Pod Save America

Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run For Something and author of 'When We’re in Charge', dives into the challenges and triumphs of young leaders in politics. She discusses the surge of youth candidates addressing community issues and emphasizes the significance of grassroots support. The conversation also touches on finding work-life balance and the evolving nature of leadership for Millennials and Gen Z. Listeners will appreciate her insights into empowering the next generation to step up and take charge.

Leah Litman, a Professor of Law at the University of Michigan and co-host of Strict Scrutiny, dives into the Supreme Court's recent ruling on deportations, highlighting unexpected alliances between conservative and liberal justices. The discussion covers the implications of Trump's immigration agenda and the MAGA base's radical backlash against judicial authority. They also touch on political antics involving a senator's risky visit to El Salvador and the chaotic intersection of serious immigration issues with outrageous narratives, painting a vivid picture of current legal battles.

In this engaging discussion, Rep. Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender state senator in U.S. history, shares her inspiring journey and challenges in Congress. She reflects on the GOP's attacks, emphasizing the importance of empathy and outreach in politics. McBride urges Democrats to abandon purity tests and connect with dissenting voices for effective social change. She advocates for inclusivity, sharing her insights on trans rights and the absurdities of identity policing, all while calling for courageous activism and community support.

In this engaging discussion, Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen reveals his efforts to secure answers about Kilmar Abrego Garcia's controversial detention in El Salvador, spotlighting serious issues surrounding due process and immigration. Congressman Jamie Raskin, a leading voice on the House Judiciary Committee, tackles Trump's court defiance and the significant implications for democracy. The conversation also dives into the broader impact of political rhetoric and highlights the increasingly tense climate for institutions like Harvard amid ongoing political pressures.

The conversation dives into Trump's alarming musings about sending Americans to foreign prisons, raising serious ethical concerns. There's a critical analysis of his attack on the media and the implications of ignoring Supreme Court orders. The hosts discuss the troubling partnership between the Trump family and the crypto platform Binance, as well as the broader impacts of Trump's trade policies and the looming threat of recession. With legal complications and humanitarian issues at the forefront, the discussion offers a thought-provoking look at current governance.

Atul Gawande, a physician and public health expert, joins the discussion to dive into pressing issues in health policy. He critiques the recent measles outbreak and the inadequate response, stressing the need for effective public health strategies. The conversation also touches on RFK Jr.'s controversial moves against vaccine regulation. Additionally, they tackle the implications of Trump's recent authoritarian tactics, examining threats to free speech and the consequences of his trade policies. Gawande's insights highlight the intersection of healthcare and politics in today's landscape.

Oren Cass, a conservative economist and head of American Compass, joins the discussion to critique Trump's trade policies and tariffs, sparking an intriguing debate on their economic impact. The conversation delves into public protests against immigration policies and the Republican party's messaging on economic issues. They explore the complexities of trade with authoritarian regimes like China and emphasize the need for a balanced approach to free trade. Packed with sharp insights, the dialogue highlights the evolving dynamics within American politics and economics.

Michael Lewis, renowned author of The Big Short and Moneyball, joins to discuss his latest work, Who is Government? He highlights the unsung heroes of civil service whose crucial roles often go unrecognized. Lewis dissects the damaging stereotypes of bureaucrats, emphasizing the importance of reliable information. He critiques Elon Musk's approach to governance and examines the complex dynamics of political leadership. Additionally, he calls attention to the critical narrative of government effectiveness, advocating for stories that reshape public perception.

Emma Vigeland, a political analyst, joins economics journalist James Surowiecki and former National Security Advisor Susan Rice to tackle the fallout from Trump's new tariffs. They discuss how these policies are based on flawed calculations, affecting global markets and lower-income Americans. Vigeland hints at Democratic strategies to capitalize on Trump’s missteps. Surowiecki critiques the economic implications of Trump's approach, while Rice shares insights on national security and Trump's controversial foreign relations. It's a lively dissection of politics and economics!

Ruben Gallego, a U.S. Senator from Arizona, discusses the Democratic response to Trump's provocative ambitions for a third presidential term. He emphasizes the importance of a clear strategy to win back voter trust and highlights the urgent need for Democrats to connect with working-class interests. The conversation also touches on the disturbing implications of current immigration policies and how grassroots mobilization can counteract Republican tactics. Gallego's insights provide a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities facing Democrats in an increasingly polarized political landscape.