

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

Jun 12, 2024 • 15min
Dueling Arizona Ballot Measures Could Juice Voter Turnout
Arizona's ballot measures on abortion access and immigration enforcement could significantly influence voter turnout in the upcoming election. Advocates for abortion rights are mobilizing signatures, while Republicans push for tough immigration laws. The discussions reveal complex voter sentiments shaped by past legislative actions. Strategies to engage Latino voters, particularly through economic appeals, are also on the table as both parties prepare for a fiercely competitive political landscape ahead of the presidential election.

Jun 11, 2024 • 10min
Trump Calls DOJ Rigged. It Just Convicted Hunter Biden.
Hunter Biden has been found guilty of felony firearm charges, raising questions about his family's struggles and the emotional impact on President Biden. The trial's fallout reveals contrasting political narratives, especially as the Trump campaign seizes the moment to allege corruption in the Justice Department. The podcast dives into Trump's accusations of politicization within the justice system, examining how these partisan attacks challenge democratic integrity. It’s a deep look at family trials amid political maneuvering and controversy.

Jun 10, 2024 • 13min
Biden Makes A Longshot Play For Nikki Haley Voters
The podcast dives into Biden's ambitious strategy to attract Nikki Haley's supporters, exploring the complexities of their voting sentiments. Personal anecdotes reveal hesitations about both Trump and Biden. The discussion highlights key voter concerns like inflation and immigration, and the challenges Biden faces in appealing to this demographic. Polling trends are analyzed, especially regarding how Trump's legal issues might influence younger voters. Ultimately, it paints a picture of the intricate dynamics at play as the election approaches.

Jun 7, 2024 • 19min
Politics Roundup: Hunter Biden Trial, Congressional Races
The podcast dives into the high-stakes trial of Hunter Biden, revealing personal testimonies and its potential impact on Joe Biden's presidential campaign. It explores the intersection of his legal troubles with the political landscape, particularly GOP strategies linking these issues to the upcoming election. The conversation shifts to voter frustrations with the Biden administration, emphasizing economic challenges and the fracturing political environment as the 2024 elections loom. The blend of personal stories and political analysis makes for a compelling and engaging discussion.

Jun 6, 2024 • 14min
Additional Trump Charges Likely Won't Be Decided By Election
Donald Trump's legal battles are on the forefront as he appeals state charges in Georgia. With a critical eye on voter dynamics, the campaign's strategy to engage Black voters includes Senator Tim Scott's hefty effort. The potential implications of these legal issues on the election are examined, especially how they might affect voter sentiment. Young voters are crucial this cycle, and both Trump's and Biden's approaches to this demographic may significantly shape the 2024 election landscape.

Jun 5, 2024 • 12min
Money, Democracy, China: Understand the US-Taiwan Alliance
Explore the intricate dynamics of the U.S.-Taiwan alliance amid rising tensions with China. Discover Taiwan's evolution from a Cold War ally to a crucial democracy and how recent presidential elections might shift power. The discussion dives into military commitments and the U.S.'s growing involvement in the Indo-Pacific region. Learn about the impact of U.S. foreign policy on Taiwan, especially during election seasons. The hosts provide valuable insights into the challenges and implications of supporting Taiwan in today’s geopolitical landscape.

Jun 4, 2024 • 13min
Biden Will Temporarily Bar Most Asylum Seekers At US Border
The podcast dives into President Biden's new executive actions limiting asylum eligibility at the southern border. It draws parallels to Trump-era policies while discussing the political implications as the election approaches. The conversation highlights shifting public sentiments on immigration and the impact on critical voter demographics, such as young and Latino voters. With a significant drop in migration, the discussion raises questions about genuine asylum seekers and the stalled efforts for comprehensive immigration reform in the U.S.

10 snips
Jun 3, 2024 • 18min
Not Mad, Just Disappointed: Hear From Unenthused Voters
A significant number of voters feel disillusioned by both major presidential candidates this cycle. Focus groups reveal nuanced views on Biden and sharp criticisms of Trump, reflecting deep dissatisfaction. Economic concerns dominate discussions, with many preferring Trump's methods over Biden's policies despite past support. Voters express mixed feelings about immigration and abortion rights, revealing how personal beliefs shape their choices. As the 2024 election approaches, worries about democracy's health emerge, highlighting a complex political landscape.

May 31, 2024 • 23min
Weekly Roundup: Democracy and the Courts
Donald Trump faces fallout from his felony conviction, accusing the legal system of bias while Republican leaders rally around him. Meanwhile, Justice Alito's refusal to recuse himself raises questions about judicial impartiality and the Supreme Court's legitimacy. There’s also a glimpse into President Biden's careful navigation with the court, especially regarding reproductive rights. In lighter segments, playful language takes center stage, the cultural significance of mangoes is explored, and recent changes at the French Open stir conversations.

May 31, 2024 • 14min
Donald Trump Guilty On All Counts In New York Criminal Trial
Former President Donald Trump has been found guilty of falsifying business records, marking a historic legal moment for a sitting or former U.S. president. The discussion dives into the political fallout from this trial, examining how it could reshape the upcoming election landscape. Experts analyze Trump's campaign strategies amid legal challenges and the mixed reactions from voters, particularly independents. The narrative of Trump's conviction as a threat to democracy adds another layer of complexity to the political discourse.