Politics. Policy. Progress. All under one big tent. Produced by The Center for American Progress Action Fund, The Tent is a weekly news and politics podcast hosted by Daniella Gibbs Léger and Ed Chung. Listen in on each Thursday for new episodes diving in to the world that progressives are focused…
The Center for American Progress Action Fund
The Tent podcast is an incredibly engaging and informative show that delves into the world of Democratic politics with solid political analysis. The podcast kicks off with a quick round-up of top stories, providing listeners with a concise overview accompanied by insightful analysis from individuals affiliated with an influential organization in Democratic politics. This segment strikes the perfect balance, covering important topics and key players without becoming overly dragged out.
One of the best aspects of The Tent podcast is its ability to provide a platform for intriguing conversations with individuals who may not be familiar to the average listener. These conversations focus on timely and thought-provoking topics, allowing listeners to gain new perspectives and expand their understanding of various issues within the realm of Democratic politics. By featuring a diverse range of guests, the podcast offers fresh insights and keeps each episode engaging throughout.
Additionally, The Tent podcast creates a safe space for its audience in the best sense possible. The hosts and guests are clever, discreetly well-qualified individuals who not only inform listeners about recent events but also provide much-needed analysis and understanding. They empathize with their audience's frustrations and concerns, alleviating some of the pains associated with current political affairs while also injecting moments of humor into the discussions. This combination makes for an enjoyable listening experience that leaves you feeling both informed and uplifted.
While The Tent podcast excels in many areas, one potential downside is that it may lean more towards one side of the political spectrum due to its affiliation with an influential organization in Democratic politics. Listeners seeking different ideological perspectives or a more balanced approach might not find this podcast as appealing if they prefer a broader range of viewpoints or more neutral analysis.
In conclusion, The Tent podcast provides an outstanding platform that delivers top-notch political analysis within Democratic politics while maintaining an engaging and occasionally humorous tone. Its quick round-up at the beginning sets the stage for insightful conversations on timely topics which feature fascinating guests not typically found in mainstream media coverage. Although it may potentially lack a diverse range of ideological perspectives, The Tent podcast remains an excellent source for those seeking well-informed and entertaining discussions on the latest happenings in Democratic politics.
Bharat Ramamurti, former deputy director of President Joe Biden's National Economic Council, joins the show to talk about a possible “Trumpcession” and the drastic cuts congressional Republicans want to make to programs that help Americans meet their basic needs. Daniella and Colin also talk about President Donald Trump's trade wars and speak with Andrew Miller, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Journalist and host of the "Fast Politics" podcast Molly Jong-Fast joins the show to discuss the first 100 days of Trump's second term as president. Daniella and Colin also talk about the Trump administration's cruel immigration policies and House Republican plans to gut Medicaid services to pay for tax giveaways for the wealthiest Americans.
Former Gov. Jay Inslee (D-WA) discusses the fight to save our planet for future generations. Daniella and Colin also talk about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of Signal for sharing military attack plans and MAGA Republicans' cruel proposals to gut Medicaid that could cost American lives.
Jennifer Rubin, co-founder of The Contrarian, discusses the state of the news industry, and how to fight the MAGA movement. Daniella and Colin also talk about President Donald Trump's reckless tariffs and the impact they are having on the United State's national security.
María Teresa Kumar, CEO of Voto Latino, discusses how the Trump administration's economic and immigration policies are hurting Latinos and how Democrats can regain lost ground. Daniella and Colin also talk about how President Donald Trump's tariffs could cause a recession and how Republican reconciliation plans may increase inflation.
Imara Jones, journalist and founder of TransLash Media, joins the show to discuss attacks against transgender Americans and how to fight back, as well as celebrate the trans community. Daniella and Colin also talk about Trump's new, sweeping tariffs and the warning signs emerging for Republicans in recent elections.
George Conway joins the show to talk about the Trump administration's attacks on the American legal system and how it should respond to his strongman tactics. Colin and Erin also discuss the administration's use of a Signal channel to coordinate military strikes in Yemen and next week's Supreme Court election in Wisconsin.
