The Focus Group Podcast

Our season finale is a bit of a pep talk. America is in a precarious place, but Americans everywhere are speaking up against the authoritarian threat. Historian extraordinaire Heather Cox Richardson joins Sarah to discuss the lessons history leaves for this moment, and Americans' role in fighting back. By Heather Cox Richardson: Letters from an American Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America

Harry Siegel, a senior editor at The City and a columnist at the New York Daily News, dives into the chaotic NYC mayoral primary. He critiques the 'dumb choices' voters face, spotlighting candidates like disgraced former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and socialist Zohran Mamdani. The conversation also touches on the challenges of ranked choice voting, voter disengagement, and the complexities of navigating endorsements. With insights on crime, safety, and political responsibility, Siegel captures the tension in New York City's evolving political landscape.

Jonathan Cohn, healthcare policy expert and author of The Bulwark's newsletter, dives into the turbulent waters of Trump’s latest Congressional bill. He reveals how some former Trump voters are voicing unexpected frustrations and why healthcare remains a political minefield for Republicans. The discussion touches on rising insurance costs, Medicaid's vital role, and the challenges of passing substantial legislation that truly benefits the working class. Cohn also critiques proposed Medicaid work requirements and the political intricacies surrounding budget cuts and taxation.

In this engaging discussion, Amy Walter, Editor-in-chief of the Cook Political Report and host of The Odd Years, shares her insights on New Jersey's crowded Democratic primary. She discusses the importance of odd-year elections in shaping political dynamics and the need for candidates to connect with diverse voter demographics, particularly Latino and African-Americans. Walter critiques the challenges moderate candidates face in today's polarized climate and emphasizes the necessity for authentic political engagement to win voter trust.

Voters reflect on Joe Biden's presidency amidst growing concerns about his mental acuity. Discussions highlight the implications of his health on leadership and electability, with support for his decision to step away from the 2024 race. The podcast critiques the delicate balance between political transparency and personal privacy, particularly regarding health disclosures. Conversations emphasize the need for accountability and the impact of undisclosed conditions on public trust, signaling a call for better communication within the Democratic Party.

Donald Trump is looking to pass his Big, Not-So-Beautiful Bill through Congress. To do it, he needs to get it past congressional Republicans. So what do Republican voters think of congressional leaders, and whether this bill is as big and beautiful as it seems? New York Times congressional reporter Annie Karni joins Sarah. By Annie Karni: Mad House: How Donald Trump, MAGA Mean Girls, a Former Used Car Salesman, a Florida Nepo Baby, and a Man with Rats in His Walls Broke Congress Go to https://surfshark.com/thefocusgroup or use code thefocusgroup at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!

Ian Ward, a reporter at Politico, dives into the shifting landscape of the Republican Party with a focus on J.D. Vance's rising influence. They discuss Vance's controversial stances, including his advice to bypass court orders and the authoritarian implications of his views. Ward explores how Vance embodies a new wave of conservative thought shaped by thinkers like Curtis Yarvin. The conversation highlights Vance's ability to resonate with voters and the intricate interplay of cultural relevance in shaping political identities today.

In this discussion, Dave Weigel, author of Semaphore's Americana newsletter, brings his keen insights on the shifting political landscape as Trump’s approval ratings dip. They explore the rocky relationship between discontented voters and the current administration, revealing that many don’t regret their choice. Weigel analyzes the Democratic Party's struggles to communicate effectively while addressing voter economic concerns and how the dynamics of party loyalty are adapting in response to Trump's policies.

Sarah didn't think she'd be looking to Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as examples of good Democratic communicators. But all of a sudden, they're some of the only people in the Democratic Party showing how to get the Trump opposition engaged. Faiz Shakir, Sanders' adviser and 2020 presidential campaign manager, joins the show to talk about Sanders' and Ocasio-Cortez's rallies around the country, why he thinks they'll advance the Democratic Party going forward, and what even moderates can learn from their approach.

Donald Trump's first 100 days in office have been marked by a lot of aspiring autocratic behavior...like deporting a legal resident without due process, targeting his political enemies, to walking right up to the line of ignoring the Supreme Court. Unfortunately, it's not a given that voters will care...or even clock that what they're seeing is bad. Atlantic staff writer Anne Applebaum joins Sarah to discuss how voters are seeing Trump, and how he's comparing to autocratic regimes around the world. show notes Anne on Substack By Anne Applebaum: Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism Autocracy, Inc.: The Dictators Who Want to Run the World America’s Future Is Hungary