The New Yorker Radio Hour

Josh Shapiro, the elected governor of Pennsylvania, discusses the critical battleground state's evolving political landscape. He highlights the necessity for candidates, like Kamala Harris, to connect with independents and moderate Republicans to secure victory. Shapiro reflects on his own winning strategy in a deeply polarized state and the importance of personal interaction with voters. The conversation also touches on the impact of divisive rhetoric and the stakes of economic issues, like childcare costs, in shaping the political climate for the upcoming election.

Patti LuPone has been a mainstay on Broadway for half a century. She’s appeared in some 30 Broadway productions and has won three Tony Awards for her roles in “Evita,” “Gypsy,” and “Company.” And somehow, LuPone’s career seems to be picking up steam in its sixth decade. Now LuPone is returning to Broadway in “The Roommate,” a play she’s starring in alongside Mia Farrow.  At the same time, she is débuting in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing a witch in the miniseries “Agatha All Along.”  The staff writer Michael Schulman first wrote about LuPone (in one strange, forgotten dead end of her career) in 2019, and recently spoke with LuPone at her home.  Is it true, he wanted to know, that LuPone recently had Aubrey Plaza—her castmate on “Agatha”—for a short-term roommate?  Plaza had been offered her first role in a play, as LuPone relates it, and “she'd never been onstage. I know from years of experience how it can shock you, what is required of you to be a stage actor.” LuPone, the veteran, “was concerned for her. I said, Why don't you just stay with me and let me walk you through this as you come home like a deer caught in the headlights. … I did do her laundry, and I did make her soup.” 

Marc Elias, an election lawyer known for successfully defending the 2020 election results, joins the discussion. Elias highlights the growing threat for 2024, expressing concerns about Trump's potential tactics and the rise of election-denying officials in swing states. He warns of a more competent and desperate Trump, predicting that he will falsely claim victory across all states regardless of the actual results. With voter suppression tactics on the rise and legal battles looming, Elias stresses the urgency of protecting electoral integrity.

In this captivating discussion, Ian Frazier, celebrated author of 'Great Plains' and 'Travels in Siberia,' teams up with his colleague Zach Helfand to unveil the hidden gems of the Bronx. They explore the historic High Bridge, share fascinating anecdotes about Edgar Allan Poe's connection to the area, and spotlight the birth of hip-hop at Cedar Playground. Together, they challenge stereotypes surrounding this vibrant borough, reflecting on its rich cultural evolution and the transformative power of community.

Danzy Senna, an acclaimed author known for her exploration of biracial identity in America, dives into the complexities of race in contemporary society. She discusses controversial remarks about Kamala Harris, emphasizing how mixed-race individuals are often subjected to public scrutiny and debate. Senna challenges the definitions of 'biracial' and proudly embraces the term 'mulatto,' provoking thoughts on the significance of language in shaping identity. Her latest novel, 'Colored Television,' reflects her own journey and the intricate realities faced by biracial people.

Hernan Diaz, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of 'Trust,' dives deep into the world of finance and personal relationships. He discusses his novel's unique narrative structure, showcasing four distinct voices that provide conflicting accounts of a tycoon’s life during the Roaring Twenties. Diaz emphasizes the abstract nature of finance, intertwining it with themes of trust and ethics. He also reflects on the joys and challenges of writing, the impact of language and identity on creativity, and the struggle for literature to thrive in an age of distraction.

Madeleine Baran, the lead reporter behind the investigative podcast, unfolds a chilling narrative about the Haditha killings in Iraq, where 24 civilians lost their lives to U.S. Marines in 2005. She discusses the complex layers of truth: was it a war crime, a tragic mistake, or something else? Baran shares Khalid's poignant quest for justice after losing his family, revealing the emotional scars that remain. The probing investigation exposes the struggles of victims’ families against a backdrop of unresolved grief and the elusive nature of military accountability.

Susan B. Glasser, a Washington correspondent for The New Yorker, dives into the shifting dynamics of the Republican Party post-Dobbs decision. She discusses the recent removal of a longstanding plank for a national abortion ban and Trump's distancing from hardline pro-life stances. The tension within the party is evident, especially through her interview with Representative Matt Rosendale, who advocates for strict anti-abortion measures, including controversial views on in vitro fertilization. Glasser emphasizes how these debates will impact the upcoming 2024 elections.

Geraldo Cadava, an expert on Latino voter trends and author of "The Hispanic Republican," discusses the surprising rise in Latino support for Trump. He explains how Trump's messaging and policies have resonated with this demographic despite past anti-immigrant rhetoric. The conversation dives into the complexities of Latino identity and what's driving political alignment. Additionally, there's a lively debate about potential 'songs of the summer,' featuring popular tracks from artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX, highlighting the cultural significance of these anthems.

Clare Malone, a talented staff writer for The New Yorker, dives into the eccentricities surrounding Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., a politician with a unique campaign. They discuss Kennedy's bizarre admission about a dead bear cub in Central Park, revealing an intriguing connection to his past. The conversation also uncovers the humorous and bizarre claims linked to falconry and a decade-old incident, highlighting the intersection of nature and politics. Finally, they explore Kennedy's political ambitions and the quirky merchandise emerging from his campaign.