What Next
Slate Podcasts
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 5, 2024 • 25min
A Shocking and Predictable Election
Osita Nwanevu, a contributing editor at the New Republic and columnist for The Guardian, dives into the peculiar dynamics of the ongoing election cycle. He discusses the absence of surprises, the repetitiveness of political narratives, and the candidates’ strategies on immigration. The conversation touches on voter disillusionment with traditional parties and the push for alternative voices like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Nwanevu also emphasizes the need for a progressive vision to invigorate American democracy amidst fatigue and polarization.
Nov 4, 2024 • 27min
What to Watch While Watching Election Results
Ari Berman, a voting rights reporter for Mother Jones, discusses legal challenges to voter access, while Kadia Goba, a political reporter from Semafor, analyzes election dynamics and voter turnout. Isaac Saul, founder of Tangle, provides data-driven insights on potential outcomes. They explore the impact of mail-in voting on election results, the challenges of counting ballots on election night, and the rise of misinformation surrounding voting. Together, they navigate the anxieties of election day and emphasize the importance of reliable news sources in understanding the electoral landscape.
Nov 3, 2024 • 19min
u up? Go vote.
Jacob Neiheisel, a political science professor specializing in campaign strategies, dives into the evolving landscape of voter outreach. He discusses the surge of political text messaging and its questionable impact on mobilizing swing state voters. Neiheisel contrasts modern methods with traditional campaigns, emphasizing the tension between effective engagement and potential privacy invasions. The conversation also touches on the role of misinformation and the challenges in accurately influencing voter behavior, underscoring the complexities of contemporary campaigning.
Nov 1, 2024 • 26min
What Elon Wants From Trump
Max Chafkin, a columnist at Bloomberg Businessweek and host of the podcast Citizen Elon, dives deep into Elon Musk’s surprising financial backing of Donald Trump. They explore Musk's strategic role in Trump's campaign and how their relationship is reshaping political dynamics. Chafkin discusses Musk's shifting political perspectives, revealing the tensions between his business ambitions and political entanglements. The conversation also examines potential implications for Musk’s companies under a Trump presidency, including regulatory challenges and partnerships with the government.
Oct 31, 2024 • 24min
Spoiler Alert: The People Policing Your Vote
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.
Oct 30, 2024 • 24min
Spoiler Alert: Almighty Omaha
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.
Oct 29, 2024 • 26min
Spoiler Alert: Undecided Voters
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.
Oct 28, 2024 • 25min
Spoiler Alert: Jill Stein
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.
Oct 27, 2024 • 20min
Facebook for the Dead
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.
Oct 25, 2024 • 21min
Can TikTok Sway this Election?
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!
