The Gist

Bradley Tusk, a political strategist and author advocating for mobile voting, discusses how this technology could boost democratic participation. He argues it's more secure than many believe and could tackle low voter turnout, especially in marginalized communities. The conversation also touches on ethical concerns and innovative voting perspectives. In a lighter moment, the amusing tale of a lost cat playfully illustrates the quirky intersection of community and politics, offering a humorous twist to the serious topic of civic engagement.

Frederic Block, a sitting federal judge renowned for his insights into sentencing, shares his thought process on justice and forgiveness. He discusses the delicate balance judges must strike between discretion and political pressure, particularly concerning age dynamics in judiciary roles. Block’s new book reveals how he determines who deserves a second chance. The conversation also touches on the implications of military strategies, such as Hezbollah's recent tactics, providing a thought-provoking look into morality in conflict.

Judge Frederic Block, a federal judge from the Eastern District of New York, shares insights from his new book, emphasizing mercy within the judicial system as he reconsider sentences under the First Step Act. He discusses how personal circumstances impact sentencing, advocating for reforms to address mass incarceration. The conversation also critiques the recent Emmy Awards, highlighting a disconnect between television creators and audiences, particularly regarding representation and relevant cultural themes. Tune in for a blend of judicial wisdom and media commentary!

Dan Savage, a renowned podcaster and relationship advice columnist, engages in a lively discussion with Mike about the interplay of sex and politics post-debate. They tackle listener questions on managing romantic relationships amidst political upheaval. The conversation takes an entertaining turn as they explore generational differences and the nuances of modern dating, particularly focusing on the transactional aspects of relationships and how evolving gender roles reshape intimacy. Humor and candid anecdotes make this dialogue both insightful and relatable.

Joe Klein, a veteran political journalist celebrated for his insights on American politics, joins to dissect the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Russia, exploring how military aid to Ukraine is perceived as a direct challenge by Putin. He delves into the evolving landscape of Democratic strategies and voter dynamics ahead of upcoming elections. Klein also critiques the focus on minor environmental issues like plastic straws, arguing for a more impactful approach to tackling climate change.

Renée DiResta, a technical research manager at Stanford Internet Observatory, dives into the world of disinformation in her discussion. She addresses accusations of censorship while clarifying the distinctions between disinformation, disliked information, and typical political rhetoric. DiResta also critiques media narratives about Donald Trump's cognitive abilities and emphasizes the complexities of election misinformation, media fairness, and the importance of transparency in combating falsehoods. Her insights provide a thought-provoking exploration of information dynamics in today's digital landscape.

Steve Hayes, editor of The Dispatch, joins to dissect a fiery presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The conversation dives into pressing issues like abortion, inflation, and even the bizarre topic of pets in immigration discussions. Sparks fly as Hayes and Mike debate abortion policies and the fairness of moderators, showcasing a refreshing exchange of ideas. They challenge the evolution of candidates' stances and critique the effectiveness of political discourse, calling for a more nuanced public dialogue.

Heather Knight, The New York Times San Francisco Bureau Chief, dives into the surprising neck-and-neck race between Trump and Harris. She discusses San Francisco’s progressive evolution and the challenges it faces, like crime and homelessness. Knight analyzes how economic concerns shape voter choices amidst traditional biases. The conversation also touches on the city's shifting political landscape and the portrayal of high-profile figures like Elon Musk in today's divided media. Get ready for a fascinating exploration of contemporary political dynamics!

Terry Szuplat, a former speechwriter for Barack Obama and author of 'Say It Well,' shares his insights on effective communication. He discusses Kamala Harris' challenges and reflects on Obama's rhetorical techniques, emphasizing authenticity in public speaking. Surprisingly, he compliments Donald Trump's rhetorical style. Szuplat also critiques the media's portrayal of the presidential race and debates whether Elon Musk should face repercussions for his influence. The conversation is rich with wisdom on engaging audiences and navigating political narratives.

In this engaging discussion, Presidential candidate Kamala Harris reveals her reversal on plastic straws, sparking a lively debate. Tim Pool, a well-known commentator, delves into the absurdity surrounding eco-friendly choices, critiquing the detrimental effects of paper straws on local businesses. They also explore unexpected connections between podcasters and Russian influence, shedding light on the challenges within the industry. Bursting with humor and wit, this conversation tackles serious environmental issues while questioning accountability in media.