What Next | Daily News and Analysis

David Gilbert, a journalist from WIRED who tackles disinformation and online extremism, reveals the alarming rise of constitutional sheriffs. These self-proclaimed enforcers are reshaping election integrity discussions, driven by conspiracy theories from the 2020 election. Gilbert highlights their recruitment efforts and troubling ties to extremist ideologies, particularly as we approach the 2024 elections. The podcast sheds light on the seductive mix of law enforcement and politics, raising significant concerns about the future of democracy.

Paul Kane, a congressional reporter for the Washington Post, dives into the unique electoral dynamics of Nebraska’s second district, which could sway the presidential election. He discusses the rising local Democratic engagement through creative campaigns like homemade lawn signs. Kane highlights the pivotal role this district plays in the Electoral College, and examines the intense congressional race between Don Bacon and Tony Vargas. The conversation also touches on Trump's campaign strategies and the changing political landscape.

Michael Podhorzer, a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and author of Weekend Reading, dives deep into the complexities of undecided voters. He discusses the psychological factors influencing their choices, especially in swing states. The conversation highlights the impact of constant election coverage on voter engagement and explores how emotional factors shape decisions. With insights on the inadequacies of traditional polling, Podhorzer emphasizes the need for bipartisan cooperation to address extremism and foster meaningful voter connections.

Matt Flegenheimer, a New York Times correspondent known for his political profiles, joins the discussion on Jill Stein's candidacy and its implications. They explore the disillusionment with the two-party system and how Stein's campaign might affect the Democratic Party's voter share. Flegenheimer highlights Stein's journey from a medical professional to a Green Party candidate. They also delve into the unique challenges third-party candidates face, particularly in tightly contested elections, revealing the intricate dynamics of American politics.

Tony Tran, a senior tech editor at Slate and author of "My Weekends with the Dead," shares an emotional journey exploring his family's history, particularly his quest to uncover his grandfather's identity following the Vietnam War. He highlights the personal significance of visiting a soldier’s grave and the importance of digital memorials on platforms like FindAGrave.com. Tran discusses the balance between genealogy exploration and privacy, revealing how online memorials foster connection while inviting controversy.

In this conversation, Sapna Maheshwari, a New York Times reporter specializing in tech, dives into the transformative role TikTok plays in the current election cycle. She discusses how TikTok creatively engages younger voters, turning political discourse into shareable content. Maheshwari explores the rise of what she calls 'the TikTok election,' and highlights the platform's double-edged impact on campaigns, including challenges like misinformation. Tune in for fascinating insights into how social media is reshaping political dynamics!

Grace Panetta, a political reporter at The 19th, discusses the crucial abortion ballot measure in Florida. She shares how despite a national trend against strict abortion laws, Florida Republicans are strategizing to maintain their six-week ban. The conversation includes personal stories from mothers affected by these laws, the use of taxpayer funds for anti-ballot initiatives, and the broader impact of legislative challenges on reproductive rights. Grace also highlights the unique dynamics of voter sentiment and political pressure in this heated battleground.

Rogé Karma, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in immigration policy, dives deep into the shifting landscape of American views on immigration. He discusses how Trump's anti-immigration rhetoric has resonated across the political spectrum, surprising many with support for strict measures even among Kamala Harris backers. The conversation explores the rapid rightward shift in public opinion and reveals the complex dynamics that fuel both fear and appreciation for immigrants, challenging widely held myths about their economic impact.

Jonathan Dekel-Chen, a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and father of hostage Sagi, joins Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, to discuss the fallout from Yahya Sinwar's death. They tackle the emotional turmoil for families of hostages, shifting dynamics within Hamas, and the impact on future negotiations. The pair also analyze the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the uncertain path toward a potential ceasefire, revealing complexities that linger even after Sinwar's removal from power.

Brian Buckmire, an ABC Legal Contributor and felony trial attorney, dives into the rekindled fascination surrounding the Menendez brothers' case. He discusses how recent evidence of parental abuse has sparked debates about their potential release. The conversation touches on society's obsession with infamous crime stories and the complexities of justice, family ties, and wrongful imprisonment. Buckmire also examines how media influence shapes public perception and the motivations behind legal challenges in high-profile cases like this.