Podcasts about american politics

Talk Back to MeFollowing the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a manhunt continues in the minds and perhaps hearts of Americans. A great interest in identifying the killer illustrates the divide between citizens of the United States. As of now, we have a story building. The FBI has its story, its culprit, and not two but three main reactions represent this divide. There are the components of the story, reasons for doubt, and a narrative of who to blame. Information regarding the killing of Charlie Kirk spills out across the media, watering conversations about high American politics around the kitchen table. Citizens wait in anticipation for the identity, particularly the political identity of the killer, some to hold it over their political enemies, others to find some resolution in what happened. It's a dark world out there, and while the assassination of Charlie Kirk is already called a watershed moment, Americans are yet uncertain about what the ramifications will be. Use Code 2025deaddrop10 for 10% off your order at obsidianarms.comThis episode has been sponsored by Obsidian Arms, a manufacturer of tools, parts, and firearms, as well as an OEM shop for those seeking to bring excellence to the market. Their Minnesota-based shop builds and cuts parts out of U.S.-sourced materials. Their gunsmith tools, custom firearms, and capabilities can be found at www.obsidianarms.comSupport the REDACTED Culture Cast at redactedculture.locals.comSSP and boutique products at redactedllc.comFollow us on Instagram at @redactedllc

Don Lemon sits down with activist Cameron Kasky for a wide-ranging conversation on some of the biggest issues shaping America right now. From the fight against oligarchy, to the crisis in Israel and Gaza, to the generational and gender divides within Gen Z, no topic is off the table. They also take a hard look at the Democratic Party's missteps, and what Democrats must do if they want to move forward, inspire voters, and meet the urgency of this moment. Thoughtful, sharp, and unfiltered, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Barn Talk, where what happens at the barn doesn't always stay in the barn. Today's episode is a somber one, as Tork and Sawyer come together to reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk in Utah. With heavy hearts, the hosts share their thoughts and prayers for Charlie's family and friends, acknowledging the deep impact of his loss on the country, especially among the younger generation.After a brief market update, Tork and Sawyer dive into a candid conversation about the repercussions of political violence, the dangerous state of public discourse, and the significance of free speech in America. They discuss Charlie Kirk's influence—as a thought leader who challenged the status quo and encouraged critical thinking among young people—and examine how his untimely death exposes deeper issues within our society.The hosts also touch on the reaction to Charlie's death, the dangers of losing healthy debate, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity. Amidst all the turmoil, they find hope in the legacy that Charlie leaves behind: a reminder for all of us to build strong communities, seek truth, and never shy away from difficult conversations.Pour yourself a cup of coffee—or a glass of whiskey, as the guys do in honor of Charlie—and join us for this heartfelt and unfiltered episode of Barn Talk.Shop Farmer Grade

The boys wearily convene to discuss the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Epstein's birthday book, SCOTUS allowing ICE to racially profile, and Israel being a menace to everyone around them. Check out the Patreon for early access to episodes, leave a 5-star review on Apple, and follow our other socials!Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/headintheofficepodHITO Merch: https://headintheoffice.com/ Get 40% off Ground News: https://check.ground.news/headintheoffice YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4iJ-UcnRxYnaYsX_SNjFJQTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@headintheoffice?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/headintheoffice/Twitter: https://twitter.com/headintheofficeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/headintheoffice.bsky.social Discord: https://discord.gg/hito Collab inquiries: headintheofficepod@gmail.comSeen on this episode: Charlie Kirk & the discourse - https://www.nytimes.com/live/2025/09/10/us/charlie-kirk-shot-utah https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy04p4x21e5oSCOTUS & immigration news - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/08/us/politics/supreme-court-immigration-racial-profiling.htmlhttps://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/south-korea-nationals-return-delayed-immigration-raid-hyundai-rcna230149Gaza news - http://nbcnews.com/world/gaza/netanyahu-gaza-city-leave-jerusalem-attack-rcna230012 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/10/world/middleeast/gaza-city-residents-israel.htmlhttps://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-war-hamas-prisoners-59d7f8a791aa7b716e8087f865f585bc

Rich and Doug discuss the powerful testimony of Charlie Kirk's life and death in this epic podcast.  Enjoy and share.   What do you think about the episode?  Comment below or email us: http://waw.fm/hello

The assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, has shaken the political landscape and raised serious concerns about the increasing political violence in America. Charlie Kirk's death at just 31 years old leaves behind a wife and two young children, as well as a legacy of promoting conservative values on college campuses nationwide.• Charlie Kirk was shot while speaking to 3,000 students at Utah Valley University• The 31-year-old conservative activist founded Turning Point USA at age 18• Kirk was known for his campus debates and commitment to free speech• Just days before his death, Kirk warned that "when people stop talking, that's when violence happens"• The shooting represents an alarming escalation of political violence in America• Media reactions have been mixed, with some commentators appearing to blame Kirk for his own death• Other examples of political violence include the firebombing of New Mexico Republican headquarters• Political rhetoric that dehumanizes opponents contributes to a dangerous climate• Parents and educators now face difficult conversations with young people about political engagementPlease join us in praying for Charlie Kirk's family during this devastating time. If you believe in free speech and respectful debate, honor his memory by engaging with those you disagree with in a spirit of civility and respect.Website: https://www.nodoubtaboutitpodcast.com/Twitter: @nodoubtpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoDoubtAboutItPod/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markronchettinm/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D

Yesterday, Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was murdered while speaking on a college campus in Utah.

Charlie Kirk Assassination: False Flag or Political Martyr? | Karel Cast 25-122 Charlie Kirk was assassinated in public in Utah, and the fallout is tearing the nation apart. MAGA immediately weaponized the killing, labeling the shooter a radical left activist without evidence, fueling division and anger. The President quickly blamed the left—something he did not do when lawmakers were murdered in their homes just a month ago. So, was this an attack by an extremist, or could it be a false flag designed to spark unrest, radicalize young people, push for martial law, and even suspend upcoming elections? Either way, the consequences are devastating for America's democracy. Join Karel as he breaks down the assassination, the dangerous political spin, and what it means for the future of the USA. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel. The show streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST and is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. #CharlieKirk, #Assassination, #PoliticalViolence, #FalseFlag, #MAGA, #AmericanPolitics, #BreakingNews, #USPolitics, #DemocracyInCrisis, #PoliticalDivision, #Election2025, #MartialLaw, #LeftVsRight, #Radicalization, #HistoryInTheMaking, #PoliticalAnalysis, #TheKarelCast, #UtahNews, #PoliticalMartyr, #CurrentEvents

