

Damon Linker
Political writer and senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania; author and Substack writer focused on political theory and the contemporary right.
Top 10 podcasts with Damon Linker
Ranked by the Snipd community

157 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 23min
#439 — How to Lose a Democracy
Damon Linker, a political writer and senior lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the alarming erosion of American democracy. He discusses the rise of right-wing populism and how Trump is consolidating authoritarian control. Linker warns of the dangers of civil unrest and tyrannical governance, highlighting the weaponization of political narratives. The conversation also critiques aggressive immigration policies and the reality behind crime rhetoric, exposing how inflammatory language escalates tensions in society.

29 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 24min
#439 - How to Lose a Democracy
Damon Linker, a political science lecturer and author, delves into the troubling state of American democracy. He discusses the rise of right-wing populism and its potential to distort democracy. The conversation highlights how Trump could exploit unrest via the Insurrection Act and the risks of authoritarianism. Linker critiques the rhetoric of power and fear that fuels division, while examining the intertwining of Christianity and politics in modern America. Together, they explore the dangers posed to democratic norms and the emerging threats from centralized state power.

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.

Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
Steve Hayes & Damon Linker: The Hole Truth
Damon Linker, a political science lecturer and Substack writer, teams up with Steve Hayes, Editor of The Dispatch, to dissect Trump's controversial demolition of the White House East Wing. They explore whether the uproar is about aesthetics or deeper issues and discuss the true dangers facing democracy. The conversation shifts to Trump's influence on public opinion and the speculation around a potential 2028 run. They also tackle larger themes like Congress's role in eroding democracy and urban homelessness, sparking a lively debate on governmental 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.


