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

Aug 12, 2024 • 40min
What Americans Think Of Kamala Harris
Nathaniel Rakich, a senior elections analyst, and Ruth Igielnik, a New York Times polling editor, dive into the evolving dynamics of the Harris-Trump showdown. They discuss the rising enthusiasm among Democrats for Kamala Harris in battleground states. The conversation highlights Trump’s claims about biased polling and explores the phenomenon of 'poll denialism.' As they analyze voter perceptions and the implications of recent polling data, they also unveil engaging insights into the complexities of political identity and campaign strategies.

Aug 6, 2024 • 31min
Reaction Podcast: Tim Walz Is Harris’ Running Mate
Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota and a former football coach, joins the discussion on his selection as Kamala Harris’ running mate. The conversation dives into his appeal to various voter demographics and the potential impact on the Democratic campaign. They explore the balance of policy expertise and personal charm, the shifting views within the party, and the challenges of attracting working-class voters. The analysis highlights Walz’s moderate history and the strategic dynamics of his candidacy in the upcoming election.

Aug 5, 2024 • 37min
Harris Gains In The Polls
Vice President Kamala Harris, recently nominated for the Democratic candidacy, shares insights on her path to becoming the nominee. The discussion delves into potential running mates like Governor Josh Shapiro and the electoral significance of swing states. Polling trends indicate Harris's favorable standing against Trump, especially among younger voters. The conversation also touches on how political messaging affects voter perception and the rising concern over inflation, showcasing voters' preferences for economic stability.

8 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 30min
American Politics Has A Respect Crisis
Jeff Spinner-Halev and Elizabeth Theiss-Morse, political scientists and authors, delve into the crisis of respect in American politics. They discuss how partisans often struggle to respect opposing views and highlight the stark divide among Democrats and Republicans. The conversation explores the critical distinction between tolerance and respect, the generational impacts on political attitudes, and the growing polarization affecting personal relationships. The episode also reflects on the clash between social justice and national unity, amplifying the discussion on mutual respect in democracy.

Jul 29, 2024 • 41min
Who Will Harris Pick For VP?
The hosts delve into who Kamala Harris might choose as her running mate, debating a lineup of potential candidates. They share humorous tales from a vineyard visit that were hilariously disrupted by political news. The impact of vice-presidential selections on public perception is examined, with entertaining insights from past elections. Special attention is given to North Carolina's Governor Roy Cooper and his potential to sway votes, while playful banter reveals the strategic and identity factors involved in choosing a running mate.

Jul 25, 2024 • 43min
The Harris Campaign Begins
Political analyst Mary Radcliffe and expert Geoffrey Skelley discuss Vice President Kamala Harris's potential in the 2024 presidential race, comparing her campaign to Biden's. They explore perceptions of Harris's liberalism and her strategies to appeal to a broader electorate. The podcast also analyzes polling data, fundraising success, and the impact of race and gender on Harris's campaign enthusiasm.

7 snips
Jul 21, 2024 • 34min
Biden Drops Out
The podcast discusses President Joe Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race, analyzing his path to withdrawal, transition of support to Kamala Harris, polling data comparing Harris with Trump, and their performance in battleground states.

Jul 19, 2024 • 26min
Trump Breaks With RNC Message On Night 4
Analysis of Trump's speech at the Republican National Convention, speculation on Biden dropping out, unprecedented election events, Kamala Harris as a running mate, challenges of using polls for predictions

Jul 18, 2024 • 35min
JD Vance Aims To Reframe The GOP On Night 3 Of The RNC
JD Vance aims to reframe the GOP on night 3 of the RNC. The podcast discusses the impact of the RNC on swing voters and foreign policy, J.D. Vance's speech analysis, and criticism of reframing the party's message. They also analyze different forms of consuming political events and their influence on perceptions and opinions.

Jul 17, 2024 • 36min
The GOP Projects Unity On Night 2 Of The RNC
The podcast discusses the unity projected by the GOP at the RNC, Trump campaign's messaging strategy, bandage trend among attendees, significance of political conventions in shaping party identity, and potential discussions within the Democratic party about Joe Biden's candidacy
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