Send us a textThe assassination of Charlie Kirk has sent shockwaves through America, forcing us to confront the alarming normalization of political violence in our society. Charlie, just 31 years old and father to two young children, was gunned down while speaking at a Utah campus event - a place meant for the free exchange of ideas, transformed into a scene of senseless tragedy.What does it say about us when disagreements end not with debates but with funerals? When someone can be killed not for wielding power or enforcing laws, but simply for expressing opinions? This podcast examines the profound spiritual and moral crisis revealed by Kirk's murder and the disturbing celebration of his death by some on social media.Drawing from biblical wisdom, we explore how political violence represents a form of idolatry - vengeance dressed as justice that promises deliverance but leaves only ruin. The commandment "thou shall not kill" contains no exceptions for political disagreements. When we celebrate the killing of someone we disagree with, we reveal hearts darkened by hatred - a burden that enslaves the soul.The Christian response offers a revolutionary alternative to the cycle of violence. Forgiveness isn't weakness; it's strength beyond anything vengeance can offer. Jesus didn't tell us turning the other cheek would be easy - he told us it was necessary. Only by valuing life more than ideology and choosing dialogue over destruction can we heal our fractured society.This episode serves as both lament and challenge - mourning a life cut short while calling us to a better path forward. Listen as we examine what's at stake when bullets replace words in our national discourse, and discover how faith offers hope even in our darkest moments. Share this message of peace and reconciliation with others searching for answers in these troubled times. Support the show

In this episode of The P.A.S. Report Podcast, Professor Nick Giordano welcomes Rich Valdes, host of America at Night, for a hard-hitting discussion on today's political and cultural landscape. From the Democrats' reliance on grievance politics to Trump's evolution as a political strategist, the two break down how cultural shifts are reshaping voter priorities. They also dive into the media's complex relationship with Trump, the deep state's challenges, and the high-stakes battle for New York City's mayoral race. This conversation reveals the forces driving America's political future and what it means for everyday citizens.   Episode Highlights How Democrats use grievance politics and why it's backfiring with voters focused on everyday issues. Trump's evolution into a calmer, more strategic leader and his ongoing battle with the deep state. The national implications of New York's mayoral race and why Curtis Sliwa's grassroots support matters.

Gen Z's political gender gap is widening. Young women are trending left, while young men drift right—and it's not just politics. In this episode, we explore the cultural, social, and economic pressures shaping young men's identities, from the “manosphere” to societal expectations around masculinity and the pressure to be the breadwinner.We examine the consequences for democracy, social cohesion, and the future of civic engagement—and consider how society can create better spaces for young men to belong, participate, and thrive.What you'll learn in this episode:Why young men are drawn to exclusionary spaces onlineHow societal pressures around masculinity and economic roles influence political choicesThe role of both the left and right in widening the gender gapWhy this divide matters for democracy and social stabilityPaths toward healthier engagement and belongingGuests:Rev. Angela Denker, award-winning author and journalistMark Sutton, gender expert and author of How Democrats Can Win Back MenEric Kaufmann, Professor of Politics and author of The Third AwokeningText me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, DavidFor the Young men turning red episode Support the showShow Notes:https://outrageoverload.net/ Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog or email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.HOTLINE: 925-552-7885Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episodeIf you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That's the best way to support it.Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Political cartoons, satire, and US presidents collide in the new documentary A Savage Art: The Life & Cartoons of Pat Oliphant. We interview Bill Banowsky on how one of the world's most fearless cartoonists shaped politics and public opinion across five decades and ten presidencies. In this episode of Factual America, we look at the power of satire in American democracy, Oliphant's lasting influence, and why his art remains so relevant today. If you're interested in political art, journalism, or the role of satire in democracy, this conversation is not to be missed.#PoliticalCartoons #Satire #ASavageArt #PoliticalDocumentary #FactualAmericaTimestamps: 00:00 – Introduction04:33 – The Film: A Savage Art12:32 – Pat Oliphant: The Influential Cartoonist21:39 – The Evolution of Political Cartooning34:20 – The Impact of Media Disruption37:54 – The Journey of Documentary Filmmaking44:19 – The Future of Theatres and Audience Experience

This is part 2 of 2 of a fair use and transformative reading of an essay in one of my favorite publications. This is an engagement with an essay by Dr. William Voegeli, one of my favorite writers on American Politics, entitled "Now What? The Democrats After 2024" in Winter 2025 Claremont Review of Books pp -8-14, going from the bottom of p. 9 in the print edition through page 14.. The piece is accessible to the public at https://claremontreviewofbooks.com/now-what/ Kesler, Editor of the CRB, was one of my Ph.D. professors at Claremont Colleges (4 courses). We want to thank Claremont Review of Books for making this material available. Go to ClaremontReviewofBooks.com to subscribe for a very reasonable price and get the hard copies with aesthetically pleasing artwork and thoughtful though accessible essays in your physical mailbox. This episode includes a reading from the 1925 edition of "Streams in the Desert", January 2nd. The Republican Professor is a pro-Claremont-Review-of-Books, pro-correctly contemplating-contemporary-American-Politics, pro-Streams-in-the-Desert-original-edition-from-1925 podcast. The Republican Professor is produced and hosted by Dr. Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D.

Washington Post Global Economics Correspondent David J. Lynch joins Ben & Bob for a discussion about his new book The World's Worst Bet: How the Globalization Gamble Went Wrong (and What Would Make it Right) (Public Affairs, 2025). David has a unique perspective on globalization; first as a journalist who has spent the last four decades covering the global economy for some of America's most influential media outlets, and now as an analyst of how the optimism of the 1990s turned to the pessimism of today. If you enjoy this episode, make sure to check our conversation with Joe Lockhart in episode #344. This episode was edited by Gary Fletcher.

