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
Mar 4, 2020 • 1h 2min
“Joe’s Super Tuesday.”
Joe Biden's dramatic comeback shakes up the Democratic primaries as he surges past expectations on Super Tuesday. Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders faces tough challenges and must broaden his coalition. The complexities of California's voting system raise important questions about electoral reform. Elizabeth Warren deliberates her next steps amidst the shifting political landscape, while Mike Bloomberg's exit signals the end of an era. Grassroots engagement emerges as a pivotal factor for candidates aiming to unite the party and appeal to diverse voter bases.
Mar 2, 2020 • 1h 37min
“Joementum!”
David Plouffe, former Senior Advisor to President Obama and author, sheds light on the political landscape as Joe Biden secures a major victory in South Carolina. He discusses the implications for Super Tuesday, analyzing the strategies of candidates like Biden and the dynamics of the Democratic race. Plouffe critiques the Trump Administration's handling of the coronavirus, emphasizing the importance of effective leadership during crises. He also offers insights from his book on combating Trump, blending political strategy with engaging narratives.
Feb 26, 2020 • 1h 7min
“A toxic and unhelpful affair.” (Debate recap special!)
The hosts dive into the chaotic South Carolina debate, analyzing how it affects candidates ahead of crucial primaries. They critique Bernie Sanders' foreign policy and explore Donald Trump's controversial intelligence appointment. Frustrations over debate moderation and superficial questions spark discussions on the need for deeper political discourse. Candidate performances are dissected, highlighting standout moments and strategic missteps, particularly regarding voter engagement. The complexities of connecting with African-American voters and pivotal battleground states are also explored.
Feb 25, 2020 • 1h 19min
“Getting tense out there!”
The podcast dives into the aftermath of the Nevada caucuses, spotlighting Bernie Sanders as the frontrunner in the Democratic race. The hosts humorously compare campaign events, highlighting engagement and turnout. With South Carolina approaching, discussions focus on the challenges candidates face in appealing to diverse voters. There's a critical look at electability and media narratives affecting voter perception. The conversation also touches on foreign interference in politics and the candidate's overall strategies as tensions rise ahead of Super Tuesday.
Feb 20, 2020 • 1h 20min
“Honeymoon in Vegas.” (Debate recap special!)
Jessica Cisneros, an immigration and human rights lawyer running for Congress in Texas’s 28th district, discusses her bold challenge against a conservative incumbent. The hosts break down the fiery Democratic debate, highlighting Michael Bloomberg's intense scrutiny and the debate dynamics surrounding electability and transparency. Cisneros shares her personal motivations and the urgent need for immigration reform, stressing the importance of grassroots mobilization. The conversation weaves in the challenges of the nomination maze and the implications for South Texas voters.
Feb 18, 2020 • 1h 11min
“Fear and Bloomberg in Las Vegas.”
Jon Ralston, Editor of the Nevada Independent and a seasoned moderator for political debates, delves into the chaotic landscape of the Nevada caucus. He discusses Mike Bloomberg’s impact on the race, the challenges Bernie Sanders faces from the Culinary Workers Union, and the shifting dynamics of early voting. Ralston also shares insights on the importance of unity among Democrats as they gear up against Trump, alongside the complexities of moderating debates that aim to reveal candidate contrasts and foster productive dialogue.
Feb 12, 2020 • 1h 17min
“New Hampshire feels the Bern.”
The podcast dives into Bernie Sanders' narrow victory in New Hampshire and its impact on the Democratic race. It explores strategies for candidates competing against Bernie and the lessons learned from past elections. Discussion centers on the importance of campaign staffing and raising funds in battleground states. The urgency behind pre-ordering a new political book is highlighted, along with the stakes for the upcoming elections. The narrative also touches on key voter demographics and the challenges faced by various candidates in unifying support.
Feb 10, 2020 • 1h 26min
“Send your calculators to Manchester.”
The podcast dives into the intense Democratic debate landscape as candidates strategize ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Joe Biden confronts Pete Buttigieg over experience while Bernie Sanders maintains his front-runner status. Discussions about campaign integrity highlight the growing frustration with money's influence in politics, particularly around billionaire candidates. Insights from Sanders' campaign manager reveal tactical approaches for upcoming challenges. Meanwhile, Trump's budget proposal stirs concerns about its effects on moderate suburban voters.
Feb 6, 2020 • 1h 16min
“Get it together.”
Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend and 2020 presidential candidate, discusses his strategic approach following the chaotic Iowa caucus. He reflects on the dynamics between candidates and the significance of grassroots campaigning. The conversation touches on the implications of Trump's impeachment trial and the need for Democrats to unify to challenge the incumbent. Buttigieg emphasizes building personal connections with voters and the importance of trust, all while navigating the evolving political landscape as they head into New Hampshire.
Feb 5, 2020 • 51min
“Iowa, you had one job."
The discussion dives into the chaos of the Iowa caucuses, revealing mismanagement and technological failures that turned a vital election into a debacle. Candidates reacted with confusion as initial victories crumbled, leading to strategic reassessments. The need for electoral integrity and competence becomes crucial, with emphasis on reforms like ranked choice voting to ensure inclusivity. Voter enthusiasm plummeted, showcasing the importance of addressing party unity and confidence as the political landscape evolves.
