Today, Explained

Rebecca Jennings, a senior correspondent at Vox, and Constance Grady, an author and Vox reader, dive into the fascinating dynamics of the 2024 presidential race. They discuss the surprising influence of young male voters, known as 'bros,' and their shift toward conservative candidates. Women's reactions to this political shift are also explored, highlighting some choosing to 'swear off men' as a protest. The discourse on evolving gender roles touches on how these trends echo through social media, revealing a complex, intertwined socio-political landscape.

Anahad O'Connor, a seasoned nutrition reporter at The Washington Post, and Saul Justin Newman, a researcher at the Oxford Institute for Population Aging, dive into the myths and realities of dietary choices related to longevity. They unpack the allure of diets like the Blue Zones, revealing that many popular dietary gurus have faced unexpected early deaths. The discussion also highlights the negative impact of ultra-processed foods and emphasizes the complexities behind the quest for a 'live-forever' diet, advocating for a more evidence-based approach to health.

Melanie Mason, a senior political writer at Politico, and Christian Paz, a senior political reporter at Vox, delve into the shifting political landscape in California. They discuss how economic pressures are driving some traditionally liberal voters toward Trumpism. The duo explores the evolving #Resist movement, examining its current relevance amid changing political dynamics. They highlight key initiatives aimed at protecting civil rights and propose ways to revitalize grassroots activism in response to future political challenges.

Joshua Keating, a foreign policy and national security writer for Vox, discusses the challenges awaiting Donald Trump on the global stage. They dive into the complexities of Trump’s transactional foreign policy, contrasting it with traditional diplomacy. The conversation highlights potential geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine and U.S.-China relations. Keating also examines the shift in Trump's cabinet appointments and their implications on international alliances, painting a picture of a possibly unpredictable foreign strategy.

Join Eric Levitz, a Senior correspondent at Vox, and Jeff Weaver, a longtime associate of Senator Bernie Sanders, as they dissect the Democratic Party's significant losses in the recent election. They analyze the party's disconnect with voters, particularly declining support from Black and Latino communities, and the rise of Republican influence among non-college educated demographics. Together, they explore the urgent need for economic populism and diversity in leadership to revitalize the party and reconnect with working-class Americans.

Andrew Prokop, Senior Political Correspondent at Vox.com, and Shelby Talcott, Reporter for Semafor, dive into the aftermath of Trump's recent victory. They discuss Biden's unpopularity and Kamala Harris's campaign struggles amid evolving voter sentiments. The duo explores how demographic shifts and the nostalgia for the Trump era play into the current political landscape. Prokop highlights the implications for Trump's potential return to office, while Talcott provides on-the-ground insights into the buoyant mood within Trump's campaign team.

Join historian Jeffrey Engel, the Director of the Center for Presidential History, and Julia Azari, a political science professor, as they dissect the recurring claim that each election is the most crucial yet. They explore pivotal historical elections and their influence on current voter engagement. The duo reflects on the significance of the upcoming election, contrasting the campaigns of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, while discussing the emotional toll of election anxiety and the evolving landscape of American democracy.

Khalil AlHajal, Deputy opinion editor at the Detroit Free Press and a Dearborn native, joins Matt Grossmann, Director at Michigan State's Institute for Public Policy. They discuss how Arab American voters in Michigan are feeling disillusioned with Democrats due to their handling of the Gaza conflict. The conversation delves into the concept of political homelessness, the challenges of navigating political choices during strife, and how these factors may sway the election's outcome in a state known for tight races and shifting voter loyalties.

Maggie Mertens, journalist and author of "Better, Faster, Farther," teams up with Kevin Masters, a health psychology professor, to explore the marathon boom among 20-somethings. They discuss how running helps tackle quarter-life crises and the nearly 20% increase in participants from 2022 to 2023. The conversation highlights emotional journeys, community building, and psychological benefits, revealing why more people are lacing up their shoes. From personal growth to lifelong fitness habits, marathons are reshaping lives in remarkable ways.

Richard Parks III, host of the Dodger Blue Dream podcast, takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the Los Angeles Dodgers' cinematic season. Jared Diamond, a seasoned Wall Street Journal reporter, weighs in on the team's World Series win and its impact on declining baseball viewership. They discuss the excitement following the signing of Shohei Otani, the potential fallout from a gambling scandal, and strategies to rejuvenate interest in the sport amid fierce competition from other leagues.