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
83 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 53min
Blitzkrieg of Bullsh*t
Three experts dive into the disarray of political rhetoric as they analyze Trump’s recent speech, jokingly questioning the laws that govern both politics and gravity. They tackle Elon Musk's influence on political dynamics, exploring the relationship between his business moves and public perception. The conversation shifts to Trump’s controversial remarks and the chaotic landscape of the current political arena, all while humorously reflecting on personal finance tips and the evolving strategies needed to connect with disillusioned voters.
58 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 57min
Russian Roulette (with Sarah Longwell & Patrick Gaspard)
Sarah Longwell, a political analysis expert and publisher at The Bulwark, joins Patrick Gaspard, former U.S. ambassador to South Africa and senior fellow at CAP. They dissect Trump’s press conference with Macron, exploring the evolving U.S. views on foreign policy amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The duo analyzes Trump's influence on public sentiment, the complex relationship between tech figures like Elon Musk and politics, and the Republican Party's challenges in navigating the current political landscape. Expect sharp insights and witty commentary!
87 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 56min
Vladdy Knows Best (with Rahm Emanuel)
This week, Rahm Emanuel, former Mayor of Chicago and Ambassador to Japan, brings his sharp political insights to the discussion. He dives into inflation's impact, referencing humorous anecdotes about Japan. The chat also unpacks political accountability, exploring the dynamics of ambition versus principles, especially among GOP senators. Emanuel emphasizes the need for reform and clear messaging within the Democratic Party, alongside urgent calls for stronger U.S. support for Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. It's a lively blend of humor and serious reflection on pressing issues!
62 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 57min
Make America Gulf Again (with Jonathan Martin)
In this lively discussion, Jonathan Martin, an award-winning political reporter for Politico, provides keen insights into the chaotic landscape of American politics. He unpacks Trump's controversial presence at the Super Bowl, and how it reflects broader political dynamics. The gang also hilariously analyzes Elon Musk's polarizing influence and the intricate dance of power among political heavyweights. Exploring tariffs and identity within the Democratic Party, they highlight the evolving challenges in navigating today's tumultuous political terrain.
32 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 1h 2min
Elon and Order (with Kaitlan Collins)
Kaitlan Collins, CNN's Chief White House correspondent and host of The Source, joins the discussion as they dissect the chaotic state of American politics. They delve into Elon Musk's recent controversies and the increasingly complicated immigration policies under Trump. Collins sheds light on the fading constitutional norms, the impact of Trump's communication style on voters, and the ongoing dilemmas around health policy and judicial dynamics. The conversation wraps with a humorous nod to Canada and reflections on the GOP's struggles.
61 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Death of Norms (with Robert Costa)
Dive into the chaotic world of contemporary politics with a focus on Trump’s bold tactics, from mass deportations to January 6th pardons. Explore the cultural echoes of Trumpism, likening it to icons like Elvis and the Beatles. Unpack the complexities within the Republican Party, balancing short-term gains against long-term risks. Examine how political rhetoric shapes immigration policies and impacts public sentiment. Add a dash of humor as the hosts navigate media narratives and the evolving roles of key political figures.
45 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 12min
A Tale of Two Speeches
The conversation spirals through the circus of political maneuvers and pardons, with a keen focus on the absurdities of immigration policies. They tackle Trump's grifting, Biden’s controversial decisions, and the chaotic media landscape that shapes public opinion. The hosts navigate the tricky terrain of ethics in political consulting and analyze economic misconceptions affecting consumers. Humor and irony abound as they dissect how storytelling influences voter perceptions and the implications of political narratives.
38 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 9min
Trending Right (with Jonathan Martin)
Join political journalist Jonathan Martin, known for his sharp insights on current events, as he tackles the fallout from Los Angeles wildfires and their political ramifications. He discusses the ethical concerns surrounding Melania Trump's controversial documentary deal, and how current political nominations are shaping national security. The talk also dives into the evolving dynamics of the Republican Party, the impacts of climate change on urban governance, and the challenges facing Biden's administration amidst a divided landscape.
53 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 1h 12min
Hackzpah (with Jonathan Alter)
Jonathan Alter, an award-winning journalist and author of 'His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, A Life,' joins for a lively discussion on the legacy of Jimmy Carter and the current political landscape. They reflect on the impact of President Carter's administration and his innovative strategies. The conversation shifts to the ramifications of Trump's legal challenges, the evolving role of social media in democracy, and how it influences misinformation. Alter also critiques the need for meaningful communication from political leaders to reconnect with the working class.
39 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 5min
End of Year Hack Fest
A lively discussion unfolds as hosts tackle governmental secrecy around drones and UFOs with humor and skepticism. They delve into the odd intersection of alien theories and political dilemmas, revealing how conspiracy beliefs influence media narratives. Trump's ambitious promises on inflation and Bob Kennedy's stance against Big Pharma ads invite critical scrutiny. The Democratic Party's struggle to connect with working-class voters is examined, alongside the shifting dynamics of the GOP. It's a humorous and insightful wrap-up of the year's political landscape!
