
What Next | Daily News and Analysis
The problem with the news right now? It’s everywhere. And each day, it can feel like we’re all just mindlessly scrolling. It’s why we created What Next. This short daily show is here to help you make sense of things. When the news feels overwhelming, we’re here to help you answer: What next? Look for new episodes every weekday morning.Get more of What Next with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of What Next and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the What Next show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or visit slate.com/whatnextplus for access wherever you listen.
Latest episodes

Jul 24, 2024 • 27min
Why the Secret Service Director Resigned
Policy correspondent Abdallah Fayyad discusses the resignation of the Secret Service Director after security failures at a Trump rally. They explore the lack of accountability in the agency's history, controversies, transparency issues, and concerns about protecting high-profile figures. The podcast raises questions about the Secret Service's effectiveness and management.

Jul 23, 2024 • 31min
Kamala Harris: Meme Queen to Madame President?
Scaachi Koul, Slate senior writer, explores Kamala Harris's internet meme popularity and serious political platform questions. They discuss Harris's comedic moments, diverse heritage, centrist political history, communication style, and image evolution. The podcast delves into Harris navigating challenges, criticisms, and meme culture while aiming for a presidential image.

Jul 22, 2024 • 31min
Joe Biden Passes the Baton
David Faris, a Slate contributor and political science professor, discusses Joe Biden's unexpected decision to withdraw from the race and its impact on the Democratic Party. The podcast delves into Biden's choice, the implications for Kamala Harris, the dynamics of the Democratic National Convention, and potential lawsuits to keep Biden on the ballot. It also reflects on Biden's handover and the Democratic Party's structure.

Jul 21, 2024 • 27min
TBD | The Conspiracy Theory Election
Tech reporter Drew Harwell from the Washington Post discusses the proliferation of conspiracy theories after significant events, the role of social media in politics, and how powerful individuals amplify false narratives. The influence of conspiracy theories in modern media and challenges in navigating a landscape where misinformation spreads online.

Jul 19, 2024 • 36min
TBD | America’s Tech Trustbuster
Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter discusses antitrust laws and tech giants like Google, Apple. Topics include market manipulation, AI ethics, competition, pricing, and regulation. Kanter emphasizes the importance of fair competition, innovation, and diversity in the tech industry.

Jul 18, 2024 • 33min
What Republicans Really Want
Paul Farrow, County executive for Waukesha County, talks about the changing GOP priorities, shifting from fiscal conservatism to newer issues like border security and unity. Insights into internal party divisions, evolving principles, and reflections on the aftermath of the 2020 election in Wisconsin. Discussion on election preparation, voter engagement, and the challenges of achieving bipartisan cooperation in politics.

Jul 17, 2024 • 34min
How to End One-Party Rule
Ari Berman, voting rights correspondent, discusses how Wisconsin exemplifies one-party rule tactics like gerrymandering. They explore the impact of fake electors, Supreme Court dynamics, and the role of progressive justice in combating minority rule. Wisconsin's influence on national elections and the GOP's strategy are also analyzed.

Jul 16, 2024 • 28min
J.D. Vance: You're Hired
Yale Law School grad and former Marine J.D. Vance is Trump's running mate after being a critic. Vance's hardline policies and shift in views discussed. Evolution of Vance's political persona and alliances, potential role as front runner in the Republican Party.

Jul 15, 2024 • 33min
After the Trump Assassination Attempt
National political reporter for The Washington Post, Isaac Arnsdorf, and staff writer at The Atlantic, David Graham, discuss the recent assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. They explore the lack of motivation behind the attack and the rising political violence in the country. The podcast sheds light on the aftermath of the incident, the potential impact on the presidential campaign, and the implications of political violence on democracy. The conversation also delves into responsible discourse and the need for unity amongst Americans in the face of escalating tensions.

Jul 14, 2024 • 26min
TBD | The New World of DIY Medical Tests
Elizabeth Dwoskin, Reporter for the Washington Post, discusses the booming industry of at-home medical testing and the implications of DIY medical tests on traditional healthcare providers. The podcast explores the rise of self-administered tests for cancer detection, empowerment through DIY tests, and the blurred line between medical and wellness tests.