Hacks On Tap

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

Senator Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA analyst and U.S. Representative, offers insights on U.S. involvement in Iran and the fractures in the Republican Party over foreign policy. Former U.S. Ambassador Patrick Gaspard shares his expertise on New York City's political landscape, including the generational clash in the mayoral race and the significance of ranked choice voting. Both guests discuss how authenticity is reshaping political communications and the challenges the Democratic Party faces in uniting diverse voter interests in a rapidly changing environment.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maggie Haberman as she delves into the chaotic world of American politics. She unpacks the rising tensions in the Middle East and Trump’s contentious absence from the G7. With insights on the New York mayoral race, the intricacies of U.S.-Iran relations, and the looming 2026 and 2028 elections, Haberman sheds light on the political polarization and violence shaping our current landscape. Prepare for a thought-provoking conversation on civic engagement and the future of U.S. democracy.