America is facing deep political division. Republican vs. Democrat, Left vs. Right. But what will it truly take for us to come together as one nation again? On this episode, former California State Assemblyman Mike Gatto sits down with host and special guest co-host Joey for an honest conversation about America's current political climate. From the challenges facing both major parties to the growing frustration among citizens, Mike shares his perspective on what's fueling the divide and outlines practical steps everyday Americans can take to ensure their voices are heard by elected officials. Follow Mike Gatto: Website – www.mikegatto.com Twitter – @MikeGatto Follow Joey: TikTok – @joey_doesit

After a weekend of hopescrolling™ the crew gets together to talk about one of the more fun aspects of this constant news cycle hellscape, The Pentagon Pizza Index.  Correlative? Absolutely.  Wild? Of course.  This is of course American Politics. https://www.pizzint.watch/  This link here folks https://jordanrannells.com/ https://waywardraven.com/ FOLLOW THIS LINK FOR SOME AWESOME FLAGS FROM FLAGS […]

If you listen to The Colin McEnroe Show regularly, you likely know that Colin has been influenced by two media theorists: Marshall McLuhan and Neil Postman. Postman wrote Amusing Ourselves to Death, among other books, and McLuhan is probably most famous for the phrase "The medium is the message," in addition to other influential ideas. This hour, we look at the ideas of McLuhan and Postman, and discuss why they still resonate so much today. GUESTS: Bill Yousman: Professor of Media Studies at Sacred Heart University Megan Garber: Staff Writer at The Atlantic who writes about the intersection of politics and culture. She is the author of On Misdirection: Magic, Mayhem, American Politics. She previously worked for Neiman Journalism Lab and the Columbia Journalism Review Andrew McLuhan: Founder and director of The McLuhan Institute, which was founded to conserve and continue media studies in the McLuhan tradition. He is the son of Eric McLuhan and the grandson of Marshall McLuhan MUSIC FEATURED (in order): Passacaglia by Johan Halvorsen (performed by Grégoire Blanc) Please Mr. Postman by The Marvelettes The Revolution Will Not Be Televised by Gil Scott-Heron Medium is the Massage by Akira the Don, Marshall McLuhan Fish n’ Chip Paper by Elvis Costello Amusing Ourselves to Death by Winston Apple Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ken Howard, LCSW, CST, unpacks the political whiplash from Obama to Trump and its impact on gay men's mental health—exploring minority stress, cultural backlash, and strategies for resilience in a divided America.

RFK Jr & Vaccine Denial: Why He's Dangerous for America

We're doing a fair use and transformative reading of part of an essay in one of my favorite publications. This is an engagement with an essay by Dr. William Voegeli, one of my favorite writers on American Politics, entitled "Now What? The Democrats After 2024" in Winter 2025 Claremont Review of Books pp 8-9. The piece is accessible to the public at https://claremontreviewofbooks.com/now-what/ Kesler, Editor of the CRB, was one of my Ph.D. professors at Claremont Colleges (4 courses). We want to thank Claremont Review of Books for making this material available. Go to ClaremontReviewofBooks.com to subscribe for a very reasonable price and get the hard copies with aesthetically pleasing artwork and thoughtful though accessible essays in your physical mailbox. This episode includes a reading from the 1925 edition of "Streams in the Desert", January 1st. The Republican Professor is a pro-Claremont-Review-of-Books podcast. The Republican Professor is produced and hosted by Dr. Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D.

Mary Ziegler is a Professor of Law at the University of California, Davis School of Law and a leading legal historian specializing the struggle over reproductive health policy in the United States from 1945 to present. A 2023 Guggenheim Fellow, she is recognized as one of the foremost authorities on the history of the U.S. abortion debate. She is the author of seven books on reproductive rights and the law. Her latest work, “Personhood: The New Civil War over Reproduction,” was published in May 2025. Patt Morrison has a share of two Pulitzer Prizes as a longtime Los Angeles Times writer and columnist. As a public television and radio broadcaster, she has won six Emmys and a dozen Golden Mike awards. Her first book, “Rio LA,” about the Los Angeles River, was a bestseller. Her most recent book is, “Don't Stop the Presses! Truth, Justice, and the American Newspaper.”

Trump's Health Questions Grow: Why Isn't the Media Asking? | Karel Cast 25-118 Donald Trump vanishes for days at a time, his legs appear swollen from venous insufficiency, and his hands often look bruised. At nearly 80 years old, these could be normal signs of aging — or indicators of something more serious. Trump and MAGA made Biden's health fair game, yet the media stays largely silent on Trump's visible health struggles. Why the double standard? Shouldn't the public demand answers? Is he just slowing down, or is something bigger being hidden? Plus, on today's show: ever wondered how a song is created from scratch?

Hotline editor Kirk A. Bado sits down with the authors of the Almanac of American Politics, Louis Jacobson and Richard E. Cohen, as the Almanac's 2026 edition is released. Listen as they discuss the process for writing this edition, keeping up with the rapid political environment before the publishing deadline, and why the Almanac still matters after 53 years. Buy the 2026 edition here: https://www.thealmanacofamericanpolitics.com/index.aspx 

Send us a textKen Fong and I unpack the life and legacy of Dr. James Dobson, who just recently passed away. For many of us, Dobson's voice was a constant presence in American evangelical homes. He was the trusted “family counselor” who seemed to offer simple, practical guidance about raising children, strengthening marriages, and protecting the home. His books—Dare to Discipline, Bringing Up Boys, Bringing Up Girls—were bestsellers, and his radio program reached countless millions. They shaped how countless parents understood what it meant to raise a family in a “Christian” way. On the surface, it all seemed non-political, even innocent.But as the years progressed, it became clear that Dobson was building something much bigger than a parenting movement. He founded Focus on the Family, moved his empire to Colorado Springs, and began to insert himself more directly into politics. Along the way, he inspired children's programming and homeschooling curriculum. He trained thousands of young people in “Biblical World View.” He became an outspoken promoter of Donald Trump. He engineered the identification of white evangelicalism with the Religious Right, commandeering the Republican Party into an unrelenting culture war. Ken Fong shares his research on the roots of Dobson's work in the discredited “science” of eugenics and names his mentor in psychology, the famed eugenicist and atheist Paul Popenoe.As Senator Barry Goldwater warned back in 1980, when religious leaders gain control of a political party, it creates a dangerous situation. Goldwater said, “These people believe they're acting in the name of God, so they can't and won't compromise.” Dobson embodied that posture - NO COMPROMISE.For those of us who grew up under his influence, the costs were real. His insistence on “breaking the spirit” of children, corporal punishment, his crusade against the LGBTQ+ community — fighting same-sex marriage in California's Prop 8 campaign, promoting conversion therapy, framing homosexuality as a threat to children—all of these left deep wounds. Add to all that, he applauded and facilitated the election of this current wrecking-ball administration.    As we remember his legacy, we must not ignore his undeniable contribution to the rancorous Us-versus-Them culture in our perilously divided nation. In this episode, Ken Fong and I peel back the layers of Dobson's legacy. His death may close a chapter, but the impact of his divisive ideology continues to shape families, churches, and American politics.SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

