #4 Arizona 1:43:30 #5 Florida 1:45:00 Runner ups 1:46:15 Ask Chuck 1:46:30 Is it possible for a candidate to run as a uniter in the current climate? 1:51:30 At congressional hearings, are the subjects provided questions in advance? 1:54:15 The importance of presenting multiple viewpoints in a fractured ecosystem 1:57:45 Instances of a political death being used to attack other side so soon? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, former U.S. Ambassador and Reagan White House veteran Frank Lavin joins to reflect on the state of American politics and what lessons might be drawn from Ronald Reagan's presidency. From Reagan's approach to bipartisanship and his handling of foreign policy, to Trump's transactional style and fixation on deference, Lavin weighs in on how today's leaders measure up against the conservative legacy of the past. He explores what governing responsibly looks like in a narrowly divided nation and why Reagan's emphasis on free trade and coalition-building still matters.The conversation stretches from historical “what ifs”—like whether Reagan would have risen without Ford's pardon of Nixon—to the present-day challenges of Ukraine, China, and the role of U.S. alliances in Asia. Lavin also tackles questions of Trump's political lineage, whether there's an heir to Trumpism, and how both parties are struggling with trade, borders, and identity. With insights from inside the Reagan administration and a sharp eye on today's divisions, Lavin offers a wide-angle view on conservatism, leadership, and what the future of American politics might hold.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win! Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Frank Lavin joins the Chuck ToddCast03:15 Where are we as a country and how would Reagan have handled it?04:30 Social media rewards audacity and “nutpicking”05:45 We haven't hit bottom yet08:45 What would Reagan have done with full control of congress?10:00 What is the responsibility of a 51-49 winner to the 49?11:00 The problem with only governing for your base12:15 Leaders should actively pursue their agenda despite opposition13:30 Clinton and Reagan had to accommodate the other side14:15 People like the idea of Trump more than him actually being president15:30 If Ford doesn't pardon Nixon, does Reagan win the primary?18:30 Is a political/DC outsider best positioned to win in 2028?20:15 Reagan would be pushing back on Putin in Ukraine21:15 Our weakness on Ukraine will motivate China on Taiwan22:00 Obama's lack of action on Crimea green lit Putin on Ukraine23:00 How do our Asian allies change their behavior without US security?24:00 Asian countries will have to accommodate China 25:00 Hosting US military base didn't prevent strike on Qatar26:45 Is Trump an heir to the Reagan lineage?27:45 Reagan was for free trade, Trump is not29:00 Trump's premise that free trade hurts us is faulty30:15 How often did you get time with Reagan as a staffer?32:30 Reagan was dedicated to getting George Bush elected34:30 Trump isn't foreign policy oriented, he's transactional35:30 Trump has a 19th century style of foreign policy37:45 Trump cares more about deference than achieving policy goals38:30 Is Trump's Republican party similar to the 1920's GOP?40:15 Democrats have been mixed messengers on free trade41:00 Sherrod Brown is an “old” politician, been in politics forever42:15 Should Democrats embrace Trump's border policy43:30 Obama likely benefitted from the “deporter in-chief” protests45:45 What is the definition of traditional conservatism?46:45 What could Romney/Ryan done better to prevent Trumpism?47:45 Nobody permanently shifts US politics49:00 Trump won on culture and by not going after entitlements50:45 Cutting postal service is a place to cut spending51:45 There's little political reward for incrementalism52:15 Trump isn't a conservative, but rejects the left54:00 Trump's anti-crime policies are deliberately offensive55:00 George H.W. Bush didn't have communications skills like Reagan56:00 Is there an heir to Trump?59:00 The joy of teaching at USC Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Todd reflects on the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's assassination and what it reveals about America's dangerously fractured politics. He explores how social media algorithms, outrage media, and polarized incentive structures are fueling political violence, with 150 politically motivated attacks already in 2025. From the dangers of cancel culture to the unwillingness of both parties to police their own extremes, Chuck argues that disagreements must stop being treated as existential threats if democracy is to function. He also considers the role of leaders like Spencer Cox, the failures of Biden and Trump to unify, and why regulating big tech and breaking out of ideological silos may be the clearest path back to a healthier, more honest political discourse.Finally, on “This week in history” Chuck remembers Washington's farewell address and why it perfectly meets the current moment in U.S. politics, answer questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and gives his week 3 college football roundup.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction0015: It's been a tough past five days since Kirk assassination01:00 The system is rigged for division and against unity05:45 There are ways to mitigate the risk of political violence, but it takes will06:45 We're most unified when there's an external, existential threat07:45 Threats from the inside only divide us08:15 America has experienced 150 politically motivated attacks in 202509:30 College should be about exposure to new ideas, both good and bad10:45 Social media playing a huge role in every political assassination attempt12:00 Each side is convinced that violence is only coming from the other side13:30 Politics is supposed to be about meeting somewhere in the middle14:45 People on the left should now have a better sense of cancel culture17:00 Policy disagreements can't be seen as existential threats18:00 Online discourse is so much more toxic than in-person19:30 Social media platforms are the problem with their rage drive algorithms21:00 Trump views this as a political moment to exploit21:45 Trump doesn't view that he's been a contributor to this political climate22:45 Politics of division has been good politics for Trump, bad for country24:00 Incentive structures are what matter most for a healthy politics26:00 Both parties aren't comfortable policing their own side27:30 Neither side is incentivized to do the right thing28:45 On the right, the agitators are in charge30:15 Spencer Cox might be exactly the type of leader America needs30:45 Biden didn't bring the country together, legislated for his base32:30 Our political discourse radicalized the gunman34:00 The biggest, most obvious fix is regulating big tech35:30 We need a media that accommodates multiple ideologies38:30 Our information silos create a lack of shared reality40:45 Outrage media creates a loyal audience but isn't always honest42:45 Trying to make the ToddCast a truthful, neutral arbiter44:00 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Frank Lavin 45:15 This week in history - George Washington's farewell address 45:45 Washington warned against political parties and factionalism 47:00 Washington preached unity above all else 49:30 Washington warned against dominating factions/partisanship 51:00 He argued to follow the Constitution and fiscal responsibility 52:00 He preached morality 53:30 He argued for peace and alliances 55:30 Ask Chuck 55:45 Thoughts on a James Talarico/Jeff Jackson ticket in 2028? 1:03:30 How can media interviewers produce better interviews? 1:08:00 How does Arkansas have such an outsized role in national politics? 1:11:00 College football needs to collectively negotiate their TV contracts 1:13:00 Week 3 college football roundup Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chuck Todd reflects on the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's assassination and what it reveals about America's dangerously fractured politics. He explores how social media algorithms, outrage media, and polarized incentive structures are fueling political violence, with 150 politically motivated attacks already in 2025. From the dangers of cancel culture to the unwillingness of both parties to police their own extremes, Chuck argues that disagreements must stop being treated as existential threats if democracy is to function. He also considers the role of leaders like Spencer Cox, the failures of Biden and Trump to unify, and why regulating big tech and breaking out of ideological silos may be the clearest path back to a healthier, more honest political discourse.Then, former U.S. Ambassador and Reagan White House veteran Frank Lavin joins to reflect on the state of American politics and what lessons might be drawn from Ronald Reagan's presidency. From Reagan's approach to bipartisanship and his handling of foreign policy, to Trump's transactional style and fixation on deference, Lavin weighs in on how today's leaders measure up against the conservative legacy of the past. He explores what governing responsibly looks like in a narrowly divided nation and why Reagan's emphasis on free trade and coalition-building still matters.The conversation stretches from historical “what ifs”—like whether Reagan would have risen without Ford's pardon of Nixon—to the present-day challenges of Ukraine, China, and the role of U.S. alliances in Asia. Lavin also tackles questions of Trump's political lineage, whether there's an heir to Trumpism, and how both parties are struggling with trade, borders, and identity. With insights from inside the Reagan administration and a sharp eye on today's divisions, Lavin offers a wide-angle view on conservatism, leadership, and what the future of American politics might hold.Finally, on “This week in history” Chuck remembers Washington's farewell address and why it perfectly meets the current moment in U.S. politics, answer questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment and gives his week 3 college football roundup.Got injured in an accident? You could be one click away from a claim worth millions. Just visit https://www.forthepeople.com/TODDCAST to start your claim now with Morgan & Morgan without leaving your couch. Remember, it's free unless you win!Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction0015: It's been a tough past five days since Kirk assassination01:00 The system is rigged for division and against unity05:45 There are ways to mitigate the risk of political violence, but it takes will06:45 We're most unified when there's an external, existential threat07:45 Threats from the inside only divide us08:15 America has experienced 150 politically motivated attacks in 202509:30 College should be about exposure to new ideas, both good and bad10:45 Social media playing a huge role in every political assassination attempt12:00 Each side is convinced that violence is only coming from the other side13:30 Politics is supposed to be about meeting somewhere in the middle14:45 People on the left should now have a better sense of cancel culture17:00 Policy disagreements can't be seen as existential threats18:00 Online discourse is so much more toxic than in-person19:30 Social media platforms are the problem with their rage drive algorithms21:00 Trump views this as a political moment to exploit21:45 Trump doesn't view that he's been a contributor to this political climate22:45 Politics of division has been good politics for Trump, bad for country24:00 Incentive structures are what matter most for a healthy politics26:00 Both parties aren't comfortable policing their own side27:30 Neither side is incentivized to do the right thing28:45 On the right, the agitators are in charge30:15 Spencer Cox might be exactly the type of leader America needs30:45 Biden didn't bring the country together, legislated for his base32:30 Our political discourse radicalized the gunman34:00 The biggest, most obvious fix is regulating big tech35:30 We need a media that accommodates multiple ideologies38:30 Our information silos create a lack of shared reality40:45 Outrage media creates a loyal audience but isn't always honest42:45 Trying to make the ToddCast a truthful, neutral arbiter45:15 Frank Lavin joins the Chuck ToddCast 48:30 Where are we as a country and how would Reagan have handled it? 49:45 Social media rewards audacity and "nutpicking" 51:00 We haven't hit bottom yet 54:00 What would Reagan have done with full control of congress? 55:15 What is the responsibility of a 51-49 winner to the 49? 56:15 The problem with only governing for your base 57:30 Leaders should actively pursue their agenda despite opposition 58:45 Clinton and Reagan had to accommodate the other side 59:30 People like the idea of Trump more than him actually being president 1:00:45 If Ford doesn't pardon Nixon, does Reagan win the primary? 1:03:45 Is a political/DC outsider best positioned to win in 2028? 1:05:30 Reagan would be pushing back on Putin in Ukraine 1:06:30 Our weakness on Ukraine will motivate China on Taiwan 1:07:15 Obama's lack of action on Crimea green lit Putin on Ukraine 1:08:15 How do our Asian allies change their behavior without US security? 1:09:15 Asian countries will have to accommodate China 1:10:15 Hosting US military base didn't prevent strike on Qatar 1:12:00 Is Trump an heir to the Reagan lineage? 1:13:00 Reagan was for free trade, Trump is not 1:14:15 Trump's premise that free trade hurts us is faulty 1:15:30 How often did you get time with Reagan as a staffer? 1:17:45 Reagan was dedicated to getting George Bush elected 1:19:45 Trump isn't foreign policy oriented, he's transactional 1:20:45 Trump has a 19th century style of foreign policy 1:23:00 Trump cares more about deference than achieving policy goals 1:23:45 Is Trump's Republican party similar to the 1920's GOP? 1:25:30 Democrats have been mixed messengers on free trade 1:26:15 Sherrod Brown is an "old" politician, been in politics forever 1:27:30 Should Democrats embrace Trump's border policy 1:28:45 Obama likely benefitted from the "deporter in-chief" protests 1:31:00 What is the definition of traditional conservatism? 1:32:00 What could Romney/Ryan done better to prevent Trumpism? 1:33:00 Nobody permanently shifts US politics 1:34:15 Trump won on culture and by not going after entitlements 1:36:00 Cutting postal service is a place to cut spending 1:37:00 There's little political reward for incrementalism 1:37:30 Trump isn't a conservative, but rejects the left 1:39:15 Trump's anti-crime policies are deliberately offensive 1:40:15 George H.W. Bush didn't have communications skills like Reagan 1:41:15 Is there an heir to Trump? 1:44:15 The joy of teaching at USC1:49:30 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Frank Lavin 1:50:45 This week in history - George Washington's farewell address 1:51:15 Washington warned against political parties and factionalism 1:52:30 Washington preached unity above all else 1:55:00 Washington warned against dominating factions/partisanship 1:56:30 He argued to follow the Constitution and fiscal responsibility 1:57:30 He preached morality 1:59:00 He argued for peace and alliances 2:01:00 Ask Chuck 2:01:15 Thoughts on a James Talarico/Jeff Jackson ticket in 2028? 2:09:00 How can media interviewers produce better interviews? 2:13:30 How does Arkansas have such an outsized role in national politics? 2:16:30 College football needs to collectively negotiate their TV contracts 2:18:30 Week 3 college football roundup Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of The Chuck Toddcast, Congressman Greg Landsman joins Chuck for a wide-ranging conversation that begins with the shocking shooting of Charlie Kirk at an event on the Utah Valley University campus. The two dig into how political rhetoric has spiraled out of control, the role of social media algorithms in fueling polarization, and why platforms shouldn't be shielded from accountability. Landsman argues that leaders who cross the line with their rhetoric must be called out and stresses the urgent need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people before the U.S. slips further into a dangerous cycle of political violence.From there, the discussion shifts to governing—what Landsman learned on Cincinnati's city council, why Congress has become dysfunctional since 9/11, and the frustrating reality that most bills are more about messaging than legislating. They also tackle foreign policy, including the stakes of defending Taiwan, the risks of Trump's trade war with China, and whether an “Asian NATO” could prevent a wider conflict. Plus, Landsman reflects on Kamala Harris's book, the pressures from party leadership, and the uncertainty of his own political future as redistricting looms.(This conversation was recorded prior to the news of Charlie Kirk's death)Timeline:00:00 Congressman Greg Landsman joins the Chuck Toddcast00:15 Charlie Kirk shot at event on UVU campus03:00 We need to turn down the temperature on political rhetoric04:15 Social media algorithms have accelerated polarization06:45 Being super online warps your brain08:00 Political leadership that crosses the line needs to be called out08:30 Social media companies shouldn't be shielded from litigation09:30 Algorithms turn social media platforms into publishers11:00 Need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people12:30 We're likely to slide into a “which side is more violent” debate14:15 Why no committee investigation into Trump assassination attempt?16:30 The country is a tinderbox, the president needs to calm the waters19:15 Democrats have been chasing Trump for 10 years20:15 Democrats need to offer solutions and not just opposition to Trump22:15 What did Greg do before entering politics?23:15 What was the experience like on the city council?27:00 Local government teaches you the basics of governing31:00 After 9/11, congressional leaders ruined congress32:15 700 bills made it out of committee, 50 made it to the floor33:15 Most bills on the floor are messaging bills34:30 America is only united when we have a common external enemy35:30 We could be in World War 3 within a couple years36:30 U.S. needs to make clear that it will defend allies37:45 How do you sell defending Taiwan to the American people?38:45 Should we have an Asian NATO?40:00 We have to increase the cost to China for messing with Taiwan41:15 Trump's trade war increases the likelihood of a hot war43:35 Thoughts on the excerpts from Kamala Harris's book?45:00 Were you pressured by the administration into not saying anything?47:30 Will your seat be redistricted?

