The Political Scene | The New Yorker
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
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.
36 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 45min
How Bad Is It?: Trump’s War on Comedians
Roy Wood Jr., host of CNN's satirical program "Have I Got News for You" and a former correspondent on The Daily Show, dives into the current landscape of political comedy. He discusses CBS's cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and its implications for comedic expression. The conversation touches on a recent "South Park" episode that parodies Trump, showcasing how humor confronts political tension. Wood emphasizes that while the administration may attempt to intimidate comedians, this won't silence their voices in the face of critique.
26 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 29min
Mayor Karen Bass on Marines in Los Angeles
Karen Bass, the Mayor of Los Angeles and a former member of Congress, dives into the city’s role as a sanctuary for immigrants amid federal crackdown efforts. She discusses the deployment of troops under the Trump Administration and the recent legal battle to challenge unconstitutional raids. Bass describes L.A. as a 'petri dish' for federal overreach, reflecting on community fears and the impact of immigration policies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of urban deployment and the ongoing struggles with housing and climate change.
32 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 36min
Wired’s Katie Drummond on What the Tech Titans Learned from DOGE
In a fascinating conversation, Katie Drummond, Global Editorial Director of Wired, shares insights on the political maneuvering of Silicon Valley in the Trump era. She discusses how Elon Musk's influence has prompted tech leaders to embrace new power dynamics in Washington. The dialogue shifts to AI's inevitable rise and its dual narrative, exploring both its societal implications and the challenges posed to education and employment. Drummond makes a compelling case for tech companies' responsibilities amid these transformative advancements.
34 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 46min
How the Epstein Conspiracy Theory Took Over Politics
Jon Allsop, a contributor to The New Yorker who focuses on politics and conspiracy theories, joins Tyler Foggatt to explore the ripple effects of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal on American politics. They discuss President Trump’s handling of the Epstein files and how it has fragmented his base. The conversation delves into the Democrats' weaponization of conspiracy theories and the growing influence of conspiratorial thinking in political discourse. Allsop also highlights public dissatisfaction and the deep-seated paranoia that shapes contemporary narratives.
36 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 25min
Michael Wolff on MAGA’s Revolt over Jeffrey Epstein
Michael Wolff, a journalist and author known for his in-depth examinations of Donald Trump, discusses his extensive interviews with Jeffrey Epstein and the political fallout from Epstein's death. He explores how MAGA supporters perceive Epstein's demise as a conspiracy while overlooking Trump's deeper ties to Epstein. Their friendship, marred by real estate disputes, raises questions about alliances in power dynamics. The conversation delves into the implications of Epstein's legacy on Trump and the MAGA movement, highlighting the challenges of media engagement with controversial figures.
12 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 46min
Leah Litman on Trump’s Supreme Court
Leah Litman, a law professor at the University of Michigan and co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, dives into the intricate relationship between Trump’s administration and the Supreme Court. She analyzes how political influences shape judicial decisions, revealing the dissenting justices' dynamics and the impact of dark money. Litman discusses critical issues like voting rights and the Court's handling of abortion cases, stressing the importance of public understanding in maintaining democracy. Her insights provide a compelling look at the challenges faced by America’s highest court.
