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
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64 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.
93 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.
18 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.
84 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.
11 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 52min
How Bad Is It?: Trump’s Self-Dealing and the Question of Kleptocracy
David D. Kirkpatrick, a staff writer for The New Yorker known for his deep dives into political finance, shares his insights on how Donald Trump has financially benefited from his presidency, amassing a staggering $3.4 billion. They explore whether Trump's practices signify typical political corruption or a dangerous move toward kleptocracy. The conversation also touches on the implications for American democracy and the ethical dilemmas of intertwining personal profit with public service.
Aug 19, 2025 • 26min
A Palestinian Journalist Escapes Death in Gaza
Mohammed R. Mhawish, a Palestinian journalist from Gaza City, shares his harrowing experiences during Israel's invasion following the October 7th attack. He recounts narrowly escaping death when his home was targeted and the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones. Mhawish highlights the resilience of mental-health workers striving to help traumatized communities, despite their own suffering from the aftermath of war. His insights illuminate the human cost of violence and the vital role of storytelling in fostering hope amid despair.
19 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 43min
What Happens After Someone Is Arrested by ICE?
Jonathan Blitzer, a Staff Writer for The New Yorker focused on immigration, delves into the troubling shift in immigration policy under Trump. He discusses alarming tactics of ICE's interior deportations, including separating families and restricting legal representation, highlighting the emotional burdens faced by those affected. Blitzer critiques the inadequate Democratic response and considers how public outrage might mitigate the administration’s aggressive measures. With personal stories and insights, he casts a stark light on the human cost of these policies.
11 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 33min
Your Questions Answered: Trump vs. the Rule of Law
Ruth Marcus, a legal issues writer for The New Yorker, and Jeannie Suk Gersen, a Harvard law professor, dive deep into the legal controversies surrounding Trump. They tackle birthright citizenship, examining the Supreme Court's recent rulings and the potential erosion of voting rights. The duo debates the legality of ICE practices and the challenges naturalized citizens face. With contrasting views on judicial authority, they explore how politics clash with the rule of law in these unprecedented times and invite listeners to ponder future legal complexities.