On this episode of the Chuck Toddcast, Chuck reflects on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about the tinderbox state of American politics. He explores how escalating rhetoric, dehumanization, and the amplification of fringe anger online have fueled a culture where violence replaces politics—and where children are left grieving the consequences. From the role of algorithms in supercharging extremism to the failure of leaders and tech companies to meet the moment, Chuck asks whether this tragedy can finally serve as the wake-up call for Americans to step back, recommit to the democratic process, and demand a safer political climate.Finally, he reacts to the newly released excerpts from Kamala Harris's book and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction - Charlie Kirk assassinated01:30 We're in a tinderbox of our own making02:30 Political rhetoric has escalated out of control03:00 Young kids lost their father over a political dispute03:45 When you resort to violence, you are no longer practicing politics05:00 Dehumanizing rhetoric leads to violence07:15 We collectively need to step back in this movement09:00 The way politics has been conducted won't lead us to a better place10:15 We have underreacted to political violence in recent years11:30 Unity doesn't mean agreeing, it means agreeing to the process12:45 The super online angry fringe whips people up13:45 Hopefully this is the “enough is enough” moment15:45 Algorithms incentive and feed into the extremist rhetoric16:45 Hoping our leaders can rise up and meet the moment19:15 The tech companies have created this environment20:00 Excerpts from Kamala Harris's book released, are very direct 20:45 Harris was set up for failure as the "border czar" 21:45 Surprising that Biden staff treated Harris like Obama's treated him 23:45 Harris is cautious by nature 26:00 Harris likely to run again out of Biden's shadow 27:30 Dean Phillips is owed an apology, party needed an open debate 28:45 Ask Chuck29:00 Importance of Michigan politics? 32:30 Could the energy Detroit sports teams provide could impact politics? 35:30 How should Democrats call out corruption & unfavorables on their side? 40:15 Should Democrats invite the national guard, then highlight crime in red states? 43:45 If the media hounded Trump about Kennedy, would he be more reactive? 46:15 College football games to keep an eye on 51:15 Find your way to do your part to de-escalate

On this episode of the Chuck Toddcast, Chuck reflects on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about the tinderbox state of American politics. He explores how escalating rhetoric, dehumanization, and the amplification of fringe anger online have fueled a culture where violence replaces politics—and where children are left grieving the consequences. From the role of algorithms in supercharging extremism to the failure of leaders and tech companies to meet the moment, Chuck asks whether this tragedy can finally serve as the wake-up call for Americans to step back, recommit to the democratic process, and demand a safer political climate.Then, Congressman Greg Landsman joins Chuck for a wide-ranging conversation that begins with the shocking shooting of Charlie Kirk at an event on the Utah Valley University campus. (This conversation was recorded prior to the news of Charlie Kirk's death) The two dig into how political rhetoric has spiraled out of control, the role of social media algorithms in fueling polarization, and why platforms shouldn't be shielded from accountability. Landsman argues that leaders who cross the line with their rhetoric must be called out and stresses the urgent need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people before the U.S. slips further into a dangerous cycle of political violence.From there, the discussion shifts to governing—what Landsman learned on Cincinnati's city council, why Congress has become dysfunctional since 9/11, and the frustrating reality that most bills are more about messaging than legislating. They also tackle foreign policy, including the stakes of defending Taiwan, the risks of Trump's trade war with China, and whether an “Asian NATO” could prevent a wider conflict. Plus, Landsman reflects on Kamala Harris's book, the pressures from party leadership, and the uncertainty of his own political future as redistricting looms.Finally, he reacts to the newly released excerpts from Kamala Harris's book and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Chuck Todd's Introduction - Charlie Kirk assassinated01:30 We're in a tinderbox of our own making02:30 Political rhetoric has escalated out of control03:00 Young kids lost their father over a political dispute03:45 When you resort to violence, you are no longer practicing politics05:00 Dehumanizing rhetoric leads to violence07:15 We collectively need to step back in this movement09:00 The way politics has been conducted won't lead us to a better place10:15 We have underreacted to political violence in recent years11:30 Unity doesn't mean agreeing, it means agreeing to the process12:45 The super online angry fringe whips people up13:45 Hopefully this is the “enough is enough” moment15:45 Algorithms incentive and feed into the extremist rhetoric16:45 Hoping our leaders can rise up and meet the moment19:15 The tech companies have created this environment21:15 Congressman Greg Landsman joins the Chuck Toddcast 21:30 Charlie Kirk shot at event on UVU campus 24:15 We need to turn down the temperature on political rhetoric 25:30 Social media algorithms have accelerated polarization 28:00 Being super online warps your brain 29:15 Political leadership that crosses the line needs to be called out 29:45 Social media companies shouldn't be shielded from litigation 30:45 Algorithms turn social media platforms into publishers 32:15 Need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people 33:45 We're likely to slide into a "which side is more violent" debate 35:30 Why no committee investigation into Trump assassination attempt?37:45 The country is a tinderbox, the president needs to calm the waters 40:30 Democrats have been chasing Trump for 10 years 41:30 Democrats need to offer solutions and not just opposition to Trump 43:30 What did Greg do before entering politics? 44:30 What was the experience like on the city council? 48:15 Local government teaches you the basics of governing 52:15 After 9/11, congressional leaders ruined congress 53:30 700 bills made it out of committee, 50 made it to the floor 54:30 Most bills on the floor are messaging bills 55:45 America is only united when we have a common external enemy 56:45 We could be in World War 3 within a couple years 57:45 U.S. needs to make clear that it will defend allies 59:00 How do you sell defending Taiwan to the American people? 1:00:00 Should we have an Asian NATO? 1:01:15 We have to increase the cost to China for messing with Taiwan 1:02:30 Trump's trade war increases the likelihood of a hot war 1:04:50 Thoughts on the excerpts from Kamala Harris's book? 1:06:15 Were you pressured by the administration into not saying anything? 1:08:45 Will your seat be redistricted?1:09:15 Thoughts on interview with Greg Landsman 1:10:00 Excerpts from Kamala Harris's book released, are very direct 1:10:45 Harris was set up for failure as the "border czar" 1:11:45 Surprising that Biden staff treated Harris like Obama's treated him 1:13:45 Harris is cautious by nature 1:16:00 Harris likely to run again out of Biden's shadow 1:17:30 Dean Phillips is owed an apology, party needed an open debate 1:18:45 Ask Chuck 1:19:00 Importance of Michigan politics? 1:22:30 Could the energy Detroit sports teams provide could impact politics? 1:25:30 How should Democrats call out corruption & unfavorables on their side? 1:30:15 Should Democrats invite the national guard, then highlight crime in red states? 1:33:45 If the media hounded Trump about Kennedy, would he be more reactive? 1:36:15 College football games to keep an eye on 1:41:15 Find your way to do your part to de-escalate

Political strategist and K-Street veteran Bruce Mehlman joins Chuck Todd to unpack how politics, media, and business have collided in the Trump era and beyond. From the days when three television networks shaped a shared national narrative to today's fractured landscape of Substack newsletters, podcasts, and hyper-partisan social feeds, Mehlman and Chuck explore how the internet broke traditional politics.  They dive into how Washington has become a magnet for American business titans, the sky-high costs of lobbying access to President Trump, and whether bipartisan firms can even survive in the current climate.The conversation then widens to the global stage, connecting the 2008 financial crisis to the populist revolts of Brexit and Trump, and questioning whether the public underestimates just how much globalization has improved daily life. From Trump's reliance on tariffs to the reality-versus-perception debate over crime, immigration, and the economy, Mehlman outlines the policy flashpoints that will shape 2024 and beyond. Plus: what the redistricting wars could mean for democracy, and why some argue the House of Representatives needs to grow in size to reflect America's population.Timeline:00:00 Bruce Mehlman joins the Chuck ToddCast02:30 Traditional media is forced to “sand the edges”due to political climate03:15 The internet broke politics and media04:15 When there were 3 networks, news catered to the entire country05:45 The energy in media is in the podcast/substack space06:45 The importance of a varied media diet08:00 Twitter/X has become incredibly right-wing09:00 Washington D.C. has become a tent-pole for business titans10:15 Can bipartisan firms succeed in DC these days?13:30 How is the “Trump purge” affecting K-Street?15:15 Lobbying firms with access are charging astronomical rates16:15 Congress isn't passing legislation, it's all executive orders17:30 Does Mike Johnson have a go-to shop on K-Street?19:00 Was Brexit the event that caused this era of global instability?19:45 Brexit and Trump were downstream of the 2008 financial crisis21:15 The populist revolt was inevitable after the financial crisis23:30 The public takes for granted the benefits of globalization26:15 Successful western countries haven't compensated for globalization28:15 The public suffers from recency bias, things are better now30:00 The perception of the economy is the economic reality32:15 People who predict doom are perceived as right and smarter33:45 If SCOTUS takes away Trump's tariff power, will congress restore it?34:45 Trump views tariffs as the solution to every problem37:00 If Trump loses in court on tariffs, he'll just use another law38:15 There's no incentive for Dems to cut a deal due to recissions40:00 If Republicans agree to no recissions, they could find a deal41:15 If legislation passes one chamber, it should force a vote in the other42:15 Fallout from the raid on South Korean workers at the Hyundai plant?44:30 There's support for the “why” of Trump's immigration policy, not the “how”48:15 What pushback to Trump's deployment of troops to cities is most effective?50:30 The perception of crime in cities vs the reality51:45 Downplaying crime is a political loser52:30 Democrats' support for capitalism is falling and socialism is rising54:15 The most important electoral states will be GA, NC and AZ57:15 Socialism is least popular in the states Democrats need in the south59:00 Higher embrace of socialism in cities and amongst younger voters1:00:45 Thoughts on the redistricting wars?1:03:00 The size of the house needs to grow with the population

