
The Playbook Podcast
POLITICO’s Jack Blanchard and Dasha Burns bring their fresh insight, analysis and reporting to the biggest story driving the day in the nation’s capital.
Latest episodes

Jul 26, 2024 • 8min
July 26, 2024: Trump aims ‘nasty’ talk at Harris
Breaking news reporter Irie Sentner discusses the struggle of Trump's allies to attack Kamala Harris, focusing on insults towards her identity. The podcast explores the racist and sexist attacks faced by Harris, including conspiracy theories linking her to a political leader's decline.

Jul 25, 2024 • 8min
July 25, 2024: Joe Biden’s long goodbye
Former President Joe Biden's recent Oval Office speech, choosing not to seek re-election, focuses on legacy building and defending democracy. White House correspondent Eli Stokols and Ryan Lizza dissect Biden's decision and what comes next.

Jul 24, 2024 • 10min
July 24, 2024: Netanyahu's visit to DC lands with a thud
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial visit to Washington, with some lawmakers and Kamala Harris skipping his address. Insights into Netanyahu's meetings with President Biden and Trump. Analysis of Biden's upcoming Oval Office address and the latest news updates.

Jul 23, 2024 • 11min
July 23, 2024: How ‘Kamala the cop’ plays in 2024
Ankush Khardori, former prosecutor, discusses how Kamala Harris's past record as a prosecutor could now benefit her in the presidential race. They analyze the changing views on criminal justice policies and the impact of rising crime rates on political landscapes.

Jul 22, 2024 • 14min
July 22, 2024: Biden withdrew from the 2024 race. What now?
Vice President Kamala Harris receives President Biden's endorsement after his surprising withdrawal from the 2024 race, causing shock among Democratic politicians and staff. Speculation arises about Harris locking up the Democratic nomination and potential running mates. GOP strategizes criticism of Harris as a political opponent.

Jul 19, 2024 • 14min
July 19, 2024: And that's a wrap on the RNC
Playbook co-authors Ryan Lizza, Eugene Daniels, and Rachael Bade discuss Trump's lengthy speech at RNC, audience reactions, speculation about Biden stepping down, and the internal tensions within the Democratic Party. They humorously mention trying to find steak amidst the political chaos.

Jul 18, 2024 • 15min
July 18, 2024: J.D. Vance pitches himself to America
Political reporters discuss J.D. Vance's speech at the RNC, concerns among delegates, speculation about Biden's health. Analysis of convention dynamics, behind-the-scenes maneuvering, and rumors surrounding DNC. Pelosi's role in house control emphasized.

Jul 17, 2024 • 13min
July 17, 2024: One-on-one with Sen. Ted Cruz at the RNC
Sen. Ted Cruz discusses unity at the RNC, potential Cabinet picks, and speculation on replacing Biden with Michelle Obama or Kamala Harris. The podcast also explores presidential leverage, conspiracy theories, and American institutions.

Jul 16, 2024 • 10min
July 16, 2024: Live from Milwaukee, it's the RNC
Guest J.D. Vance, Junior Senator from Ohio, discusses Trump's VP announcement overshadowed by an assassination attempt. Analysis of Republican reactions to the event, unity post-assassination, enthusiasm for Vance as VP pick, and Trump's dramatic appearance at the RNC.

Jul 15, 2024 • 13min
July 15, 2024: Welcome to RNC day one
National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw discusses the impact of a recent assassination attempt on former President Trump on the upcoming Republican National Convention. The podcast delves into Trump's change in social media tone, security measures for the convention, and speculation on his post-nomination plans and potential running mates.