The Political Scene | The New Yorker

Andrew Marantz, a keen observer of political culture from The New Yorker, discusses the vibrant atmosphere of the Democratic National Convention. He highlights a sense of unity and relief among delegates as they navigate recent political turmoil. Marantz also delves into the unconventional use of 'cringe-millennial' culture to engage younger audiences, examining the blend of politics with entertainment. The conversation reflects on the delicate balance between authenticity and party messaging, and the role of social media in shaping modern political strategy.

Geraldo Cadava, an expert on Latino political behavior and the author of "The Hispanic Republican," discusses the intriguing rise of Latino support for Donald Trump. He explores why anti-immigrant messaging hasn't deterred voters and how Trump's appeal has persisted even with contentious policies. The conversation delves into the complexities of Latino identity and sheds light on shifting dynamics, revealing challenges Democrats face in engaging this vital demographic ahead of the competitive 2024 race.

In this engaging discussion, James Carville, a renowned Democratic strategist, and Paul Begala, a political consultant and co-director of Bill Clinton’s campaign, delve into the enthusiasm surrounding the Harris-Walz ticket. They reflect on the parallels to the iconic 1992 campaign, emphasizing the power of personal narratives and aggressive counterattacks against Republican narratives. The conversation also explores evolving voter dynamics and the importance of adapting campaign strategies to connect with young voters ahead of the upcoming Democratic National Convention.

Jon Lee Anderson, a staff writer for The New Yorker, joins Elon Musk, a leading entrepreneur and political activist, and Nicolas Maduro, the controversial Venezuelan leader. They delve into recent accusations by Maduro, who claims Musk hacked Venezuela’s electoral council, exploring his rise as a geopolitical player. Topics include Musk's endorsements of political figures like Donald Trump, the influence of social media on global politics, and the challenges posed by celebrity in governance. Their discussion highlights the intersection of technology, politics, and ethics in today’s world.

Nancy Pelosi, a trailblazer as the first female Speaker of the House, discusses her storied political career and legislative triumphs like the Affordable Care Act. She reflects on her emotional relationship with President Biden and the tough decisions leading to his campaign withdrawal. Pelosi’s new book, "The Art of Power," emphasizes the necessity of understanding one's mission in politics. She encourages young women to dive into political engagement, highlighting the significance of diverse voices in addressing today's challenges.

Susan B. Glasser, a notable political journalist, joins investigative powerhouse Jane Mayer, author Evan Osnos, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. They delve into Walz's unexpected impact on the Democratic campaign, revealing how his unique persona disrupts Trump's narrative. The conversation shifts to strategies for winning crucial battleground states like Georgia and Pennsylvania, the importance of youth engagement, and the dynamic voices of women in politics. They also ponder electoral shifts and how recent trends could shape the upcoming elections.

Nathan Thrall, an acclaimed American journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner, delves into the dire impact of the Israeli occupation on Palestinians. He highlights growing violence by settlers and draws harrowing parallels to the fate of Native Americans. Discussion touches on systematic disparities in rights and legal frameworks between settlers and Palestinians. Thrall underscores the importance of mutual recognition for any peaceful resolution, while also critiquing the current political landscape that threatens further escalation.

Join Susan B. Glasser, expert political analyst; Jane Mayer, renowned investigative journalist; Evan Osnos, skilled political writer; and Jennifer Lawless, UVA's politics chair, as they dissect the fierce 2024 advertising wars. They explore the contrasting strategies of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, highlighting how negativity is expected to dominate. Lawless discusses the evolving role of memes and social media in energizing campaigns, especially for female candidates, while emphasizing the importance of positivity in a landscape filled with attack ads.

Guests Amy Davidson Sorkin and Benjamin Wallace-Wells, both staff writers for The New Yorker, dive into the intricacies of vice-presidential selections in this political landscape. They analyze J. D. Vance's rocky reception amid Trump's legacy and discuss strategies for Kamala Harris's potential running mates, like Rafael Warnock and Gretchen Whitmer. The conversation reveals how key decisions might influence electoral dynamics and reflects on the complexities of navigating loyalty and opportunism within the current campaign climate.

An emotional journey explores the aftermath of the killings of 24 civilians in Haditha, Iraq. Khalid, a lawyer, shares his memories of the town before the war and the chaos that ensued. The podcast delves into the daily struggles of residents, caught between insurgents and foreign troops. With personal stories weaving a narrative of loss and survival, it raises haunting questions about accountability and the human cost of conflict.