The Al Franken Podcast

Join political heavyweights Jessica Taylor, a Senate analyst at the Cook Political Report, and Jeremy Peters, a New York Times journalist, as they dissect the election landscape. Molly Jong-Fast, host of the "Fast Politics" podcast, weighs in on the stakes, while Mark Leibovich from The Atlantic discusses the implications of a potential Trump victory. They delve into undecided voters' concerns, the dynamics of key races in states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, and the evolving challenges of election discourse, all with a mix of insight and humor.

Catherine Rampell, an economic columnist for the Washington Post, delves into the implications of economic policies on the upcoming election. She critiques Trump's tariffs, emphasizing their potential to increase consumer costs, particularly affecting lower-income households. Rampell also highlights a successful program in Flint, Michigan, providing cash grants to families of newborns—a concept that Kamala Harris is embracing for her campaign. The conversation reveals the challenges families face and the innovative solutions that could reshape national policy.

Laura Bassett, a former editor in chief of Jezebel and a political writer for The Cut, teams up with Sarah Zhang, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for her work on women's healthcare issues. They delve into the critical impact of strict abortion laws, particularly in Idaho, exploring how these regulations hinder healthcare access and create moral dilemmas for OBGYNs. Bassett highlights how reproductive rights could influence the upcoming elections, while both share personal anecdotes illustrating the devastating effects of these laws on women's health.

Frank Foer, a writer for The Atlantic, and David Rothkopf, a political analyst from The Daily Beast, tackle the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East following last year's devastating attack in Israel. They discuss potential futures for Gaza and the impact of U.S. foreign policy on the region. Nobel Prize-winning climate scientist Michael Mann highlights the urgent threat of climate change, linking it to the recent devastating hurricanes Helene and Milton. Together, they explore the intersection of global conflict and environmental crises.

Join Tim Miller, host of The Bulwark podcast, and Aaron Blake, political reporter for the Washington Post, as they dissect the recent unsealed filings against Donald Trump related to January 6th. They reveal compelling details about Trump's actions that contradict his defenses. The conversation also delves into the vice presidential debate between Tim Walz and JD Vance, questioning whether voters will accept the misinformation from the Trump/Vance ticket. Political dynamics and voter behavior in this polarized climate are also explored, revealing critical insights.

Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times columnist, brings deep insights into the current political landscape. He exposes the dangerous misinformation regarding Haitian immigrants spread by figures like Trump and JD Vance. The discussion also dives into key Senate races, examining their potential ramifications for the presidency. Bouie outlines how Republicans might enable Trump further, hinting at alarming possibilities. Additionally, he shares strategic messaging tips for Democrats to counteract the unfolding electoral dynamics.

Marc Elias, a leading Democratic election lawyer and advocate for voting rights, discusses the ongoing threats to voter integrity. He emphasizes that the GOP is ramping up efforts to disenfranchise voters more than ever. Elias highlights tactical challenges, such as ballot curing and signature verification issues, particularly in key states like Georgia and Arizona. He warns about the potential impact of Trump’s influence on future elections and stresses the importance of vigilance and activism in protecting democracy.

Jeremy Peters, a New York Times journalist covering politics, dives into the chaotic debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. He highlights Harris's strong stances on abortion and democracy while pointing out Trump's frantic and baseless allegations. The conversation shifts to the power of voter sentiment and the impact of celebrity endorsements, including Taylor Swift's influence. Peters also addresses the bizarre misinformation surrounding local politics, emphasizing how it shapes public opinion in surprising ways.

Joe Conason, an author and journalist, dives into the grueling history of right-wing grifters in his new work, 'The Longest Con.' He traces the roots from the McCarthy era to Donald Trump, illustrating how some religious broadcasters exploit their followers. Conason warns that a potential second Trump term could result in hefty profits for him and his partners. He also critiques the insidious fundraising tactics that have defined the rise of the religious right, vividly showcasing the depths of corruption and manipulation in American politics.

Join the hilarity with Martin Short, a comedian and actor with over five decades in entertainment. He shares delightful insights about his role in 'Only Murders in the Building' and the dynamic chemistry with his co-star Steve Martin. Martin dives into his iconic characters and the evolution of comedy throughout his career. The conversation even touches on the intersection of politics and humor, highlighting how comedic talent can influence societal views. Get ready for laughs, nostalgia, and brilliant anecdotes!