

Damon Linker
Senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania. He writes the subscription newsletter “Notes from the Middleground” at Substack.
Top 10 podcasts with Damon Linker
Ranked by the Snipd community

26 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 27min
Reaganite Elegy
Jonah Goldberg is joined by Bulwark contributor Damon Linker to discuss the chaotic news cycle, J.D. Vance's VP selection, GOP at the 2024 convention, conservative think tanks, Republican schism, and fallout of Trump assassination attempt.

5 snips
Apr 22, 2024 • 40min
When "Anti-Zionism" Is A Get Out Of "Antisemitism" Free Card
Political analyst Damon Linker joins the show to discuss anti-Zionism vs. anti-Semitism. Topics include campus protests, White House antisemitism remarks, and the distinction between 'not nice' and 'not acceptable'. Also, the Dems' support for Mike Johnson and the complexities of political debates.

5 snips
Apr 20, 2024 • 32min
BEST OF THE GIST: NPR CEO OMG Edition
Damon Linker discusses Biden's struggles due to a broken America. Katherine Maher's new role as NPR's CEO. Topics include truth in journalism, political brokenism, negative news impact, and political polarization in the US.

Nov 8, 2024 • 47min
Damon Linker On Trump's Historic Win
Damon Linker, a political writer and editor known for his sharp insights on American politics, dives into Trump's unexpected revival as a formidable force. He discusses how Trump transformed from a laughingstock to a key influencer, tapping into overlooked voter segments. The conversation touches on the backlash against elites, the nuanced dynamics of immigration, and the implications of a potential second Trump term, revealing the complexities of modern political sentiment and the changing landscape of voter motivations.

Sep 16, 2025 • 47min
Damon Linker on The Spiral of Violence in America
Damon Linker, a senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania and author of 'Notes from the Middleground,' dives into the chilling implications of Charlie Kirk's assassination. He discusses the rise of political violence fueled by divisive narratives, especially on social media. The conversation highlights distressing parallels with historical conflicts, emphasizes the urgent need for civil discourse, and explores pathways to heal an increasingly polarized America. Linker warns of the consequences of extreme rhetoric and the vital importance of civic responsibility.

Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 8min
Is the U.S. helping speed up its own decline? with Damon Linker
Damon Linker, a political scholar from the University of Pennsylvania, dives into a thought-provoking analysis of American democracy and its global standing. He discusses how Trump’s administration might be accelerating the decline of democratic values and challenging political norms. The conversation examines shifts in U.S. foreign policy and the influence of right-wing thinkers, including the complex philosophies of Strauss and Schmitt. Linker raises critical questions about the balance between authoritarian impulses and democratic principles in today’s political landscape.

Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 8min
Is the U.S. helping speed up its own decline? with Damon Linker
In this insightful discussion, Damon Linker, a political writer and scholar at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the complexities of U.S. political dynamics. He explores how Trump's approach to presidential power challenges traditional norms and institutions. The conversation touches on the decline of expert governance and the implications of prioritizing national self-interest in foreign policy. Linker also reflects on how fringe thinkers shape today's political landscape, raising questions about democracy and America's evolving role in the global order.

Feb 12, 2025 • 47min
How Russell Vought's 'radical constitutionalism' could spark a constitutional crisis
Russell Vought, former head of Trump's Office of Management and Budget, passionately discusses his views on 'radical constitutionalism,' advocating for presidential power to dismantle federal agencies. Damon Linker, a political science lecturer, provides insight into how Vought's ideas could provoke a constitutional crisis. They explore the impact of executive authority on independent agencies, the complex relationship between judicial oversight and presidential power, and the potential shifts in American governance stemming from Vought's radical interpretations.

Jan 31, 2025 • 36min
Americano: are the Democrats paralysed?
Damon Linker, a senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the Notes from the Middle Ground substack, dives into the Democrats' early struggles during Trump's presidency. He discusses how the party's disorientation is slowly giving way to resilience and strategic responses to executive actions. The conversation also explores shifts in Trump's approval ratings, the influence of media on politics, and how economic perceptions shape voter sentiments and the overall political landscape.

Jan 31, 2025 • 36min
Are the Democrats paralysed?
Damon Linker, a senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the Notes from the Middle Ground substack, shares insightful perspectives on the Democratic Party's current challenges under Trump. He discusses how the overwhelming executive orders have left the party disoriented yet hints at signs of resilience. Linker examines the strongman dilemma in governance, the complex influence of media on political dynamics, and how economic factors are reshaping voter sentiment and strategies.