The Gist

Kristen Soltis Anderson, a conservative pollster, dives into the recent shifts in polling dynamics after Biden's exit from the race. She discusses Kamala Harris' rising popularity and how it contrasts with perceptions of Biden's impact on Democratic numbers. Anderson highlights Trump’s strategies and his lack of savvy in naming Harris, and explores the implications of Biden's negative polling effects now gone. The conversation even touches on the complexities of recent international prisoner swaps, adding a global perspective to the political landscape.

On a day when former President Donald Trump told black journalists that Kamala Harris denied being black (fact check: untrue), we speak about former President John Adams, who himself ran athwart many Constitutional norms ... or, at least, what we have come to accept as norms. Our guest is Corey Brettschneider, author of Presidents and the People: Five Leaders Who Threatened Democracy and the Citizens Who Fought to Defend It. Plus, what Israel's reported assassination of the political leader of Hamas does to the "Israel is doomed to fail" narrative. Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist Subscribe: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kamala Harris, the groundbreaking U.S. Vice President, and Corey Brettschneider, a noted political scholar and author, delve into a wild mix of political narratives. Kamala addresses the bizarre 'ding dong' remarks thrown at her while unpacking the intricacies of how female politicians are scrutinized. Corey contrasts historical constitutional overreaches with contemporary issues, revealing the vital role of dissent in shaping democracy. The discussion critiques public perceptions of the Vice President and examines the playful politics of name-calling.

Last week, after many months spent recovering from a shoulder injury, Clayton Kershaw, maybe the greatest pitcher of his generation, returned to the mound for the LA Dodgers. He is a singular talent in the long history of baseball, and we are joined by Andy McCullough, author of The Last of His Kind: Clayton Kershaw and the Burden of Greatness, to discuss how he earned that distinction. Also, Biden proposes major changes to how the Supreme Court works. And an ode to table tennis. Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist Subscribe: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Kamala Harris, a former prosecutor and current presidential candidate, discusses her legal background and its implications in the political arena. The podcast delves into the unexpected happiness of bronze medalists compared to their silver counterparts, revealing fascinating psychological insights. Additionally, it explores the anticipated success of the US women's basketball team and how political strategies are adapting to attract undecided voters. The blend of sports and politics brings humor and depth to this thought-provoking discussion.

Ibrahim Nash’at, an Egyptian filmmaker who embedded with Taliban soldiers, shares his riveting experiences from Afghanistan. He discusses the unique insights captured in his documentary, 'Hollywoodgate,' revealing the Taliban's transition from fighters to leaders. Topics include the challenges of journalism in hostile territories, the dark humor in observational filmmaking, and the absurdity of political meme culture. Nash’at critiques how Western sophistication contrasts with resilience in other cultures while reflecting on the implications of foreign interference on local lives.

Jonah Goldberg from The Dispatch joins to discuss Biden's decision not to seek re-election and the need for Kamala Harris to appeal to the median voter. They analyze America's position and the dangers of a second term under Trump. Also, they explore decency in politics and the impact of setting unrealistic expectations.

Kyle Clark, anchor and debate moderator for 9NEWS, discusses conducting good debates, critiques CNN's debate, and talks about annoying trends in long-form interviewing. Also, Netanyahu's Washington visit and the backlash.

Reporter Astead Herndon discusses Kamala Harris' potential prosecution of Trump, her journey to Democratic nominee, and the impact of her prosecutorial background on her campaign strategy. The podcast also explores Harris' legal record, environmental policies, and the contrasting narratives with Trump.

Benjamin Wallace-Wells from The New Yorker discusses Biden's exit, Harris as successor, and Democratic motivations. Topics include challenges for Harris, Trump's threat to democracy, and Harris' response to 'Border Czar' criticism.