Much has been written about political polarisation in the United States, but no one has examined it through the lens of recent U.S. history. There is nothing deterministic about how we became polarised, and it happened more recently than many think. To fully understand the problem, we must take the long view, the perspective provided by history, with its attention to change over time and the role of contingency. That's what The Path to Paralysis does. The book illuminates the broad forces that have shaped and reshaped American society and politics since the mid-1960s: the shift from an industrial to an information economy that produced economic inequality not seen since the 1920s; dramatic, unsettling changes in gender and sexuality; sharp conflict between those who embrace the culture of personal freedom that was a legacy of the 1960s and politically mobilised White evangelicals; persistent racial discord that transformed Southern politics and shattered the New Deal coalition; and dramatic changes in communication that transformed broadcasting into narrowcasting, creating alternate news and truths. These developments had their origin in the late 1960s and have generated sharp political conflict for six decades. But they didn't overwhelm the system until the 21st century. Ronald Reagan moved American politics to the right, but Republicans and Democrats forged compromise on issues as diverse as economic policy, civil rights, and immigration. After the culture wars of the 1980s and 1990s, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush tacked to the centre and sought bipartisan solutions to issues like welfare, education and immigration. Sharp conflict and governance were compatible. The tipping point was the election of the nation's first Black president and the economic collapse he inherited. Fault lines of religion, region, gender, sexual orientation, class, education and, especially, race widened. People chose sides and identified enemies, the number of true swing voters shrunk, fewer states and congressional districts were competitive, the two major parties became more monolithic, and appeals to the base drove strategy and what passed for policy. It was an atmosphere that provided fertile ground for a demagogue whose norm-busting appeals to White grievance and Christian Nationalism, as well as to regional and class resentment strengthened his appeal to an angry base and threatened the peaceful transition of power, the bedrock of American democracy for more than two centuries. Donald G. Nieman is an authority on modern U.S. law and politics, and professor of history and provost emeritus at Binghamton University – State University of New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

In this week's episode of Politics in Question, Lee sits down with Oscar Pocasangre and Dustin Wahl to discuss the representation of young people in politics. Pocasangre is a Senior Data Analyst at New America, and Wahl is the Executive Director of Fix Our House. Together, they co-authored a new report, The Age Divide, published by Protect Democracy (2025).Is gerontocracy a uniquely American problem? How can we bring more young people into politics? And what changes to our electoral system could make politics more representative? These are some of the questions Lee explores in this week's episode.

Joe Lockhart served as White House Press Secretary for President Bill Clinton from 1998-2000, and played central roles in Presidential campaigns from Walter Mondale to John Kerry. In this episode, Joe joins us to recap how the political landscape has changed since the 1980s and the paths that Democrats might pursue in their efforts to escape the political wilderness.   This episode was edited by Gary Fletcher

Much has been written about political polarisation in the United States, but no one has examined it through the lens of recent U.S. history. There is nothing deterministic about how we became polarised, and it happened more recently than many think. To fully understand the problem, we must take the long view, the perspective provided by history, with its attention to change over time and the role of contingency. That's what The Path to Paralysis does. The book illuminates the broad forces that have shaped and reshaped American society and politics since the mid-1960s: the shift from an industrial to an information economy that produced economic inequality not seen since the 1920s; dramatic, unsettling changes in gender and sexuality; sharp conflict between those who embrace the culture of personal freedom that was a legacy of the 1960s and politically mobilised White evangelicals; persistent racial discord that transformed Southern politics and shattered the New Deal coalition; and dramatic changes in communication that transformed broadcasting into narrowcasting, creating alternate news and truths. These developments had their origin in the late 1960s and have generated sharp political conflict for six decades. But they didn't overwhelm the system until the 21st century. Ronald Reagan moved American politics to the right, but Republicans and Democrats forged compromise on issues as diverse as economic policy, civil rights, and immigration. After the culture wars of the 1980s and 1990s, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush tacked to the centre and sought bipartisan solutions to issues like welfare, education and immigration. Sharp conflict and governance were compatible. The tipping point was the election of the nation's first Black president and the economic collapse he inherited. Fault lines of religion, region, gender, sexual orientation, class, education and, especially, race widened. People chose sides and identified enemies, the number of true swing voters shrunk, fewer states and congressional districts were competitive, the two major parties became more monolithic, and appeals to the base drove strategy and what passed for policy. It was an atmosphere that provided fertile ground for a demagogue whose norm-busting appeals to White grievance and Christian Nationalism, as well as to regional and class resentment strengthened his appeal to an angry base and threatened the peaceful transition of power, the bedrock of American democracy for more than two centuries. Donald G. Nieman is an authority on modern U.S. law and politics, and professor of history and provost emeritus at Binghamton University – State University of New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Much has been written about political polarisation in the United States, but no one has examined it through the lens of recent U.S. history. There is nothing deterministic about how we became polarised, and it happened more recently than many think. To fully understand the problem, we must take the long view, the perspective provided by history, with its attention to change over time and the role of contingency. That's what The Path to Paralysis does. The book illuminates the broad forces that have shaped and reshaped American society and politics since the mid-1960s: the shift from an industrial to an information economy that produced economic inequality not seen since the 1920s; dramatic, unsettling changes in gender and sexuality; sharp conflict between those who embrace the culture of personal freedom that was a legacy of the 1960s and politically mobilised White evangelicals; persistent racial discord that transformed Southern politics and shattered the New Deal coalition; and dramatic changes in communication that transformed broadcasting into narrowcasting, creating alternate news and truths. These developments had their origin in the late 1960s and have generated sharp political conflict for six decades. But they didn't overwhelm the system until the 21st century. Ronald Reagan moved American politics to the right, but Republicans and Democrats forged compromise on issues as diverse as economic policy, civil rights, and immigration. After the culture wars of the 1980s and 1990s, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush tacked to the centre and sought bipartisan solutions to issues like welfare, education and immigration. Sharp conflict and governance were compatible. The tipping point was the election of the nation's first Black president and the economic collapse he inherited. Fault lines of religion, region, gender, sexual orientation, class, education and, especially, race widened. People chose sides and identified enemies, the number of true swing voters shrunk, fewer states and congressional districts were competitive, the two major parties became more monolithic, and appeals to the base drove strategy and what passed for policy. It was an atmosphere that provided fertile ground for a demagogue whose norm-busting appeals to White grievance and Christian Nationalism, as well as to regional and class resentment strengthened his appeal to an angry base and threatened the peaceful transition of power, the bedrock of American democracy for more than two centuries. Donald G. Nieman is an authority on modern U.S. law and politics, and professor of history and provost emeritus at Binghamton University – State University of New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

