The Al Franken Podcast

Political commentator Molly Jong-Fast and journalist Mark Leibovich analyze the political events of the past year, including the impeachment of Trump, the Hunter Biden controversy, McCarthy's desperation for Speaker, the strong economy, potential vice presidential candidates, and the surprising performance of Democrats in recent elections.

Foreign affairs experts Anne Applebaum & Frank Foer discuss the House Oversight Committee's investigation into Hunter Biden, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Israel's politics under Netanyahu, sacrificing national interest in the Gaza war, and the battle between democracy and autocracy.

This podcast pays tribute to Norman Lear, discussing his TV sitcoms and founding People for the American Way. They also reflect on the impact of a father's choices, the formation of the organization, and the power of laughter. They share humorous anecdotes and promotions for other podcasts.

Legal expert Joyce Vance and former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade review all the cases against Trump, including the Georgia trial and charges of unlawfully conspiring to change the election outcome. They discuss Giuliani's disbarment, imposing gag orders on Trump, and the optimism for the future in the January 6th case and trust in voters to prevent his reelection.

The podcast discusses the threats posed by Trump to democracy and the actions he might take if re-elected. It explores the formation and mission of Protect Democracy, the impact of Trump on the Republican Party, and the dangers of his presidency. The episode delves into the potential use of the Insurrection Act during civil unrest, the implications of Trump's return to power on foreign policy, the challenges of the broken immigration system, and the failure of immigration reform. It emphasizes the importance of preserving democracy and unity in defense of the American experiment.

Discussion on the ongoing fraud trial of the Trump Organization and the misuse of the Trump charitable foundation. Insights into Donald Trump's character, controversial Veterans Day speech, and treatment of gold star families and veterans. Evidence of Trump inflating property values for better loan terms and insurance policies. The pursuit of a settlement by an attorney general and its implications for the family. Trump family's involvement in fraudulent activities and potential impact on Trump's political future. Legal process of transferring Trump Organization properties and its impact on Trump's business empire.

Al Franken and David Axelrod discuss President Biden's achievements, Trump's rally routine, preventing conflicts, the Republican debate, campaign strategies for Biden, countering Trump's portrayal of Biden, and mutual appreciation and acknowledgment of service and comedy.

Discussion of the Israel-Hamas war, focusing on civilian casualties, historical context, and mistreatment of Palestinians. Analysis of Netanyahu's play for closer ties with Saudi Arabia and its implications for Palestinians. Exploration of Israel's shift towards right-wing forces, the rise of anti-Muslim sentiment, and the power of ultra-orthodox communities. Discussion on the uncertain duration of the conflict and hope for resolution through a two-state solution.

Exploring the ideological beliefs of Mike Johnson as the new Speaker of the MAGA house, the significance of life insurance and managing diabetes, the process of choosing a new Speaker and ousting Kevin McCarthy, controversial editorials and American views on guns, the prevalence of AR-15s and Trump's influence in the Republican Party, and government updates along with podcast ads for Leonard and Nat Geo Kids.

Topics discussed include the Israel-Hamas war, rebranding of Angie's List, controversy surrounding judicial independence in Israel, game day food traditions, aftermath of an Israeli operation against Hamas in Gaza, and praying for light and hope in the conflict.