The Gist

Ben Wittes, Editor-in-Chief of Lawfare and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, dives into the political and legal turmoil surrounding Donald Trump. He discusses the implications of Trump's threats of prosecution against political figures, particularly addressing the unique challenges of prosecuting a former president. The conversation also touches on election counting frustrations in California and the accountability of public officials in national security. Wittes navigates the intersection of local threats and national politics with keen insight.

Vic Michaelis, a comic actress and improviser from the hit Dropout TV show "Very Important People," joins the conversation to dive into the art of transformative comedy. They discuss the creative processes of comedic character transformations, the impact of makeup and effects, and how humor intersects with modern media. Vic also shares her journey in the comedy scene, highlighting the balance between ambition and the pressures of success, along with some delightful musings on dumplings. A humorous exploration of identity and creativity awaits!

In this installment, Albert Samaha, an investigative reporter for the Washington Post, dives into the intricate world of the NIL economy in college sports. He discusses transparency issues and the disparities in athlete compensation, especially between genders. The conversation also touches on the chaotic interplay of sports and politics, reflecting on the tumultuous era of Trump's presidency and its implications. Samaha critiques past political events while contemplating the future, offering a blend of hope and realism in today's landscape.

Albert Samaha, a Washington Post author known for his insights into the college sports landscape, dives into the financial evolution brought by Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights. He discusses the complexities faced by student-athletes, including gender disparities and transparency issues. The conversation also sheds light on how states are competing in shaping NIL laws to attract talent. Additionally, the discussion reflects on the stark contrasts in political messaging strategies, spotlighting Donald Trump's effective communication compared to the Democrats' challenges.

This week’s guest, Amy Walter, CEO and editor of the Cook Political Report, brings her expertise on polling accuracy and election dynamics. She argues that recent polls were surprisingly reliable, countering the criticisms from 'Nate-haters.' Walter discusses the disengagement of Puerto Rican voters and how demographic influences, particularly among unmarried women, shaped the election results. The conversation highlights the complexities of voter preferences and the pressing need for the public to better understand polling methodologies.

Kemele Foster, co-host of The 5th Column, offers sharp commentary on Trump's candidacy, reflecting on the diverse coalition that contributed to his victory. Coleman Hughes, author of The End of Race Politics, analyzes the election results, highlighting the implications for America's political future. Peter Meijer, former congressman and Trump impeachment voter, shares his insights on standing by his decision while acknowledging Trump's success. Together, they navigate themes of media critique, the tension between democracy and authoritarianism, and the evolving landscape of American politics.

Damon Linker, a Senior lecturer in Political Science at Penn and centrist commentator, joins the discussion with insightful takes on electoral dynamics. He emphasizes the unpredictability of election outcomes over early polls, and humorously reflects on political affiliations. The conversation delves into contrasting political strategies of candidates and the paradox of progress in society amidst rising fears. Interestingly, Linker draws a parallel with the success story of the North American Elk, highlighting resilience and recovery.

Kathy Boockvar, former Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, played a vital role in ensuring the integrity of the 2020 elections amidst intense pressure from election deniers. She reveals her strategies for countering misinformation and maintaining public trust in the electoral process. The conversation also touches on Donald Trump's unconventional behavior during the election and his remarks about Liz Cheney, showcasing the ongoing challenges in American political discourse and the fight against election disinformation.

Casper Kelly, the genius behind the viral sensation "Too Many Cooks," discusses the surreal storytelling that captivated audiences and his creative process. There's also a dive into the phrase "retweets don’t equal endorsements" with Patrick LaForge, who unpacks its importance in today’s social media landscape. The conversation explores absurdity in media, the quirks of sitcoms, and the challenges of modern storytelling, revealing how these topics intersect with cultural commentary. Get ready for a mix of humor and insightful reflections!

In this lively conversation, Sam Jay, a former SNL writer and stand-up comic known for her sharp humor on social issues, dives into the intricacies of comedy and race. She discusses the emotional impact of police violence on the Black community, shedding light on collective trauma. The conversation also navigates the financial challenges faced by Black Americans, emphasizing the need for better financial education. With insight and wit, Sam reflects on how her experiences shape her comedy and the importance of evolving perspectives in both art and life.