

The Commentary Magazine Podcast
Commentary Magazine
Commentary is America's premier monthly magazine of opinion: General, yet Jewish. Highly variegated, with a unifying perspective.Listen to The Commentary Magazine Podcast, along with more than 40 other original podcasts, at Ricochet.com. No paid subscription required.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 28, 2024 • 1h 19min
Bashing Kamala
Adam White, a legal expert, dives into the re-indictment of Donald Trump regarding January 6, dissecting how recent changes align with Supreme Court decisions. He highlights the legal nuances between official and unofficial acts, particularly around Trump's campaign conduct. The discussion also touches on congressional authority and how judicial interpretations are shaping political dynamics. White articulates the broader implications these legal issues pose for Trump's electoral prospects, emphasizing the complex interplay between law, governance, and political power.

Aug 27, 2024 • 1h 2min
BREAKING NEWS: Kamala Likes Doritos
Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, and former President Donald Trump engage in a lively discussion about media dynamics and political perception. They explore how Harris's limited press interactions shape public opinions and compare her strategies to past figures like Sarah Palin. The conversation humorously highlights Harris's love for Doritos while critiquing the media's focus on trivial narratives over substantive policies. Anticipation for their upcoming debate also sparks debates on past performances and the impact of public trust in leadership.

Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 18min
Israel's Remarkable Military Strike
Jonathan Schanzer, an expert on Israel's military and security issues, dives into Israel's preemptive strike to thwart a potential missile barrage from Hezbollah. He discusses the mischaracterization of this action as an escalation, framing it instead as a necessary defense. The conversation also touches on the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, the intricacies of American foreign policy regarding Israel and Gaza, and how military strategy intersects with domestic political dynamics in Israel. Schanzer highlights the broader implications for international security.

Aug 23, 2024 • 1h 25min
DNC, Day Four: So She Spoke Finally
Kamala Harris, a prominent political figure and current vice president, takes the stage to share insights following her recent speech at the Democratic convention. The discussion delves into the media frenzy surrounding her performance, examining the speech's content and its connection to past campaigns. Harris's national security approach is analyzed alongside her campaign strategies against Republican opponents. The conversation encapsulates the nuances of party dynamics, public perception, and the evolving landscape leading up to the election.

Aug 22, 2024 • 1h 17min
DNC Day Three: Walz Break
Mark Halperin joins Tim Walz, a rising political figure, to dissect his recent DNC speech, which opts for a light-hearted approach instead of deep policy dives. Bill Clinton's unique delivery and cultural impacts are also evaluated, particularly in contrast to Walz's style. Oprah Winfrey is humorously discussed as a childless cat lady, leading to broader reflections on personal choices in public life. The dialogue emphasizes the Democratic Party's evolving identity and the shifting strategies amid economic challenges and changing voter dynamics.

Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 31min
DNC, Day 2: The Obama Roll Call
Doug Emhoff, prominent lawyer and the Second Gentleman, and Michelle Obama, former First Lady and influential speaker, take center stage. They highlight the electrifying energy at the Democratic National Convention, emphasizing the engaging state roll call infused with music. Doug shares his insights on growing voter engagement, while Michelle reflects on the legacy of Barack Obama. Their speeches stir conversations about race, resilience, and the party's future, showcasing a vibrant hopefulness juxtaposed with the challenges of uniting diverse voices.

Aug 20, 2024 • 1h 16min
DNC, Day 1
Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, and Joe Biden, the 46th President, dive into the whirlwind of the Democratic National Convention. They discuss the electrifying atmosphere filled with shouting and speeches, questioning how effective it really was. Harris reflects on the emotional stories shared by new congressional members, while Biden critiques the party's focus on sentimentality over substantive policies. The conversation also touches on the role of protests and identity politics, alongside the expectations tied to political family titles.

Aug 19, 2024 • 1h 16min
Here Come the Democrats
Delve into the dynamics of the upcoming Democratic convention and the challenges facing Kamala Harris. There's a lively discussion on media influence and whether Democrats are overly confident in their approach. The significance of convention speeches is highlighted, comparing past memorable addresses to today's landscape. Listen in for insights on voter perceptions and the importance of effective communication for undecided voters. Plus, enjoy a humorous take on music choices and a thoughtful recommendation on understanding the U.S. Constitution.

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 12min
The Trump-Harris Socialism Problem
Donald Trump, the former U.S. President known for his controversial policies, shares insights on his recent press conference, revealing his grievances amid economic discussions. Vice President Kamala Harris counters with her optimistic economic proposals, highlighting the stark contrast in strategies aimed at Jewish voters. Esteemed economist Minouche Shafik discusses her recent resignation, shedding light on the challenges of managing misconduct in organizations. The conversation delves into political polling dynamics, campaign strategies, and complex international hostage negotiations in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Aug 15, 2024 • 36min
The Making of a COMMENTARY Issue
Explore the intricate journey of magazine production and the teamwork behind crafting each issue. Discover the unique process of navigating article submissions from various contributors, and the vital role contemporary topics play. Delve into essential strategies for combating anti-Semitism while balancing free speech concerns. Highlight notable contributions from respected writers, spanning diverse topics including literature, politics, and technology. Finally, get a peek into the editorial excellence that transforms manuscripts into visually compelling magazines.