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks a whirlwind of economic, geopolitical, and political developments shaping America's future. From Trump's tariffs likely surviving a fast-tracked Supreme Court review to rising fears of stagflation fueled by deportations and trade headwinds, the economic outlook is looking grim. Abroad, Russia escalates the war by sending drones into Polish airspace, while Israel's strike on Hamas in Qatar risks leaving it more isolated on the world stage. Back home, Trump once again rewrites reality, denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein as his allies echo the talking points — raising fresh parallels to Orwell's 1984.Chuck also looks ahead to the Democratic Party's long-term challenges: how can they remain competitive nationally by 2032, when the current path to 270 electoral votes is likely gone? With Georgia and North Carolina emerging as decisive swing states, Democrats will need to expand their map and rethink their message — particularly as the “socialism” label remains toxic to southern voters.Then, political strategist and K-Street veteran Bruce Mehlman joins Chuck to unpack how politics, media, and business have collided in the Trump era and beyond. From the days when three television networks shaped a shared national narrative to today's fractured landscape of Substack newsletters, podcasts, and hyper-partisan social feeds, Mehlman and Chuck explore how the internet broke traditional politics.  They dive into how Washington has become a magnet for American business titans, the sky-high costs of lobbying access to President Trump, and whether bipartisan firms can even survive in the current climate.The conversation then widens to the global stage, connecting the 2008 financial crisis to the populist revolts of Brexit and Trump, and questioning whether the public underestimates just how much globalization has improved daily life. From Trump's reliance on tariffs to the reality-versus-perception debate over crime, immigration, and the economy, Mehlman outlines the policy flashpoints that will shape 2024 and beyond. Plus: what the redistricting wars could mean for democracy, and why some argue the House of Representatives needs to grow in size to reflect America's population.Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states each party should target in order to make them battlegrounds by 2032, and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:00 Trump's tariffs likely to stay in place despite expedited court ruling02:15 Trump's team pushed SCOTUS to rule quickly04:00 John Roberts is always hesitant to upset those in power06:00 The bad vibes surrounding the economy look to be right07:15 Economy was facing headwinds, tariffs & deportations make it worse09:30 The conditions for stagflation are forming11:30 Incursion of Russian attack drones into Polish airspace12:15 Putin has escalated the war since Alaska summit with Trump13:45 Israel makes brazen strike on Hamas political wing in Qatar15:45 There's no chance Trump would have approved strike in advance16:45 Strike could further isolate Israel18:00 Israel is a wedge issue amongst the American electorate20:00 Trump goes full George Orwell, denies letter to Epstein21:15 Trump staffers have been willing to double down on behalf of Trump22:30 We're living through Orwell's 198424:30 Democrats can weaponize Epstein to highlight Trump's dishonesty26:30 How can Democrats become a competitive national party in 2032?27:30 By 2032, the current path to 270 won't be there for Democrats29:15 Georgia and North Carolina will become the most important swing states30:30 Democrats need to figure out how to expand their path to 27032:30 The word socialism is toxic to voters in the south34:30 Democrats will have to rebrand and back off the socialism label39:00 Bruce Mehlman joins the Chuck ToddCast 41:30 Traditional media is forced to "sand the edges"due to political climate 42:15 The internet broke politics and media 43:15 When there were 3 networks, news catered to the entire country 44:45 The energy in media is in the podcast/substack space 45:45 The importance of a varied media diet 47:00 Twitter/X has become incredibly right-wing 48:00 Washington D.C. has become a tent-pole for business titans 49:15 Can bipartisan firms succeed in DC these days? 52:30 How is the "Trump purge" affecting K-Street? 54:15 Lobbying firms with access are charging astronomical rates 55:15 Congress isn't passing legislation, it's all executive orders 56:30 Does Mike Johnson have a go-to shop on K-Street? 58:00 Was Brexit the event that caused this era of global instability? 58:45 Brexit and Trump were downstream of the 2008 financial crisis 1:00:15 The populist revolt was inevitable after the financial crisis 1:02:30 The public takes for granted the benefits of globalisation 1:05:15 Successful western countries haven't compensated for globalisation 1:07:15 The public suffers from recency bias, things are better now 1:09:00 The perception of the economy is the economic reality 1:11:15 People who predict doom are perceived as right and smarter 1:12:45 If SCOTUS takes away Trump's tariff power, will congress restore it? 1:13:45 Trump views tariffs as the solution to every problem 1:16:00 If Trump loses in court on tariffs, he'll just use another law 1:17:15 There's no incentive for Dems to cut a deal due to recissions 1:19:00 If Republicans agree to no recissions, they could find a deal 1:20:15 If legislation passes one chamber, it should force a vote in the other 1:21:15 Fallout from the raid on South Korean workers at the Hyundai plant? 1:23:30 There's support for the "why" of Trump's immigration policy, not the "how" 1:27:15 What pushback to Trump's deployment of troops to cities is most effective? 1:29:30 The perception of crime in cities vs the reality 1:30:45 Downplaying crime is a political loser 1:31:30 Democrats' support for capitalism is falling and socialism is rising 1:33:15 The most important electoral states will be GA, NC and AZ 1:36:15 Socialism is least popular in the states Democrats need in the south 1:38:00 Higher embrace of socialism in cities and amongst younger voters 1:39:45 Thoughts on the redistricting wars? 1:42:00 The size of the house needs to grow with the population1:44:30 Chuck's thoughts on the interview with Bruce Mehlman 1:45:15 The Toddcast Top 5 - States each party should target as battlegrounds 1:46:30 Top 5 states Democrats should target 1:53:00 Top 5 states Republicans should target 1:57:30 Ask Chuck 1:57:45 Why be in congress if you have no interest in exercising power? 2:04:15 Potential democracy reforms that the U.S. could pass? 2:08:30 Was the eugenics movement similar to the current anti-vax movement?

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks a whirlwind of economic, geopolitical, and political developments shaping America's future. From Trump's tariffs likely surviving a fast-tracked Supreme Court review to rising fears of stagflation fueled by deportations and trade headwinds, the economic outlook is looking grim. Abroad, Russia escalates the war by sending drones into Polish airspace, while Israel's strike on Hamas in Qatar risks leaving it more isolated on the world stage. Back home, Trump once again rewrites reality, denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein as his allies echo the talking points — raising fresh parallels to Orwell's 1984.He also looks ahead to the Democratic Party's long-term challenges: how can they remain competitive nationally by 2032, when the current path to 270 electoral votes is likely gone? With Georgia and North Carolina emerging as decisive swing states, Democrats will need to expand their map and rethink their message — particularly as the “socialism” label remains toxic to southern voters.Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states each party should target in order to make them battlegrounds by 2032, and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:00 Trump's tariffs likely to stay in place despite expedited court ruling02:15 Trump's team pushed SCOTUS to rule quickly04:00 John Roberts is always hesitant to upset those in power06:00 The bad vibes surrounding the economy look to be right07:15 Economy was facing headwinds, tariffs & deportations make it worse09:30 The conditions for stagflation are forming11:30 Incursion of Russian attack drones into Polish airspace12:15 Putin has escalated the war since Alaska summit with Trump13:45 Israel makes brazen strike on Hamas political wing in Qatar15:45 There's no chance Trump would have approved strike in advance16:45 Strike could further isolate Israel18:00 Israel is a wedge issue amongst the American electorate20:45 Trump goes full George Orwell, denies letter to Epstein 22:00 Trump staffers have been willing to double down on behalf of Trump 23:15 We're living through Orwell's 1984 25:15 Democrats can weaponize Epstein to highlight Trump's dishonesty 27:15 How can Democrats become a competitive national party in 2032? 28:15 By 2032, the current path to 270 won't be there for Democrats 30:00 Georgia and North Carolina will become the most important swing states 31:15 Democrats need to figure out how to expand their path to 270 33:15 The word socialism is toxic to voters in the south 35:15 Democrats will have to rebrand and back off the socialism label38:45 The Toddcast Top 5 - States each party should target as battlegrounds 40:00 Top 5 states Democrats should target 46:30 Top 5 states Republicans should target 51:00 Ask Chuck 51:15 Why be in congress if you have no interest in exercising power? 57:45 Potential democracy reforms that the U.S. could pass? 1:02:00 Was the eugenics movement similar to the current anti-vax movement?

Physician-turned-politician Abdul El-Sayed joins Chuck Todd to discuss why he left medicine for the rough-and-tumble of politics. From the challenges of running for office with a foreign name to centering his campaign on improving life for children, El-Sayed argues that healthcare isn't just about access—it's about fairness. He pulls back the curtain on a system where insurers and hospital CEOs collude to inflate prices, pharmaceutical companies raise costs simply because they can, and Americans are tricked into thinking “choice” in healthcare actually benefits them.The conversation doesn't stop at healthcare—it spans the crisis of trust in public health, the lessons El-Sayed learned from his 2018 gubernatorial run, and the corrosive role of money in politics. He weighs in on Gretchen Whitmer's record, Trump's overreach beyond Article II, and what sets him apart in Michigan's Senate race. And in a moment of global reflection, El-Sayed takes on the politics of genocide—from Israel and Gaza to China's treatment of the Uighurs—arguing that calling atrocities by their name is a test of values, even when nuance is hard to find in today's polarized climate.Timeline:00:00 Abdul El-Sayed joins the Chuck ToddCast01:45 What made you choose politics when your background is medicine?03:30 The challenge of running for office with a foreign name04:30 Centering politics around improving the world for children05:30 Disparities in access to health care based on money and connections07:00 Health insurance is getting worse despite rising cost08:15 Insurers and hospital CEOs collude to raise prices10:15 What should be the cost expectation for pharmaceuticals?11:45 Pharma companies raise prices because they can12:45 RFK Jr. shouldn't be anywhere near healthcare13:45 The impact of the internet on  public health15:45 The crisis Kennedy is creating at HHS and CDC16:30 How can we restore trust in public health authorities?18:45 MAHA's appeal is the idea you can control your health future20:00 Parallels between public health and education21:45 Health relies on both the individual and public health22:45 Healthcare industry has tricked the public using concept of “choice”24:30 Would you keep a semi-privatized system under medicare for all?27:00 Health networks curtail choice and raise prices28:30 What did you learn from your 2018 run for governor?31:00 The disease of our political system is money buying politicians and policy32:15 Trump spoke to economic pain and was able to reach voters33:45 Assessment of Gretchen Whitmer's governorship35:45 Whitmer tried to work with Trump at times, will you?37:45 Trump is exercising far more power than Article 2 permits39:30 Differences between you and your opponents for MI senate?40:15 Taking corporate money is a major philosophical difference42:45 Reforming public health will require healthcare pros in D.C.44:30 The trend of public health officials running for office46:45 How much will Israel/Gaza factor into the election?48:00 Calling something a genocide when you see it is a values test49:15 Was Israel justified in going after Hamas? How much was justifiable?50:15 The extremes on both sides of the war strengthen each other51:15 We aim, arm and abet Israeli leaders who don't want two states52:15 Tax dollars should benefit taxpayers, not foreign militaries53:15 It's difficult to find nuance in our current politics55:30 Money in politics make it difficult to have an honest conversation56:15 Having a nuanced conversation around the world genocide58:30 The holocaust can't set the bar for use of the term “genocide”1:00:00 Is China committing genocide of the Uighurs?1:01:15 Using the word genocide can just “switch off” voters1:03:30 People assume having an Arab name means tribal loyalty to Arabs

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, the conversation turns to the political battles shaping 2025. From the issues Democrats should lean into—and the ones they should avoid—to Trump's trolling of Chicago and his administration's push for a showdown over crime and “terrorism,” the stakes are high. Chuck dives into how the White House is setting the stage for possible military action against cartels and even Venezuela, with flimsy constitutional justifications that have sparked pushback from voices like Rand Paul. Finally, Chuck gives a history lesson on Gerald Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon and its impact on modern politics, recaps the weekend in college football, and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 The issues Democrats should run on, and issues they should avoid 01:15 Trump's trolling of Chicago got the reaction he wanted 02:30 The administration wants a showdown over Chicago 04:30 The administration's aggressive application of the term "terrorism" 06:15 The Democratic base wants fight, government shutdown likely 08:15 Trump administration setting the stage for war with Venezuela 09:30 Administration needs to justify designating cartels terrorists 12:45 Trump's justification to congress for military action against cartels 15:00 Trump's justification was lacking, and didn't mention Venezuela 16:15 Trump ignoring the constitution in rationalizing action against cartels 17:45 Vance says fighting cartels is best use of military 19:15 JD gets into back and forth with Rand Paul on X 20:45 Venezuela story should be consuming Washington 22:15 Rand Paul has been willing to be combative with administration 25:15 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Abdul El-Sayed 26:45 This week in history - Chuck's history lesson 27:45 Gerald Ford pardoned Nixon on September 8th, 1974 29:30 The case for pardoning Nixon 31:45 The case against pardoning Nixon 34:30 Ford's decision implied the country couldn't handle a trial 35:45 A majority of the country thought the pardon was wrong 37:30 Nixon never got his due process 38:45 Pardon was a stain on presidential decision making 39:15 College football update 43:15 Ask Chuck 43:45 Why Putin won't grant Trump a ceasefire 46:45 Why do Epstein victims face dehumanization when Trump doesn't? 50:30 Thoughts on the political salience of this season of South Park?

