Hacks On Tap
Vox Media
When David Axelrod, Mike Murphy, and John Heilemann get together to talk politics, it’s not academic. They speak from the perspective gained through hundreds of campaigns for offices from City Hall to the White House. So if you want to know what’s really going on behind the scenes, where strategic decisions are being made, pull up a stool for Hacks on Tap. Incisive, sometimes uproarious and always entertaining, these political warhorses and their guests will give you insights you’ll only get from folks who have spent a lifetime in the political trenches of both parties.
From the Vox Media Podcast Network
From the Vox Media Podcast Network
Episodes
Mentioned books
59 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 1h 3min
Intentional Mayhem (with John Avlon)
John Avlon, veteran journalist and author, joins to dissect the fallout from the Alex Pretti killing. They explore how graphic video shapes public outrage. They debate ICE tactics, administration falsehoods, Second Amendment theater, DHS funding leverage, and the political fallout in Minneapolis and beyond.
53 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 1h 2min
The Ugliest American
The hosts tackle a whirlwind of current events, from Trump's Davos arrival impacting America's image to his bizarre Nobel discussions and the fallout of his Greenland remarks. They debate the implications of ICE's controversial tactics on political mobilization and explore the Republicans' tightrope walk between party loyalty and dissent. With insights on tariffs affecting everyday life and a call for a focused Democratic message, the conversation dives deep into the chaotic political landscape ahead of the midterms.
28 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 1h 3min
Flood the Zone, Lose the Plot (with Mark McKinnon)
Join political strategist Mark McKinnon, known for his sharp insights from years in campaigns, as he dives into the fast-paced news cycle. He shares stories about booking entertainment for Republican conventions and reflects on the tragic shooting of Renee Good amid Minnesota's ICE operations. The discussion highlights how 'flooding the zone' strategies can backfire, and McKinnon praises Democrats’ emerging focus on affordability and health care. They also tackle the implications of Trump's Venezuela stance and the potential risks surrounding Federal Reserve independence.
65 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 1h 3min
Iraqozuela (with Ron Brownstein)
Ron Brownstein, a veteran journalist and senior political analyst for CNN, joins the discussion on Trump's rhetoric regarding Venezuela and its ties to oil politics. They explore the implications of foreign interventions, especially how they may distract from domestic issues like rising healthcare costs. The panel debates the political fallout of Trump's actions, the dynamics of Minnesota politics with Tim Walz's withdrawal, and how these narratives could influence future elections. Brownstein also dives into the military politics surrounding Mark Kelly and Pete Hegseth's attacks.
15 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 1h 7min
New Year's Special: On with Kara Swisher
In this engaging discussion, Beth Macy, an award-winning investigative reporter and congressional candidate, teams up with Jacob Silverman, an investigative journalist exploring tech and corruption. They delve into the surprising overlap between Silicon Valley elites and rural MAGA voters. Topics include the media's influence, personal strategies for bridging political divides, and the corrosive effects of propaganda. Macy also shares her motivations for running for Congress, emphasizing grassroots connection and health care issues. Can these voices reshape the narrative?
33 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 1h 7min
End of Year Show
The hosts reflect on a turbulent year in politics, examining the backlash from Indiana Republicans against Trump's redistricting efforts. They discuss the impact of rising health-care premiums as Congress faces a critical time. There’s a deep dive into Trump's economic claims versus reality and the signs of fatigue among Republicans regarding his leadership. The show concludes with thoughts on emerging Democratic candidates and political strategies for 2026, alongside heartfelt tributes to public figures who passed this year.
58 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Canary in the Keystone Mine (with Bob Shrum)
Bob Shrum, a legendary Democratic strategist and former director of USC's Center for the Political Future, shares his insights on Trump's waning influence amidst economic troubles. They discuss potential messaging strategies for Trump and the GOP's internal struggles, including retirements and divisions. Shrum highlights the importance of focusing on opportunity and affordability for the Democrats while pondering the future of Trumpism. The conversation delves into signs of Trump fatigue, including cognitive decline, and anticipates potential contenders for 2028.
40 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 1h
Wag the Dog
The discussion touches on the implications of the Tennessee special election, exploring how it reflects national political dynamics. The hosts delve into Trump's cultural attacks and the significance of GOP retirements. They analyze the recent tragic National Guard shooting and critique responses to it. The complexities of Ukraine negotiations are examined, alongside thoughts on military legal risks and Trump's perceived vulnerabilities. Throughout, corgis provide amusing metaphors as they assess the influence of regional politics on broader trends.
65 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 1h 7min
Irrational exuberance (with Steve Israel)
Steve Israel, former U.S. congressman and author, returns with insights on congressional politics, redistricting, and campaign strategies. He discusses the implications of the Epstein files release and how it affects Republican turnout. They dive into Marjorie Taylor Greene's political maneuvers and her distancing from Trump. Israel also analyzes recent local election outcomes and their significance for future midterms. Plus, he teases his new thriller, The Einstein Conspiracy, a gripping story inspired by true events surrounding Einstein and a high-stakes FBI operation.
71 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 9min
Trumplated Age (with Astead Herndon)
Astead Herndon, a seasoned political reporter and the new host at Vox.com, joins the conversation to dissect the current political landscape. He dives into the fallout from the recent government shutdown and critiques Democrats’ strategy, revealing key senators who shifted stances. The panel discusses Chuck Schumer's wavering leadership and speculates on Gavin Newsom's presidential ambitions. Plus, they explore how Trump's messaging impacts economic concerns and the potential electoral ramifications of border policies in urban areas.
