What A Day
Crooked Media
If you’re looking for hype, fake outrage, and groupthink, kindly keep moving. Our mission at What a Day is simple: to be your guide to what truly matters each morning (and the fun stuff you might have missed) in just 20 minutes. Host Jane Coaston brings you in-depth reporting and substantive analysis on the big stories shaping today and the creeping trends shaping tomorrow—and when she doesn’t know the answers, she asks someone even smarter to fill us all in. Radical, right? New episodes at 5:00 a.m. EST, Monday–Friday in your favorite podcast app and on YouTube. Being informed was never this easy.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 12, 2024 • 23min
Trump Loyalists Get Cabinet Prizes
Zack Beauchamp, a senior correspondent for Vox and author of "The Reactionary Spirit," dives into the implications of Trump's latest cabinet appointments. He reveals the worrying influence of loyalists like Stephen Miller on immigration and environmental policies. The conversation draws unsettling parallels between Trump's administration and authoritarian regimes abroad, particularly in Hungary. Beauchamp emphasizes the urgent need for organized public opposition to protect democracy from these erosive threats.
Nov 11, 2024 • 22min
GOP Sees Limit To Trump's Popularity
Burgess Everett, Congressional bureau chief for Semafor, brings valuable insights into the recent political landscape. He discusses how Trump’s electoral win did not translate into down-ballot success for Republican Senate candidates. Interesting patterns emerge as many Trump supporters opted not to back Republican nominees. Everett also touches on the power dynamics in the Senate, the strategic considerations for Democrats, and the significant political shifts in California following the elections.
Nov 9, 2024 • 34min
What the 2024 Voter Breakdown Reveals About America
The discussion dives into how Trump managed to win swing states and attract support from traditionally blue areas. Analyzing changing voter behaviors reveals surprising trends, especially among women and Latino men. Media narratives significantly shape voter sentiments, particularly concerning economic issues and abortion laws. The evolving dynamics among young voters indicate a shift towards social conservatism. Finally, insights from undecided voters highlight their need for clarity in navigating the complex political landscape.
Nov 8, 2024 • 20min
Democratic Soul Searching feat. Jon Favreau
Jon Favreau, co-host of 'Pod Save America' and former speechwriter for President Obama, dives into the Democratic Party's soul-searching after the election. He discusses President Biden's address tackling division within the party and the importance of reconnecting with working-class voters. Favreau emphasizes the need for candidates to define their identities apart from Trump narratives. The conversation also sheds light on incumbent challenges, historical election trends, and the complexities of navigating future political landscapes.
9 snips
Nov 7, 2024 • 26min
VP Harris: 'Time To Roll Up Our Sleeves'
Josie Duffy Rice, a political commentator, shares insights on how the election results may reshape the political landscape. Greg Walters, newsletter editor, discusses the emotional reactions to Kamala Harris's concession speech. Yasmeen Abutaleb, from The Washington Post, analyzes the Biden administration's future strategies post-election. Todd Zwillich provides updates on tight congressional races, highlighting the potential implications of a Republican majority. The conversation emphasizes resilience and the importance of maintaining hope in challenging political times.
9 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 11min
Trump Declares Victory
Erin Ryan, co-host of the Crooked podcast ‘Hysteria,’ joins the discussion to dissect the dramatic election night. She breaks down Trump's unexpected claims of victory and their implications for the race. The conversation also highlights historic wins in North Carolina, spotlighting a new governor and two black women senators. Amidst the political landscape, they explore the ongoing battle for reproductive rights and the mixed emotions surrounding recent results, emphasizing the need for hope and unity.
8 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 21min
The Final Countdown
Alyssa Mastromonaco, former White House deputy chief of staff, shares her insights on the electrifying atmosphere of Election Day. Anna Hokemer discusses the grassroots efforts behind Florida's abortion rights amendment, tackling both challenges and voter engagement. Senator Jacky Rosen reveals her strategies for a tight re-election race in Nevada, highlighting the urgency of mobilizing support for women's rights. Together, they explore the profound impact of youth voters and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with pivotal elections.
11 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 25min
A Polling Surprise Feat. Nate Silver
Nate Silver, a renowned polling expert and author of the 'Silver Bulletin,' joins to dissect recent polling trends ahead of Election Day. He highlights how polls serve as a tool, not a prediction. Abbas Alawieh, co-founder of the 'Uncommitted' movement, shares insights on the activist sentiment influencing voter turnout, particularly regarding Palestinian rights. Josie Duffy Rice discusses pressing election lawsuits and what they mean for voting access in Georgia, underscoring the challenges in getting voters to the polls amidst misinformation.
Nov 2, 2024 • 35min
The Far-Right War for Trump's 2025 Agenda
Ken Bensinger, a New York Times reporter, dives into the complex world of the America First Policy Institute, shedding light on its role in a potential second Trump term. He discusses internal power struggles within the far-right and how these dynamics could shape Trump's 2025 agenda. The conversation explores controversial policies on immigration and healthcare, as well as the eyebrow-raising proposal to replace federal employees deemed disloyal. Bensinger also emphasizes the importance of grassroots mobilization amid rising political extremism.
11 snips
Nov 1, 2024 • 21min
Do Something! Get Out And Vote!
In this engaging discussion, Alex Wagner, host of MSNBC's ‘Alex Wagner Tonight’, shares her insights on the current electoral landscape and the Democratic Party's concerns as Election Day approaches. She analyzes Trump's rallies targeting Latino voters and the implications of his controversial remarks on women’s rights. Wagner emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and countering election denial rhetoric. The conversation highlights the urgency for grassroots mobilization as the 2024 elections draw near, stressing that every vote counts.
