GD POLITICS

Mary Radcliffe is a frequent guest known for her insights on voter behavior, while Lenny Bronner serves as a Senior Data Scientist at The Washington Post. They dive deep into the 2024 electoral data, exploring how demographics are shifting, particularly among Hispanic, Black, and younger voters leaning Republican. The conversation highlights the impact of Trump's influence on party identities and the evolving political landscape. Additionally, they analyze how events like the Great Recession have shaped millennial voting trends, reshaping strategies for future elections.

Carl Bialik, US politics editor and VP of data science at YouGov, along with Taylor Orth, Director of Survey Data Journalism at YouGov, dive into public responses to the controversial One Big Beautiful Bill Act. They discuss how Americans feel about Trump’s broader agenda and examine intriguing data on self-perception across genders. The duo also tackles the nuances of polling on defense spending and Medicaid, revealing how knowledge impacts opinions and the complexities behind citizens’ views on social programs.

Joan C. Williams, a distinguished law professor and author of 'Outclassed', dives into the widening chasm between Democrats and the working class. She explores how class dynamics complicate political affiliations, revealing that educational achievement oversimplifies real issues. The conversation tackles why many non-college-educated voters lean Republican and critiques Democratic messaging that fails to resonate with middle-status voters. Williams emphasizes the necessity for Democrats to refine their economic messages and reconnect emotionally with the struggles of the working class.

Ruth Igelnik, a polling editor at The New York Times renowned for her expertise in public opinion research, joins Nathaniel Rakich, a polling analyst recognized for his keen insights on election trends. They dive into the latest polling techniques and the surprising dynamics behind Trump's approval ratings, particularly among disengaged voters. Discussion shifts to recent conference highlights, emphasizing the importance of adjusting methodologies to reflect diverse demographics. The conversation wraps up with a fun game centered on public perceptions of well-known companies.

Neil Irwin, Chief Economic Correspondent at Axios and author of "The Alchemists," navigates the chaotic economic landscape post-pandemic. He discusses the unpredictable nature of economic forecasts and the ramifications of fluctuating tariffs on inflation. The conversation dives into the Federal Reserve's interest rate strategies and the implications of recent U.S. credit rating downgrades. Irwin challenges traditional recession definitions, advocating for a broader understanding of economic stability amidst rising political tensions and evolving policies in Washington.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.gdpolitics.comToday’s podcast is a little bit different. When I launched GD POLITICS, I said that I wanted to hear directly from you and speak directly to you, building a community as we go. I hope you already feel a part of that community, but to that end, I want to occasionally do podcasts where I update you, share thoughts, and answer your questions. So, today it’s just me!

America got its first pope! I was sitting next to one of about 30 Indiana University study abroad students on my flight back from Madrid on Saturday and my seat mate told me that her whole dorm was live streaming the smoke from the Sistine Chapel. As she recounted, everyone went crazy when “America won.” You love to see it!I’m not just interested in the pope as part of this podcast’s religious community revival agenda (I kid). I’m interested in the pope because for the first time ever, he is a registered voter in Illinois. We’ve got some receipts from his primary voting record as well as his subtweets of the president on social media.Also, some big Republican names are sitting out of marquee 2026 Senate races. Last week Georgia governor Brian Kemp said he’s declining to challenge Jon Ossoff, meaning the party is missing out on its strongest recruit for its strongest pickup prospect. Last month Chris Sununu also declined to run for New Hampshire’s open Senate seat.With me to discuss the pope and the Senate are two dear friends of the pod, Mary Radcliffe and Nathaniel Rakich. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.gdpolitics.com/subscribe

Eric Grenier, author of The Writ and Canadian election analyst, joins Philippe Fournier, author of 338 Canada and election expert, to dissect the global political ripple effects of Trump's actions. They explore how his presidency has unwittingly bolstered center-left parties in Canada and Australia, leading to unexpected electoral victories. The discussion also covers Canadian voter sentiments, contrasting party performances, and the complexities of the media landscape influenced by American dynamics. Tune in for insights on shifting political tides and evolving public perceptions!

Join Ryan Burge, a professor at Eastern Illinois University and former Baptist pastor, as he delves into the changing landscape of religion in America. He examines the plateauing number of secular Americans and the stability of Christian demographics. The conversation covers the intersection of religion and politics, especially among different faiths. Ryan also discusses Denmark's unique community model, contrasting low church attendance with strong societal bonds, and explores the challenges of fostering community in a secular world.

A lively discussion unfolds as the speakers humorously analyze the current political landscape, including Trump’s presidency and the intriguing search for a new pope. They delve into potential papal candidates and their chances while drawing parallels between church leadership and political elections. The conversation also tackles how changing demographics are reshaping American religious identity and the implications for future values. Engaging games and audience interactions add a fun twist to the insightful political banter.