The Next Level

In a candid conversation, the hosts dive into their emotional experiences from a recent gathering, revealing the mixture of feelings that came to light. They discuss the implications of Donald Trump's name on the Institute of Peace and explore the dangers of illiberalism versus symbolic gestures. The hosts critique journalistic interviews, particularly focusing on the impact of Tim Miller's empathetic style. Additionally, they wrestle with big questions about liberalism and challenge the narrative of endless self-blame, defending past neoliberal successes.

Dive into the chaos of Trump’s Washington as the hosts dissect the feuding between Elise Stefanik and Mike Johnson. They explore Pete Hegseth’s shifting narratives regarding a controversial maritime strike and the looming questions about war crimes. The discussion touches on the dangers of immigration extremism and the implications of population decline on the economy. Plus, insights into immigrant loyalty and a critique of a journalistic interview add depth to the conversation.

JVL and Sarah Longwell explore the alarming implications of Trump's possible pardons for January 6 felons. They argue this could create a troubling loyalty system reminiscent of mob tactics. The conversation highlights how this move might embolden criminal behavior under the guise of political allegiance, with the Supreme Court potentially providing necessary support. Their insights paint a vivid picture of the potential chaos this could unleash in the political landscape.

The hosts dive into Trump's legal failings and his choice of inexperienced lawyers. They dissect Marjorie Taylor Greene's unpredictable impact on the GOP and explore Zoran Mamdani's intriguing meeting with Trump, revealing how he outmaneuvered the former president. The conversation also touches on the unsettling revelations about foreign bots influencing MAGA narratives, alongside concerns about Trump's declining health. There's speculation about potential shakeups in his administration and the broader chaos within the Republican conference.

The hosts dive into Trump's alarming call for violence against Democratic senators, sparking a fiery discussion. They unpack the context of a new military rights video aimed at service members, reminding them about lawful orders. The narrative shifts as they dissect Trump's sudden push for releasing Epstein documents, revealing legal pressures he's facing. Partisanship in legal obedience is also explored, highlighting the divides in political accountability. Expect some light moments as they also tease a segment about Dick Cheney's funeral!

Trump faces mounting pressure with a botched Comey indictment and the fallout from recently unearthed Epstein files. Inside Trumpworld, panic brews as the MAGA movement wavers like never before. The hosts dive into the potential political implications of the Epstein revelations and whether they could harm Trump’s position. They also explore Trump’s controversial ties with Mohammed bin Salman and how a cornered Trump can become the most dangerous. Finally, discussions heat up around potential Republican contenders for the 2028 race.

Catherine Rampell, an insightful opinion writer for The Bulwark, fills in to discuss the latest political chaos surrounding recent Epstein revelations. She and JVL dig deep into how the GOP is grappling with internal contradictions and ongoing scandals. They examine the reputational fallout for figures like Larry Summers linked to Epstein, and ponder Trump's plausible deniability about his interactions. The conversation also touches on the muted media responses to Epstein's crimes and speculates on who might break away from Trump, all while weighing political incentives.

This discussion dives into newly released Epstein emails that suggest troubling connections with Trump. The hosts analyze emails from different years, revealing possible complicity and elite socialization with Epstein. They also debate the political implications, questioning whether conservative voters will react to these revelations. The conversation shifts to the MAGA civil war ignited by Tucker Carlson's controversial interview with Nick Fuentes, revealing deep divisions within right-wing circles. The implications of influencer politics and algorithm-driven extremism add another layer to the unfolding drama.

JVL, feeling under the weather from a vaccine, and Sarah dive into a whirlwind of political chaos. They discuss the fallout from USAID cuts and Elon Musk's controversial role in it. Jeff Flake's bizarre op-ed claiming a Republican exodus from Trump is critiqued, revealing a disconnect with party realities. Big Democratic wins are unpacked, highlighting Republican misinterpretations of these losses. New polling data suggests skepticism about Trump's future, as well as a tease for insights from Gen Z voters.

Voters delivered a significant blow to Trumpism with key Democratic wins in governor races across New Jersey and Virginia. The hosts delve into the implications of Abigail Spanberger's victory and Zohran Mamdani's surprising win in New York City, analyzing turnout dynamics and messaging strategies. They discuss the Democratic leverage amid a government shutdown and the ongoing GOP crisis post-Trump. The conversation also touches on the humorous moments from a viral subway trial, wrapping up with reflections on the political landscape as the midterms approach.