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
4 snips
Jan 25, 2024 • 1h 1min
The Election No One Wants
This week's podcast explores the Trump v. Biden presidential rematch, the end of the 'vibecession,' and the political fights over immigration. They discuss the dynamics of the Republican primary race, Americans' perception of the economy, and immigration issues including vibemigration and humanitarian parole. The hosts also analyze the political impact of the Biden administration on Democratic mayors and governors.
5 snips
Jan 20, 2024 • 41min
Gabfest Reads: How to Thrive in a World of Change
Author Brad Stulberg discusses his book on thriving in a changing world. They explore the concept of change, being intentional despite distractions, and the unique perspective of athletes. The role of values in embracing change is also examined, with practical guidance on defining core values.
Jan 18, 2024 • 1h 9min
Why Trump Won Iowa
David Leonhardt of The New York Times joins the Political Gabfest to discuss Trump's victory in Iowa, the potential end of Chevron deference, and the SAT controversy. They explore the demographic makeup of Trump's base, the challenges of agency interpretations, and the impact of standardized tests on college admissions and diversity.
6 snips
Jan 11, 2024 • 1h 5min
Should Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin Be Fired?
Guests Jamelle Bouie and Alec MacGillis join to discuss the absence of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, school absenteeism, and Trump's claim of absolute immunity. They also touch on movies, unique uniforms, and a hypothetical second Mount Rushmore.
Jan 4, 2024 • 1h
Who Wants to Be President of Harvard?
This podcast episode discusses the potential rematch between Biden and Trump in the 2024 presidential election. It also covers the resignation of Harvard President Claudine Gay and the decrease in homicides in 2023. The episode explores the controversy surrounding Gay's resignation and the conservative campaign against elite universities. Additionally, it delves into the Israeli Supreme Court ruling, the power of weather forecasting, and shares a fascinating story about a World War II heroine.
Dec 28, 2023 • 1h 2min
Live From New York! It’s Conundrums 2023!
Wesley Morris joins the hosts to tackle conundrums like using a neighbor's trash can, the longevity of M&Ms, disinviting someone from a birthday party, contemplating natural wonders, dealing with Alzheimer's, and lightning round questions.
Dec 23, 2023 • 45min
Gabfest Reads: A Woman’s Life in Museum Wall Labels
John Dickerson interviews author Christine Coulson about her book "One Woman Show" which explores the creative force of restraint in art. They discuss writing a book entirely in wall labels, the use of porcelain as a metaphor, and the significance of empty spaces in museum wall labels.
4 snips
Dec 21, 2023 • 1h 5min
Trump versus Colorado
Guest Amanda Ripley, author of survival guide for 2024, discusses suggestions to survive the future. Topics include blocking Trump from ballot, Texas law to arrest immigrants, and dangers of cognitive distortions.
Dec 14, 2023 • 1h 2min
Is Harvard Antisemitic?
This week, the podcast guests discuss free-speech controversies on college campuses, questions related to Trump cases that the U.S. Supreme Court will answer, and the latest high-profile abortion case in Texas with real-life and political consequences. They analyze the challenges universities face in managing speech and the implications for the courts and the law in Trump's ongoing legal battles.
Dec 7, 2023 • 57min
Should Liz Cheney Run?
Guest Liz Cheney discusses her book and efforts to stop Donald Trump. Topics include Cheney's concerns about the fake elector scheme, the Republican Party's stance on Trump, potential challengers in the Republican primaries, and the complex case of the Purdue bankruptcy and the Sacklers' release.
