The Playbook Podcast

A historic diplomatic whirlwind has emerged from recent meetings between Trump and Zelenskyy, marking a newfound alliance focused on security guarantees for Ukraine. The evolving dynamics also showcase Putin's willingness to discuss these guarantees, while tensions simmer within the Trump administration regarding Ukraine's future. Meanwhile, Washington is embroiled in contentious gerrymandering battles impacting midterm elections, with strategic shifts favoring Republicans. Amidst all this, concerns about election integrity add layers of political discord to the landscape.

The meeting between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and President Trump takes center stage, with European leaders influencing the discussion. The hosts delve into the intricate diplomatic dynamics involving NATO and the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. They also discuss the militarization of Washington D.C. and the resulting cultural tensions. Additionally, California's redistricting efforts highlight new political strategies, as the implications of gerrymandering and its impact on society take the spotlight.

Eli Stokols, a Politico White House and Foreign Affairs correspondent, joins to discuss the highly anticipated summit between President Trump and President Putin in Alaska. They analyze the geopolitical stakes surrounding Ukraine and what success might look like from both sides. Stokols offers insights from Trump’s former national security advisor, highlighting political maneuvering in the background. The conversation also touches on some unexpected political comments and a bizarre incident involving a federal officer and a sandwich, adding a quirky twist to the day’s events.

Pete Buttigieg addresses backlash from his recent comments on Gaza, shedding light on the shifting opinions within the Democratic Party. The discussion reveals the delicate balance leaders must strike amidst conflicting views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Anticipation builds around the upcoming summit between Trump and Putin, exploring the challenges of negotiating during heightened tensions. The episode also looks at the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations and the implications of political controversies impacting key administration decisions.

Laura Loomer intensifies her attacks on HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his aide, claiming disloyalty within Trump's ranks. The hosts dissect Loomer's concerns about Kennedy's 2028 presidential ambitions and how this might affect international relations, particularly with Putin. The nomination of E.J. Antony for the Bureau of Labor Statistics raises questions about economic data trustworthiness. Plus, insights into Trump's upcoming visit to the Kennedy Center and his remarks about transforming the venue add a cultural twist to the discussion.

Residents wake up to a transformed Washington after President Trump's surprise announcement to deploy the National Guard for 30 days. The hosts delve into the political implications of his 'law and order' narrative and how it may distract from economic issues. As Democrats grapple with balancing public safety and economic concerns, anticipation builds for the upcoming Trump-Putin summit. The tension at political summits is analyzed, interspersed with moments of levity, including a team celebration.

Mike DeBonis, POLITICO's senior Congress editor, joins to discuss Trump's plans to deploy federal forces in Washington, D.C., amid claims of rising crime. They unpack the surprising statistics showing a decline in violent crime and question the motivations behind Trump's push for federal oversight. The conversation dives into presidential powers, local governance challenges, and the GOP's stance on urban issues, revealing the complexities of modern political strategies and their implications for the capital's self-governance.

Megan Messerly, a POLITICO White House reporter, shares insights on the current political landscape and the White House's controversial decision to deploy federal law enforcement in D.C. The conversation reveals how this move aligns with Trump's 'law and order' campaign focus, especially in the context of upcoming elections. They also discuss the chaotic Texas redistricting battle affecting the U.S. Senate race and potential geopolitical ramifications of Trump's meeting with Putin, showcasing the intertwining of domestic and foreign policy.

A humanitarian crisis in Gaza is reshaping American politics, leading to a crucial divide among Democratic candidates in the Michigan Senate primary. This split reflects a broader conflict between institutionalists and disruptors within the party. Meanwhile, Trump's new tariffs stir economic concerns while adding complexity to U.S.-Russia relations, including potential high-stakes meetings. Lastly, cultural tensions bubble at the Indy 500, where political ties spark backlash, illuminating sports’ intersection with societal issues.

Megan Messerly, a POLITICO White House reporter, dives into the political chess game of gerrymandering as the White House pressures red states like Indiana ahead of the 2026 midterms. They explore how Vice President JD Vance aims to redraw districts while linking the issue to broader topics like abortion rights. The discussion also touches on President Trump's unusual comments regarding federal control of D.C. amid crime concerns and the strategic ramifications of naming an immigrant detention center to instill fear. It's a revealing look at political strategy and messaging.