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
Aug 13, 2024 • 1h 2min
The Rule of Three
Exciting announcements kick off the discussion, leading to a deep dive into Trump's wobbly interview on social media. The hosts dissect the evolving political landscape, contrasting campaign strategies and messaging among candidates. With the DNC convention heading to Chicago, they share insights on polling trends and Democratic candidate support. Humor emerges as they explore age perceptions in politics and even touch on electric vehicles, blending laughter with serious commentary on climate change.
Aug 6, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ope There It Is (with John Anzalone)
John Anzalone, a savvy political strategist known for his work on Vice Presidential campaigns, joins the conversation with humor and insight. He discusses the excitement of Minnesotans producing another VP candidate, and how Governor Walz plans to connect with rural voters feeling alienated by politics. The dialogue flows into the significance of engaging swing voters and navigating current voter dynamics, while also touching on Trump's maneuvering and its impact on public perception. Get the scoop on the shifting sands of presidential politics and much more!
4 snips
Jul 30, 2024 • 1h 4min
The Veepstakes (with Jonathan Martin and Bob Costa)
Join political commentator Bob Costa, known as Mr. Politics, and Politico reporter Jonathan Martin, based in Paris, as they dissect the dynamic world of vice presidential candidates. They delve into Kamala Harris's evolving role and the implications of her campaign strategies for 2024. The duo explores the potential resurgence of political figures, the impact of identity politics, and the strategic importance of candidate appeal in swing states. They also analyze Trump’s messaging hurdles, highlighting the evolving landscape of modern American politics.
Jul 23, 2024 • 1h 2min
Kamalat (with John Heilemann)
Expert Hackeroo and high-velocity pundit John Heilemann joins the discussion on Kamala Harris's campaign shift, Biden's age issue, and potential VP choices. Topics include attack ads, inflation, border issues, and strategic considerations for the upcoming political race.
5 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 54min
The Fight (with Tim Alberta)
Esteemed journalist Tim Alberta joins Axe and Murphy to discuss the shocking news cycle, including an attempted assassination, the Republican National Convention, Trump's VP pick, political shifts, legacy politics, and more.
19 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 58min
Press Panic (with Bill Kristol)
Bill Kristol joins Hacks to discuss Biden's strategy, Kamala's future, Trump's veepstakes, press shenanigans, campaign leaks, and political backstabbing. Topics include Biden's resignation, VP speculation, campaign challenges, Republican platform changes, and Democratic unity against Trump.
4 snips
Jul 2, 2024 • 1h 5min
Tick Tock, Tick Tock (with Jonathan Martin)
Guest Jonathan Martin joins the hosts to discuss post-debate political landscape, challenges facing President Biden within Democratic Party, frustrations among young Biden workers, strategic conversations, analysis of Biden's reliance on a prompter, Democrats' support for Biden, importance of political stakes, and Biden's raised funds and debate aftermath.
Jun 28, 2024 • 37min
The Political Fairway (with David Plouffe)
David Plouffe joins Axe and Murphy to dissect the recent debate, analyzing Biden's performance and discussing the impact of Trump's harshness. They delve into candidate strategies, VP options, and concerns about the upcoming election. The discussion touches on down-ballot races, Biden's debate readiness, and the need to confront doubts about his suitability for the presidency.
4 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 8min
The Trap (with David Plouffe)
Legendary Hack and campaign maestro David Plouffe joins The Davids and Mike to discuss upcoming debate strategies, including viral moments, cut mics, and traps for Biden and Trump. They map out scenarios and tactics for the candidates, offering an insider's guide to the debate stage.
Jun 18, 2024 • 1h 7min
Naked On A Rock (with Jonathan Freedland)
Guest Jonathan Freedland joins to discuss debate prep, UK politics, and Netanyahu's US visit. Topics include ad messaging, UK weather, NHS recovery, Middle East impact on Michigan politics, and Israel-US relations. The conversation also touches on Biden's immigration focus, challenges in conflict resolution, and voter turnout dynamics.