Talk Back to MeFrom the Gun Culture to Americans, the West, or Mankind as a whole, we are not a serious peoples. We approach the world around us, following people more than truths. The questions flow:If we took Gun Control seriously, would be debate it? If we believed in the Deep State, would we talk about it?We watch the news, listen to people talk about grave realities, threats to our wellbeing, and carry on without a change. Maybe this is bad for us. Use Code 2025deaddrop10 for 10% off your order at obsidianarms.comThis episode has been sponsored by Obsidian Arms, a manufacturer of tools, parts and firearms, as well as operating as an OEM shop for those looking to bring excellence to the market. Their Minnesota-based shop builds and cuts parts out of U.S.-sourced materials. Their gunsmith tools, custom firearms, and capabilities can be found at www.obsidianarms.comSupport the REDACTED Culture Cast at redactedculture.locals.comSSP and boutique products at redactedllc.comFollow us on Instagram at @redactedllc

Much has been written about political polarisation in the United States, but no one has examined it through the lens of recent U.S. history. There is nothing deterministic about how we became polarised, and it happened more recently than many think. To fully understand the problem, we must take the long view, the perspective provided by history, with its attention to change over time and the role of contingency. That's what The Path to Paralysis does. The book illuminates the broad forces that have shaped and reshaped American society and politics since the mid-1960s: the shift from an industrial to an information economy that produced economic inequality not seen since the 1920s; dramatic, unsettling changes in gender and sexuality; sharp conflict between those who embrace the culture of personal freedom that was a legacy of the 1960s and politically mobilised White evangelicals; persistent racial discord that transformed Southern politics and shattered the New Deal coalition; and dramatic changes in communication that transformed broadcasting into narrowcasting, creating alternate news and truths. These developments had their origin in the late 1960s and have generated sharp political conflict for six decades. But they didn't overwhelm the system until the 21st century. Ronald Reagan moved American politics to the right, but Republicans and Democrats forged compromise on issues as diverse as economic policy, civil rights, and immigration. After the culture wars of the 1980s and 1990s, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush tacked to the centre and sought bipartisan solutions to issues like welfare, education and immigration. Sharp conflict and governance were compatible. The tipping point was the election of the nation's first Black president and the economic collapse he inherited. Fault lines of religion, region, gender, sexual orientation, class, education and, especially, race widened. People chose sides and identified enemies, the number of true swing voters shrunk, fewer states and congressional districts were competitive, the two major parties became more monolithic, and appeals to the base drove strategy and what passed for policy. It was an atmosphere that provided fertile ground for a demagogue whose norm-busting appeals to White grievance and Christian Nationalism, as well as to regional and class resentment strengthened his appeal to an angry base and threatened the peaceful transition of power, the bedrock of American democracy for more than two centuries. Donald G. Nieman is an authority on modern U.S. law and politics, and professor of history and provost emeritus at Binghamton University – State University of New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics

Much has been written about political polarisation in the United States, but no one has examined it through the lens of recent U.S. history. There is nothing deterministic about how we became polarised, and it happened more recently than many think. To fully understand the problem, we must take the long view, the perspective provided by history, with its attention to change over time and the role of contingency. That's what The Path to Paralysis does. The book illuminates the broad forces that have shaped and reshaped American society and politics since the mid-1960s: the shift from an industrial to an information economy that produced economic inequality not seen since the 1920s; dramatic, unsettling changes in gender and sexuality; sharp conflict between those who embrace the culture of personal freedom that was a legacy of the 1960s and politically mobilised White evangelicals; persistent racial discord that transformed Southern politics and shattered the New Deal coalition; and dramatic changes in communication that transformed broadcasting into narrowcasting, creating alternate news and truths. These developments had their origin in the late 1960s and have generated sharp political conflict for six decades. But they didn't overwhelm the system until the 21st century. Ronald Reagan moved American politics to the right, but Republicans and Democrats forged compromise on issues as diverse as economic policy, civil rights, and immigration. After the culture wars of the 1980s and 1990s, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush tacked to the centre and sought bipartisan solutions to issues like welfare, education and immigration. Sharp conflict and governance were compatible. The tipping point was the election of the nation's first Black president and the economic collapse he inherited. Fault lines of religion, region, gender, sexual orientation, class, education and, especially, race widened. People chose sides and identified enemies, the number of true swing voters shrunk, fewer states and congressional districts were competitive, the two major parties became more monolithic, and appeals to the base drove strategy and what passed for policy. It was an atmosphere that provided fertile ground for a demagogue whose norm-busting appeals to White grievance and Christian Nationalism, as well as to regional and class resentment strengthened his appeal to an angry base and threatened the peaceful transition of power, the bedrock of American democracy for more than two centuries. Donald G. Nieman is an authority on modern U.S. law and politics, and professor of history and provost emeritus at Binghamton University – State University of New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frank Schaeffer In Conversation with Geoffrey Kabaservice, exploring his work and the themes of his book, Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of Moderation and The Destruction of The Republican Party, From Eisenhower to The Tea Party._____https://www.niskanencenter.org/https://www.niskanencenter.org/author/geoffrey-kabaservice/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vital-center/id1554124916https://www.lovechildrenplanet.com/events/it-has-to-be-read-rule-and-ruin-by-geoffrey-kabaservice_____I have had the pleasure of talking to some of the leading authors, artists, activists, and change-makers of our time on this podcast, and I want to personally thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing 100-plus episodes over 100,000 times.Please subscribe to this Podcast, In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer, on your favorite platform, and to my Substack, It Has to Be Said. Thanks! Every subscription helps create, build, sustain and put voice to this movement for truth. Subscribe to It Has to Be Said. Support the show_____In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer is a production of the George Bailey Morality in Public Life Fellowship. It is hosted by Frank Schaeffer, author of Fall In Love, Have Children, Stay Put, Save the Planet, Be Happy. Learn more at https://www.lovechildrenplanet.comFollow Frank on Substack, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. https://frankschaeffer.substack.comhttps://www.facebook.com/frank.schaeffer.16https://twitter.com/Frank_Schaefferhttps://www.instagram.com/frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.threads.net/@frank_schaeffer_arthttps://www.tiktok.com/@frank_schaefferhttps://www.youtube.com/c/FrankSchaefferYouTube In Conversation… with Frank Schaeffer Podcast

