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
57 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 1h 3min
No Sleep Till City Hall (with Howard Wolfson)
Howard Wolfson, an experienced political strategist and former New York deputy mayor now at Bloomberg, delves into the dynamics of the New York mayoral race. He discusses Mamdani's ascent and Cuomo's vulnerabilities, while evaluating Curtis Sliwa's impact on the contest. The conversation shifts to national trends, with a focus on how affordability shapes Democratic strategy in New Jersey and Virginia. Wolfson also addresses California's Prop 50, the ongoing protests for democracy, and the implications of Trump's AI-driven antics on political norms.
30 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ceasefire Abroad, Crossfire at Home (with Rahm Emanuel)
Rahm Emanuel, former White House Chief of Staff and two-term Mayor of Chicago, shares his insights on pressing global and domestic issues. He delves into the implications of the Gaza peace accord and Trump's shifting focus towards Russia-Ukraine. Emanuel discusses how wartime conduct has impacted Israel's reputation and reflects on the political ramifications of a government shutdown. He also critiques the militarization of immigration enforcement and considers unconventional candidates for Democratic renewal, highlighting the significant shifts in today's political landscape.
46 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 8min
Orbánized Crime
The hosts dive into the implications of Trump deploying troops to U.S. cities, sparking debates about militarized policing and public perception. They also tackle ICE's controversial tactics and the potential impact of a federal shutdown on various programs. The contrasting styles of governors Newsom and Pritzker shine a light on state-level responses to national issues. Plus, discussions on Trump's hints at pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell and concerns over media consolidation draw comparisons to authoritarian regimes.
39 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 4min
From Watergate to Water-Weight (with Charlie Sykes)
Charlie Sykes, editor-at-large at The Bulwark and a prominent conservative commentator, joins the hosts to tackle the chaotic political landscape. They dive into Trump's militarized rhetoric regarding U.S. cities and the implications of deploying ICE. Sykes critiques Hegseth's fat-shaming of military leaders and discusses the risks of visible troop presence. The conversation extends to Trump's legal challenges, the looming government shutdown, and the strategic ramifications of his rhetoric shifts on crime and immigration. It's a thought-provoking take on current events.
40 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
Unindefinetly (with Kasie Hunt)
Kasie Hunt, CNN anchor and chief national affairs analyst, dives into the tumultuous world of national politics. She shares insights on Trump’s controversial UN speech and the media’s delicate balancing act under FCC pressure. The conversation touches on the implications of the looming government shutdown and the Obamacare threats it poses. Additionally, they discuss the fallout from Charlie Kirk's memorial and how it could mobilize young voters. Hunt emphasizes the need for trust in local leaders amidst growing political distrust.
54 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 5min
I’m right, you’re wrong (with Jonathan Martin)
A lively discussion unfolds around the troubling rise of political violence and the challenges of unity amid animosity. Insights are shared on the intricate dynamics of the upcoming midterms and the manipulations that could shape their outcome. The hosts critique the charged rhetoric surrounding Trump, drawing parallels with historical figures. Additionally, they delve into the potential impacts of a government shutdown and corporate interests on immigration. The episode wraps up with memorable political speeches that shaped pivotal moments in history.
65 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 3min
Uninviting Mr. Rogers (with Jen Psaki)
Join Jen Psaki, the former White House Press Secretary and MSNBC host, as she navigates the chaotic political landscape with insightful commentary. The discussion heats up around the transformation from the Department of War to Defense amidst humorous reflections. Dive into the controversies over military awards and redistricting challenges that could shape upcoming elections. Tune in for a spirited take on Bobby Kennedy Jr.'s vaccine remarks and the ongoing battle for public trust in healthcare.
47 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 3min
Soldiers Field (with Rahm Emanuel)
Rahm Emanuel, the former mayor of Chicago and a key figure in Democratic politics, shares his insights on pressing national issues. He discusses Trump's threats regarding Chicago and the implications of mail-in voting. Emanuel navigates the complexities of urban life, emphasizing community engagement to tackle crime and violence. He sheds light on redistricting challenges and the importance of representing diverse voter demographics. The conversation captures the tension in today's political landscape and the urgent need for accountability and effective strategies.
55 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 10min
Strongmen, Weak Deals (with Ron Brownstein)
Ron Brownstein, senior editor at The Atlantic and CNN’s political analyst, dives into the chaotic world of U.S. politics. He explores Trump’s troubling foreign policy maneuvers with Putin and Zelensky, and the shifting dynamics at home, including the implications of political polarization. Brownstein highlights how economic strategies differ between Trump and Biden while discussing voter demographics, especially among Latinos. With a touch of humor, he critiques the intertwining of personal comfort and political narratives, advocating for a revamped vision in the Democratic Party.
46 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 10min
Monumental Power Grab (with Paul Begala)
Paul Begala, a seasoned Democratic strategist, shares his insights on the current political climate and Trump’s impact on Washington. He discusses Trump’s 'flood the zone' tactics to overshadow controversies like the Epstein case. The conversation explores implications of redistricting drama on midterm elections and the challenges faced by Democrats in crafting effective narratives. Begala also emphasizes the importance of integrity in politics and the need for the Democratic Party to engage more with its moderate base amidst rising extremism.