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, the conversation turns to the political battles shaping 2025. From the issues Democrats should lean into—and the ones they should avoid—to Trump's trolling of Chicago and his administration's push for a showdown over crime and “terrorism,” the stakes are high. Chuck dives into how the White House is setting the stage for possible military action against cartels and even Venezuela, with flimsy constitutional justifications that have sparked pushback from voices like Rand Paul. Meanwhile, Democrats face their own identity struggles, from the risks of being tied to “socialism” with Latino voters to Bernie Sanders' refusal to formally join the party. Plus, a look ahead to the Michigan Democratic Senate primary, where three strong contenders could reshape the party's futureThen, physician-turned-politician Abdul El-Sayed joins Chuck to discuss why he left medicine for the rough-and-tumble of politics. From the challenges of running for office with a foreign name to centering his campaign on improving life for children, El-Sayed argues that healthcare isn't just about access—it's about fairness. He pulls back the curtain on a system where insurers and hospital CEOs collude to inflate prices, pharmaceutical companies raise costs simply because they can, and Americans are tricked into thinking “choice” in healthcare actually benefits them.The conversation doesn't stop at healthcare—it spans the crisis of trust in public health, the lessons El-Sayed learned from his 2018 gubernatorial run, and the corrosive role of money in politics. He weighs in on Gretchen Whitmer's record, Trump's overreach beyond Article II, and what sets him apart in Michigan's Senate race. And in a moment of global reflection, El-Sayed takes on the politics of genocide—from Israel and Gaza to China's treatment of the Uighurs—arguing that calling atrocities by their name is a test of values, even when nuance is hard to find in today's polarized climate.Finally, Chuck gives a history lesson on Gerald Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon and its impact on modern politics, recaps the weekend in college football, and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction04:00 The issues Democrats should run on, and issues they should avoid05:15 Trump's trolling of Chicago got the reaction he wanted06:30 The administration wants a showdown over Chicago08:30 The administration's aggressive application of the term “terrorism”10:15 The Democratic base wants fight, government shutdown likely12:15 Trump administration setting the stage for war with Venezuela13:30 Administration needs to justify designating cartels terrorists16:45 Trump's justification to congress for military action against cartels 19:00 Trump's justification was lacking, and didn't mention Venezuela 20:15 Trump ignoring the constitution in rationalizing action against cartels 21:45 Vance says fighting cartels is best use of military 23:15 JD gets into back and forth with Rand Paul on X 24:45 Venezuela story should be consuming Washington 26:15 Rand Paul has been willing to be combative with administration 29:00 The progressive left won't succeed if they're associated with socialism 30:45 "Socialism" isn't rebrandable with Latino voters 31:45 Bernie Sanders still hasn't joined the Democratic party 33:15 Michigan Democratic senate primary has 3 great candidates33:45 Abdul El-Sayed joins the Chuck ToddCast 35:30 What made you choose politics when your background is medicine? 37:15 The challenge of running for office with a foreign name 38:15 Centering politics around improving the world for children 39:15 Disparities in access to health care based on money and connections 40:45 Health insurance is getting worse despite rising cost 42:00 Insurers and hospital CEOs collude to raise prices 44:00 What should be the cost expectation for pharmaceuticals? 45:30 Pharma companies raise prices because they can 46:30 RFK Jr. shouldn't be anywhere near healthcare 47:30 The impact of the internet on public health 49:30 The crisis Kennedy is creating at HHS and CDC 50:15 How can we restore trust in public health authorities? 52:30 MAHA's appeal is the idea you can control your health future 53:45 Parallels between public health and education 55:30 Health relies on both the individual and public health 56:30 Healthcare industry has tricked the public using concept of "choice" 58:15 Would you keep a semi-privatized system under medicare for all? 1:00:45 Health networks curtail choice and raise prices 1:02:15 What did you learn from your 2018 run for governor? 1:04:45 The disease of our political system is money buying politicians and policy 1:06:00 Trump spoke to economic pain and was able to reach voters 1:07:30 Assessment of Gretchen Whitmer's governorship 1:09:30 Whitmer tried to work with Trump at times, will you? 1:11:30 Trump is exercising far more power than Article 2 permits 1:13:15 Differences between you and your opponents for MI senate? 1:14:00 Taking corporate money is a major philosophical difference 1:16:30 Reforming public health will require healthcare pros in D.C. 1:18:15 The trend of public health officials running for office 1:20:30 How much will Israel/Gaza factor into the election? 1:21:45 Calling something a genocide when you see it is a values test 1:23:00 Was Israel justified in going after Hamas? How much was justifiable? 1:24:00 The extremes on both sides of the war strengthen each other 1:25:00 We aim, arm and abet Israeli leaders who don't want two states 1:26:00 Tax dollars should benefit taxpayers, not foreign militaries 1:27:00 It's difficult to find nuance in our current politics 1:29:15 Money in politics make it difficult to have an honest conversation 1:30:00 Having a nuanced conversation around the world genocide 1:32:15 The holocaust can't set the bar for use of the term "genocide" 1:33:45 Is China committing genocide of the Uighurs? 1:35:00 Using the word genocide can just "switch off" voters1:42:45 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Abdul El-Sayed 1:44:15 This week in history - Chuck's history lesson 1:45:15 Gerald Ford pardoned Nixon on September 8th, 1974 1:47:00 The case for pardoning Nixon 1:49:15 The case against pardoning Nixon 1:52:00 Ford's decision implied the country couldn't handle a trial 1:53:15 A majority of the country thought the pardon was wrong 1:55:00 Nixon never got his due process 1:56:15 Pardon was a stain on presidential decision making 1:56:45 College football update 2:00:45 Ask Chuck 2:01:15 Why Putin won't grant Trump a ceasefire 2:04:15 Why do Epstein victims face dehumanization when Trump doesn't? 2:08:00 Thoughts on the political salience of this season of South Park?

Chuck Todd is joined by Punchbowl News co-founders Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer to unpack the turmoil gripping Capitol Hill in the Trump 2.0 era. With Congress ceding power and lawmakers increasingly preoccupied with their own reelection campaigns, the leadership is under fire as redistricting battles in states like California and Texas threaten to tip the House majority. Democrats' gamble on independent redistricting may backfire, institutionalists in the GOP have all but vanished, and even the Senate is starting to resemble the fractious House of a decade ago. The conversation also dives into whether John Cornyn can outmaneuver Ken Paxton, how redistricting uncertainty could push members into statewide races, and the looming prospect of a government shutdown with healthcare concessions as Democrats' strongest bargaining chip.Beyond the legislative fights, the episode explores high-stakes questions over tariffs, the White House's pressure campaign against releasing Epstein files, and GOP senators' unwillingness to challenge RFK Jr. 's controversial moves at HHS. With potential Senate retirements on the horizon and California's referendum putting Democrats in survival mode, Sherman and Palmer argue that members of Congress are increasingly acting less like lawmakers and more like elected pundits. As Punchbowl becomes the “local paper” of Capitol Hill, this episode maps the fault lines shaping both parties—and the country's future.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer join the Chuck ToddCast02:00 Congress has ceded their power in Trump 2.003:45 After Labor Day, lawmakers worry about reelection campaign04:45 Leadership is taking flak from members over redistricting05:30 California or Texas redistricting could swing majority06:15 Redistricting creating massive uncertainty for lawmakers07:45 Democrats backed independent redistricting and it hurt them08:30 Are there any institutionalists left in the GOP?09:45 The Senate is starting to behave like the House 10 years ago11:30 Redistricting could cause members to run for statewide office13:30 Is John Cornyn playing for time to prove he can beat Ken Paxton?14:45 Cornyn closing gap with Paxton, but still well behind17:00 Democrats have no incentive to cut deal, avoid government shutdown18:15 White House and Congress have different targets for CR19:15 Hidden perils for Dems if they shut down government21:00 Healthcare is the best concession Democrats can extract22:45 If Democrats shut down the government, how do they get out of it?23:45 Trump will make a shutdown painful for Democrats24:30 Dems in the minority have never caused a shutdown26:30 If Newsom loses the referendum, how will it affect congress?28:00 Polling shows referendum barely above 50%29:15 California's system has been good to Republicans30:45 If Newsom loses, the party goes into survival mode33:30 If courts stop tariffs, would Congress vote authority to Trump?35:30 House might capitulate on tariffs, the senate won't36:45 Any chance Schumer and Jeffries meet with Trump?38:30 Trump likely has the votes to prevent Epstein release40:00 Epstein files caused rules committee to freeze congress41:15 White House is pressuring/whipping members against file release43:15 Where are GOP senators on RFK Jr's actions at HHS?44:30 GOP senators are afraid to exercise any leverage45:45 Is Russia/Putin the only line that would divide Republicans?47:00 Will there be any more GOP senate retirements?49:00 Plans for Punchbowl news?51:30 Members of congress have become elected Trump pundits on TV53:45 Punchbowl has become the local paper for capitol hill

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks the growing unease in the GOP over RFK Jr.'s influence and Florida's decision to drop school vaccine mandates, raising the question of how the once-fringe anti-vax movement went mainstream. Drawing historical parallels to the prohibition era, he examines how framing the issue as “personal freedom” and missteps like the COVID mandate fueled a cultural backlash that could take decades to undo, threatening long-term public health. The conversation then shifts to politics, with Trump maneuvering to dominate the NYC mayoral race—pressuring rivals, exploiting ranked-choice voting debates, and turning contests in New York and California into referendums on his influence, just as Democrats look to tie special elections back to Trump himself.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:00:00 Introduction02:30 Alarm over RFK growing in GOP congress, but don't expect action03:15 Florida dropping the vaccine mandate for kids in schools06:30 How did the kooky anti-vax movement go mainstream?07:00 Anti-vaxx movement has historical parallel in prohibition movement08:30 Anti-alcohol movement seized on a particular moment in time09:15 Anti-vaxx movement has been framed as a personal freedom issue10:15 Biggest mistake by public health officials was the Covid vaccine mandate11:30 Prohibition created crime & deaths from bootlegged alcohol14:00 Officials know potential harm, and made the decision anyway15:30 Older generation has memories of deaths from these diseases16:45 It could take decades to reverse the damage to public health18:30 Pro vaccine messaging needs to not be political20:00 Trump trying to clear field in NYC mayoral to beat Mamdani21:00 NYC voters should get ranked choice voting in general election22:45 If Trump gets Adams to drop out, race will become all about Trump24:00 NYC mayoral and CA redistricting could become Trump referendums26:00 Democrats are making special elections all about Trump27:15 Ask Chuck 27:45 Are Dems just living in "the world as it is" when it comes to redistricting? 33:30 Are Trump's attacks on mail-in voting an effort to contest 2026 results? 38:00 Is there a line where Democrats fighting will be the "wrong" move? 44:00 Why is Lisa Cook being targeted for mortgage fraud when Trump did it? 49:45 How long would it take the DNC to find viable candidates in light red districts? 53:15 Could Texas/CA gerrymander backfire and put more safe seats in play

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks the growing unease in the GOP over RFK Jr.'s influence and Florida's decision to drop school vaccine mandates, raising the question of how the once-fringe anti-vax movement went mainstream. Drawing historical parallels to the prohibition era, he examines how framing the issue as “personal freedom” and missteps like the COVID mandate fueled a cultural backlash that could take decades to undo, threatening long-term public health. The conversation then shifts to politics, with Trump maneuvering to dominate the NYC mayoral race—pressuring rivals, exploiting ranked-choice voting debates, and turning contests in New York and California into referendums on his influence, just as Democrats look to tie special elections back to Trump himself.Then, Chuck is joined by Punchbowl News co-founders Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer to unpack the turmoil gripping Capitol Hill in the Trump 2.0 era. With Congress ceding power and lawmakers increasingly preoccupied with their own reelection campaigns, the leadership is under fire as redistricting battles in states like California and Texas threaten to tip the House majority. Democrats' gamble on independent redistricting may backfire, institutionalists in the GOP have all but vanished, and even the Senate is starting to resemble the fractious House of a decade ago. The conversation also dives into whether John Cornyn can outmaneuver Ken Paxton, how redistricting uncertainty could push members into statewide races, and the looming prospect of a government shutdown with healthcare concessions as Democrats' strongest bargaining chip.Beyond the legislative fights, the episode explores high-stakes questions over tariffs, the White House's pressure campaign against releasing Epstein files, and GOP senators' unwillingness to challenge RFK Jr. 's controversial moves at HHS. With potential Senate retirements on the horizon and California's referendum putting Democrats in survival mode, Sherman and Palmer argue that members of Congress are increasingly acting less like lawmakers and more like elected pundits. As Punchbowl becomes the “local paper” of Capitol Hill, this episode maps the fault lines shaping both parties—and the country's future.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction02:30 Alarm over RFK growing in GOP congress, but don't expect action03:15 Florida dropping the vaccine mandate for kids in schools06:30 How did the kooky anti-vax movement go mainstream?07:00 Anti-vaxx movement has historical parallel in prohibition movement08:30 Anti-alcohol movement seized on a particular moment in time09:15 Anti-vaxx movement has been framed as a personal freedom issue10:15 Biggest mistake by public health officials was the Covid vaccine mandate11:30 Prohibition created crime & deaths from bootlegged alcohol14:00 Officials know potential harm, and made the decision anyway15:30 Older generation has memories of deaths from these diseases16:45 It could take decades to reverse the damage to public health18:30 Pro vaccine messaging needs to not be political20:00 Trump trying to clear field in NYC mayoral to beat Mamdani21:00 NYC voters should get ranked choice voting in general election22:45 If Trump gets Adams to drop out, race will become all about Trump24:00 NYC mayoral and CA redistricting could become Trump referendums26:00 Democrats are making special elections all about Trump29:15 Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer join the Chuck ToddCast 31:15 Congress has ceded their power in Trump 2.0 33:00 After Labor Day, lawmakers worry about reelection campaign 34:00 Leadership is taking flak from members over redistricting 34:45 California or Texas redistricting could swing majority 35:30 Redistricting creating massive uncertainty for lawmakers 37:00 Democrats backed independent redistricting and it hurt them 37:45 Are there any institutionalists left in the GOP? 39:00 The Senate is starting to behave like the House 10 years ago 40:45 Redistricting could cause members to run for statewide office 42:45 Is John Cornyn playing for time to prove he can beat Ken Paxton? 44:00 Cornyn closing gap with Paxton, but still well behind 46:15 Democrats have no incentive to cut deal, avoid government shutdown 47:30 White House and Congress have different targets for CR 48:30 Hidden perils for Dems if they shut down government 50:15 Healthcare is the best concession Democrats can extract 52:00 If Democrats shut down the government, how do they get out of it? 53:00 Trump will make a shutdown painful for Democrats 53:45 Dems in the minority have never caused a shutdown 55:45 If Newsom loses the referendum, how will it affect congress? 57:15 Polling shows referendum barely above 50% 58:30 California's system has been good to Republicans 59:30 If Newsom loses, the party goes into survival mode 1:02:45 If courts stop tariffs, would Congress vote authority to Trump? 1:04:45 House might capitulate on tariffs, the senate won't 1:06:00 Any chance Schumer and Jeffries meet with Trump? 1:07:45 Trump likely has the votes to prevent Epstein release 1:09:15 Epstein files caused rules committee to freeze congress 1:10:30 White House is pressuring/whipping members against file release 1:12:30 Where are GOP senators on RFK Jr's actions at HHS? 1:13:45 GOP senators are afraid to exercise any leverage 1:15:00 Is Russia/Putin the only line that would divide Republicans? 1:16:15 Will there be any more GOP senate retirements? 1:18:15 Plans for Punchbowl news? 1:20:45 Members of congress have become elected Trump pundits on TV 1:23:00 Punchbowl has become the local paper for capitol hill1:25:00 Ask Chuck 1:25:30 Are Dems just living in "the world as it is" when it comes to redistricting? 1:31:15 Are Trump's attacks on mail-in voting an effort to contest 2026 results? 1:35:45 Is there a line where Democrats fighting will be the "wrong" move? 1:41:45 Why is Lisa Cook being targeted for mortgage fraud when Trump did it? 1:47:30 How long would it take the DNC to find viable candidates in light red districts? 1:51:00 Could Texas/CA gerrymander backfire and put more safe seats in play?