On today's show, we're asking a big question: When did everything become political? From entertainment and sports to schools, churches, and even everyday conversations, it feels like politics has seeped into nearly every aspect of our lives. We'll dive into the current political climate, exploring how we reached this point and why so many issues—big and small—now seem to carry a partisan label. We'll also look back at cultural and historical shifts that may have set the stage for today's divisions and consider whether this trend is something new or simply part of America's ongoing story.  Freedom Marketplace: https://freedommarketplace.net The Stack: https://www.toddhuffshow.com/stack-of-stuff Email: todd@toddhuffshow.comPhone: 317.210.2830Follow us on…Instagram: @toddhuffshowFacebook: The Todd Huff ShowTwitter: @toddhuffshowLinkedIn: The Todd Huff ShowTikTok: @toddhuffshowSupport Our Partners:https://www.toddhuffshow.com/partners Links:https://www.mypillow.com/todd Promo Code: TODDhttps://mystore.com/toddhttps://soltea.com - Promo Code TODD for $29.95 off your first orderRed, White, & Brand – Text TODD at 317-210-2830 for a 10% discount.

On today's show, we're asking a big question: When did everything become political? From entertainment and sports to schools, churches, and even everyday conversations, it feels like politics has seeped into nearly every aspect of our lives. We'll dive into the current political climate, exploring how we reached this point and why so many issues—big and small—now seem to carry a partisan label. We'll also look back at cultural and historical shifts that may have set the stage for today's divisions and consider whether this trend is something new or simply part of America's ongoing story.  Freedom Marketplace: https://freedommarketplace.net The Stack: https://www.toddhuffshow.com/stack-of-stuff Email: todd@toddhuffshow.comPhone: 317.210.2830Follow us on…Instagram: @toddhuffshowFacebook: The Todd Huff ShowTwitter: @toddhuffshowLinkedIn: The Todd Huff ShowTikTok: @toddhuffshowSupport Our Partners:https://www.toddhuffshow.com/partners Links:https://www.mypillow.com/todd Promo Code: TODDhttps://mystore.com/toddhttps://soltea.com - Promo Code TODD for $29.95 off your first orderRed, White, & Brand – Text TODD at 317-210-2830 for a 10% discount.

Legendary political analyst Charlie Cook joins Chuck Todd with sobering insights about America's polarized democracy, revealing that despite perceptions of a Democratic wipeout, 2024 represented a narrow rejection of Biden and Harris rather than an embrace of Trump—part of a pattern where six of the last seven presidential elections have been decided by five points or less, creating a perpetually divided nation where small shifts carry enormous consequences. Cook argues that true undecided voters now represent only 2-3% of the electorate while "independent leaners" are essentially partisan, meaning campaigns have learned that undecideds aren't centrists but often hold contradictory views that defy traditional political logic. He traces Biden's downfall to the chaotic first nine months of 2021, noting that Biden only won because the party consolidated to stop Sanders, while Trump's identification of public demand for border security proved politically prescient even as both parties operate with zero policy or values overlap.Cook delivers a stark diagnosis of systemic dysfunction, declaring there's "NO reason to have a U.S. Senate anymore" and arguing that when 50% plus one became the electoral standard, polarization inevitably followed, creating a republic that desperately needs new guardrails in the post-Trump era. He explains how the 1991 reapportionment sparked today's gerrymandering wars while weak parties paradoxically coexist with stronger partisan allegiances than ever, leaving journalists struggling to avoid being "used" by sources and voters consuming incoherent news diets without basic knowledge of history, civics, or economics. The conversation explores whether doubling the House size could restore representation, how robust third-party challenges might sober both major parties, and why it takes extraordinary people or events to unite a country where non-aggression pacts between opposing candidates—common in the 1980s—are now unthinkable, while warning against drawing too many conclusions from midterm results that may reflect pandemic-induced educational disruption more than lasting political realignment.Timeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Charlie Cook joins the Chuck ToddCast!03:00 Almanac of American Politics is best reference for each district05:30 Democrats decline happened nearly across the board06:30 2024 wasn't the Democrat wipeout it's portrayed to be09:30 All of the movement happens in the purple states10:45 Non-aggression pacts between candidates of different parties in 80s13:00 Journalists don't want to be “used” when being given information14:15 Parties are weak, but allegiances are stronger than ever15:30 The two parties have no overlap on policy or values17:00 Campaigns learned undecideds aren't always centrists19:00 Undecideds are only 2-3% of voters20:30 Independents with a “lean” are basically partisan22:00 There hasn't been a landslide since the 80's23:15 With a country this divided, small shifts are consequential24:30 When elections are close, it doesn't inspire reflection & change26:00 2024 was a rejection of Biden, not an embrace of Trump27:15 Biden's downfall was the first 9 months of 202129:15 Biden won because party consolidated to stop Sanders31:30 Trump identified public wanted border security33:45 6 of last 7 presidential elections decided by 5 points or less36:00 When 50% +1 became the standard, polarization set in36:45 There's NO reason to have a U.S. Senate anymore39:15 The republic needs new guardrails post-Trump40:00 A robust third party challenge sobers up the two parties41:00 It takes a great person or event to unite the country42:45 Pros/Cons of doubling the size of the house44:30 The public isn't learning history, civics or economics46:00 Most people don't have coherent consumption of news47:00 Where do the redistricting wars end?49:30 The 91' reapportionment started the gerrymandering mess50:30 Who is in better shape, Donald Trump or Brian Kelly?52:00 The pandemic really affected students and learning53:00 Will we take away too much from the midterm results?

