

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

Apr 13, 2023 • 50min
"He’s Running (From Prison)."
Donald Trump is still in the race for President, even while facing legal troubles. Tim Scott believes he can outshine Trump, while Biden keeps his campaign plans under wraps. The discussion also highlights a push for Dianne Feinstein's resignation and a looming threat of book bans in certain states. Gretchen Whitmer shares Michigan's strategies that could inspire national Democrats, focusing on gun safety and abortion rights. The evolving political landscape and its cultural implications are critically examined.

5 snips
Apr 11, 2023 • 1h 11min
“Clarence Thomas’ Sügar Daddy.”
Leah Litman, co-host of Strict Scrutiny, dives into pressing legal issues, starting with the Biden Administration's battle to preserve abortion medication. She reveals the eyebrow-raising connection between Justice Clarence Thomas and a billionaire benefactor with a taste for Nazi memorabilia. The conversation also touches on Tennessee Democrats' resilience against Republican pressures and the chaotic implications of recent court rulings on reproductive rights. Get ready for a blend of legal insight and cultural commentary!

Apr 6, 2023 • 1h 8min
“Karma is my Courthouse.”
Hallie Kiefer, host of the comedic horror podcast "Ruined," shares her quirky takes, while Brandon Johnson, the newly elected progressive mayor of Chicago, discusses his surprising electoral victory. They dive into Trump's legal troubles and their implications for the upcoming elections. Kiefer offers cringe-worthy insights from the Trump arraignment, highlighting the surreal nature of political events. Johnson emphasizes community-driven solutions for public safety and education reform, showcasing his vision for a more equitable Chicago.

Apr 5, 2023 • 36min
"The Arrest Is History."
Join legal experts Leah Litman and Kate Shaw as they unpack the complexities surrounding Donald Trump's historic arraignment for 34 felony counts. They dive into the legal intricacies of campaign finance, the elevation of misdemeanors to felonies, and the unique challenges faced by prosecutors dealing with a former president. The discussion touches on the implications for democratic integrity, the threat to judicial safety, and the ever-present tension within the legal proceedings. It's a deep dive into a pivotal moment in American politics!

Apr 4, 2023 • 1h 6min
"Trump Surrenders."
Andrew Weissmann, a former senior prosecutor on the Mueller investigation and co-host of "Prosecuting Donald Trump," joins to dissect the legal implications of Trump’s historic indictment and the ongoing Fox News defamation trial. He discusses the challenges Republican candidates face in navigating Trump's influence, the necessity of broadening political narratives, and how media coverage can swing public opinion ahead of elections. The episode also highlights the complexities of high-profile legal processes and their ramifications.

Mar 30, 2023 • 1h 9min
“We got him !(?)”
Congresswoman Marie Glusenkamp Perez, who shocked the political world with her win in Washington's rural 3rd District, joins the conversation to share her views on political authenticity and representation. She discusses the importance of connecting with everyday Americans and the challenges faced by candidates far from mainstream party support. The episode also dives into the implications of Donald Trump's legal troubles, the ongoing culture war surrounding gun control, and the push for TikTok regulation, highlighting crucial conversations in today’s political landscape.

Mar 28, 2023 • 1h 3min
“Hasn’t Waco Been Through Enough?”
Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary and current MSNBC host, dives into the tumultuous political landscape surrounding Donald Trump's recent rally in Waco. She discusses the implications of his rhetoric and its ties to historical events like January 6. With an eye on the Republican primaries, Psaki reflects on the dynamics between Trump and DeSantis, the shifting voter sentiments, and the potential impact of legal challenges. She also shares insights on her transition from government to media and the humorous side of navigating celebrity culture in politics.

4 snips
Mar 23, 2023 • 58min
"Trump Without the Handcuffs.”
Leah Litman, host of Crooked's Strict Scrutiny podcast known for her sharp legal insights, joins the discussion to dissect the legitimacy of D.A. Alvin Bragg’s case against Donald Trump amid impending indictments. They delve into the political implications of Trump's declining poll numbers and the normalization of hush money payments. The conversation also touches upon Ron DeSantis's struggle to emerge as a distinct candidate in the Republican primary while facing the legal whirlwind surrounding Trump, revealing the intricate dance between law and politics.

Mar 20, 2023 • 1h 3min
"Mugshots and Milk Shots." (Live from Wisconsin!)
Mandela Barnes, the former Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin, and Ben Wikler, the Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair, engage in a lively discussion about local politics and Donald Trump's legal challenges. Janet Protasiewicz, campaigning for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, shares her judicial philosophy and the importance of addressing issues like gerrymandering and reproductive rights. The group also enjoys a fun quiz on Wisconsin culture, blending humor with crucial insights on electoral mobilization and community engagement.

Mar 16, 2023 • 1h 16min
"MAGA King v. RINO Loser."
Karen Bass, the 43rd Mayor of Los Angeles and former Congress member, joins the discussion on the urgent issues of housing and crime facing urban communities. She shares insights into her transition from Congress to city leadership and the collaborative efforts required to tackle homelessness. The conversation also delves into the intense rivalry between Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis as they navigate the Republican primary landscape. Additionally, listeners get a mix of political analysis and lighthearted banter on current events and popular culture.