
FiveThirtyEight Politics
The 538 team covers the latest in politics, tracking the issues and "game-changers" every week.
Latest episodes

Sep 9, 2024 • 38min
Presidential Debates Do Matter
Jeffrey Skelly, a senior elections analyst, and Mary Radcliffe, a senior researcher, dive into the crucial dynamics of a nail-biting presidential campaign. They analyze the implications of the latest jobs report and discuss how voter sentiment towards the economy is evolving. With an upcoming debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, they explore the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates. The conversation uniquely highlights how debates can reshape polling data and engage younger voters, offering a mix of trivia and insightful analysis.

Sep 5, 2024 • 26min
From Here To Election Day
Election Day is exactly two months away, meaning the final stretch of the presidential campaign is upon us. On Tuesday’s show, we assessed the current state of the race and how we got here. Today, we look ahead to the knowns and unknowns that could shake up the race in the coming weeks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 3, 2024 • 34min
Summer Is Over. Election Season Is Here.
Labor Day marks the unofficial start of the 2024 presidential campaign, igniting a flurry of debates and advertising. The shifting political dynamics see Kamala Harris gaining traction amid changing voter sentiments. Analysis of polling trends reveals the importance of battleground states, where slight differences can sway opinions dramatically. As the political landscape evolves, special attention is given to young, Black, and Latino voters, highlighting the significance of favorability ratings in this pivotal election season.

Aug 29, 2024 • 41min
How Trump And Harris Would Tackle The Economy
Jeanna Smialek, a New York Times journalist focused on the economy, delves into the contrasting economic proposals from Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. They discuss Harris's approach to tackling price gouging and taxing the wealthy, contrasted with Trump's tax cuts and tariffs. The conversation explores how mixed signals of inflation affect voter perceptions of the economy, and the implications of these proposals on housing costs and economic inequality as elections approach.

Aug 26, 2024 • 37min
How RFK Jr.'s Exit Changes The Race
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an independent presidential candidate who recently withdrew from the 2024 race, discusses the implications of his exit and his surprising endorsement of Donald Trump. The hosts explore how this shift could realign the voter landscape and analyze polling trends post-convention. They also delve into the complexities of campaign strategies, examining how Kennedy's departure might influence Kamala Harris's polling and the broader electoral dynamics. The conversation reveals insights into the effects of third-party candidacies and their impact on major party races.

Aug 23, 2024 • 27min
Harris Goes Big On Night 4 Of The DNC
The crew dives into the electrifying final night of the Democratic National Convention, spotlighting Kamala Harris's impactful acceptance speech. They dissect pivotal themes like immigration, Israel, Gaza, and abortion rights. The discussion also highlights Harris's journey of identity and her strategies for uniting diverse groups. Voter dynamics are explored, revealing the convention's potential influence on candidate support. Emotional moments, including poignant testimonies on gun violence, underscore the convention's significance in shaping political loyalty.

Aug 22, 2024 • 33min
Democrats Pitch 'Freedom' On Night 3 Of The DNC
In a lively late-night discussion, hosts dive into the Democratic National Convention's emphasis on 'freedom'. They analyze impactful speeches and the shift in framing key issues like abortion and immigration. Insights into rising political figures, including Tim Walz, reveal changing voter sentiments. The crew critiques a former president's speech style while reflecting on the evolution of political rhetoric. Lastly, the conversation highlights the strategic focus on joy and connection to engage a diverse electorate.

Aug 21, 2024 • 29min
The Obamas Dominate Night 2 Of The DNC
The podcast dives into the energetic moments of the Democratic National Convention, spotlighting inspiring speeches by Michelle and Barack Obama. The hosts compare the thrill of in-person experiences to the virtual atmosphere. They analyze strategic shifts in messaging from the first night to the second, emphasizing the importance of unity and volunteerism. The Obamas' rallying cries resonate as a call for active engagement, while the joyful roll call signals a refreshing change in party mood. The discussion also reassesses the impact of these influential speakers on the upcoming election.

Aug 19, 2024 • 40min
What To Expect From The DNC
The Democratic National Convention is a pivotal moment for the party as they pitch their vision to voters. The dynamics of a condensed election timeline are reshaping the race, and the contrasting coalitions of Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden are dissected. There's a strong focus on balancing personal connections with substantive policy discussions. The significance of Harris's nomination timeline is also explored, especially its implications on her campaign strategy as they navigate the evolving gender gap in voting.

Aug 15, 2024 • 37min
Harris Resets The Race For Latino Voters
Explore the intriguing shift in Latino voter preferences, particularly how Kamala Harris is faring in key battleground states. Recent polling reveals a declining yet complex allegiance among this demographic, with traditional Democratic support eroding. Discover the unique appeal of targeted campaign strategies and advertisements designed to resonate with Latino voters, focusing on cultural competency and shared concerns. As the political landscape evolves, understand the implications for future elections and the renewed interest of younger Latino voters.
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