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
89 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 1min
Planes, Popes & PR (with Rahm Emanuel)
Rahm Emanuel, former Chicago mayor and White House chief of staff, shares his insights as a CNN political commentator. He talks about the intricacies of jet diplomacy and the challenges in crafting effective economic messaging. The discussion touches on ethical dilemmas in political gifts and the blend of business with politics. Emanuel also highlights tensions within the Democratic Party while urging a reconnection with American citizens, and explores the vital role of national service in fostering community responsibility.
77 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h 4min
Dolls, Tariffs & Polls
Heidi Heitkamp, a former U.S. Senator from North Dakota and director at the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics, joins for a lively discussion on Trump’s political impact and economic policies. They explore the 'doll economy' and its importance in current politics. The conversation highlights the fallout of proposed tariffs, the disconnect between elite narratives and everyday struggles, and the challenges Democrats face in articulating their economic message. Heitkamp also discusses the shifting Senate dynamics and their implications for future elections.
42 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 58min
The 100th Day Special
The trio dives into the wild first 100 days of Trump's presidency, exploring his sharp political instincts and the real human costs of his immigration policies. They analyze the disconnect between political promises and public sentiment and the growing political fatigue. Expect laughs and insights as they discuss the polarized reactions to current economic challenges. Personal anecdotes about Mother’s Day gifts overshadow serious talk on immigration and a light-hearted segue to pet food adds a quirky twist!
15 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 60min
Maximum Don (with Alex Isenstadt & Doug Heye)
This week, Murphy is still flying solo—but he's not alone. He's joined by veteran GOP strategist and communications pro Doug Heye, along with Axios senior political reporter Alex Isenstadt, author of the new book Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power. The Hacks dig into Senator Chris Van Hollen’s visit with Kilmar Ábrego García, dissect the evolution from Trump 1.0 to Trump 2.0, and unpack all the political mayhem in between.
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58 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 1h
Veritas v. Vendetta (with Jonathan Martin and Robert Costa)
Jonathan Martin, a veteran political reporter for Politico, and Robert Costa, CBS News chief election correspondent, share their insights on the shifting tides of American politics. They delve into foreign policy intricacies, wrongful deportations, and the ramifications of Trump's protectionist stance on China. Their discussion highlights the erosion of outrage towards authoritarianism and the rising activism in universities. They also analyze the Democratic Party's strategies and potential 2028 candidates, including Tim Walz, positioning him as a moderate beacon in a fractured landscape.
39 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 4min
Polls, Trolls, and Dinner Rolls (with John Anzalone)
John Anzalone, a veteran Democratic pollster who worked for President Biden in 2020, joins the discussion with insights on the intricacies of political polling and economic sentiment. He dives deep into voter anxiety over inflation and the need for a cohesive economic agenda. The conversation highlights the tug-of-war between Trump's populist pressures and Wall Street interests, while also addressing the disconnect between political parties and the working class. Anzalone emphasizes the importance of crafting messages that resonate with everyday Americans to rebuild trust.
48 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 1h
Calling a Wolf a Wolf (with Jeff Greenfield)
Jeff Greenfield, a veteran journalist and former RFK speechwriter, joins to discuss the Wisconsin Supreme Court showdown and Trump's latest antics. He shares insights on the complexities of tariffs and tax policies affecting American workers. The conversation shifts to Elon Musk's influence in politics, particularly in Wisconsin, and the challenges Democrats face in reconnecting with their working-class base. Greenfield emphasizes the importance of institutional safeguards against authoritarian threats and reflects on the evolution of political coalitions.
31 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 2min
End to End Incompetence (with Mallory McMorrow)
Mallory McMorrow, a former Michigan State Senator and LGBTQ+ rights advocate, joins the conversation. They delve into political mishaps and explore alarming revelations about government incompetence in national security discussions. The talk covers challenges to the judicial system and critiques of immigration enforcement amidst political agendas. McMorrow emphasizes the need for Democrats to focus on socioeconomic issues rather than divisive narratives, calling for urgent reforms to reconnect with everyday Americans and revive democratic integrity.
82 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 3min
Groundwork & Gruntwork (with Steve Israel)
Join former U.S. Representative Steve Israel as he shares his insights on the tumultuous political landscape. Explore the implications of Trump’s immigration policies and the looming threat of a government shutdown. Steve also discusses the Democratic Party's struggle to connect with working-class voters and the need for fresh strategies. Plus, he provides a hopeful message that resonates with the current political climate, emphasizing the importance of unity and grassroots efforts to rebuild trust.
Mar 11, 2025 • 58min
The Recession Will Be Televised (with Doug Sosnik)
Doug Sosnik, a veteran political strategist and former advisor in the Clinton White House, dives into the current economic landscape with insightful commentary. He discusses tariff wars and Wall Street's reaction to Trump, shedding light on the complex relationship between economic policies and voter perceptions. The conversation navigates Republican Party dynamics amidst budgeting challenges and the art of political strategy. Additionally, they explore looming recession risks and the shifting demographics that could reshape the political landscape.
