The Focus Group Podcast

The United States just captured Venezuela's dictator, and we needed to get some quick voter reactions. Is this REALLY what the newest members of Trump's coalition voted for? We're also sensing growing discontent from them with the state of the country, and with the Trump administration governing more for its friends than for them. Atlantic staff writer Jonathan Chait joins the show to break down voter sentiment nearly a year into Trump's term.Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/THEFOCUSGROUP.

In this insightful discussion, Conor Kilgore, a talented producer and interviewer, joins Sarah Longwell, who began conducting focus groups to challenge Trump’s dominance in the Republican Party. Sarah shares her journey from attempting to find a primary challenger to uncovering surprising voter loyalty to Trump in both Ohio and New Hampshire. They delve into the dynamics of voter perceptions, the evolution of loyalty, and the impact of social identity on political beliefs. Sarah also highlights future races to watch in 2026, offering a strategic perspective for Democrats.

A year in review from The Focus Group Podcast: the revealing moments, toughest conversations, and warnings that hit a little harder with hindsight—from swing voters to Democrats to cracks inside MAGA. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code THEFOCUSGROUP at https://www.oneskin.co/THEFOCUSGROUP #oneskinpod Original episodes: Nothing is True, Everything is Possible (with Anne Applebaum):  https://audioboom.com/posts/8711563-nothing-is-true-everything-is-possible-with-anne-applebaum Do the Next Right Thing, Change the World (with Heather Cox Richardson): https://audioboom.com/posts/8741588-do-the-next-right-thing-change-the-world-with-heather-cox-richardson The GOP's Life After Trump (with Robert Draper): https://audioboom.com/posts/8806639-the-gop-s-life-after-trump-with-robert-draper

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s 'Make America Healthy Again' movement and its adherents have done some of the most harm of anyone in Donald Trump's second term. The voters who are motivated by 'MAHA' are also some of the most interesting. The Bulwark's resident healthcare expert, Jonathan Cohn joins the show to break down the policy consequences of RFK's healthcare regime, and what motivates the everyday 'MAHA' voter. By Jonathan Cohn: This Is What It Looks Like When RFK Jr. Wins

The American military used to be one of the more trusted institutions in America. In 2025, it's a major political football. But how much do voters know about the military and its proper use? Bulwark military expert, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) joins the show. This holiday, give your loved ones the only gift that keeps on giving — health. Go to Superpower.com/gift to get a free $49 gift box with your gifted membership. Show notes: Get free shipping and 365 day returns with Quince at https://Quince.com/THEFOCUSGROUP.

Astead Herndon, a journalist and former host at The New York Times podcast, dives into the frustrations of swing voters who feel disenchanted by both political parties. He discusses the importance of listening to these voters and profiles Zohran Mamdani, revealing how his approach won even Trump's attention. The conversation explores voter desires for reforms like term limits and better representation, emphasizing that authenticity and a fighting spirit resonate more than ideological purity in today's political landscape.

Catherine Rampell, an economics editor at The Bulwark, breaks down the current state of the economy and the complex dynamics between political promises and real-world inflation. She delves into the challenges Trump faces in delivering on economic relief and explains why outright promises of lower prices are a perilous trap for politicians. The discussion includes insights from focus-group voters who voice their frustrations about high prices and altered holiday spending habits. Rampell emphasizes that while politicians can impact certain economic areas, expectations often exceed reality.

Will Sommer, a journalist and author of the False Flag newsletter, dives into the shifting political landscape surrounding the Epstein files and reveals how Trump’s supporters are reacting. Senator Elissa Slotkin, a U.S. Senator from Michigan, discusses her PSA urging military personnel to refuse illegal orders, addressing concerns of misuse of power. She also reflects on the recent government shutdown, highlighting the frustrations of voters and strategic divides within the Democratic party, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and engagement.

There's always a possibility that Donald Trump will try to run for a third term. But plenty of Republicans don't even want that...for now. We asked some of Trump's base how they're feeling about a third term for him (their answers may surprise you!) and talk about Marjorie Taylor Greene's about-face, and the rise of antisemitism on the right. Robert Draper of The New York Times Magazine joins Sarah to walk through some of the key forces bubbling up on the right. show notes Get free shipping and 365 day returns this holiday season with Quince at https://Quince.com/THEFOCUSGROUP. By Robert Draper: Weapons of Mass Delusion Nick Fuentes: A White Nationalist Problem for the Right 

Rachel Janfaza, founder of The Up and Up and a Gen Z expert, dives into the evolving political landscape of young people. She highlights the striking shift of young women towards progressive causes, driven by concerns like reproductive rights and safety. Meanwhile, young men are veering right, influenced by social isolation and echo chambers. Janfaza discusses the generational split in priorities shaped by the pandemic, the pervasive role of AI in their lives, and how loneliness impacts political beliefs, emphasizing a need for community.