David Axelrod, a veteran political strategist and former chief strategist for Obama's campaign, shares his insights as the US presidential election looms. The conversation dives into Trump’s conspiracy theories surrounding hurricane responses and the revelation of Covid test machines sent to Putin. Axelrod highlights Biden's crucial talks with Netanyahu amidst rising Middle Eastern tensions. They also discuss Melania Trump's memoir, focusing on her pro-abortion and pro-immigration views, and its potential impact on voter dynamics.

Jessica Taylor, Senate and governors editor for the Cook Political Report, joins to discuss the intense dynamics shaping the upcoming Senate races. She highlights the tough challenges facing Senate Democrats in states like West Virginia and Montana. The conversation delves into the strategic importance of military backgrounds for Republican candidates in Montana, and how issues like abortion rights are shifting voter sentiment. As Trump and Harris vie for the White House, the stakes for Senate control could redefine legislative outcomes.

JD Vance, a Republican Senator known for his candid approach, tries to reshape his public persona during a recent debate, while Minnesota Governor Tim Walz delivers a solid but less-than-stellar performance. Their contrasting styles reflect deeper political strategies, with Vance’s polished demeanor taking center stage. They also touch on the heated issues of reproductive rights and immigration, amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, highlighting the candidates' divergent foreign policy views.

In this engaging discussion, George Chidi, a politics and democracy reporter for Guardian US, dives into the significance of swing states like Arizona, Nevada, Georgia, and North Carolina in the upcoming election. He highlights polling trends suggesting Kamala Harris may outperform Donald Trump in these crucial areas. Chidi explores how demographic shifts in Georgia and the diverse political landscape of North Carolina could redefine strategies for both parties. Uncertainty looms, but the stakes couldn't be higher for these pivotal states.

Sasha Abramsky, an insightful author, dives into the perilous landscape of American politics as the election looms. He discusses the unsettling possibility of another January 6-style incident should Trump refuse to accept defeat. The conversation highlights the alarming normalization of political violence, the divisive effects of Trump's rhetoric, and the chaos that misinformation could bring to the electoral process. Abramsky also underscores the importance of community engagement in combating extremism and the potential ramifications of a government shutdown before election day.

Kamala Harris, the U.S. Vice President, and Donald Trump, the former President, faced off in a fiery debate, marking their first direct encounter on stage. The conversation delved into their starkly contrasting styles and policy positions, with Trump attempting to dominate while Harris countered with strategic engagement. They tackled contentious topics like immigration and the lingering effects of election denial. Journalist Nikki McCann Ramirez provided insight into voter perceptions and the impact of celebrity endorsements on the political landscape.

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will meet face to face on the debate stage next Tuesday. Jonathan Freedland speaks to Paul Begala – who helped Al Gore to prepare for his 2000 debate against George W Bush – about what the 2024 candidates will be doing to prepare. What can they do to increase their chances of coming out on top, and will this debate be as election-defining as the last?

Kari Lake, a former TV news anchor turned right-wing politician, recently clinched the Republican Senate primary in Arizona. She faces questions about her alignment with Trump and whether she'll boost his chances in this pivotal state. Journalist Elaine Godfrey dives into Arizona's evolving political landscape, discussing Lake's ideological transformation and campaign strategies. They also explore her complex position on issues like immigration and abortion, and the potential effects on her popularity as she gears up for the November election.

Olly Laughland, southern bureau chief for Guardian US, teams up with political reporter Lauren Gambino to dissect Kamala Harris's historic acceptance speech. They discuss the electrifying atmosphere at the DNC and the significance of Harris's candidacy for women of color. The conversation dives into themes of unity and patriotism, contrasting her leadership style with her rivals. They also explore the enthusiasm of delegates, Harris’s rising poll numbers, and the unpredictable nature of the upcoming election, pondering how these elements will shape American politics.

Susan Glasser, a journalist from the New Yorker, dissects Donald Trump's recent campaign struggles as he faces Kamala Harris. She highlights his difficulties pivoting from previous narratives amid a chaotic political scene. The discussion touches on Trump's controversial rhetoric, including a questionable tale about Willie Brown, and how it impacts his credibility. They also explore the implications of age and fitness in the race, with younger candidates energizing voters, potentially reshaping the political landscape.