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
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.
31 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 1h 8min
Drawn Out Democracy (with Adam Kinzinger)
Join former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, an Air Force veteran and outspoken critic of Donald Trump, as he navigates through political turmoil. He discusses skepticism around job reports and the implications of the Department of Defense decisions. Kinzinger dives into Texas redistricting and the shifting loyalties of Hispanic voters. The conversation also touches on the moral complexities of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, and how Trump's relationships with global leaders are reshaping American democracy in a pivotal election year.
41 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 1h 5min
From Glasgow With Grift (with Lis Smith)
Lis Smith, a Democratic strategist and author of "Any Given Tuesday," joins the conversation to dissect the implications of Trump's ties to Jeffrey Epstein and their potential impact on his political future. They delve into early polling, highlighting the struggles within the GOP and the chances for Democrats in upcoming elections. Smith offers insights into redistricting challenges, the importance of connecting with working-class values, and the evolving landscape of future candidates, emphasizing the need for strategic shifts to resonate with disillusioned voters.
56 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 4min
Red Hats and Red Flags (with Robert Costa)
Robert Costa, national correspondent for CBS News and co-author of Peril, joins the conversation. He delves into Hunter Biden's media portrayal and the internal strife within the Democratic Party as they gear up for the elections. Costa highlights Joe Biden's leadership challenges and the frustrations among Democrats. The talk shifts to Trump's administration, exploring his economic strategies and the looming recession. They examine the swirl of controversies, including connections to conspiracy theories and the Epstein case, revealing the complex dynamics at play in U.S. politics.
35 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 1h 4min
List and Found (with Frank Lavin)
Frank Lavin, former U.S. Ambassador to Singapore and White House political director under Reagan, shares his insights on the shifting tides of American politics. He discusses the implications of the Epstein list and how controversies are reshaping support for Trump within the GOP. The conversation delves into the political dynamics surrounding the upcoming World Cup and the New York mayoral race, while also examining the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in regaining voters. Lavin's new book offers a fascinating glimpse into the Reagan administration's inner workings.
36 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 3min
A Big, Beautiful Mess (with Josh Dawsey)
Josh Dawsey, a political reporter for The Wall Street Journal and co-author of '2024: How Trump Retook the White House', shares keen insights into the political landscape as upcoming elections loom. He discusses the impact of Trump's policies, the fallout from Texas floods, and the complexities of disaster management. The conversation also delves into economic messaging within Trump’s campaign, evolving perceptions of his legacy, and the intricate relationships between tech leaders and political figures, all while highlighting the media's role in shaping narratives.
41 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 55min
Burgers, Bills & Billionaires
Join a lively discussion on the tumultuous world of politics! Explore healthcare legislation as senators navigate their choices and the impact of Trump’s influence on campaigns. Dive into New York's political scene with a rising star capturing young voters' attention. Marvel at the economic challenges looming as midterm elections approach, including stagflation and tariffs. And don’t miss the clash between billionaires like Trump and Musk, showcasing how financial power reshapes electoral dynamics. It's chaos, crypto, and burgers—what's not to love?