Chuck Todd unpacks the political storm brewing around redistricting and its ripple effects on both voter and donor enthusiasm, as Democrats struggle to spark a surge of energy despite making gains in candidate recruitment. He digs into why the New Jersey governor's race could be unexpectedly tight, with Mamdani looming as a potential wildcard, and how an anti-incumbent mood paired with shaky economic signals could reshape the midterms. From voters increasingly motivated by who they're against rather than who they're for, to the larger question of whether this cycle is about personalities or policies, it's a sharp look at the forces defining the next election.Then, legendary political analyst Charlie Cook joins Chuck Todd with sobering insights about America's polarized democracy, revealing that despite perceptions of a Democratic wipeout, 2024 represented a narrow rejection of Biden and Harris rather than an embrace of Trump—part of a pattern where six of the last seven presidential elections have been decided by five points or less, creating a perpetually divided nation where small shifts carry enormous consequences. Cook argues that true undecided voters now represent only 2-3% of the electorate while "independent leaners" are essentially partisan, meaning campaigns have learned that undecideds aren't centrists but often hold contradictory views that defy traditional political logic. He traces Biden's downfall to the chaotic first nine months of 2021, noting that Biden only won because the party consolidated to stop Sanders, while Trump's identification of public demand for border security proved politically prescient even as both parties operate with zero policy or values overlap.Cook delivers a stark diagnosis of systemic dysfunction, declaring there's "NO reason to have a U.S. Senate anymore" and arguing that when 50% plus one became the electoral standard, polarization inevitably followed, creating a republic that desperately needs new guardrails in the post-Trump era. He explains how the 1991 reapportionment sparked today's gerrymandering wars while weak parties paradoxically coexist with stronger partisan allegiances than ever, leaving journalists struggling to avoid being "used" by sources and voters consuming incoherent news diets without basic knowledge of history, civics, or economics. The conversation explores whether doubling the House size could restore representation, how robust third-party challenges might sober both major parties, and why it takes extraordinary people or events to unite a country where non-aggression pacts between opposing candidates—common in the 1980s—are now unthinkable, while warning against drawing too many conclusions from midterm results that may reflect pandemic-induced educational disruption more than lasting political realignment.Finally, he answers listeners' questions in the “Ask Chuck” segmentTimeline:(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)00:00 Chuck Todd's Introduction03:30 Redistricting fight fallout will be intense04:45 What will redistricting fight do for voter/donor enthusiasm?06:45 No surge in Democratic enthusiasm yet09:45 Democrats are doing better on candidate recruitment 11:15 NJ governor's race could be close12:30 Mamdani could loom over the NJ governor's race15:00 We're in an anti-incumbent environment16:30 State of the economy could determine midterms17:30 Public is voting AGAINST candidates rather than for them18:00 Charlie Cook joins the Chuck ToddCast! 21:00 Almanac of American Politics is best reference for each district 23:30 Democrats decline happened nearly across the board 24:30 2024 wasn't the Democrat wipeout it's portrayed to be 27:30 All of the movement happens in the purple states 28:45 Non-aggression pacts between candidates of different parties in 80s 31:00 Journalists don't want to be "used" when being given information 32:15 Parties are weak, but allegiances are stronger than ever 33:30 The two parties have no overlap on policy or values 35:00 Campaigns learned undecideds aren't always centrists 37:00 Undecideds are only 2-3% of voters 38:30 Independents with a "lean" are basically partisan 40:00 There hasn't been a landslide since the 80's 41:15 With a country this divided, small shifts are consequential 42:30 When elections are close, it doesn't inspire reflection & change 44:00 2024 was a rejection of Biden, not an embrace of Trump 45:15 Biden's downfall was the first 9 months of 2021 47:15 Biden won because party consolidated to stop Sanders 49:30 Trump identified public wanted border security 51:45 6 of last 7 presidential elections decided by 5 points or less 54:00 When 50% +1 became the standard, polarization set in 54:45 There's NO reason to have a U.S. Senate anymore 57:15 The republic needs new guardrails post-Trump 58:00 A robust third party challenge sobers up the two parties 59:00 It takes a great person or event to unite the country 1:00:45 Pros/Cons of doubling the size of the house 1:02:30 The public isn't learning history, civics or economics 1:04:00 Most people don't have coherent consumption of news 1:05:00 Where do the redistricting wars end? 1:07:30 The 91' reapportionment started the gerrymandering mess 1:08:30 Who is in better shape, Donald Trump or Brian Kelly? 1:10:00 The pandemic really affected students and learning 1:11:00 Will we take away too much from the midterm results?1:14:00 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Charlie Cook 1:19:45 Ask Chuck 1:20:00 Why do wealthy democracies let Putin get away with so much? 1:26:30 What can small market MLB teams replicate the Brewers success? 1:32:00 Why can't Democrats win statewide in Florida? 1:37:45 How to reverse the damage from cutting research grants? 1:43:00 What amendments would you like to see at a constitutional convention?

The author of books including “Antidemocratic: Inside the Right's 50-Year Plot to Control American Elections,” David Daley joins Thom for a deep dive. Will the redistricting fight lead to the restoration... or destruction... of Democracy in America?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode: Louis Jacobson, senior columnist for Sabato's Crystal Ball, explains why the 2026 secretary of state elections could be among the most important contests of the cycle. In most states, secretaries of state oversee elections, giving them direct influence over how voting is administered and results are certified. With 26 seats on the ballot—including key battlegrounds such as Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Wisconsin, and Georgia—these races could shape the rules and practices of future elections. Jacobson outlines how responsibilities differ from state to state, why the offices have drawn more national attention in recent years, and previews the forthcoming 2026 edition of the Almanac of American Politics, a comprehensive resource on American government and elections.Read Jacobson's overview of the races: https://centerforpolitics.org/crystalball/previewing-the-2026-secretary-of-state-races/ Complete a brief 5 minute survey to review the show and share some feedback: https://forms.gle/zPxYSog5civyvEKX6 Sign up for our Newsletters: https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia_Email_Updates Stream "On the Ballot" on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you have questions, comments, or love for BP, feel free to reach out at ontheballot@ballotpedia.org or on X (formerly Twitter) @Ballotpedia.*On The Ballot is a conversational podcast featuring interviews with guests across the political spectrum. The views and opinions expressed by them are solely their own and are not representative of the views of the host or Ballotpedia as a whole.