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey (D) joins the show to talk about the Trump administration's efforts to gut the middle class and flout the rule of law, policies she's championed to make Massachusetts a leader in education and health care, and the role of governors in protecting women's rights under a hostile administration.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) joins the show to talk about how he is fighting the Trump administration, the steps he is taking to make life better for Illinoisans, and how Democrats can do the same for all Americans.
Neera Tanden, the new CEO of the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to talk about the harms of the MAGA agenda and how the center-left should fight back. Daniella and Colin also talk about Republicans' partisan government funding bill and speak with Emily Gee, senior vice president of Inclusive Growth at CAP Action, about the economy's "Trump slump."
Zac Petkanas joins the show to talk about President Donald Trump's joint address to Congress, as well as how the Trump administration, Elon Musk, and MAGA Republicans are hurting the American people, and how Democrats should respond. Daniella and Colin also discuss Trump's dangerous alignment with Russia and how his tariff policies are increasing costs and hurting the economy.
Dr. Eddie Glaude, Jr. joins the show to discuss the what the term "DEI" really means, Black History Month and ways to resist white supremacy and authoritarianism. Daniella and Colin also talk about growing discontent with the Trump administration and what President Trump is doing to the economy (hint: it's bad).
Michael Linden, senior policy fellow at the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, joins the show to talk about the budget reconciliation process, MAGA tax breaks for the wealthy, and how the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)'s buzzsaw to the federal government will hurt the middle class. Daniella and Colin also discuss the war in Ukraine and how Elon Musk is putting Americans' health and safety at risk.
Slava Leontyev, director of the award-winning documentary, "Porcelain War," joins the show to discuss the making of the film, his experiences as a soldier in Ukraine's war against Russia, and the value of art in wartime. Daniella and Colin also talk about Elon Musk, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and the constitutional crisis the United States now faces.
Allison McManus, managing director of National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to talk about President Donald Trump's dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington. Colin and Erin also discuss Trump's failed tariffs and whether Elon Musk has more power than Donald Trump.
Joe Radosevich, vice president of campaigns and outreach at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to talk about the start of the Trump administration and how progressives should respond. Daniella and Colin also talk about President Donald Trump's botched federal funding freeze and how his administration is bringing Project 2025 back to life.
Fascism and authoritarianism expert Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins the show to discuss President Donald Trump's first few days in office, the classic strongman tactics he's already using to consolidate power, and what we can do to fight back against authoritarian creep. Daniella and Colin also talk about Trump's most dangerous executive orders.
Patrick Gaspard, CEO of the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to talk about President Joe Biden's legacy, the second inauguration of President-elect Trump and what he hopes to see from Democrats moving forward. Daniella and Colin also talk about the confirmation hearings for President-elect Trump's cabinet nominees and the wildfires in Los Angeles.
Former Ambassador Norm Eisen joins the show to talk about the four-year anniversary of the January 6 insurrection, how President-elect Donald Trump has avoided accountability for his role in the violence, and how to protect democracy. Daniella and Colin also discuss what to expect from the 119th Congress, and speak with Bobby Kogan, senior director of Federal Budget Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about the reconciliation process.
Tony Carrk, executive director for Accountable.US, joins the show to discuss the incoming Trump administration, how progressives should pick their battles, and what holding power to account really looks like. Daniella and Colin also recap their favorite interviews of 2024.
Ed Chung, vice president of initiatives at the Vera Institute, joins the show to discuss the Trump administration's criminal justice and immigration plans, and how to push back against its dangerous narratives on crime. Daniella and Erin also talk about the Department of Government Efficiency and speak with Allison McManus, managing director of National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about the fall of the Assad regime in Syria.
Anderson Clayton, Chair of the North Carolina Democratic National Committee, discusses what Democrats nationwide can learn from down-ballot wins in North Carolina, the importance of local and state races, and what the Democratic Party needs to do to reach voters in the South.
Larry Levitt, Executive Vice President for Health Policy at Kaiser Family Foundation, joins the show to talk about Trump's nomination of RFK, Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, possible cuts to the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid, and how states should respond. Colin and Erin also discuss Trump's extreme personnel choices and speak with Cait Smith, director of LGBTQI+ Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about protecting transgender Americans.