Chuck Todd digs into the looming threat of a government shutdown and the political gamesmanship behind it. He explores whether Democrats will force a showdown with Republicans, the risks and rewards of standing their ground, and how history shows the party that triggers a shutdown usually pays the price. With Trump giving Democrats little incentive to compromise and a restless base demanding a fight, Chuck explains why avoiding confrontation could hurt incumbents more than a shutdown itself. Plus, in the ToddCast Top 5, he breaks down the best Senate pickup opportunities for both Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterms.Then, Pulitzer prize winning war correspondent Dexter Filkins joins Chuck to explore whether the U.S. military is prepared for the realities of modern warfare. From Ukraine's innovative battlefield tactics to Israel's use of AI, militaries around the world are embracing cheap, agile technologies that challenge America's reliance on massive, legacy weapons systems. They examine how Congress's instinct to protect jobs keeps outdated systems alive, why the Pentagon is scrambling to produce affordable drones, and how America's vast defense supply chain quietly runs through China. The conversation turns to Taiwan—home to 90% of the world's advanced microchip production—and whether the U.S. and its allies are truly ready to defend it in the event of a conflict with China.The discussion also delves into the vulnerabilities of low-earth orbit satellites, the role of companies like Palantir in military tech, and whether autonomous targeting and video game–like interfaces are desensitizing the nature of war. Beyond weapons, Filkins and Todd confront America's recruiting crisis, where three-quarters of young adults aren't eligible for service, forcing the military to experiment with “pre-boot camps.” They close with reflections on fractured alliances, Trump's effect on European defense spending, Putin's ambitions to reconstitute the Soviet Union, and Filkins's own harrowing experiences covering war zones—from Taliban executions in Kabul to jihadi training camps before 9/11.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction02:15 Will the Democrats force a showdown over a government shutdown?04:30 Can Democrats trust Republicans to spend appropriated money?05:15 Trump has given Democrats no incentive to come to the table06:15 GOP forced shutdown in 2013, paid a heavy political price08:45 Usually the party that forces shutdown goes down in polls10:45 Democrats would do well to get caught fighting13:00 If Democrats roll over, a “burn the establishment” mood will follow14:45 The Democratic base is angry, not fighting puts incumbents at risk16:00 Gavin Newsom has been rewarded for fighting18:00 Trump has written off catering to the middle19:15 Shutdown is risky, but provides a message for the midterms22:00 A government shutdown is more likely than not23:15 ToddCast Top 5 - Best senate pickup opportunities for each party24:30 Top 5 senate seats for Democrats to pick up31:45 Democrats need to put more seats in play32:30 Top 5 senate seats for Republicans to pick up40:45 Dexter Filkins joins the Chuck ToddCast 42:45 Is the U.S. military vulnerable to small tech innovation? 43:15 U.S. military is studying Ukraine and Israel's innovations 44:45 U.S. military relies on few, very expensive weapons 46:15 Legacy weapon systems get updated, rarely replaced 47:30 Congress defends status quo to protect jobs in their district 49:00 America spends huge money, doesn't get bang for buck 50:15 Pentagon has new program making cheap, accurate drones 51:30 50,000 American defense supply chains lead back to China 53:45 Defending Taiwan is a massive logistical challenge 54:30 Is America ready to help Taiwan survive war with China? 55:30 Taiwan produces 90% of the world's advanced microchips 56:30 If Taiwan falls, the world economy would grind to a halt 57:45 The Asian-Pacific alliance isn't rock solid 59:15 War between the U.S. and China would be ugly 1:00:00 Low-earth orbit satellites are vulnerable to attack 1:01:00 Destroying the satellite network is mutually assured destruction 1:02:15 China is watching the U.S. response to Ukraine war 1:04:30 Would Japan jump into a war between the U.S. and China? 1:05:30 Israel's military is using AI for targeting 1:08:30 What is Palantir's role with military applications? 1:10:00 Military systems aren't interconnected for cybersecurity safety 1:11:30 Modern warfare will require a rapid decision making process 1:12:45 Autonomous targeting required to avoid jamming 1:14:15 Modern targeting systems are incredibly advanced 1:16:00 How much is war desensitized by its video game nature? 1:18:00 Recruiting problems for the U.S. military 1:19:15 75% of prime age military recruits don't qualify for service 1:20:45 Military has set up a pre-boot camp for recruits to lose weight 1:22:15 What size of military force do we need? 1:23:45 The fracturing of U.S. alliances in an era of nationalism 1:25:15 Trump scared the Europeans into increasing defense spending 1:27:00 Putin has been clear he wants to reconstitute the Soviet Union 1:27:30 Would Trump defend/liberate the Baltics in an article 5 scenario? 1:28:30 If Europe gets serious about defense, Trump did a good thing 1:29:45 How did defense/military become your beat? 1:31:15 Surviving close calls when covering a war zone 1:32:30 Watching a live execution at the Kabul sports stadium in the 90s 1:33:30 Seeing the jihadi training camps in Afghanistan prior to 9/11 1:34:30 Any desire to cover an active war zone again?1:38:00 Ask Chuck 1:38:15 Book suggestions for 2000 era politics? 1:45:00 Love for the DeMaurice Smith interview 1:46:45 Why isn't the public more up in arms over unilateral tariffs?

Chuck Todd digs into the looming threat of a government shutdown and the political gamesmanship behind it. He explores whether Democrats will force a showdown with Republicans, the risks and rewards of standing their ground, and how history shows the party that triggers a shutdown usually pays the price. With Trump giving Democrats little incentive to compromise and a restless base demanding a fight, Chuck explains why avoiding confrontation could hurt incumbents more than a shutdown itself. Plus, in the ToddCast Top 5, he breaks down the best Senate pickup opportunities for both Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterms.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction02:15 Will the Democrats force a showdown over a government shutdown?04:30 Can Democrats trust Republicans to spend appropriated money?05:15 Trump has given Democrats no incentive to come to the table06:15 GOP forced shutdown in 2013, paid a heavy political price08:45 Usually the party that forces shutdown goes down in polls10:45 Democrats would do well to get caught fighting13:00 If Democrats roll over, a “burn the establishment” mood will follow14:45 The Democratic base is angry, not fighting puts incumbents at risk16:00 Gavin Newsom has been rewarded for fighting18:00 Trump has written off catering to the middle19:15 Shutdown is risky, but provides a message for the midterms22:00 A government shutdown is more likely than not23:15 ToddCast Top 5 - Best senate pickup opportunities for each party24:30 Top 5 senate seats for Democrats to pick up31:45 Democrats need to put more seats in play32:30 Top 5 senate seats for Republicans to pick up40:00 Ask Chuck40:15 Book suggestions for 2000's era politics? 47:00 Love for the DeMaurice Smith interview 48:45 Why isn't the public more up in arms over unilateral tariffs?

Pulitzer Prize winning war correspondent Dexter Filkins joins Chuck Todd to explore whether the U.S. military is prepared for the realities of modern warfare. From Ukraine's innovative battlefield tactics to Israel's use of AI, militaries around the world are embracing cheap, agile technologies that challenge America's reliance on massive, legacy weapons systems. They examine how Congress's instinct to protect jobs keeps outdated systems alive, why the Pentagon is scrambling to produce affordable drones, and how America's vast defense supply chain quietly runs through China. The conversation turns to Taiwan—home to 90% of the world's advanced microchip production—and whether the U.S. and its allies are truly ready to defend it in the event of a conflict with China.The discussion also delves into the vulnerabilities of low-earth orbit satellites, the role of companies like Palantir in military tech, and whether autonomous targeting and video game–like interfaces are desensitizing the nature of war. Beyond weapons, Filkins and Todd confront America's recruiting crisis, where three-quarters of young adults aren't eligible for service, forcing the military to experiment with “pre-boot camps.” They close with reflections on fractured alliances, Trump's effect on European defense spending, Putin's ambitions to reconstitute the Soviet Union, and Filkins's own harrowing experiences covering war zones—from Taliban executions in Kabul to jihadi training camps before 9/11.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Dexter Filkins joins the Chuck ToddCast02:00 Is the U.S. military vulnerable to small tech innovation?02:30 U.S. military is studying Ukraine and Israel's innovations04:00 U.S. military relies on few, very expensive weapons05:30 Legacy weapon systems get updated, rarely replaced06:45 Congress defends status quo to protect jobs in their district08:15 America spends huge money, doesn't get bang for buck09:30 Pentagon has new program making cheap, accurate drones10:45 50,000 American defense supply chains lead back to China13:00 Defending Taiwan is a massive logistical challenge13:45 Is America ready to help Taiwan survive war with China?14:45 Taiwan produces 90% of the world's advanced microchips15:45 If Taiwan falls, the world economy would grind to a halt17:00 The Asian-Pacific alliance isn't rock solid18:30 War between the U.S. and China would be ugly19:15 Low-earth orbit satellites are vulnerable to attack20:15 Destroying the satellite network is mutually assured destruction21:30 China is watching the U.S. response to Ukraine war23:45 Would Japan jump into a war between the U.S. and China?24:45 Israel's military is using AI for targeting27:45 What is Palantir's role with military applications?29:15 Military systems aren't interconnected for cybersecurity safety30:45 Modern warfare will require a rapid decision making process32:00 Autonomous targeting required to avoid jamming33:30 Modern targeting systems are incredibly advanced35:15 How much is war desensitized by its video game nature?37:15 Recruiting problems for the U.S. military38:30 75% of prime age military recruits don't quality for service40:00 Military has set up a pre-boot camp for recruits to lose weight41:30 What size of military force do we need?43:00 The fracturing of U.S. alliances in an era of nationalism44:30 Trump scared the Europeans into increasing defense spending46:15 Putin has been clear he wants to reconstitute the Soviet Union46:45 Would Trump defend/liberate the Baltics in an article 5 scenario?47:45 If Europe gets serious about defense, Trump did a good thing49:00 How did defense/military become your beat?50:30 Surviving close calls when covering a war zone51:45 Watching a live execution at the Kabul sports stadium in the 90s52:45 Seeing the jihadi training camps in Afghanistan prior to 9/1153:45 Any desire to cover an active war zone again?

