
The Political Scene | 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.
Latest episodes

Jul 29, 2024 • 32min
What Kamala Harris Needs to Win the Presidency
Jennifer Palmieri, a veteran of Democratic politics who was a communications director for both the Clinton Administration and the Obama White House, discusses Kamala Harris's unique position as a female presidential candidate. She highlights the barriers women face, the need for Harris to showcase her accomplishments, and the evolving political dynamics since 2016. Palmieri emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotion in campaigns, while also addressing identity politics and the significance of fundraising enthusiasm in Harris's strategy for success.

Jul 26, 2024 • 40min
Could Kamala Harris Be a Trump-Level Cultural Phenomenon?
This discussion features Susan B. Glasser, a renowned political journalist, Jane Mayer, an investigative reporter known for her political insights, and Evan Osnos, an expert on American politics. They dive into Kamala Harris's electrifying presidential campaign, the grassroots support fueling her momentum, and the strategies she's using to redefine her identity. The trio also tackles the anticipated attacks from Republicans and the importance of a well-chosen running mate, all while considering the historical challenges faced by women and people of color in politics.

Jul 25, 2024 • 51min
The “Strange Charisma” of Kamala Harris
Doreen St. Félix and Vinson Cunningham discuss Kamala Harris's candidacy, highlighting her strategy to turn the page from Trump and subtly critique Biden. They explore her complex identity, political tightropes, and the challenges she faces as a female candidate. The podcast delves into her cultural impact, family background, and the nuances of her campaign strategy in relation to Barack Obama. They also touch on the reluctance to discuss Harris's physical appearance and analyze her memes and political strategies.

Jul 23, 2024 • 39min
Special Episode: Biden Passes the Torch
Political analysts Susan B. Glasser and Jane Mayer, along with journalist Evan Osnos, discuss Biden's surprising exit from the 2024 election and his endorsement of Kamala Harris. They explore the implications of this new Democratic ticket, analyzing potential changes in the race dynamics and Republican reactions. The podcast dives into the challenges and strategies for a Black woman candidate like Harris, highlighting the uncertainties and reflections on the current political landscape.

Jul 20, 2024 • 36min
Trump’s Triumphant R.N.C. and Biden’s Dilemma
Susan B. Glasser, Jane Mayer, and Evan Osnos analyze the R.N.C., emphasizing Trump's speech and J.D. Vance as running mate. Discussions include pressure on Biden to step down, Trump's dominance, and the lack of unity within the Republican Party.

Jul 17, 2024 • 23min
A Dispatch from the Republican National Convention
Antonia Hitchens discusses the Republican National Convention, highlighting the messianic energy around Trump after an assassination attempt. She offers insights on J. D. Vance as Trump's potential running mate and the shift towards embracing the new MAGA ideology. The podcast delves into Trump's call for unity amidst actual events, discussions at the convention, and analysis of Biden's campaign challenges.

Jul 15, 2024 • 27min
Julián Castro on the Biden Problem, and What the Democratic Party Got Wrong
Former Democratic presidential candidate and prominent Democratic politician, Julián Castro, discusses the concerns around President Biden's age and performance. Castro reflects on the missed opportunities for Democrats to challenge Biden in the primaries and shares insights on the dynamics within the Democratic Party. The podcast delves into the potential of Vice President Harris as a strong presidential candidate and analyzes the complexities of engaging Latino voters in the political landscape.

4 snips
Jul 13, 2024 • 43min
The Great Democratic Party Freakout of 2024
Political analysts Susan B. Glasser and Jane Mayer, along with journalist Evan Osnos, discuss the struggles President Biden faces in retaining voter confidence amidst Democratic turmoil. They delve into Trump's campaign strategy and the narrative shift from Biden to Trump's threat to democracy.

5 snips
Jul 10, 2024 • 37min
The Case for Using the Twenty-fifth Amendment on Biden
Harvard Law professor Jeannie Suk Gersen discusses invoking the 25th Amendment on Biden for cognitive impairment. Topics include Biden's cognitive decline, implications of his resignation for Kamala Harris, and public responses to the idea.

Jul 8, 2024 • 19min
John Fetterman’s Move to the Right on Israel
Former Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, John Fetterman, surprises many with his shift towards a pro-Israel stance after the Gaza attack, justifying civilian deaths. This move is causing division among Pennsylvania voters crucial for the Presidential election.