

The NPR Politics Podcast
NPR
Every weekday, NPR's best political reporters are there to explain the big news coming out of Washington and the campaign trail. They don't just tell you what happened. They tell you why it matters. Every afternoon.Political wonks - get wonkier with The NPR Politics Podcast+. Your subscription supports the podcast and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/politics
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 15, 2024 • 16min
Harris, Trump Ramp Up Campaigning As Polls Open
As Election Day approaches, the battle intensifies between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with polls tightening dramatically. The hosts discuss Harris's targeted outreach to black male voters and her strategic media moves. They also delve into the unconventional town hall events shaking up traditional campaigning. Voter turnout trends reveal shifting demographics, including an emerging gender gap, adding an intriguing layer to the electoral landscape. What do these developments mean for the final outcome? Tune in to find out!

5 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 14min
Election 101: How Voting Looks Different In 2024 (Encore)
Voting in 2024 comes with new regulations and expanded early voting opportunities. Experts analyze shifting voting patterns and the balance between in-person and mail-in ballots. Challenges with the U.S. Postal Service heighten concerns around mail-in voting. The aftermath of the 2020 election is scrutinized, spotlighting Trump's refusal to concede and the Electoral Count Reform Act. As key swing states like Pennsylvania prepare for potential delays, the importance of patience in the vote-counting process is underscored.

8 snips
Oct 11, 2024 • 25min
Roundup: Activists Pitch Women — Secretly Vote For Harris
Donald Trump is campaigning in Colorado, stirring controversy with his anti-immigrant rhetoric. Meanwhile, Vice President Harris gains support from Barack Obama, who challenges sexist attitudes among Black male voters. There's a quiet push to turn Republicans in swing states into Harris supporters by educating them on the secret ballot. The conversation also highlights the complex dynamics of voter alignment, particularly among suburban women, and explores creative outreach strategies in key battleground states.

13 snips
Oct 10, 2024 • 15min
The politics of natural disasters
The discussion dives into the political fallout from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It highlights how misinformation can cripple disaster recovery efforts, with President Biden voicing frustration over false narratives. The interplay between natural disasters and election strategies reveals how political campaigning shapes responses. The conversation also contrasts past and present disaster management approaches, showcasing a shifting landscape of bipartisanship amid increasing political divides.

Oct 9, 2024 • 15min
Older Voters Worried About Economy, Abortion
Older voters express feeling overlooked by presidential campaigns, despite their significant voting power. Economic worries like inflation and healthcare costs dominate their concerns, contrasting sharply with younger voters' priorities. The evolving political landscape shows a shift in support from Biden to Harris among seniors, revealing changing allegiances. Candidates are urged to address critical issues like Social Security and Medicare to win this crucial demographic's backing. Personal anecdotes add depth to the understanding of these voters' perspectives.

Oct 8, 2024 • 14min
Call Her Daddy, The View, 60 Minutes: Kamala Harris Goes Wide
Vice President Kamala Harris is innovating her media strategy to reach young voters through both traditional and non-traditional platforms. Her appearance on popular podcasts like 'Call Her Daddy' highlights her focus on connecting authentically with diverse audiences. The discussion shifts to how political figures are evolving their engagement methods, particularly around significant community issues like mental health and caregiving. The podcast also delves into the widening gender gap in political preferences among younger voters.

Oct 7, 2024 • 15min
Fewer Than 30 Days Until This Whole Thing Is Over
Discover the dynamics of a nail-biting presidential race as ballots are cast in record numbers. The discussion highlights the unpredictable nature of polling and voter sentiment, particularly as shocks become commonplace. Natural disasters and global events are examined for their influence on swing states and voter turnout. The impending election raises questions about Trump’s reaction to the outcome and concerns about electoral fairness in a divided nation. Buckle up for a political rollercoaster that could reshape the future!

Oct 4, 2024 • 28min
Roundup: Harris Courts GOP; Trump Returns To Shooting Site
Vice President Harris teams up with Liz Cheney in Wisconsin, shaking up cross-party campaigning. Meanwhile, Trump intensifies his rally schedule and faces new allegations tied to the Capitol riots. The dynamics of immigration policy and election integrity create surprising bipartisan shifts. Legal battles loom over Trump's actions leading to January 6, while humor emerges in discussions about his luxury watch endorsements. Finally, the hosts share their escape through TV shows amid the political chaos.

Oct 3, 2024 • 15min
Ranked Choice Voting... Coming To A Ballot Near You?
Voters across several states are gearing up to decide on significant electoral reforms, particularly ranked choice voting. The discussion dives into how this system might change political polarization and candidate behavior, with insights drawn from both elections and even the Oscars. Despite its potential benefits, there’s notable resistance from both major parties, who fear losing control. Voter reactions vary, with excitement for more open voting clashing with confusion among less frequent voters. The political landscape is shifting as these changes loom.

Oct 2, 2024 • 14min
Control of House of Representatives Runs Through New York
The discussion reveals how Democratic missteps in New York led to a Republican gain in the House. As upcoming elections approach, both parties are recalibrating their strategies, particularly focusing on crime and immigration issues. The podcast also highlights how changes to the SALT deduction are reshaping political races in high-cost states. Lastly, it explores the tactical shifts between grassroots campaigning and addressing voter concerns, setting the stage for a fierce electoral battle.