Kate and Leah recap the week's legal news, including argument calendars for the next SCOTUS term and President Trump's attempted federal takeover of Washington, DC. Then, it's our third annual State of The Uterus episode. Melissa and Leah talk with Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, and Lisa Beattie Frelinghuysen, founder of ClutchKit, about the current status of reproductive freedom three years after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Finally, Leah talks about the authors of After Dobbs: How the Supreme Court Ended Roe, But Not Abortion.Favorite Things:Leah: Unbearable: Five Women and the Perils of Pregnancies in America, by Irin Carmon; track list and cover art for Taylor Swift's forthcoming The Life of a Showgirl; Ben Platt's cover of Diet Pepsi; Melissa's appearance on Nicole Wallace's podcast, The Best People; "Redistricting Texas Now is Illegal and the U.S. Department of Justice is the Reason Why," by Ellen Katz; and Laura Loomer's weird deposition in a case against Bill MaherKate: Vera, or Faith, by Gary Shteyngart; Parable of the Talents, by Octavia Butler; Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab; The Retrievals; "The Chadha Presidency," by Josh Chafetz; and "Trump, John Roberts and the Unsettling of American Politics," by David Dailey Get tickets for STRICT SCRUTINY LIVE – The Bad Decisions Tour 2025! 10/4 – ChicagoLearn more: http://crooked.com/eventsOrder your copy of Leah's book, Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad VibesGet tickets to CROOKED CON November 6-7 in Washington, D.C at http://crookedcon.comFollow us on Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky

A Presidency is defined by the decisions that a person makes while serving as Executive, but a Presidential legacy is about much more than that. In Mourning the Presidents: Loss and Legacy in American Culture, (UVA Press, 2023)Lindsay Chervinsky and Matthew Costello have brought together a collection of chapters that explore the ways that mourning ceremonies, causes of death, and moments of passing impact the way that we remember a President at the time they die, and how new research and a more inclusive understanding of US history have reshaped Presidential legacies in the years that follow. In this episode, Lindsay joins Ben and Bob for a conversation about some of the fascinating stories crafted by the book's contributing authors and how Presidential legacies might tell us more about ourselves than the individuals who have served in the Oval Office. Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky is a historian of the American Presidency who is currently a fellow at the Kluge Center at the Library of Congress and a Senior Fellow at the Center for Presidential History at Southern Methodist University. Her first book, The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution (Belknap Press, 2020) won multiple awards and was the topic of our conversation for her first appearance on The Road to Now in episode 184. You can learn more about Lindsay and her work at her website: LindsayChervinsky.com If you enjoyed this episode, you'll probably also like our conversation with Jeffrey Engle on the history of Presidential impeachment (RTN episode 109). This episode originally aired as episode 263 on February 20, 2023. This rebroadcast was edited by Ben Sawyer.

President Trump turned to the Heritage Foundation help pick his appointee to lead a traditionally non-partisan agency. NPR's Scott Detrow speaks with political science professor E.J. Fagan, author of “The Thinkers: The Rise of Partisan Think Tanks and the Polarization of American Politics” to understand why Trump's close relationship with the conservative think tank matters.For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or atplus.npr.org. Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Jordan-Marie Smith. It was edited by Tinbete Ermyas. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Episode 593Donald Jeffries has been a researcher on the JFK assassination since the mid-1970s. His first novel, "The Unreals," was published in 2007. His first nonfiction book, "Hidden History: An Expose of Modern Crimes, Conspiracies, and Cover-Ups in American Politics," was released by Skyhorse Publishing in November 2014 and quickly became a best-seller. The paperback edition featured a new Foreword from Roger Stone. His writing has been compared to Voltaire by award-winning author Alexander Theroux, and likened to Rudyard Kipling and John Kennedy Toole's "A Confederacy of Dunces" by "Night at the Museum" screenwriter Robert Ben Garant. Jeffries' second nonfiction book, "Survival of the Richest" was released to universal critical acclaim in July 2017. His next book, "Crimes and Cover Ups in American Politics: 1776-1963" will be released in May 2019.

In this episode of America's Founding Series, Professor Nick Giordano uncovers the real story of Elbridge Gerry. Gerry was a Revolutionary patriot, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Vice President of the United States, and his name has become forever tied to the controversial practice of gerrymandering. From his pivotal role in the fight for independence and his stand for a Bill of Rights, to the political pressures that led him to sign a bill he privately opposed, Gerry's life reveals the brilliance, courage, and human flaws of America's Founding Fathers. Discover the man behind the myth, and why his legacy is far more than a political cartoon. Episode Highlights How Elbridge Gerry rose from a wealthy merchant's son in Massachusetts to a key figure in the American Revolution and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Why Gerry refused to sign the Constitution, and how his principled stance helped pave the way for the Bill of Rights. The origin of “gerrymandering,” and how political loyalty led even an extraordinary Founder to a moment of human weakness.  

By now, you've most likely heard of Sydney Sweeney's controversial ad for her American Eagle genes (whoops-- I mean jeans). While some may think the ad's critics are "too woke", I argue it exemplifies the far-right slope the United States has dove headfirst down. I share other historical examples of how companies align themselves with political and social trends, such as the unexpected rise of the disposable diaper and women's fashion trends-- from flapper dresses to the"sad beige mom" aesthetic. Every advertisement has a hidden message, and this episode reveals some of the most telling.

(August 07, 2025)Host of ‘How to Money' Joel Larsgaard joins the show to talk about Amazon jacking up prices, reigning in on spending, and whether AI will be used to set prices in the future. The future of American politics might be decided by young voters who get most of their news through TikTok. The host of ‘Later with Mo Kelly' joins Bill to talk about AMC Theatres' decision to book more ads before each movie showtime.

In this episode of The P.A.S. Report, Professor Nick Giordano welcomes Mark Mitchell, Director of Polling Operations at Rasmussen Reports, to break down the latest data and trends reshaping the American political landscape. From voter disillusionment and the erosion of trust in institutions to the Republican Party's ongoing messaging struggles, this discussion exposes the growing disconnect between public sentiment and political action. With exclusive insights into youth voter trends, government accountability, and the future of MAGA, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand where the electorate is heading, and why the old political rules no longer apply. Episode Highlights: Why Republicans continue to lose the narrative war despite public support for key policies How polling reveals widespread public distrust in both parties and the political establishment Corruption, wasteful spending, healthcare, and economic concerns remain the top issues  

The National Security Hour with Col. Mike and Dr. Mike – We reveal how political corruption, government secrecy, and endless wars have betrayed the American people. As more truth comes to light, Americans demand accountability, transparency, and justice. Now is the time to expose every hidden document, confront corruption, and reclaim our nation's integrity before it's too late. The stakes have never been higher...

In spring 1894, a courtroom became the stage for a scandal that gripped the nation. Kentucky Congressman William Breckinridge faced a lawsuit from Madeline Pollard, who claimed he promised to marry her after nearly ten years together, then broke that promise. The trial exposed a hidden affair, secret meetings, and disputed truths between a rising politician and a woman left behind. The scandal captivated newspapers, packed courtrooms, and reshaped public opinion about one of the South's most prominent figures.