Mike Sozan, senior fellow for Democracy Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss how Republicans might attack U.S. democracy, the importance of the Senate confirmation process, and what progressives from the local to national level can do to protect Americans' rights and freedoms. Colin and Erin also talk about how states and nonprofits are preparing for a second Trump administration and what COP29 could reveal about the uncertain future of U.S. climate leadership.
Journalist and author Ari Berman joins the show to discuss the minoritarianism of the MAGA movement, how it played out in the 2024 race, and how it will affect the political direction of the United States. Colin and guest host Navin Nayak, president of the Center for American Progress Action Fund, also talk about Tuesday's results and what they mean for the next four years.
Robby Mook, manager of Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign, joins the show to discuss the latest polling, the candidates' closing arguments, how to protect democracy. Daniella and Colin also talk about the media's coverage of the presidential campaigns and their final pitches to the American people.
Political strategist Simon Rosenberg joins the show to discuss election polls, MAGA extremism and its impact up and down the ballot, and how candidates are approaching the remaining days of their campaigns. Colin and Erin also talk about Donald Trump's affinity for authoritarians and speak with Brendan Duke, senior director of Economic Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about Trump's tariff plans.
Laura Rodriguez, vice president of Government Affairs at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to talk about the priorities of the Hispanic and Latino community and how the presidential candidates are engaging its voters. Colin and Erin also talk about Vice President Kamala Harris' media strategy and speak with Mike Sozan, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about Donald Trump's antidemocratic rhetoric and his attacks on CBS News.
Dr. Gabrielle Goodrick, a family planning doctor in Arizona, discusses how abortion restrictions impact providers and patients, why lawmakers should champion reproductive rights, and the importance of the Affordable Care Act. Daniella and Colin also talk about Special Counsel Jack Smith's recent filing and Vice President Kamala Harris's media blitz.
Andrew Miller, a former top State Department official managing the U.S. response to the conflict in Gaza and a current seior fellow at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss the first anniversary of the October 7 massacre in Israel and rising tensions in the Middle East. Daniella and Colin also talk about the vice -presidential debate and the Biden-Harris administration's response to Hurricane Helene.
Jessica Mackler, president of EMILYs List, joins the show to talk about how abortion will impact the 2024 elections and why women are leading on this deeply personal issue. Daniella and Colin also discuss Vice President Kamala Harris's economic vision and the latest scandals involving Lt. Governor Mark Robinson (R-NC).
Rohit Chopra, director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, talks about the Federal Reserve's interest rate cut and what it means for consumers, as well as his efforts to tackle junk fees and other forms of corporate greed. Daniella and Colin also talk about the dangers of political violence, and speak with Kate Kelly, senior director of the Women's Initiative at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about reproductive rights.
Amanda Becker, Washington correspondent at The 19th, joins the show to discuss her new book, 'You Must Stand Up: The Fight for Abortion Rights in Post-Dobbs America;' the connection between abortion rights and democracy; and what the future of reproductive freedom could look like. Daniella and Erin also talk about this week's presidential debate and former President Donald Trump's antidemocratic rhetoric.
Texas State Representative James Talarico joins the show to talk about Christian nationalism, the impact Project 2025 would have on democracy and why he thinks Texas is a purple state. Daniella and Colin also discuss the conflict in Gaza and how Project 2025 would increase the threat of nuclear war.
Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, joins the show to discuss the significance of Labor Day and American workers. She also talks about how Project 2025 and MAGA extremists are threatening teachers, students, and learning outcomes in U.S. public schools. Daniella and Colin discuss shifts in the 2024 presidential race and Donald Trump's disastrous tax plans.
Former Democratic National Committee Vice Chair Michael Blake joins the show to talk about the Democratic National Convention and the 2024 presidential race. Daniella and Colin also talk about their favorite moments from the convention and a progressive vision for the future.
Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA) joins the show to discuss the 2024 race, Project 2025 and the dangers of MAGA extremism. Colin and Erin also talk about abortion ballot measures and far-right plans to contest the election results in November.