Florida Democratic Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins Chuck Todd with a stark assessment of American politics: bipartisanship is dead, foreign interference has poisoned public discourse, and Democrats face an existential choice between fighting dirty or facing potential party destruction. Moskowitz, who represents Parkland and witnessed multiple system failures during that tragic shooting, argues that Trump's second term has fundamentally changed Democrats who now face primary voters demanding fighters while swing voters want uniters—an impossible contradiction that reflects deeper dysfunction where politicians receive no political reward for solving problems. He warns that increased gerrymandering from both parties will worsen congressional dysfunction while big tech companies have created a discourse environment where TikTok operates as a "psyop weapon" showing endless Gaza content while ignoring Uyghur genocide, demonstrating how public opinion gets manipulated by algorithms designed for engagement rather than truth.The conversation reveals a politician grappling with impossible strategic calculations as Florida officially becomes a red state through Trump-driven demographic shifts and COVID-era political realignment, while Democrats debate whether moderates should fall in line when progressives win or continue prioritizing electability over ideological purity. Moskowitz's insights into Israel's "generational reputational damage" and the effectiveness of Trump's intimidation politics—where physical threats cause Republican senators to cave—illustrate how normal democratic processes have been weaponized into permanent warfare. Looking ahead, he warns that Democratic failure in midterms could destroy the party entirely, while practical governance challenges like FEMA's disaster response capabilities face deliberate sabotage from a White House that realizes competent federal agencies undermine their political narrative, leaving states unable to handle hurricane logistics independently as climate disasters intensify.Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins the Chuck Toddcast01:30 As a Dem, could you ever get a job in a 2nd term DeSantis admin?02:45 The days of bipartisanship are long gone04:00 Why not stand on principle in the redistricting fight?05:00 The Democratic base wants to fight fire with fire06:00 Trump's second term has changed the Democrats07:15 Primary voters want a fighter, swing voters want a uniter08:00 More gerrymander will increase dysfunction in congress10:30 Both parties moved away from each other after cold war11:15 Foreign interference in American discourse has been effective12:45 DeSantis hasn't succeeded in repealing Florida's red flag laws14:15 Stopping school/mass shootings requires an “all of the above” approach16:15 There's no political reward for bipartisanship and solving problems18:15 There were multiple points of failure in Parkland shooting20:00 Public discourse is at the mercy of five giant tech companies 20:45 TikTok is a psyop weapon 22:45 TikTok shows Gaza content, but nothing about the Uyghurs 24:00 Restrictions government should place on social media/internet 25:15 The big tech lobby has become one of the strongest 27:30 Bipartisan support for internet regulations to protect kids 29:15 The Democratic party is losing the nuance on Israel 30:30 Social media has juiced coverage in Gaza, ignored other conflicts 32:45 Israel is doing generational reputational damage 35:30 Physical threats have caused Republican senators to cave 36:45 Trump's intimidation politics work effectively 37:45 Majority of Americans want to cut off aid to Israel 39:00 Will Israel be a true voting issue? 41:30 Populations move to the right after being attacked 42:30 Covid led to Republican dominance in Florida 46:00 Florida is officially a red state 47:15 Democrats have policy fights, Republicans have personality fights 48:45 When progressives win, should the moderates get on board? 49:45 Democrats have to value electability over purity 51:15 The power of strong political communication skills 52:00 Any interest in a Florida senate run? 53:15 Trump's presence created big rightward shift in Palm Beach county 54:30 Potential to be gerrymandered out of your seat? 55:30 If Democrats don't win in midterms it could destroy the party 56:45 Democrats can't unilaterally disarm in gerrymandering war 58:15 Trump's cover up of Epstein is openly blatant 1:00:45 What will FEMA response look like when a hurricane hits? 1:02:45 States can't handle disaster logistics without FEMA 1:07:30 White House realizes FEMA will become a problem 1:09:00 Some of the people around Trump are worse than him

Chuck Todd unpacks how Putin's latest strikes reveal Trump was played in Alaska and why Labor Day marks a new stage in the political calendar. From looming government shutdowns and Supreme Court battles over tariffs to the total collapse of checks on Trump 2.0, the conversation digs into what—if anything—remains of the pre-Trump Republican Party. With GOP senators capitulating, RFK Jr. emboldened, and even Trump hesitant to cross him, the stakes for public health and American democracy have never been higher. Todd also explores how rumors about Trump's health could spark a political feeding frenzy, why Kennedy should be forced to prove his vaccine claims, and whether any non-MAGA Republicans are willing to buck Trump to save their party.Florida Democratic Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins Chuck Todd with a stark assessment of American politics: bipartisanship is dead, foreign interference has poisoned public discourse, and Democrats face an existential choice between fighting dirty or facing potential party destruction. Moskowitz, who represents Parkland and witnessed multiple system failures during that tragic shooting, argues that Trump's second term has fundamentally changed Democrats who now face primary voters demanding fighters while swing voters want uniters—an impossible contradiction that reflects deeper dysfunction where politicians receive no political reward for solving problems. He warns that increased gerrymandering from both parties will worsen congressional dysfunction while big tech companies have created a discourse environment where TikTok operates as a "psyop weapon" showing endless Gaza content while ignoring Uyghur genocide, demonstrating how public opinion gets manipulated by algorithms designed for engagement rather than truth.The conversation reveals a politician grappling with impossible strategic calculations as Florida officially becomes a red state through Trump-driven demographic shifts and COVID-era political realignment, while Democrats debate whether moderates should fall in line when progressives win or continue prioritizing electability over ideological purity. Moskowitz's insights into Israel's "generational reputational damage" and the effectiveness of Trump's intimidation politics—where physical threats cause Republican senators to cave—illustrate how normal democratic processes have been weaponized into permanent warfare. Looking ahead, he warns that Democratic failure in midterms could destroy the party entirely, while practical governance challenges like FEMA's disaster response capabilities face deliberate sabotage from a White House that realizes competent federal agencies undermine their political narrative, leaving states unable to handle hurricane logistics independently as climate disasters intensify.Finally, he gives his reaction to the first weekend of college football and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction03:00 Putin's latest strikes show Trump was played in Alaska05:00 Labor day marks new stage in the political calendar06:00 Potential for showdown over government shutdown07:00 What is left of the pre-Trump Republican party?08:00 The checks on Trump 1.0 are gone in Trump 2.009:15 Rubio and Bessent are the only two checks left on Trump10:30 Supreme Court showdown looming over tariffs11:30 Trump has no legal authority to impose tariffs12:30 There will be a vote in Congress on tariffs14:00 Pre-Trump GOP would have stopped RFK Jr. 16:30 GOP Senators have all capitulated to Trump18:30 GOP Senators must grow a spine to build a post-Trump party20:00 Kennedy is putting children and seniors at risk of dying21:15 Even Trump seems to be afraid of crossing RFK Jr.22:00 Former CDC directors write joint op-ed sounding alarm on CDC24:00 Trumpworld only have themselves to blame for Trump health rumors25:00 Trump's health could become next “Epstein” frenzy26:15 If Trump limits appearances it will trigger a feeding frenzy27:30 Will non-MAGA Republicans buck Trump to save their seats?30:30 Is there anything left of the Republican party?31:45 People have forgotten the pre-vaccine era33:45 Kennedy should have to prove vaccines DON'T work35:30 Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins the Chuck Toddcast 37:00 As a Dem, could you ever get a job in a 2nd term DeSantis admin? 38:15 The days of bipartisanship are long gone 39:30 Why not stand on principle in the redistricting fight? 40:30 The Democratic base wants to fight fire with fire 41:30 Trump's second term has changed the Democrats 42:45 Primary voters want a fighter, swing voters want a uniter 43:30 More gerrymander will increase dysfunction in congress 46:00 Both parties moved away from each other after cold war 46:45 Foreign interference in American discourse has been effective 48:15 DeSantis hasn't succeeded in repealing Florida's red flag laws 49:45 Stopping school/mass shootings requires an "all of the above" approach 51:45 There's no political reward for bipartisanship and solving problems 53:45 There were multiple points of failure in Parkland shooting 55:30 Public discourse is at the mercy of five giant tech companies 56:15 TikTok is a psyop weapon 58:15 TikTok shows Gaza content, but nothing about the Uyghurs 59:30 Restrictions government should place on social media/internet 1:00:45 The big tech lobby has become one of the strongest 1:03:00 Bipartisan support for internet regulations to protect kids 1:04:45 The Democratic party is losing the nuance on Israel 1:06:00 Social media has juiced coverage in Gaza, ignored other conflicts 1:08:15 Israel is doing generational reputational damage 1:11:00 Physical threats have caused Republican senators to cave 1:12:15 Trump's intimidation politics work effectively 1:13:15 Majority of Americans want to cut off aid to Israel 1:14:30 Will Israel be a true voting issue? 1:17:00 Populations move to the right after being attacked 1:18:00 Covid led to Republican dominance in Florida 1:21:30 Florida is officially a red state 1:22:45 Democrats have policy fights, Republicans have personality fights 1:24:15 When progressives win, should the moderates get on board? 1:25:15 Democrats have to value electability over purity 1:26:45 The power of strong political communication skills 1:27:30 Any interest in a Florida senate run? 1:28:45 Trump's presence created big rightward shift in Palm Beach county 1:30:00 Potential to be gerrymandered out of your seat? 1:31:00 If Democrats don't win in midterms it could destroy the party 1:32:15 Democrats can't unilaterally disarm in gerrymandering war 1:33:45 Trump's cover up of Epstein is openly blatant 1:36:15 What will FEMA response look like when a hurricane hits? 1:38:15 States can't handle disaster logistics without FEMA 1:43:00 White House realizes FEMA will become a problem 1:44:30 Some of the people around Trump are worse than him1:55:00 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Jared Moskowitz 1:56:15 Chuck's experience at Miami vs. Note Dame game 2:00:45 LSU had the best win of the weekend 2:02:30 Utah had most impressive win nobody is talking about 2:03:30 Ask Chuck 2:03:45 Will politicians make changes to college NIL via legislation? 2:06:45 Can the U.S. learn from other countries for constitutional reform? 2:12:00 Does Mike Duggan running as an independent give him an advantage? 2:17:15 Will America actually be able to bring back manufacturing?

Chuck Todd unpacks how Putin's latest strikes reveal Trump was played in Alaska and why Labor Day marks a new stage in the political calendar. From looming government shutdowns and Supreme Court battles over tariffs to the total collapse of checks on Trump 2.0, the conversation digs into what—if anything—remains of the pre-Trump Republican Party. With GOP senators capitulating, RFK Jr. emboldened, and even Trump hesitant to cross him, the stakes for public health and American democracy have never been higher. Todd also explores how rumors about Trump's health could spark a political feeding frenzy, why Kennedy should be forced to prove his vaccine claims, and whether any non-MAGA Republicans are willing to buck Trump to save their party.Finally, he gives his reaction to the first weekend of college football and answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction03:00 Putin's latest strikes show Trump was played in Alaska05:00 Labor day marks new stage in the political calendar06:00 Potential for showdown over government shutdown07:00 What is left of the pre-Trump Republican party?08:00 The checks on Trump 1.0 are gone in Trump 2.009:15 Rubio and Bessent are the only two checks left on Trump10:30 Supreme Court showdown looming over tariffs11:30 Trump has no legal authority to impose tariffs12:30 There will be a vote in Congress on tariffs14:00 Pre-Trump GOP would have stopped RFK Jr. 16:30 GOP Senators have all capitulated to Trump18:30 GOP Senators must grow a spine to build a post-Trump party20:00 Kennedy is putting children and seniors at risk of dying21:15 Even Trump seems to be afraid of crossing RFK Jr.22:00 Former CDC directors write joint op-ed sounding alarm on CDC24:00 Trumpworld only have themselves to blame for Trump health rumors25:00 Trump's health could become next “Epstein” frenzy26:15 If Trump limits appearances it will trigger a feeding frenzy27:30 Will non-MAGA Republicans buck Trump to save their seats?30:30 Is there anything left of the Republican party?31:45 People have forgotten the pre-vaccine era33:45 Kennedy should have to prove vaccines DON'T work35:30 Chuck's experience at Miami vs. Note Dame game 40:00 LSU had the best win of the weekend 41:45 Utah had most impressive win nobody is talking about 42:45 Ask Chuck 43:00 Will politicians make changes to college NIL via legislation? 46:00 Can the U.S. learn from other countries for constitutional reform? 51:15 Does Mike Duggan running as an independent give him an advantage? 56:30 Will America actually be able to bring back manufacturing?

Chuck Todd is joined by former NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith to discuss his new book Turf Wars and the untold battles behind the modern NFL. Smith reflects on how he—despite never playing the game—won the trust of star athletes, navigated intense resistance from owners, and fought for free agency and labor protections. He shares candid stories of his uphill battle to lead the NFLPA, from owners attempting to block his election to risking his career to stand with players.Smith also offers a rare look inside the billionaire owners' club, likening it to a feudal kingdom where prestige and profit outweigh fairness. He reveals how Roger Goodell consolidated power, why Jerry Jones remains a polarizing force, and how owners exploit their franchises like personal toys. From hidden revenues to weak contract protections, Smith explains why the NFL has thrived financially while leaving players vulnerable. And with college athletes gaining leverage and younger NFL players more empowered, Smith warns that a seismic labor showdown between players and owners may be on the horizon.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 DeMaurice Smith joins the Chuck ToddCast03:00 Why write Turf Wars? Why did the story need to be told?05:00 Similarities between political oligarchs & NFL owners06:30 Why did you get the NFLPA job despite never playing?08:15 Players voted to strike in 80's then crossed picket line 10:00 Players went through years of litigation to get free agency11:30 NFL tried to stop NFLPA from hiring DeMaurice14:30 DeMaurice forced to risk his job to run for NFLPA job16:30 Was it hard to connect with the players?18:30 Star players vouched for DeMaurice to their teammates20:15 Goodell visited with multiple teams and it went BADLY24:30 DeMaurice was warned, NFL owners are the worst people25:00 NFL owners view their team as a toy, vehicle for prestige27:00 Owners try to pull equity out of their team without selling it28:15 Relationship with Robert Kraft30:15 Tension between younger and older owners 30:45 The good and bad of Jerry Jones31:30 Jerry Jones frustrated with “freeloading” owners33:15 The NFL is a feudal kingdom33:45 Pete Rozelle vs Roger Goodell36:15 Goodell has done an incredible job generating revenue37:15 Mike Brown isn't a billionaire without Goodell37:45 What would the league look like without owners, Packers model?39:15 Packers requirement to publicly report gives insight into league41:15 The only rule NFL placed on itself was Rooney Rule, don't follow it42:00 The NFL is comfortable knowing it's basically above the law43:00 How much revenue was the NFL hiding under its nonprofit status?44:00 The league gave up nonprofit status to hide salaries, legal issues45:15 NFL contract protections weaker than other sports46:00 NFL culture is “psychologically militaristic”47:30 Players/owners showing solidarity over kneeling for anthem48:45 NFLPA is a microcosm for labor standing up to capital. 50:15 College players have more leverage than NFL players51:30 Newer generation of players will change relationship with owners53:45 NFL owners fear educated and empowered players55:30 School should mandate financial literacy courses for players56:45 Are players concerned about the mess at the NFLPA?58:00 Players need to understand owners aren't their friends58:45 There's a war coming between players and ownership

Chuck Todd unpacks the troubling patterns that emerge after every mass shooting, from how the public rushes to confirm their priors to how culture wars are inflamed when a shooter's identity becomes politicized. With the FBI investigating the latest tragedy as a possible hate crime, trust in law enforcement once again splits along partisan lines, reflecting the deeper polarization running through government agencies and public perception alike. Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Chuck Todd's Introduction01:00 There's a pattern to every mass/school shooting02:15 People always look to confirm their priors with every shooting03:30 The shooter being trans could inflame the culture wars04:30 Shooting could be politicized in all the wrong ways06:00 FBI announces it will be investigated as terrorism/hate crime07:00 Trust and favorability of law enforcement is polarized10:00 Agencies are being run by partisans acting partisanly12:45 The public & Trump view everything through a partisan lens14:45 Chuck's thoughts on interview with DeMaurice Smith 16:45 Ask Chuck 17:00 Could local sports coverage change the local news landscape? 28:30 Friendly trash talk of Chuck's Miami Hurricanes and Green Bay Packers 31:00 Is Marco Rubio having any regrets or second thoughts? 36:15 What publication details generational voting records? 41:45 Artificial chocolate + coffee flavoring?

