Makena Kelly, a Wired Politics reporter known for her keen insights into the political landscape, joins David Gilbert, an expert on the intersection of technology and politics from Cork, Ireland. They dive into the unpredictable nature of Trump’s potential second term. Will Elon Musk's rising influence cause friction with Trump? Can Christian nationalists really push for a porn ban? They also speculate on the future of UFO disclosures and the enchanting world of conspiracy theories—both curious and alarming—that will shape the political discourse.

Andrew Couts, a Wired Senior Editor of Security and Investigations, and Louise Matsakis, a Senior Business Editor specializing in data privacy and China, discuss vital strategies for safeguarding personal data in a potentially surveillance-heavy environment. They explore practical tips for protecting online privacy, the dangers of data brokers, and the implications of political power on corporate data practices. Listeners gain insights into using privacy-focused tools and the importance of civic engagement for stronger data protection.

David Gilbert, a Wired reporter based in Cork, and Vittoria Elliott, who covers social media trends, dive into the exodus from X to platforms like Threads and Blue Sky. They explore the implications of this migration, questioning what happens to X when those seeking moderation leave. The duo discusses the rise of extreme views and the challenges of engaging with far-right narratives on these platforms. Lastly, they reflect on how social media fragmentation alters community interaction and political discourse, suggesting a future where smaller, trust-based apps could thrive.

Katie Drummond, Wired's global editorial director, dives into the internet's pivotal role in politics, especially during Trump's election. She discusses how online communities fueled his victory, alongside the threats of misinformation. The conversation covers tech platforms' responsibility in curbing false narratives and their profit motives that exacerbate division. Drummond also examines the potential implications of a Trump administration on digital security and the evolving challenges for democracy in our online spaces.

Vittoria Elliott, a senior reporter at Wired, and Timothy Marchman, the Director of Science, Politics, and Security, dive into the aftermath of Donald Trump's election victory. They discuss Elon Musk's profound influence on the campaign, from his social media strategies to his celebrity endorsements. The duo analyzes how Musk's platform, X, shapes public opinion and energizes specific voter demographics, particularly young males. They also explore troubling implications of tech moguls merging corporate power with politics and what that means for future governance.

Stacey Abrams, a former Georgia state representative and renowned voter rights advocate, dives deep into the current electoral climate. She shares her experiences combating voter suppression and battling disinformation. Topics include the influence of Elon Musk on politics, controversial election conspiracies, and the challenges facing Democratic candidates in Georgia. Abrams emphasizes the need for grassroots efforts and voter empowerment as essential tools to safeguard democracy. Her insights are both urgent and inspiring as elections approach.

David Gilbert, a WIRED reporter, dives into the controversial world of Constitutional Sheriffs—lawmen who believe they operate above federal and state law. He discusses their alarming rise, their ties to election denial, and how one rogue sheriff could potentially disrupt the 2024 election. Gilbert highlights the troubling alliance between these sheriffs and armed groups, exploring their tactics that threaten electoral integrity and intimidate voters, especially in minority communities. The implications for democracy are profound and concerning.

On Wednesday, a WIRED exclusive revealed that one of J.D. Vance’s financial policy advisers has posted a lot on Reddit about illicit substances. Given Vance’s hard stance on drugs, WIRED’s Tim Marchman and Makena Kelly join Leah to discuss why it matters that a member of his staff seems to have been using them. Leah Feiger is @LeahFeiger. Makena Kelly is @kellymakena. Tim Marchman is @timmarchman. Write to us at politicslab@WIRED.com. Be sure to subscribe to the WIRED Politics Lab newsletter here.Mentioned this week:JD Vance Adviser Posted on Reddit for Years About Use of Cocaine, ‘Gas Station Heroin,’ Other Drugs by Makena Kelly Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

You might know him from Tesla and SpaceX, but now Elon Musk spends a lot of his time campaigning for former president Donald Trump. WIRED’s David Gilbert and Vittoria Elliott join Leah to talk about what Musk gets from going all in on Trump — and whether he’ll win Trump the White House. Leah Feiger is @LeahFeiger.  David Gilbert is @DaithaiGilbert. Vittoria Elliott is @telliotter. Write to us at politicslab@WIRED.com. Be sure to subscribe to the WIRED Politics Lab newsletter here.Mentioned this week:Elon Musk Spoke at a Trump Rally, Referenced ‘Dark MAGA,’ and Urged Supporters to Vote by Vittoria Elliott and Tess OwenRight-Wing Influencers Claim ‘They’ Defeated Physics, Geoengineered Hurricane Milton by Tess Owen Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Vice Presidential candidates Tim Walz and J.D. Vance dive into their recent debate, offering a captivating look at their contrasting styles. Walz, the candid Governor, pokes fun at Republicans while struggling to tackle key issues. Vance, the Senator, attempts to reframe Trump's legacy on hot topics like abortion and January 6, aiming to win over independent voters. The conversation explores the dynamics of political discourse and the impact of social media on voter perceptions. Will their strategies make a difference come election day?