The Campaign Moment

Senior political reporter Aaron Blake talks with politics producer Laura Benshoff about how much Trump stands to gain from RFK Jr.’s endorsement and what kind of impact other third-party and independent candidates like Cornel West, Chase Oliver and Jill Stein might have on the presidential race. Today’s show was produced by Laura Benshoff. It was edited by Lucy Perkins and Jenna Johnson and mixed by Rennie Svirnovskiy. Subscribe to Aaron’s newsletter, The Campaign Moment, here. Subscribe to The Washington Post here.

Cleve Wootson, a White House reporter, dives into Kamala Harris’s compelling acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention. He highlights her emphasis on her middle-class roots and her commitment to reproductive rights. The discussion also touches on memorable moments from the convention and the strategic messaging aimed at portraying competency and normalcy in leadership. Wootson shares insights on the evolving political narratives and the impact of speeches by figures like Michelle Obama, linking them to the Democratic Party's future.

Oprah Winfrey, the influential media mogul and philanthropist, joins Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a former high school football coach. They delve into the Democratic Party’s new rallying cry of 'freedom,' contrasting it with Republican ideals. Walz emphasizes how freedom encompasses reproductive rights and individual agency against corporate influence. The discussion highlights personal connections to everyday Americans and redefines patriotism in a modern context, all while celebrating the spirit of the Democratic National Convention.

Marianna Sotomayor, a congressional reporter for The Post, joins senior political reporter Aaron Blake to dissect Nancy Pelosi's influential role at the Democratic National Convention. They discuss how Pelosi maneuvered to get Biden to withdraw, earning her the title 'The Godmother' among delegates. The conversation also touches on tensions within the Democratic Party, the transformation of political personas post-leadership, and the potential legacy of Pelosi, including the prospects for her daughter, Christine. Insights and anecdotes enrich this vibrant political dialogue.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Viser, a seasoned White House reporter, reflects on the charged atmosphere at the Democratic National Convention following President Biden's speech. He reveals how delegates passionately chanted their support, signaling Biden's impact while hinting at a desire for new leadership, especially in light of Vice President Harris's emerging role. The conversation also delves into the party's strategic focus on opposition figures like Donald Trump, exploring the delicate balance of gratitude for past achievements and the push for a forward-looking vision.

Martine Powers, co-host of 'Post Reports', joins senior political reporter Aaron Blake and congressional reporter Liz Goodwin to dive into Kamala Harris's economic policy agenda. They discuss potential Democratic successes in the upcoming elections and the significance of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The trio also examines how past campaign dynamics have influenced current party strategies and highlights the impact of female leadership in politics, despite the challenges posed by celebrity endorsements.

Aaron Blake is a senior political reporter and author of The Campaign Moment newsletter, while Lenny Bronner is a data scientist focused on election models at The Post. They delve into Kamala Harris's rising support in battleground states like Nevada and Arizona, highlighting her impact on Trump’s defenses. The duo discusses innovative polling dynamics, the implications of third-party candidates, and Harris's strategies to appeal to key demographics, showcasing her evolving viability as a candidate in the shifting political landscape.

Aaron Blake, a senior political reporter focusing on electoral issues, joins congressional reporter Marianna Sotomayor to discuss the implications of Governor Tim Walz's candidacy as Vice President Kamala Harris's pick. They delve into House Democrats' enthusiasm for Walz and the fallout from Rep. Cori Bush's primary loss. The duo examines Walz's military service claims, critiques of campaign strategies, and the evolving political landscape influenced by Trump's recent campaign actions.

Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, joins senior political reporter Aaron Blake to discuss his selection as Vice President Harris's running mate. They explore Walz's unique appeal to rural voters and his impressive political journey in a conservative district. The conversation dives into the strategic dynamics of his partnership with Harris, examining how their combined strengths could shape voter perceptions in pivotal elections. Additionally, they touch on Minnesota's cultural quirks, adding a light-hearted flair to their political insights.

Former President Donald Trump, known for his polarizing rhetoric, questions Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity, sparking heated discussions about political strategy and identity in the upcoming elections. Harris, a pivotal figure in U.S. politics, is experiencing a surge in campaign support and fundraising efforts. The hosts delve into the implications of Trump's comments on his voter appeal and the challenges Harris faces in defining her political identity while eyeing potential running mates. Audiences are invited to consider the effects of these dynamics on the political landscape.