Chuck Todd unpacks the troubling patterns that emerge after every mass shooting, from how the public rushes to confirm their priors to how culture wars are inflamed when a shooter's identity becomes politicized. With the FBI investigating the latest tragedy as a possible hate crime, trust in law enforcement once again splits along partisan lines, reflecting the deeper polarization running through government agencies and public perception alike. Then, Todd previews his conversation with DeMaurice Smith as he turns to the looming era of labor strife in professional sports—examining how the NFL operates as a “socialist experiment,” how name-image-likeness deals and the transfer portal are shifting the mindset of athletes, and why collective bargaining disputes will be on the horizon.Then, Chuck Todd is joined by former NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith to discuss his new book Turf Wars and the untold battles behind the modern NFL. Smith reflects on how he—despite never playing the game—won the trust of star athletes, navigated intense resistance from owners, and fought for free agency and labor protections. He shares candid stories of his uphill battle to lead the NFLPA, from owners attempting to block his election to risking his career to stand with players.Smith also offers a rare look inside the billionaire owners' club, likening it to a feudal kingdom where prestige and profit outweigh fairness. He reveals how Roger Goodell consolidated power, why Jerry Jones remains a polarizing force, and how owners exploit their franchises like personal toys. From hidden revenues to weak contract protections, Smith explains why the NFL has thrived financially while leaving players vulnerable. And with college athletes gaining leverage and younger NFL players more empowered, Smith warns that a seismic labor showdown between players and owners may be on the horizon.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Chuck Todd's Introduction01:00 There's a pattern to every mass/school shooting02:15 People always look to confirm their priors with every shooting03:30 The shooter being trans could inflame the culture wars04:30 Shooting could be politicized in all the wrong ways06:00 FBI announces it will be investigated as terrorism/hate crime07:00 Trust and favorability of law enforcement is polarized10:00 Agencies are being run by partisans acting partisanly12:45 The public & Trump view everything through a partisan lens14:45 DeMaurice Smith TEASE18:00 We're about to enter an era of labor strife in professional sports19:45 The NFL is one of the great socialist experiments in America22:30 The attitude of future NFL players will change due to NIL/Xfer portal23:45 We'll likely see collective bargaining amongst college players26:45 DeMaurice Smith joins the Chuck ToddCast 29:45 Why write Turf Wars? Why did the story need to be told? 31:45 Similarities between political oligarchs & NFL owners 33:15 Why did you get the NFLPA job despite never playing? 35:00 Players voted to strike in 80's then crossed picket line 36:45 Players went through years of litigation to get free agency 38:15 NFL tried to stop NFLPA from hiring DeMaurice 41:15 DeMaurice forced to risk his job to run for NFLPA job 43:15 Was it hard to connect with the players? 45:15 Star players vouched for DeMaurice to their teammates 46:00 Goodell visited with multiple teams and it went BADLY 51:15 DeMaurice was warned, NFL owners are the worst people 51:45 NFL owners view their team as a toy, vehicle for prestige 53:45 Owners try to pull equity out of their team without selling it 55:00 Relationship with Robert Kraft 57:00 Tension between younger and older owners 57:30 The good and bad of Jerry Jones 58:15 Jerry Jones frustrated with "freeloading" owners 1:00:00 The NFL is a feudal kingdom 1:00:30 Pete Rozelle vs Roger Goodell 1:03:00 Goodell has done an incredible job generating revenue 1:04:00 Mike Brown isn't a billionaire without Goodell 1:04:30 What would the league look like without owners, Packers model? 1:06:00 Packers requirement to publicly report gives insight into league 1:08:00 The only rule NFL placed on itself was Rooney Rule, don't follow it 1:08:45 The NFL is comfortable knowing it's basically above the law 1:09:45 How much revenue was the NFL hiding under its nonprofit status? 1:10:45 The league gave up nonprofit status to hide salaries, legal issues 1:12:00 NFL contract protections weaker than other sports 1:12:45 NFL culture is "psychologically militaristic" 1:14:15 Players/owners showing solidarity over kneeling for anthem 1:15:30 NFLPA is a microcosm for labor standing up to capital. 1:17:00 College players have more leverage than NFL players 1:18:15 Newer generation of players will change relationship with owners 1:20:30 NFL owners fear educated and empowered players 1:22:15 School should mandate financial literacy courses for players 1:23:30 Are players concerned about the mess at the NFLPA? 1:24:45 Players need to understand owners aren't their friends 1:25:30 There's a war coming between players and ownership1:27:30 Chuck's thoughts on interview with DeMaurice Smith 1:29:30 Ask Chuck 1:29:45 Could local sports coverage change the local news landscape? 1:41:15 Friendly trash talk of Chuck's Miami Hurricanes and Green Bay Packers 1:43:45 Is Marco Rubio having any regrets or second thoughts? 1:49:00 What publication details generational voting records? 1:54:30 Artificial chocolate + coffee flavoring?

Chuck Todd dives into the shifting political and cultural landscape—from Trump's transformation of the information ecosystem and the  “civics lesson” his presidency has provided to the American public.  He weighs in on the administration's use of militarized “law and order” tactics and Trump's constant economic brinkmanship. The conversation ranges from Trump's similarities to Turkey's president Erdogan and his clashes with the Fed.. Chuck also introduces the new “ToddCast Top 5,” spotlighting rising Democratic contenders for 2028—from Gavin Newsom's leadership and Ruben Gallego's surge, to James Talarico's Buttigieg-style buzz and the ongoing question of when Bernie Sanders will pass the torch to AOC. Then, former Republican operative turned Harris campaign strategist Maria Comella joins Chuck to deliver a brutal post-mortem on Democratic failures and to reflect on her unique career path across the political spectrum. From her early days in Republican politics to the inner workings of the Harris campaign, Comella offers candid insights on what it takes to run for office in an era defined by partisanship, shifting voter coalitions, and struggling party identities. She shares stories about Christie's sharp self-awareness, Giuliani's early years, and the challenges Harris faced in balancing her legal background with her political ambitions.Together, Chuck and Maria dive into the pitfalls of Democratic messaging in the Trump era, why Harris couldn't connect with Republican voters, and how Biden and Harris miscalculated their approach to the left. They also explore the rise of outsider candidates like Sanders and Trump, the failure of movements like “No Labels,” and whether a third party—or even a unifying military figure—could ever gain traction. With upcoming races in New Jersey and New York on the horizon, Comella weighs in on the donor class panic over Mamdani, Cuomo's uncertain future, and what it will take for either party to break through with an electorate hungry for reform.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:15 Miami vs Notre Dame rivalry04:30 Trump has changed the information ecosystem and expectations05:30 Trump is giving the public a long overdue civics lesson06:30 Turkey & Erdogan are the model for Trump08:15 Trump backs off when the market reacts negatively09:30 Trump's firing of member of Fed board of governors heads to court11:30 If the economy was booming, the Fed wouldn't cut interest rates13:30 Administration will ramp up “law and order” tactics in blue cities14:45 National guard deployment is more about optics than crime15:45 The issue of crime in cities divides the Democratic party17:30 Trump is creating different standards between red and blue states18:45 Politicizing the economy will only go badly19:45 Trump will own the bad economy20:30 Trump inserts himself into the Roger Clemons Hall of Fame debate21:30 Trump sides with people who are caught cheating23:45 Clemons belongs in the Hall of Fame25:45 Will someone drop out of the NYC Mayoral race to stop Mamdani?27:30 The rise of, and reaction to Mamdani is similar to rise of Trump29:15 Howard University president resigns… hire Kamala Harris?31:00 Introducing the “ToddCast Top 5”31:30 Which Democrat has had the best 2025 to position presidential run?32:15 Gavin Newsom has become the leader of the Democratic party33:45 If Newsom loses referendum it will be a huge blow to his prospects34:30 Ruben Gallego has greatly increased his standing35:30 3 archetypes of Democratic presidential candidates37:45 James Talarico buzz reminiscent of Pete Buttigieg in 201740:00 Andy Beshear & Wes Moore have made waves41:30 Bernie Sanders hasn't officially passed the torch to AOC44:00 The Democratic base wants a fighter, the middle wants a uniter46:00 Maria Comella joins the Chuck Toddcast 48:00 Maria's origin story 52:30 Difficulty running for state/local offices after being in unpopular congress 53:30 Experience of working for Rudy Guiliani 57:15 Moving from Republican politics to the Harris campaign 58:15 Do Cuomo, Giuliani and Christie have much in common? 59:15 All three are voracious readers 1:00:15 Chris Christie was the most self-aware of the three 1:01:30 Christie was mad at Chuck over Meet the Press interview 1:04:00 Did you have a seat at the table with the Harris campaign? 1:05:45 Kamala Harris tried to be everything to everyone 1:07:30 Harris seemed like a more natural fit in law than in politics 1:08:15 Harris had ideological identity issues 1:09:45 Why Harris didn't appear on Joe Rogan's podcast 1:10:45 Harris for Republicans vs. Republicans for Harris 1:11:30 Biden & Harris didn't know how to talk to Republican voters 1:13:00 Liz Cheney wasn't effective as a surrogate 1:15:00 Biden & Harris were afraid to go after the left 1:16:15 Harris campaign said she'd be different, but didn't show it 1:17:30 Harris's appearance on The View symbolized her loss 1:19:15 Harris had nearly a difficult, but not impossible task 1:20:30 Harris didn't need to campaign with never Trump Republicans 1:22:00 Harris was too late with her closing argument message 1:23:30 Dukakis's closing message was just an airing of grievances 1:24:45 Harris's closing message didn't meet voters where they were 1:26:00 Democratic messaging has been dumb and lazy in Trump era 1:27:30 Obama was the last candidate the public voted "for" 1:28:45 Rise of Sanders and Trump show how weak the parties are 1:29:15 Is there room for a third party? 1:30:45 Why the "No Labels" party fell flat 1:33:30 Could a less partisan military leader bring the country together? 1:35:15 The system was built to force compromise rather than win/lose 1:37:00 Voters want a reformer/change, Harris didn't offer that 1:39:30 The GOP "establishment" let problems fester and ended up with Trump 1:41:30 Rand Paul & Josh Hawley have stayed true to themselves 1:43:15 Imitating Trump doesn't ever work for GOP candidates 1:45:30 Who on the Democratic side could break through with GOP voters? 1:47:30 The "Stop Mamdani" movement can't coalesce around one candidate 1:49:00 Donor class panicking they can't stop Mamdani 1:50:15 Schumer & Jeffries failed to find good NYC mayor candidate 1:52:30 What will Cuomo do? Could he drop out? 1:54:15 Money & ad buys won't stop Mamdani 1:56:30 New Jersey governors race will be the closest race in November 1:58:00 The Democratic consultant class is out of touch with voters2:01:15 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Maria Comella 2:01:45 Ask Chuck 2:02:00 Potential reform to remove political bias from DOJ? 2:09:00 Would a congressionally drafted amendment be better than a convention? 2:12:15 Thoughts on a non-binding constitutional convention?

