Pod Save America
Crooked Media
Pod Save America is a no-bullshit conversation about politics hosted by former Obama aides Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor. It cuts through the noise to break down the week’s news and helps people figure out what matters and how they can help. They’re regularly joined by journalists, activists, politicians, entertainers, and world leaders. You can watch on YouTube or listen to new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.
For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.
Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.
For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 24, 2023 • 1h 9min
Rachel Maddow Talks Trump, Biden, and the Speaker-less House
Rachel Maddow, host of The Rachel Maddow Show and best-selling author, delves into the chaos of the Speaker-less House and Trump's ongoing legal battles. She discusses Biden's struggling approval ratings and his foreign policy challenges, particularly regarding Israel and Gaza. Maddow sheds light on the lessons from her new book, exploring historical threats to democracy and the importance of citizen engagement. The conversation intertwines past anti-fascist movements with present-day political dynamics, urging vigilance against authoritarianism.
Oct 20, 2023 • 1h 40min
John Fetterman and Symone Sanders-Townsend on House Chaos (Live from DC!)
Symone Sanders-Townsend, political commentator and host on MSNBC, shares the stage with John Fetterman, Pennsylvania’s junior senator who bravely discusses his mental health journey. They tackle the chaos brewing in the House of Representatives as the Republicans struggle to elect a new Speaker. Fetterman highlights the role of technology in disability inclusion, while Jennifer Carroll Foy advocates for progressive values in her Virginia campaign. The trio engages in a lively debate about current events, showcasing a blend of humor and serious political insights.
Oct 17, 2023 • 1h 12min
Speaker Jim Jordan?
Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader, discusses the Democrats' strategies amidst the chaos in Congress with a focus on the potential election of Jim Jordan as Speaker. The conversation touches on President Biden's delicate balancing act regarding support for Israel while addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza. They also explore the internal divisions in the Democratic Party and the implications of upcoming elections. Shaniqua McClendon joins to highlight key political races, emphasizing the importance of grassroots mobilization in shaping electoral outcomes.
Oct 12, 2023 • 54min
Trump Mocks Israel, Speaker Race in Chaos
The podcast dives into the chaos of the Republican Party as it struggles to elect a Speaker while Donald Trump makes controversial remarks about Israel. Candidates like Tim Scott and Ron DeSantis enter the fray, pointing fingers in the wake of international conflict. The discussion shifts to Kari Lake’s Senate run and stunning indictments for George Santos and Bob Menendez. Amidst this political turmoil, there's a call for unity and a glance at the mental health implications of today’s media landscape.
Oct 10, 2023 • 1h 12min
Hamas Makes War, Republicans Play Politics
Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican Congressman from Illinois and a vocal critic of Donald Trump, joins to analyze the chaotic landscape of U.S. politics amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. He dissects the GOP's attempts to blame President Biden for the violence and explores the internal strife as the party races to elect a new Speaker. Kinzinger also touches on the implications of third-party candidates like RFK Jr. on the election and emphasizes the need for political courage in these turbulent times.
4 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 1h 28min
Could Trump Become Speaker?
Cassidy Hutchinson, a former aide to Trump and author of 'Enough', sheds light on her testimony against her ex-boss and the current dysfunction in the House. The discussion dives into Kevin McCarthy's ousting, revealing deep rifts within the GOP. Hutchinson also reflects on the implications of Trump's potential nomination for Speaker amid his legal troubles. The talk examines the challenges faced by Ron DeSantis in the primary race and the need for integrity within the party, highlighting the turmoil that defines today's political landscape.
5 snips
Oct 3, 2023 • 1h 17min
Should Democrats Save Kevin McCarthy?
Pramila Jayapal, Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and representative from Washington's 7th district, delves into the intricate dance of political strategy as tensions rise around Kevin McCarthy's leadership. They discuss whether Democrats should offer McCarthy a lifeline amid his government shutdown crisis. The conversation also touches on Donald Trump's ongoing legal battles and the implications for the 2024 election, emphasizing the urgent need for a clear Democratic message against extremism.
Sep 28, 2023 • 49min
Trump Wins Another Debate
Seven Republican candidates took the stage for a debate that ultimately showcased their inability to challenge the absent frontrunner. The night was marred by weak performances and awkward moments, including cringeworthy jokes. Discussion highlighted the candidates' struggles, particularly with LGBTQ+ topics and their approaches to labor issues. Meanwhile, Trump faces legal battles, complicating his populist narrative and posing questions about voter loyalty and the future of the GOP. The conversation reflects broader political tensions and the need for voter engagement.
Sep 26, 2023 • 1h 8min
Is Trump Really Up 10?
Donald Trump stirs controversy with wild claims and poll leads, as GOP rivals scramble in a chaotic political landscape. The looming threat of a government shutdown intensifies conflicts among House Republicans, while a senator faces bribery charges. A conversation with Kal Penn sheds light on the youth vote amidst ongoing Hollywood strikes, highlighting the urgent need for fair compensation and protections in an evolving entertainment industry. The podcast also humorously touches on health issues and the societal impacts of political actions.
Sep 21, 2023 • 56min
Trump's General Election Pivot
Daniela Diaz, a Politico Congressional correspondent, shares her expertise on the GOP's political landscape. She analyzes Trump's bold pivot toward general election strategies, including his recent attempts to moderate his stance on abortion. The discussion delves into the chaotic brewing government shutdown and the internal strife among Republican factions. Additionally, the absurdity of Senate dress code debates centered on John Fetterman’s attire sparks a conversation about decorum in politics versus real issues facing constituents.
