Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast
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Join noted author & pundit Molly Jong-Fast for irreverent humor that cuts right to the heart of our politics today as she discusses the top political headlines with some of today’s best minds. Known for being one of the few interviewers in politics to cut through the talking points, Molly reveals the personalities and issues tearing the country apart. She asks the questions no one else does, and gets the answers even her guests didn’t expect to give – and exactly what you want to know. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday & Friday for the funniest yet serious look at what’s ailing America.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 10, 2025 • 48min
Rick Wilson, Rebecca Katz & Morris Katz
Rick Wilson, founder of the Lincoln Project, critiques Trump's messaging failures, particularly around the shutdown and economic issues. Political strategists Rebecca and Morris Katz discuss bold campaign strategies, emphasizing the need for clear messaging and youth engagement. They highlight the successes of candidates like Zoran Mamdani, who focused on affordability to attract young voters. The trio delves into the consultant class's shortcomings and how Democrats can respond proactively to emerging leaders and new voter demographics.
Nov 8, 2025 • 50min
Justin Wolfers & Gov. Tim Walz
Justin Wolfers, an economist and host of Think Like an Economist, dives into the impact of the government shutdown on essential economic data, revealing how it disrupts jobs reports and GDP statistics. He warns that private data can't fill the void and outlines alarming economic signals from tariffs and immigration policy. Governor Tim Walz shares his experiences on the campaign trail and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in connecting with voters. He also discusses the ongoing effects of the shutdown on Minnesotans and his reasons for running for re-election.
Nov 6, 2025 • 52min
Ali Vitali & Rep. Robert Garcia
Ali Vitali, a Senior Capitol Hill reporter for MSNBC, and Rep. Robert Garcia, U.S. Representative from California, dive into the recent Democratic election wins and their significance for the party's future. They discuss how gender dynamics influenced key races and the implications of Prop 50 on redistricting strategy in California. Garcia highlights shifts in Latino voter support and the limitations of misinformation. Together, they analyze how these changes impact Democratic efforts in Congress and ongoing negotiations regarding government shutdowns.
Nov 5, 2025 • 57min
Miles Taylor & Jimmy Wales
Miles Taylor, a former national security official, discusses Trump’s risky foreign policy, including his troubling remarks about military action in Nigeria and the legal implications of presidential overreach. Taylor highlights the dangers of unchecked power in the White House and the growing support for Trump post-January 6th. Meanwhile, Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia, delves into his book on trust, addressing online misinformation, the erosion of public trust, and how community-driven efforts can restore faith in information sharing.
Nov 3, 2025 • 47min
Rick Wilson & Irin Carmon
Rick Wilson, the founder of the Lincoln Project, discusses the chaos of the Trump administration, highlighting how government mismanagement affects airport operations. Irin Carmon, a senior correspondent at New York Magazine, dives into her book on maternal health, illustrating the consequences of restrictive pregnancy policies on women's autonomy. They tackle the U.S. maternal mortality crisis and the chilling effects of abortion restrictions on prenatal care, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change in reproductive healthcare.
Nov 1, 2025 • 35min
Jonathan Karl & David Sirota
Jonathan Karl, an ABC News journalist and author, shares insights from his book on Trump's tumultuous comeback and the chaotic 2024 campaign landscape. He highlights Trump’s media dominance and the strategies that shape the electoral battleground. David Sirota, investigative journalist and founder of The Lever, delves into the corrupting influence of campaign finance and the Supreme Court’s alarming rulings. Together, they discuss the intersection of power, money, and politics, offering a compelling look at today's political dynamics.
Oct 30, 2025 • 37min
Joyce Vance & Julien Brave Noisecat
Joyce Vance, a former federal prosecutor and author, shares insights from her book, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and the historical corrections in democracy. Julien Brave Noisecat, an author and filmmaker, discusses Indigenous storytelling, highlighting the need to retell histories that have been marginalized. They delve into effective strategies for protecting voting rights, the significance of reconciliation, and the impact of leadership in addressing contemporary political challenges.
Oct 29, 2025 • 47min
Andy Levy & Sen. Ed Markey
Andy Levy, a comedian and host of 'As the World Churns', shares his insights on political strategy and today's divisive media landscape. He discusses how Trump's tactics aim to distract and reshape America. Senator Ed Markey, a progressive U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, reveals the impact of the government shutdown on SNAP benefits and emphasizes the dangers of authoritarian governance. Both guests dive into urgent topics such as nuclear policy, tariff challenges, and the need for organized voter protection ahead of the 2024 elections.
Oct 27, 2025 • 42min
Rick Wilson & Heather Williams
Rick Wilson, a political strategist and co-founder of The Lincoln Project, reveals an alarming $130 million donation from Timothy Mellon to Trump, aimed at blocking damaging files. Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, discusses effective strategies for Democrats to strengthen state power and protect voting access. The conversation also highlights how state Democrats engage voters authentically while addressing urgent issues like healthcare and local governance, alongside a fierce critique of Kyrsten Sinema's recent lobbying actions.
11 snips
Oct 25, 2025 • 45min
Jim Acosta & Rep. Jared Moskowitz
Jim Acosta, a veteran political journalist and host of The Jim Acosta Show, analyzes the fallout from the Trump administration, including its unpredictable tactics and implications for democracy. U.S. Representative Jared Moskowitz discusses the ongoing government shutdown, pointing out Republican strategies that delay votes. He also highlights the potential impacts of missed healthcare subsidies and intra-party conflicts within the GOP. Together, they explore how political dysfunction affects voter sentiment and the future of Democratic leadership.
