The Chuck ToddCast

Scott MacFarlane, a seasoned CBS News Capitol Hill correspondent, shares gripping insights from his firsthand experiences during the January 6th insurrection and an assassination attempt on Trump. He unpacks how these events have redefined American politics, particularly the ongoing influence of Trump on the Republican Party and the complexities of political violence. The discussion also addresses challenges in local journalism, the implications of gerrymandering, and the politicization of the judiciary, painting a vivid picture of today's divided political landscape.

Brittany Pettersen, a rising star in the Democratic Party and Congresswoman for Colorado's 7th district, joins the discussion. She argues for modernizing congressional rules to support pregnant members and highlights the dysfunction plaguing Congress. Pettersen emphasizes the urgent need for massive federal investments in housing, warning that Trump's policies could worsen the housing crisis. The conversation also touches on complex issues like immigration reform and the need for bipartisanship to tackle pressing challenges facing constituents.

Nathan Gonzalez, editor and publisher of "Inside Elections," joins to dissect the shifting political terrain ahead of the 2026 midterms. They discuss the likelihood of key Senate retirements and the impact of controversial figures like RFK Jr. on public health and voter sentiment. The duo explores the potential for more competitive Democratic primaries and the implications of new IRS rules on religious endorsements in politics. They also ponder Elon Musk's role in the rise of third-party movements and the significance of party unity amid changing voter dynamics.

Veteran Boston media personalities Jim Braude and Margery Eagan join the discussion, sharing insights on the erosion of ethics in journalism and the chilling effects of toxic politics on public service. They examine the decline of local journalism and its impact on political accountability, reflecting on the legacy of the Kennedy family amid changing political tides. As misinformation and polarized media shape public discourse, they delve into the urgent need for rebuilding trust and the potential emergence of third parties in American politics.

Cecilia Aldarondo, Salima Koroma, and Alice Gu, directors of the HBO documentary "Dear Ms.: A Revolution In Print," delve into the legacy of Ms. Magazine. They discuss how the iconic publication transcended traditional women's media by addressing taboo topics like pornography and workplace harassment. The trio reflects on the backlashes faced and the ongoing implications of feminism today, especially in light of the Trump era. They also emphasize the need for inclusivity within the movement, particularly regarding the voices of Black women.

David Jolly, a former Republican and now a Democratic candidate for governor of Florida, shares his political journey and insights into Florida's shifting landscape. He discusses the implications of Trump cutting military aid to Ukraine, despite widespread public support. Jolly reflects on key moments that reshaped his views, including the impact of the Pulse nightclub shooting and his break from the NRA. The conversation also tackles immigration dynamics and how some communities are drawn to Republican policies, raising questions about broader political reconciliation in America.

Ian Bremmer, a political scientist and president of Eurasia Group, shares his expertise on global political risks. He discusses the complexities of recent Iranian strikes, questioning whether Iran is a true threat amidst its internal struggles. Bremmer analyzes Trump's contentious relationships with NATO allies and explores the troubling situation in Ukraine. The conversation dives into the rise of global populism and its implications for democracy, warning of a potential shift toward reactionary politics that could impact future generations.

Kristen Soltis Anderson, a Republican pollster and commentator, shares her insights on the shifting political landscape. She discusses the surprising demographic changes that contributed to Trump's 2024 victory, highlighting his unexpected support from young and Latino voters. Anderson emphasizes that the real story was the millions of Biden voters who stayed home. The conversation also delves into the complexities of foreign policy opinions, the evolving nature of political coalitions, and the psychological factors influencing Gen Z's political beliefs.

Reid Wilson, founder of Pluribus News and expert on state policy, joins for a lively discussion on the political aftershocks of Zohran Mamdani's primary victory, a turning point for the Democratic Party. They dissect the establishment's outdated candidate selections and the growing rift between leaders and voters. The conversation transitions to the complexities of regulating artificial intelligence, exploring how industries adapt and the essential role of state legislation. From funding sports stadiums to AI governance, Wilson sheds light on the interconnectedness of politics, technology, and community needs.

Jose Antonio Vargas, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen', shares his harrowing journey as an undocumented immigrant. He discusses the chilling atmosphere of living under Trump's policies, contrasting it with historical narratives from past leaders. Vargas reveals how coming out as gay was easier than disclosing his immigration status, and critiques both parties for weaponizing immigration instead of addressing its human impact. His insights urge a reevaluation of how media shapes the discourse around immigration.