Political Gabfest
Slate Podcasts
Voted “Favorite Political Podcast” by Apple Podcasts listeners. Stephen Colbert says "Everybody should listen to the Slate Political Gabfest." The Gabfest, featuring Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz, is the kind of informal and irreverent discussion Washington journalists have after hours over drinks.Want more Political Gabfest? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Political Gabfest show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/gabfestplus to get access wherever you listen.
Episodes
Mentioned books
41 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 58min
Trump Literally Knocks Down the White House
The hosts delve into President Trump's dramatic response to the No Kings protests, exploring the implications of his actions at the White House. They discuss the troubling trend of extremist sentiments among younger Republicans, including disturbing group chats. The podcast also examines the potential fallout of the government shutdown and its uneven impacts. A notable segment features a conversation about empathy with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, highlighting the importance of understanding in today's political climate.
4 snips
Oct 18, 2025 • 31min
Gabfest Reads | The Radical Fund That Rewired American Progress
John Witt, a Yale Law professor and author, delves into the Garland Fund's pivotal role in shaping civil rights and labor movements. He reveals how a million-dollar inheritance was transformed into a progressive powerhouse. Witt discusses key figures like A. Philip Randolph and James Weldon Johnson, linking their efforts to the fight against racial exclusion in unions. He also highlights lessons for modern progressives, advocating for innovative organizing and addressing today's misinformation challenges, all rooted in history's radical fund.
71 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 59min
Trump Ends the Gaza War
This week's guest, Rob Malley, is a Middle East policy expert and co-author of Tomorrow is Yesterday, who dives into the complexities of the Gaza ceasefire. He analyzes the paradox of Israeli military strength against Palestinian political weaknesses. Malley discusses the roles of President Trump and regional Arab actors in shaping the situation. He also addresses the uncertain future of Palestinian leadership and potential unity among factions. Additionally, the hosts touch on the ongoing government shutdown and implications for democracy.
55 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 4min
Portland is Not Actually Burning
The hosts dive into the pivotal Supreme Court term and the ramifications of Trump's troop deployments in U.S. cities. They explore the legality of conversion therapy bans, debating free speech versus harmful practices. Emily interviews Judith Resnik about the troubling history of prison punishments in democracy. The panel also tackles the Insurrection Act's implications for domestic deployments and discusses the potential political fallout of Trump's actions. Plus, catch recommendations for local rescues and TV shows!
9 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 6min
Fat Generals
Juliette Kayyem, a Homeland security expert and former government official, joins the discussion on the politicization of the military, analyzing the recent spectacle at Quantico involving Hegseth and Trump. They explore the risks of military involvement in domestic affairs and the muted response from the top brass. Kayyem also delves into the dynamics of the looming government shutdown, its implications for federal employees, and the potential political fallout for Republicans. The conversation shifts to Russia's disruptive hybrid drone warfare across Europe and its impact on NATO.
63 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 11min
Tough It Out, Pregnant Ladies!
Beverly Gage, a historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, dives into the parallels between the Red Scare and today's political climate. She highlights how McCarthyism's tactics still resonate, especially regarding free speech. Gage reveals the harsh realities faced during past crackdowns, including job losses and public fear. The conversation delves into resisting modern governmental pressures and emphasizes the importance of coalition-building. In a compelling twist, Gage differentiates the unique powers Trump wields compared to McCarthy, offering valuable insights into our current era.
Sep 20, 2025 • 24min
Gabfest Reads | The Recent Past of Prison Punishment
Judith Resnik, a Yale Law Professor and author of *Impermissible Punishments*, delves into the evolution of prison punishment in a thought-provoking discussion. She explores the chilling history of practices like whipping and the legal strides made to protect prisoners' rights. The conversation highlights modern challenges in correctional facilities, such as staff shortages and mental health issues, while also emphasizing pathways to reform for a more humane system. Resnik's insights shed light on the intersection of law, history, and democracy.
61 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Domestic Terrorist
Michael Schaffer, a columnist for Politico and host of CityCast DC, joins the discussion to reveal how the Trump administration's actions are reshaping governance in Washington, D.C. They dive into intimidation tactics threatening free speech and the chilling effects on dissent. Schaffer highlights the impact of federal cuts, law enforcement increases, and proposed changes to local governance that undermine D.C.'s autonomy. The conversation unveils the surreal dynamics of Trump’s presidency and its lasting effects on the political landscape.
73 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 3min
Assassination of Charlie Kirk
The recent assassination of Charlie Kirk sparks a chilling discussion on the surge of political violence in America. Experts analyze alarming Supreme Court rulings, including those affecting ICE's racial profiling policies in LA. Kamala Harris's upcoming memoir offers a glimpse into her political journey amidst the turbulence. Plus, a compelling conversation on the intertwining of immigration enforcement and civil rights reveals the tensions in current policies. Listen in for insights on local politics and an intriguing literary exploration.
74 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 1min
CDC DOA
Join public health expert Josh Sharfstein—former health commissioner of Baltimore and FDA deputy commissioner—as he dives into the chaos at the CDC. They discuss how RFK Jr.'s actions may undermine public health initiatives and lead to the return of preventable diseases. The hosts analyze the implications of recent legal troubles for Trump and explore the dynamics of Congress as they face potential budget battles. With insights into public trust in health systems and the political landscape, this conversation is both timely and crucial.
