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
70 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 33min
The Oligarchs Are Fighting
Explore the messy fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, shedding light on their social media rivalry and its implications for power dynamics. Delve into the evolving nature of American oligarchy, comparing historical influences of wealth in politics. Discover the extravagant lifestyles of the ultra-rich through the symbolism of their yachts, reflecting modern power. The discussion also reveals the motivations driving billionaires to shape political landscapes and the critical impacts of budget cuts on U.S. foreign aid.
89 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 38min
The Man Who Thinks Trump Should Be King
Ava Kofman, a staff writer for The New Yorker, dives into the controversial ideas of Curtis Yarvin, a right-wing blogger advocating for a monarchy in America. She discusses Yarvin's influence on conservative politics and tech elites, highlighting how his blend of humor and serious critique resonates with younger audiences. Kofman explores the paradox of challenging democratic norms while gaining traction in today’s political landscape, raising questions about the implications of such radical thought on governance.
22 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 27min
Lesley Stahl on What a Settlement with Donald Trump Would Mean for CBS News
Lesley Stahl, a veteran correspondent for CBS News known for her work on 60 Minutes, engages in a gripping discussion about the implications of Donald Trump's lawsuit against the network. She reflects on the pressures leading to significant resignations at CBS and the potential consequences of a settlement that could compromise journalistic integrity. Stahl candidly shares her feelings of mourning for press credibility, expressing both optimism and deep concerns about public trust in media during these turbulent times.
46 snips
May 29, 2025 • 48min
Examining Trump's War on the Media, and a Warning from Hungary
Márton Gulyás, a prominent Hungarian journalist and media figure, dives into the troubling trends of press freedom both in Hungary and the U.S. He discusses a new bill threatening independent media in Hungary, drawing parallels to America's own challenges under Trump. The conversation explores how legal battles and social media dynamics are reshaping public discourse and the role of journalism. Gulyás warns that the erosion of press freedom is a critical issue that could have dire consequences for democracy in both countries.
98 snips
May 22, 2025 • 41min
How Experts Became the Enemy
Daniel Immerwahr, a Northwestern history professor and New Yorker contributor, delves into the growing American distrust of institutional experts, especially during the COVID-19 crisis. He discusses how this skepticism boosted R.F.K., Jr.'s controversial rise and contrasts historical trust in experts with present-day cynicism. The conversation also touches on the reconciliation between Anthony Fauci and AIDS activists, suggesting pathways to rebuild public trust. Immerwahr emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue between health officials and the public amidst these challenging dynamics.
22 snips
May 19, 2025 • 50min
Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson on President Joe Biden’s Decline, and Its Cover-Up
Jake Tapper, CNN's lead Washington anchor and co-author of "Original Sin," teams up with Alex Thompson, a national political correspondent for Axios, to dissect President Biden's alarming decline. They reveal how Biden's presidential bid has been managed closely by aides to mask his communication struggles. The discussion touches on the implications of cognitive assessments, the frustrations of his inner circle, and the political stakes tied to Biden's personal challenges, ultimately questioning the transparency of leadership in today's political landscape.
20 snips
May 17, 2025 • 44min
Biden, Trump, and the Challenges of Covering an Aging President
The conversation delves into Joe Biden's declining health and the media's struggle to report on age-related challenges. It contrasts this with Donald Trump's long-standing incoherence, questioning how aging factors into his narrative. Journalists explore the ethical dilemmas and complexities of covering aging political figures, especially surrounding the 25th Amendment. The discussion highlights the need for nuanced media strategies while ensuring accountability in presidential decision-making, emphasizing the importance of connecting policies with real American experiences.
7 snips
May 14, 2025 • 42min
What Is Jeff Bezos’s Plan for the Washington Post?
Clare Malone, a staff writer at The New Yorker, discusses the seismic shifts at The Washington Post since Jeff Bezos's acquisition in 2013. They dive into Bezos's motivations for purchasing the paper and how his editorial influence has led to staff departures and dwindling subscriptions. The conversation explores the delicate balance between journalistic integrity and business pressures, particularly regarding the decision to avoid presidential endorsements. Malone also highlights the changing focus of the opinion section towards libertarian views, raising questions about media independence.
34 snips
May 12, 2025 • 28min
Elissa Slotkin to Fellow-Democrats: “Speak in Plain English”
Elissa Slotkin, a Democratic Senator from Michigan known for her economic focus and bipartisanship, discusses her unique position in a Trump-voting state. She advocates for Democrats to project 'alpha energy' and abandon identity politics. Slotkin emphasizes the importance of practical economic dialogue with constituents and urges a return to collegial collaboration in Congress. She questions the use of terms like 'oligarchy' within her party, pushing for clearer communication while highlighting the need for incremental immigration reform.
44 snips
May 7, 2025 • 28min
Decoding Donald Trump’s Love of A.I. Imagery
Join Katy Waldman, a staff writer for The New Yorker, as she delves into Donald Trump's intriguing fascination with A.I.-generated memes. They explore how these digital creations help him craft a cultural narrative and amplify the MAGA aesthetic in today's A.I. era. The pair discuss the dangerous effects of superficial A.I. content on political discourse and its toll on mental health. Waldman also touches on how Trump's online persona has evolved, utilizing wild imagery and social media as powerful political tools.
