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
60 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 1h 7min
Is This Martial Law?
Jerusalem Demsas, Editor-in-Chief of The Argument, joins the discussion about the evolving political landscape in Washington, D.C. The hosts delve into the National Guard's deployment amid perceived crime waves, raising concerns about martial law and its effects on marginalized communities. They also explore the implications of recent U.S.-Russia diplomacy regarding Ukraine. Demsas provides insights on the launch of a new liberal publication, addressing the challenges and complexities of modern liberalism in a shifting political environment.
10 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 40min
Gabfest Reads | The Four Years That Changed New York City Forever
Jonathan Mahler, a staff writer for the New York Times Magazine and author of The Gods of New York, dives into the transformative years of Ed Koch's mayoralty. He explores the rise of socioeconomic disparities and social unrest, including the deep-seated racial tensions highlighted by the Yusuf Hawkins tragedy. Mahler connects past political landscapes with today's mayoral race, reflecting on the enduring legacy of leadership decisions on issues like affordable housing and the ongoing fight for racial justice in New York City.
52 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 58min
Humvees on the National Mall
In this engaging discussion, Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times columnist and former Slate writer, joins Emily Bazelon and John Dickerson to dissect the recent Trump-Putin summit and its implications for U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine. They critique the deployment of National Guard troops in D.C. as a response to urban crime, weighing the political ramifications. The trio also dives into the complexities of college admissions and the impact of new presidential directives on diversity and race in education.
68 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 1h 10min
Putting the BS in BLS
Juliette Kayyem, a renowned guest host from the Kendi School of Government, engages in a riveting conversation about the implications of political decisions on the credibility of U.S. economic data. She discusses the potential chaos stemming from manipulated job statistics and the threats to representative democracy posed by mid-decade redistricting in Texas. The dialogue also touches on the alarming rise of gerrymandering and its impact on elections, alongside a humorous exploration of modern political dynamics within the Trump administration.
32 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 1h 4min
Gaza is Starving
The hosts dive into the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, spotlighting the heavy toll on civilians and the barriers to aid. They scrutinize the Trump administration's influence on universities and the judiciary, reflecting on recent legal controversies. A lively chat with Carl Hiaasen about his political satire highlights literature's role in the current era. The banter also takes a turn toward unexpected joy in discussing a new Marvel film, blending nostalgia with societal critique.
36 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
Is John Roberts to Blame for Everything?
This week, the hosts dive into the tangled web of the Epstein files and its political ramifications. They scrutinize how John Roberts' Supreme Court decisions have bolstered Trump's authority, while discussing Texas Republicans' redistricting strategy and its potential fallout. The conversation also touches on Trump's unique legal challenges amidst ongoing scandals. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted moments as they share summer reading and cooking delights, adding a dash of humor to their sharp political analysis.
Jul 19, 2025 • 27min
Gabfest Reads | A Beach Read for the Outraged
Join author Carl Hiaasen, known for his sharp political satire, as he dives into his new book, *Fever Beach*. The conversation highlights the absurdity of political extremism through the antics of inept characters and a corrupt congressman. Hiaasen reveals real-life events that fueled his writing and critiques the infamous Matt Gaetz, connecting Florida’s wild political scene to broader national issues. Listen in for humor and insightful reflections on the current political landscape, perfect for summer reading!
38 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 14min
MAGA’s Epstein Obsession
This week’s discussion dives into MAGA's fixation on the Epstein conspiracy and its ties to elite circles. The Supreme Court's use of the 'shadow docket' to support Trump’s agenda raises eyebrows, while a debate on the fate of NPR and PBS reveals tension in public broadcasting. Emotions run high as conspiracy theories collide with political realities. Additionally, the panel humorously explores the term 'rescission' and shares reading recommendations for the summer.
48 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 1h 9min
Who Wants a Third Party, Anyway?
Mike Pesca, host of The Gist and a former colleague, joins Susan Glasser, a New Yorker staff writer making her Gabfest debut. They explore Elon Musk's ambitious—and some might say quixotic—attempt to form a third political party in the U.S. The discussion dives into Trump’s contradictory foreign policy, rooted in self-interest, and the ongoing repercussions of his tariff strategies. They also touch on the broader implications these dynamics have on American political engagement and daily life amidst rising challenges.
31 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 1h 10min
Is Trump’s Reckless Bill Unpopular?
Join Catherine Rampell, a Washington Post opinion columnist, and Will Saletan, a sharp analyst from The Bulwark, as they delve into the ramifications of a controversial Senate bill that threatens essential social programs. They discuss the evolving identity of the Republican Party under Trump, highlighting the struggle between personal beliefs and party loyalty. The conversation also touches on the challenges media faces amidst political pressures and how this climate could reshape future political coalitions. It's a fascinating exploration of power dynamics in today's America!
