
The Campaign Moment
“The Campaign Moment” cuts through the noise and connects the dots of political developments with unmatched reporting, expertise and lively conversations. Co-host Aaron Blake is one of The Washington Post’s veteran political reporters and is a constant each Friday as he analyzes and distills the moments that matter. He also writes our Campaign Moment newsletter. He’s joined by rotating colleagues from the Politics team and “Post Reports” co-hosts Martine Powers and Elahe Izadi.
Latest episodes

Jul 31, 2024 • 22min
Did Trump make a mistake with Vance?
JD Vance, a newly appointed senator from Ohio and Donald Trump's running mate, faces intense scrutiny after controversial remarks about 'childless cat ladies' and voting dynamics. In the discussion, his unpopularity and its potential impact on the Trump campaign are analyzed. The hosts delve into how opponents are using Vance's past comments for attack ads, and the shifting strategies Democrats are adopting. They also address the challenges emerging politicians face in an increasingly confrontational political landscape.

Jul 26, 2024 • 29min
What connects Vice President Harris to young voters
Aaron Blake, a senior political reporter, and Maeve Reston, a national political reporter covering the 2024 race, dive into how Vice President Harris connects with young voters. They discuss her successful Milwaukee event that transformed voter sentiment and how social media memes are reshaping her public image. The duo analyzes the impact of environmental issues on Harris's appeal, and they explore the quirky phenomenon of affectionate memes stemming from her lighthearted comments. Their insights touch on the evolving electoral landscape as the election approaches.

Jul 24, 2024 • 20min
7 options for a Kamala Harris VP pick
Political analyst Aaron Blake and discussion expert Elahe Izadi discuss potential VP picks for Kamala Harris, focusing on candidates like Josh Shapiro, Governor Kelly, Gretchen Whitmer, Roy Cooper, Andy Beshear, and JB Pritzker. They delve into each candidate's background, potential impact on the 2024 election, and the selection timeline for Harris' running mate.

Jul 23, 2024 • 30min
Harris hits the ground running. The GOP pivots.
Aaron Blake and Colby Itkowitz from The Washington Post discuss Kamala Harris's campaign, GOP reactions, and the shift from Biden to Harris. They analyze polls, delegate selection, and potential nominees. The episode explores the impact of President Biden's decision on Harris's campaign and the GOP's evolving strategy.

Jul 21, 2024 • 18min
Post Reports: President Biden steps aside
President Biden announces he won't seek reelection in 2024, sparking speculation on Dems beating Trump. Analysis on implications of Biden's decision and potential Kamala Harris campaign. Challenges and criticisms for Harris as a candidate. Exploring Biden's withdrawal and Harris's historic opportunity.

Jul 19, 2024 • 26min
Trump's convention, Biden's crisis
The podcast discusses the Republican National Convention, Trump's acceptance speech post-assassination attempt, and senior Democrats expressing concerns about Biden's fitness. It also explores the humorous trend of an ear bandage at the convention and the internal dynamics within the Democratic Party.

Jul 18, 2024 • 30min
The calls are coming from inside the House
This episode discusses the internal tensions within the Democratic Party over President Biden's candidacy, with calls for him to step down. It explores the impact of national polls and debates on the party's position. Biden's shift towards Supreme Court reform and progressive support is also highlighted, along with updates on the party's campaign strategy.

Jul 17, 2024 • 6min
Dark rhetoric is back at the Republican National Convention
Senior political reporter Aaron Blake discusses the dark and ominous tone at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. He highlights the aggressive rhetoric against Democrats, the resurfacing of divisive language in politics, and the potential impact on the Democratic nominee selection.

Jul 16, 2024 • 16min
On the GOP stage: MTG, Amber Rose and a union leader
Senior political reporter Aaron Blake sits down with The Campaign Moment producer Laura Benshoff for a special play-by-play episode of the most important moments of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee so far and what’s next for the GOP. They break down the moment when Donald Trump walked out onto the convention floor in his first major appearance since the assassination attempt. They also talk through the divisive rhetoric heard in several of the speeches Monday night and discuss the Republican Party’s efforts to reach new voters. Today’s show was produced by Laura Benshoff and Charla Freeland. It was mixed by Sam Bair. It was edited by Lucy Perkins and Mary Jo Murphy. Thanks also to Trinity Webster-Bass. Subscribe to Aaron’s newsletter, The Campaign Moment, here. Subscribe to The Washington Post here.

Jul 15, 2024 • 28min
VP pick Vance, Secret Service scrutiny and more from Milwaukee
This podcast discusses the aftermath of an assassination attempt on Trump, Secret Service scrutiny, dropped charges against Trump, and the announcement of VP pick J.D. Vance. They explore the impact of misinformation, loyalty concerns, and Vance's alignment with Trump.