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 23, 2020 • 1h 5min
“Slush Fund Baby.”
The podcast dives into Trump's refusal to support crucial medical equipment production during the pandemic. It critiques the Democrats' fight against a corporate slush fund in the stimulus bill. Healthcare workers share their harrowing experiences, highlighting PPE shortages and emotional strains. The discussion also explores the challenges of campaigning in a pandemic, emphasizing the need for adaptable strategies. Finally, it addresses the ethical dilemmas faced by lawmakers and the urgent call for accountability in public health responses.
Mar 19, 2020 • 1h 36min
“Where are the tests?”
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and former health officer for Detroit, joins the discussion on the U.S.'s testing failures during the pandemic. He critiques the government's response and compares it to other countries, highlighting significant challenges in achieving effective testing. El-Sayed emphasizes the necessity for economic relief and community support for those hit hardest by the crisis. The conversation also touches on the political dynamics affecting voting during these tumultuous times, showcasing how health issues intersect with electoral processes.
Mar 16, 2020 • 1h 32min
“The coronavirus debate.”
Congresswoman Katie Porter, representing California's 45th district, shares her insights on Congress's response to the pandemic. She discusses the critical need for economic relief amidst shutdowns, critiques the government's testing failures, and emphasizes the importance of paid sick leave for workers. The conversation touches on the challenges lawmakers face, the systemic inequities revealed by the crisis, and the urgent need for bold political action to address these issues.
Mar 12, 2020 • 1h 17min
“Trumpism fuels a pandemic.”
The podcast dives into Trump's shaky Oval Office address amid the pandemic, highlighting leadership failures and misinformation. It contrasts Biden’s growing delegate lead and unifying message with Sanders' struggle to connect with diverse voters. California's proactive response to COVID-19, including large gathering cancellations and federal coordination, is discussed. The episode emphasizes the crucial role of local health departments in managing public health during crises, making the case for better support and organization for future challenges.
Mar 9, 2020 • 1h 19min
“Coronavirus doesn’t watch Fox News.”
Cal Cunningham, a Democratic candidate for Senate in North Carolina and former Army veteran, dives into his campaign strategies to replace Republican Thom Tillis. He discusses the impacts of the pandemic on his home state and the need for healthcare reform. The conversation also highlights the mismanagement of COVID-19 by the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of accurate public messaging. Cunningham shares his efforts to engage with voters and the significance of grassroots movements in a competitive election landscape.
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.
