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
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.
Feb 3, 2020 • 1h 9min
"Secret poll results."
Republicans block witnesses during Trump’s impeachment trial, ramping up tensions in the political arena. Meanwhile, the cancellation of a key Iowa poll raises questions about the caucus landscape. The hosts share personal insights from the ground in Iowa, revealing the emotional toll of campaigning and the unique qualities that resonate with younger voters. They also discuss the ambiguous nature of electability and the challenges candidates face in navigating media narratives and voter expectations ahead of the primaries.
Jan 30, 2020 • 1h 16min
“Democracy dies with Dershowitz.”
Senator Amy Klobuchar, a pragmatic leader from Minnesota, discusses her closing arguments on impeachment and its implications for democracy. Tanya Somanader, Chief Content Officer of Crooked Media, shares insights on the evolution of Vote Save America, highlighting the importance of voter engagement and registration. They delve into the strategic challenges faced by Democratic candidates, analyze polling trends, and tackle the contentious issue of electability, especially concerning Bernie Sanders. The conversation emphasizes civic engagement as crucial for upcoming elections.
Jan 28, 2020 • 48min
Iowa Episode 5: Voting is not enough
The final sprint before the Iowa caucuses is captured with a focus on civic engagement and the importance of grassroots activism. Major surrogates like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez energize the campaigns as candidates navigate the chaos leading up to caucus night. Insights from field organizers reveal the heart and resilience of grassroots efforts. With exclusive poll results and strategic paths to victory discussed, this dynamic exploration emphasizes community involvement as essential for meaningful political change.
Jan 27, 2020 • 1h 44min
“Bolton’s bombshell.”
Adam Schiff, the Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and lead impeachment manager, discusses John Bolton's recent revelations and their implications for President Trump's impeachment trial. Schiff shares insights on the need for transparency and the political fallout from the turbulence of the trial. Ezra Klein, founder of Vox, elaborates on themes from his book, including the deepening polarization in American politics and the historical shifts within the Democratic and Republican parties. Together, they explore the future of democracy amid these challenges.
Jan 23, 2020 • 1h 10min
“Davos confessions.”
Desmond Mead, President of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, is a passionate advocate for voting rights. He dives into the challenges faced by returning citizens in Florida, particularly the obstacles created by financial obligations associated with voting. Mead discusses the significance of Amendment 4 and its potential to restore rights to millions, while also highlighting strategies for overcoming roadblocks. The conversation sheds light on the need for increased voter engagement and funding to ensure fair access to the polls.
