The Political Scene | The New Yorker
WNYC Studios and 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
12 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 38min
How the “Dangerous Gimmick” of the Two-State Solution Ended in Disaster
Hussein Agha, a veteran negotiator for Palestine, and Robert Malley, a former U.S. diplomat, reflect on their roles in failed peace efforts between Israel and Palestine. They argue that decades-long pursuit of a two-state solution was a fruitless endeavor, leaving both sides in a worse position. Agha emphasizes the crucial need to address historical emotions, not just rational discussions, while Malley critiques how U.S. involvement escalated tensions. Their new book unveils the illusion of progress and the fragmented realities of both communities.
36 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 37min
Charlie Kirk and the Long Shadow of Political Violence
A right-wing activist's assassination sends shockwaves through American politics, raising alarms about escalating political violence. The discussion dives into the historical roots of this violence and the dangers of leaders exploiting chaos for personal gain. It highlights the role of rhetoric in inciting real-world actions and the responsibility of public figures to denounce such behavior. The panel also examines how personal relationships shape political movements and the impact of social media on polarization, emphasizing the need for collective action against violence.
18 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 43min
The New Yorker’s Head of Fact Checking on Our Post-Truth Era
Fergus McIntosh, the head research editor at The New Yorker, discusses fact-checking in the era of Trump and the challenges posed by disinformation. He delves into how deepfakes complicate the verification of facts and Trump's aggressive tactics against government data release. The conversation highlights the obstacles journalists face in assessing credibility and the ripple effects of misinformation on public trust. Fergus emphasizes the need for transparency and improved methodologies in navigating today's complex political narratives.
Sep 8, 2025 • 40min
Anna Wintour Embraces a New Era at Vogue
In a candid conversation with David Remnick, Anna Wintour, the iconic editor of Vogue since 1988, reflects on her decision to step back and appoint Chloe Malle as her successor. She discusses the evolving fashion landscape and the need for fresh perspectives. The duo dives into the significance of fashion as a political statement, highlighted by a memorable Met Ball moment. Wintour also shares insights from her storied career, touching on mentorship and the shifting priorities in luxury amidst the digital age.
49 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 37min
Trump Has Grabbed Emergency Powers. How Will He Use Them?
Explore the chaos of American politics post-Trump, including alarming moves like tariffs and military presence in Washington, D.C. Delve into the normalization of emergency powers and its implications for democracy. The hosts discuss partisan challenges, the reaction of governors to federal policies, and the impact on civil society. Amid rising inflation and political turmoil, humor mixes with serious reflections on power dynamics as the midterms approach. The podcast wraps with a heartfelt goodbye to a cherished team member.
18 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 41min
Why Pam Bondi Is the Attorney General of Trump’s Dreams
Ruth Marcus, a contributing writer at The New Yorker, delves into the controversial tenure of U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. She discusses Bondi's close alignment with Trump and her significant influence on the Justice Department, raising concerns about its integrity. The podcast highlights Bondi's mismanagement of the Jeffrey Epstein case and the backlash it generated. Marcus also examines the broader implications of Bondi's political maneuvers and the lasting impact on the department amidst a culture of fear and turmoil.
24 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 32min
Donald Trump’s War on Culture Is Not a Sideshow
Adam Gopnik, a Staff writer at The New Yorker, dives deep into the culture wars ignited by Donald Trump. He discusses how Trump's actions target fundamental cultural institutions like the Smithsonian and the John F. Kennedy Center, indicating a concerning shift towards authoritarianism. Gopnik warns that these moves aren't just distractions but part of a larger agenda that threatens democratic pluralism. He draws unsettling parallels to historical regimes, emphasizing the need for vigilance in protecting artistic freedom and diversity.
79 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 50min
The Democratic Party’s Identity Crisis
Lis Smith, a Democratic strategist and former senior advisor to Pete Buttigieg, joins Clare Malone to tackle the Democratic Party's identity crisis. They explore how a decade of anti-Trump rhetoric has left Democrats reactive. Smith highlights the party's dwindling support from traditional allies like young voters and communities of color. They discuss the need for innovative strategies and authentic connections to regain trust, contrasting different approaches among rising leaders. The conversation emphasizes the urgency of rethinking messaging for future elections.
9 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 22min
Dexter Filkins on Drones and the Future of Warfare
Dexter Filkins, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for his insights on warfare and geopolitics, discusses the evolving landscape of military power. He reveals how Ukraine's innovative drone technology is reshaping conflict dynamics and challenging traditional military strategies. Filkins warns that the U.S. could face serious threats from advanced Chinese weaponry and emphasizes the Pentagon's sluggish response to these changes. He also delves into the ethical complexities of using artificial intelligence in military operations, particularly in recent conflicts.
69 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 34min
Is Trump the Roman Tyrant America's Founders Feared?
Jeffrey Rosen, President and C.E.O. of the National Constitution Center and professor at George Washington University Law School, delves into the Founding Fathers' efforts to prevent tyranny in America. He draws parallels between Donald Trump's leadership style and Julius Caesar's, exploring the consequences of powerful figures on democracy. The discussion also highlights the Supreme Court's role in balancing executive power and raises alarms about historical insights from Rome, questioning the health of civic education and the rule of law in contemporary politics.
