The Playbook Podcast Republicans brace for the post-Trump era
6 snips
Nov 7, 2025 The podcast dives into the challenges facing Republicans in a post-Trump landscape. With recent electoral losses, they explore strategies to engage voters without Trump on the ballot. J.D. Vance's potential to unite Trump’s diverse coalition is scrutinized, while the Democratic field for 2028 remains uncertain. There's also discussion about a potential deal to end the longest government shutdown and insights into Viktor Orban's controversial visit to the White House, focusing on sanctions. Tune in for a blend of political intrigue!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Republicans Depend On Trump For Turnout
- Republican turnout falls sharply when Donald Trump is not on the ballot, exposing a structural weakness for the party.
- J.D. Vance leads among 2024 Trump voters but would need years to assemble the same coalition without Trump present.
Coalition Held Together By Personality
- Trump's coalition spans divergent groups from podcast audiences to social conservatives, held together by his personality and messaging.
- J.D. Vance embodies elements of that populist, America First coalition but faces the hard task of knitting it together himself.
Early Polls Aren't Destiny
- Early national name recognition drives 2028 preference polling and can change dramatically over time.
- The hosts caution against overreading current polls three years out, citing historical surprises like Trump and Obama.