Robert P. Jones, founder of the Public Religion Research Institute, joins the show to discuss the roots of Christian nationalism, how Donald Trump and the MAGA right are mainstreaming the ideology, and how some Christians are pushing back. Daniella and Colin also talk about Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate selection and allegations that Trump accepted payments from Egypt to boost his 2016 presidential campaign.
Mike Podhorzer, senior fellow at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss the 2024 presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Project 2025. Daniella and Colin also talk about President Joe Biden's proposed U.S. Supreme Court reforms and how Project 2025 would harm Social Security.
Journalist Jodi Enda joins the show to discuss the GOP's unpopular stances on abortion, Vice President Kamala Harris' record on reproductive rights and the impact of U.S. policy on women across the world. Daniella and Colin also talk about President Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 race and why MAGA proposals to eliminate taxes on tips are misleading.
Former Senator Doug Jones (D-AL) joins the show to discuss the recent shooting at a rally for former President Donald Trump, ways to turn down the political temperature and how to prevent future attacks. Daniella and Colin also talk about Donald Trump's selection of Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) as his running mate and Judge Aileen Cannon's dismissal of the classified documents case against Trump.
Historian Thomas Zimmer discusses the radical authoritarian playbook called Project 2025, what it tells us about MAGA extremism in the Republican Party, and how it threatens the foundations of U.S. democracy. Daniella and Colin also talk about recent decisions from the Supreme Court and extreme weather driven by climate change.
Chris Geidner, journalist and analyst for “the Law Dork,” joins the show to discuss the Supreme Court, it's remaining decisions and the impact they'll have on our freedoms and rights. Colin and Erin also talk about this week's presidential debate.
Raquel Willis joins the show to discuss intersectional activism, MAGA attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and her journey as a Black trans activist and journalist. Daniella and Colin also talk about how extreme heat is impacting workers, and new Biden administration rules that will help fix our broken immigration system.
Journalist Erin Reed discusses the importance of Pride month, the fight for transgender rights, and the issues motivating LGBTQI+ voters. Daniella and Colin also talk about Donald Trump's tax proposals, and his plans to wrestle power away from federal agencies and Congress if elected.
DC/DOX Film Festival Director and Co-Founder Sky Sitney discusses why documentaries are such an important form of storytelling, the origins and purpose of DC/DOX, and what to expect from this year's festival. Daniella and Colin also talk about upcoming U.S. Supreme Court decisions and right-wing plans to dismantle protections against foreign interference in U.S. elections.
ProPublica reporter Andy Kroll joins the show to talk about MAGA extremism in Michigan, Project 2025, and the impact the far-right's agenda could have on U.S. democracy. Colin and Erin also discuss Donald Trump's hush-money trial in Manhattan and talk about abortion rights with Sabrina Talukder, director of the Women's Initiative at the Center for American Progress Action Fund.
Mark Joseph Stern, senior writer for Slate, joins the show to discuss former President Donald Trump's hush money trial, the implications his legal cases have for American democracy, and the U.S. Supreme Court decisions we can expect to come at the end of this term. Daniella and Colin also talk about MAGA Republican flip-flopping on reproductive rights and how the Biden administration is delivering for Black Americans.
Lindsey McLendon, Senior Fellow for Criminal Justice Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to talk about public safety, including crime trends, drivers, and evidence-based solutions to improve accountability and justice. Daniella and Colin also talk about MAGA Republican election denialism and Trump's efforts to get $1 billion in campaign contributions from oil executives.
Filmmakers Andrea Nix Fine and Sean Fine join the show to discuss their new documentary, "The Sixth" and why we must continue to tell stories from the January 6, 2021 attack on our nation's capital. Daniella and Colin also talk about new health equity measures and housing policies from the Biden administration.
Former White House social secretary Deesha Dyer joins the show to discuss her new book, "Undiplomatic," overcoming imposter syndrome in political careers, and creating more opportunities for marginalized Americans. Daniella and Colin also discuss recent progressive federal policies and widespread protests on college campuses.