The Political Scene | The New Yorker
The New Yorker
Join The New Yorker’s writers and editors for reporting, insight, and analysis of the most pressing political issues of our time. On Mondays, David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker, presents conversations and feature stories about current events. On Wednesdays, the senior editor Tyler Foggatt goes deep on a consequential political story via far-reaching interviews with staff writers and outside experts. And, on Fridays, the staff writers Susan B. Glasser, Jane Mayer, and Evan Osnos discuss the latest developments in Washington and beyond, offering an encompassing understanding of this moment in American politics.
Episodes
Mentioned books
31 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 43min
How Should We Approach A.I. in 2026?
Join journalists Charles Duhigg, Cal Newport, and Anna Wiener as they delve into the fascinating world of AI. They discuss the gap between Silicon Valley hype and the reality of generative AI, offering insights on how it’s currently used for productivity and emotional support. The trio explores how social structures influence who benefits from AI, the challenges in creative industries, and the risks of AI-driven political propaganda, painting a nuanced picture of what AI may mean for society by 2026.
Dec 22, 2025 • 49min
Graham Platner Is Staying in the Race
Graham Platner, a combat veteran, community organizer, and small-business owner from Maine, is running for the U.S. Senate. He passionately discusses economic justice and Medicare-for-all, framing his candidacy as a chance for personal change and growth. Platner candidly addresses past controversial comments and a tattoo controversy while advocating for the need to reconnect the Democratic Party with labor movements. He critiques capitalism and emphasizes the importance of community struggles in rural America, while emphasizing the need for veterans' support.
10 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 33min
Isaac Chotiner Sums Up Politics in 2025
Isaac Chotiner, a staff writer at The New Yorker known for his sharp political insights, joins Tyler Foggatt for a dynamic discussion. They delve into the origins and implications of political violence, contrasting state repression with individual actions. Chotiner shares his thoughts on Trump's economic strategies and the complexities of covering unconventional policies. They also reflect on high-profile interviews, including one with Karine Jean-Pierre about her departure from the Democratic Party and another with Cass Sunstein regarding his views on liberalism and his unusual friendship with Henry Kissinger.
23 snips
Dec 15, 2025 • 26min
Leon Panetta on the Trump Administration’s Venezuelan Boat Strikes
Leon Panetta, former U.S. Chief of Staff and CIA Director, shares his insights on military ethics and strategy. He delves into the legal implications of Navy strikes on civilian boats in Venezuela, emphasizing the need to avoid war crimes. Panetta critiques the blurred lines of military versus law enforcement in drug trafficking, advocates for clarity in U.S. objectives, and warns against misusing the military. He also discusses the importance of a strong response to Russia's aggression and the critical need for a unified approach to defend democracy.
27 snips
Dec 13, 2025 • 36min
The Washington Roundtable’s 2025 in Review
In 2025, the podcast dives into the surprises of Trump’s second term, highlighting shocking capitulations by major institutions. The panel discusses alarming threats of war, economic frustration, and the erosion of foreign aid. Grassroots resistance emerges as a counter to institutional failures, with protests and volunteer actions taking center stage. The conversation touches on the media's shortcomings and ongoing corruption while examining the Supreme Court's limitations. As tensions rise, a tug-of-war unfolds between citizen action and institutional responses.
49 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 47min
How Bad Is It?: Three Political Scientists Say America Is No Longer a Democracy
Political scientists Daniel Ziblatt and Stephen Levitsky, both from Harvard, join Lucan A. Way from the University of Toronto to discuss America's shift toward authoritarianism. They explore the concept of 'competitive authoritarianism,' highlighting how recent political developments under Trump fit this model. With insights on the rapidity of this decline, the risks of media self-censorship, and why civil society still holds potential for resistance, they provide a nuanced view of America's political landscape and possible paths forward.
11 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 36min
Inside Trump’s Artless Takeover of the Kennedy Center
Katy Waldman, a culture and arts staff writer at The New Yorker, delves into the Kennedy Center's transformation under Trump's leadership. She discusses this year's Kennedy Center Honors and how the guest list mirrors Trump's tastes, along with the politically charged atmosphere of the event. Waldman highlights the impacts of staff turnover and financial strains on operations, revealing the chaotic shifts within the institution. The conversation also touches on Trump's unique aesthetic vision, from his nostalgic influences to plans for a grand White House ballroom.
16 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 26min
Senator Adam Schiff on How the Trump Administration Targets Its Opponents
In a captivating discussion, Adam Schiff, the former U.S. Representative and current Senator from California, dives into the reasons behind Trump's fixation on him. He elaborates on a vague mortgage-fraud inquiry and critiques Merrick Garland's cautious approach to accountability. Schiff reveals his belief that Trump is largely impervious to scandals and expresses concern over preserving democratic norms. He emphasizes the critical role of civic action in safeguarding elections, highlighting the fragility of the rule of law in America.
54 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 36min
America’s “Bad Emperor” Problem
The discussion highlights concerns over Donald Trump's apparent age-related decline and its impact on his leadership image. The panel examines historical parallels, linking Trump's weakening persona to lessons from past presidents like Reagan and Biden. They explore the 'Bad Emperor' problem, emphasizing the dangers when strong leaders become erratic. Additionally, insights are shared on Trump's reliance on sycophants and how anger seems to motivate him more than praise. The conversation warns of increased domestic and global instability as power dynamics shift.
39 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 40min
Why Is Trump Targeting Venezuela?
Jon Lee Anderson, a renowned staff writer for The New Yorker with extensive experience in conflict zones, shares insights on the Trump Administration's controversial military strikes on Venezuelan drug boats. He critiques the questionable intelligence and the performative nature of the operation. Anderson highlights the alarming reports of extrajudicial killings and questions the legality of U.S. actions. He argues that U.S. foreign policy may prioritize political spectacle over effective drug strategy, warning that historically, such actions breed mistrust in Latin America.