Chuck Todd dives into the shifting political and cultural landscape—from Trump's transformation of the information ecosystem and the  “civics lesson” his presidency has provided to the American public.  He weighs in on the administration's use of militarized “law and order” tactics and Trump's constant economic brinkmanship. The conversation ranges from Trump's similarities to Turkey's president Erdogan and his clashes with the Fed.. Chuck also introduces the new “ToddCast Top 5,” spotlighting rising Democratic contenders for 2028—from Gavin Newsom's leadership and Ruben Gallego's surge, to James Talarico's Buttigieg-style buzz and the ongoing question of when Bernie Sanders will pass the torch to AOC. Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Introduction01:15 Miami vs Notre Dame rivalry04:30 Trump has changed the information ecosystem and expectations05:30 Trump is giving the public a long overdue civics lesson06:30 Turkey & Erdogan are the model for Trump08:15 Trump backs off when the market reacts negatively09:30 Trump's firing of member of Fed board of governors heads to court11:30 If the economy was booming, the Fed wouldn't cut interest rates13:30 Administration will ramp up “law and order” tactics in blue cities14:45 National guard deployment is more about optics than crime15:45 The issue of crime in cities divides the Democratic party17:30 Trump is creating different standards between red and blue states18:45 Politicizing the economy will only go badly19:45 Trump will own the bad economy20:30 Trump inserts himself into the Roger Clemons Hall of Fame debate21:30 Trump sides with people who are caught cheating23:45 Clemons belongs in the Hall of Fame25:45 Will someone drop out of the NYC Mayoral race to stop Mamdani?27:30 The rise of, and reaction to Mamdani is similar to rise of Trump29:15 Howard University president resigns… hire Kamala Harris?31:00 Introducing the “ToddCast Top 5”31:30 Which Democrat has had the best 2025 to position presidential run?32:15 Gavin Newsom has become the leader of the Democratic party33:45 If Newsom loses referendum it will be a huge blow to his prospects34:30 Ruben Gallego has greatly increased his standing35:30 3 archetypes of Democratic presidential candidates37:45 James Talarico buzz reminiscent of Pete Buttigieg in 201740:00 Andy Beshear & Wes Moore have made waves41:30 Bernie Sanders hasn't officially passed the torch to AOC44:00 The Democratic base wants a fighter, the middle wants a uniter46:30 Ask Chuck 46:45 Potential reform to remove political bias from DOJ? 53:45 Would a congressionally drafted amendment be better than a convention? 57:00 Thoughts on a non-binding constitutional convention? 

Former Republican operative turned Harris campaign strategist Maria Comella joins Chuck Todd to deliver a brutal post-mortem on Democratic failures and to reflect on her unique career path across the political spectrum. From her early days in Republican politics to the inner workings of the Harris campaign, Comella offers candid insights on what it takes to run for office in an era defined by partisanship, shifting voter coalitions, and struggling party identities. She shares stories about Christie's sharp self-awareness, Giuliani's early years, and the challenges Harris faced in balancing her legal background with her political ambitions.Together, Chuck and Maria dive into the pitfalls of Democratic messaging in the Trump era, why Harris couldn't connect with Republican voters, and how Biden and Harris miscalculated their approach to the left. They also explore the rise of outsider candidates like Sanders and Trump, the failure of movements like “No Labels,” and whether a third party—or even a unifying military figure—could ever gain traction. With upcoming races in New Jersey and New York on the horizon, Comella weighs in on the donor class panic over Mamdani, Cuomo's uncertain future, and what it will take for either party to break through with an electorate hungry for reform.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Maria Comella joins the Chuck Toddcast02:00 Maria's origin story06:30 Difficulty running for state/local offices after being in unpopular congress07:30 Experience of working for Rudy Guiliani11:15 Moving from Republican politics to the Harris campaign12:15 Do Cuomo, Giuliani and Christie have much in common?13:15 All three are voracious readers14:15 Chris Christie was the most self-aware of the three15:30 Christie was mad at Chuck over Meet the Press interview18:00 Did you have a seat at the table with the Harris campaign?19:45 Kamala Harris tried to be everything to everyone21:30 Harris seemed like a more natural fit in law than in politics22:15 Harris had ideological identity issues 23:45 Why Harris didn't appear on Joe Rogan's podcast24:45 Harris for Republicans vs. Republicans for Harris25:30 Biden & Harris didn't know how to talk to Republican voters27:00 Liz Cheney wasn't effective as a surrogate29:00 Biden & Harris were afraid to go after the left30:15 Harris campaign said she'd be different, but didn't show it31:30 Harris's appearance on The View symbolized her loss33:15 Harris had nearly a difficult, but not impossible task34:30 Harris didn't need to campaign with never Trump Republicans36:00 Harris was too late with her closing argument message37:30 Dukakis's closing message was just an airing of grievances38:45 Harris's closing message didn't meet voters where they were40:00 Democratic messaging has been dumb and lazy in Trump era41:30 Obama was the last candidate the public voted “for”42:45 Rise of Sanders and Trump show how weak the parties are43:15 Is there room for a third party?44:45 Why the “No Labels” party fell flat47:30 Could a less partisan military leader bring the country together?49:15 The system was built to force compromise rather than win/lose51:00 Voters want a reformer/change, Harris didn't offer that53:30 The GOP “establishment” let problems fester and ended up with Trump55:30 Rand Paul & Josh Hawley have stayed true to themselves57:15 Imitating Trump doesn't ever work for GOP candidates59:30 Who on the Democratic side could break through with GOP voters?1:01:30 The “Stop Mamdani” movement can't coalesce around one candidate1:03:00 Donor class panicking they can't stop Mamdani1:04:15 Schumer & Jeffries failed to find good NYC mayor candidate1:06:30 What will Cuomo do? Could he drop out?1:08:15 Money & ad buys won't stop Mamdani1:10:30 New Jersey governors race will be the closest race in November1:12:00 The Democratic consultant class is out of touch with voters

Chuck Todd breaks down the political paradox of August 2025, a month that generated significant headlines yet produced little actual movement in Washington's power dynamics. Despite a DC law enforcement surge that failed to target high-crime areas and escalating redistricting wars that continue eroding institutional trust, Todd argues that distractions like the worthless Ghislaine Maxwell testimony release and questionable personnel moves at the IRS are overshadowing more serious concerns about DOJ's politicization and economic warning signs. With only Rubio and Bessent providing cabinet stability as cracks emerge in the economy and potential stagflation looms by spring 2026, Todd explores how Trump's promised restrictions on mail-in voting in red states will likely backfire as voters demand expanded early voting options, while examining the broader phenomenon of "nutpicking" – when entire political parties get defined by their most outlandish members, a dynamic perfectly satirized in recent South Park episodes that mirror Elon Musk's bizarre Macrohard announcement.Then, Chuck welcomes Politico's politics bureau chief Jonathan Martin to discuss the rapidly evolving political landscape as both parties grapple with structural weaknesses and Trump's continued dominance of the political conversation. The conversation covers the Democratic Party's primary calendar shake-up, with New Hampshire maintaining its first-in-the-nation status despite ongoing debates about Iowa's role, while examining how the party's focus on winning over traditional early-state voters may not address deeper issues with rural constituencies. Martin and Todd analyze Trump's economic challenges, from emerging tariff impacts to his desperate attempts to influence interest rates, alongside his strategic use of government power to shape elections and avoid potential legal consequences.The discussion shifts to key electoral battlegrounds, particularly the New Jersey gubernatorial race featuring Mikie Sherrill and her challenger Ciattarelli, which could serve as a crucial midterm bellwether. They explore the broader implications of weak party structures, redistricting battles that Obama has now blessed, and whether Democrats are ceding their traditional "adult in the room" positioning. Their discussion concludes with lighter fare about college football, including LSU's playoff aspirations and James Madison's surprising rise as Virginia's emerging football power, offering a perfect blend of serious political analysis and seasonal sports commentary.Finally, Chuck answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Chuck Todd's Introduction02:45 August is always the slowest month in DC04:30 August made lots of headlines, but made no movement05:15 DC law enforcement surge hasn't been to high crime areas05:45 Redistricting war ramps up, corrosive to institutions06:15 Ghislaine Maxwell testimony is worthless but a distraction07:45 Billy Long firing at IRS stinks to high heaven08:45 DOJ being used to prop up Virginia's GOP governor candidate10:15 Rubio and Bessent are the only cabinet members providing stability11:30 Cracks are showing up in the economy13:15 Stagflation could show up by spring of 202614:00 DOJ could bring bogus investigations against Dem candidates 15:45 Most recent South Park episode was perfect satire of big tech16:15 Elon Musk's announcement of Macrohard feels like South Park plot17:45 Trump will order end of mail-in voting in red states18:30 Voters will demand longer early voting period20:00 Same day voting only isn't feasible21:30 “Nutpicking” - When an entire party is painted by one outlandish member23:45 Jonathan Martin joins the Chuck Toddcast! 24:15 College football kicks off 6:15 Democrats debating where to host first primary 26:30 New Hampshire will be first primary state 29:00 Winning over NH voters doesn't solve Dems issues with rural voters30:45 Iowa won't move back to first in the nation status 31:15 Democrats vacate endorsement of DSA candidate in Minneapolis 33:30 The two traditional parties are incredibly weak 34:30 Trump is creating a lot of noise, but can't distract from economy 36:15 Trump's ultimate goal is attention 24/7 37:00 Tariff impacts are starting to show up 38:45 Trump is desperate to bring down interest rates 40:00 Trump will use the power of government to affect elections 41:15 Texas redraw shows Trump is desperate to avoid third impeachment 42:30 Could Mike Johnson refuse to seat a new congress? 43:30 DOJ releases Ghislaine Maxwell testimony to appease base 45:00 DOJ's reputation will take years to recover 47:00 Democrats get no credit when being fair on redistricting 47:45 Obama gives his blessing to redistricting effort 48:30 Are Democrats ceding "adult in the room" status? 49:45 Biden overreached beyond his mandate 51:15 Redistricting will be a massive legal mess 52:00 Trump takes partial state ownership of major companies 53:30 Trump's endorsement is decisive in GOP primaries 54:45 Huge reliance on Scott Bessent to keep lid on Trump 56:45 New Jersey governor race will be a bellwether for the midterms 58:30 Mikie Sherrill bungled her answer on Mamdani 59:15 Trump is sympathetic to Ciattarelli 1:00:30 Ciattarelli has a Chris Christie quality to him 1:02:00 Sherrill would be the least "Jersey" governor 1:03:30 Will any Republican senators announce retirement? 1:05:30 Sherrod Brown's outlook in Ohio senate race 1:07:15 Brown's prize for winning is an election in two years 1:09:30 Democrats too focused on DC rather than states 1:10:30 Which college football games will you attend? 1:11:45 LSU needs to make a playoff run for Kelly to keep his job 1:14:00 James Madison becoming the football power in Virginia 1:16:30 Ask Chuck 1:16:45 How can a VP candidate hurt or boost a campaign? 1:24:15 Non-political book recommendations? 1:28:30 Will there be modifications to limit executive power post-Trump? 1:31:45 What happens if Trump declares Democratic party a terrorist organization?

Chuck Todd welcomes Politico's politics bureau chief Jonathan Martin to discuss the rapidly evolving political landscape as both parties grapple with structural weaknesses and Trump's continued dominance of the political conversation. The conversation covers the Democratic Party's primary calendar shake-up, with New Hampshire maintaining its first-in-the-nation status despite ongoing debates about Iowa's role, while examining how the party's focus on winning over traditional early-state voters may not address deeper issues with rural constituencies. Martin and Todd analyze Trump's economic challenges, from emerging tariff impacts to his desperate attempts to influence interest rates, alongside his strategic use of government power to shape elections and avoid potential legal consequences.The discussion shifts to key electoral battlegrounds, particularly the New Jersey gubernatorial race featuring Mikie Sherrill and her challenger Ciattarelli, which could serve as a crucial midterm bellwether. They explore the broader implications of weak party structures, redistricting battles that Obama has now blessed, and whether Democrats are ceding their traditional "adult in the room" positioning. Their discussion concludes with lighter fare about college football, including LSU's playoff aspirations and James Madison's surprising rise as Virginia's emerging football power, offering a perfect blend of serious political analysis and seasonal sports commentary.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Jonathan Martin joins the Chuck Toddcast!00:30 College football kicks off02:30 Democrats debating where to host first primary02:45 New Hampshire will be first primary state 05:15 Winning over NH voters doesn't solve Dems issues with rural voters 07:00 Iowa won't move back to first in the nation status 07:30 Democrats vacate endorsement of DSA candidate in Minneapolis09:45 The two traditional parties are incredibly weak 10:45 Trump is creating a lot of noise, but can't distract from economy 12:30 Trump's ultimate goal is attention 24/7 13:15 Tariff impacts are starting to show up 15:00 Trump is desperate to bring down interest rates 16:15 Trump will use the power of government to affect elections 17:30 Texas redraw shows Trump is desperate to avoid third impeachment 18:45 Could Mike Johnson refuse to seat a new congress? 19:45 DOJ releases Ghislaine Maxwell testimony to appease base 21:15 DOJ's reputation will take years to recover 23:15 Democrats get no credit when being fair on redistricting 24:00 Obama gives his blessing to redistricting effort 24:45 Are Democrats ceding "adult in the room" status? 26:00 Biden overreached beyond his mandate 27:30 Redistricting will be a massive legal mess 28:15 Trump takes partial state ownership of major companies 29:45 Trump's endorsement is decisive in GOP primaries 31:00 Huge reliance on Scott Bessent to keep lid on Trump 33:00 New Jersey governor race will be a bellwether for the midterms 34:45 Mikie Sherrill bungled her answer on Mamdani35:30 Trump is sympathetic to Ciattarelli 36:45 Ciattarelli has a Chris Christie quality to him 38:15 Sherrill would be the least "Jersey" governor 39:45 Will any Republican senators announce retirement? 41:45 Sherrod Brown's outlook in Ohio senate race 43:30 Brown's prize for winning is an election in two years 45:45 Democrats too focused on DC rather than states 46:45 Which college football games will you attend? 48:00 LSU needs to make a playoff run for Kelly to keep his job 50:15 James Madison becoming the football power in Virginia