Molly Ball

Antonia Ferrier, a seasoned communications strategist for Republican leaders, joins Mo Elleithee, a former DNC communications director, and host Molly Ball to tackle the GOP's internal struggles over a major tax bill. They dive into the battles between fiscal conservatives and moderates, shedding light on the complexities of Medicaid reform. The group also discusses Trump's recent Middle East state visit, balancing business interests against diplomatic ties while raising ethical concerns over foreign policy.

Molly Ball, a senior political correspondent at the Wall Street Journal, and Nicole Hemmer, a historian specializing in modern conservatism, delve into the implications of Donald Trump's remarkable electoral comeback. They discuss how voter frustrations with inflation and immigration have fueled his support, posing concerns about democracy's health. Hemmer warns of unchecked power, while Ball debates whether traditional barriers to executive authority will hold. The duo also examines the Democratic Party's struggle to reconnect with working-class voters and navigate its ideological divides.

Molly Ball, a WSJ reporter focused on the Trump campaign and the 2024 election, dives into the evolving political landscape. She discusses Trump's struggle against a rising Kamala Harris and the impact of his unpredictable style on voter perception. Ball tackles whether undecided voters really exist and explores the challenges of connecting with swing voters. Strategies for reclaiming narrative and engaging voters are also examined, showcasing the high stakes as the election draws closer.

Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent at the Wall Street Journal, offers expert insights into Elon Musk's ties to Donald Trump, while Jim Cantrell, a founding member of SpaceX, shares personal anecdotes about Musk's work style. They discuss Musk's rise from a challenging childhood in South Africa to becoming a political powerhouse. The conversation touches on his ambitions for Mars colonization, his unconventional leadership, and the political implications of his affiliation with Trump's administration, revealing the complexities of a tech mogul's influence.

Political journalist Molly Ball, political strategist Navin Nayak, and political analyst Brendan Buck discuss the Trump immunity case and election interference in Arizona. Sen. Mitch McConnell talks about Ukraine aid package and legal battles involving the former president. The podcast explores Supreme Court arguments, presidential immunity, legal tactics, Trump's legal accountability, and McConnell's influence on the Republican Party.

Journalist Molly Ball discusses the evolution of same-sex marriage in America and the cultural shifts that led to its acceptance. Topics include the impact of previous revolutions on marriage laws, the activism behind cultural acceptance, and Target's business decision regarding Pride Month displays.

Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, delves into the recent surge of anti-Trump protests, highlighting a significant shift in public sentiment. She discusses the contrasting atmosphere of a military parade while protests erupt against perceived authoritarianism. Molly emphasizes the unity among various groups fighting for democracy and critiques the complexities of immigration policies under Trump. The conversation also touches on the legal challenges facing the administration and the implications for upcoming elections.

Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the ideological rift within the MAGA movement over Donald Trump's decision to bomb Iranian nuclear facilities. She discusses how this move challenges the 'America First' promise, revealing divisions among influential supporters like Tucker Carlson and Steve Bannon. The conversation highlights Trump's fluctuating reputation as a peacemaker amid ongoing global conflicts and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly regarding Israel and Iran.

Preet speaks with Molly Ball, the National Political Correspondent at TIME, about the legacy of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has said that she will not seek a leadership position in the next Congress. Ball authored a 2020 biography of the House Speaker titled Pelosi. Stay Tuned in Brief is presented by CAFE and the Vox Media Podcast Network. Please let us know what you think! Email us at letters@cafe.com, or leave a voicemail at 669-247-7338.References & Supplemental Materials: Ball, Pelosi, McMillan Publishing Ball, “Nancy Pelosi Reflects On the Not-Quite-End of An Era,” TIME, 11/17/22 Full Transcript of Nancy Pelosi’s Speech, NYT, 11/17/21 Ball, “How Nancy Pelosi Saved the Affordable Care Act,” TIME, 5/6/2020 “Pelosi flashes anger when asked if she hates Trump: 'I don't hate anybody'” ABC News, 12/5/19 Footage of Pelosi during January 6th Attacks, WaPo, 10/13/22 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Molly Ball, Senior Political Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal and author of a biography on Nancy Pelosi, shares her astute insights on the tumultuous start of Trump's second term. She highlights the stark contrasts with 2017, including loyalty shifts within the GOP. The discussion dives into how intentional disruptions are reshaping governance, the new dynamics in the Republican Party, and the importance of political stories in understanding these changes. Molly also reflects on her journalistic journey and the evolving role of figures like Pelosi in contemporary politics.