RealClearPolitics Podcast

The podcast delves into the Supreme Court's hearing on a controversial Tennessee law against gender-affirming care for minors, exploring the clash between state regulations and youth rights. It also highlights an emotional segment featuring Penelope Hegseth, who publicly called out her son on Fox News. Additionally, the discussion covers significant election outcomes, particularly the results in California’s 13th Congressional District, and the evolving landscape of Republican support amidst the backdrop of a potential second Trump administration.

Andrew, Tom and Carl discuss reporting by Jane Meyer in The New Yorker on Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth’s tenure running two non-profit organizations, which includes allegations of drinking, sexism and poor management. They then discuss reporting by Sohrab Ahamri in Compact Magazine that rebuts The New Yorker’s claims. Plus, they have a look at Kevin Dowd’s guest column in the Sunday edition of The New York Times. They also talk about President Biden’s trip to Angola where he talked about slavery, and Donald Trump’s plans to attend this weekend’s celebration of the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral, where he will join more than 50 other world leaders. Next, Carl discusses Hunter Biden’s history with one of his former classmates, RCP contributor and CEO of Rootz.ai, Eric Spitz. Then finally, Andrew talks to James S. Robbins, Academic Dean of the Institute of World Politics in Washington, DC about the war in Syria and how Donald Trump’s Middle East policy will differ from that of Joe Biden's. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andrew, Tom and Carl discuss the reaction to Hunter Biden’s pardon, and what it may mean for Biden’s legacy. They also talk about the nomination of Kash Patel to head the FBI, and MSNBC’s reaction to revelations that host Al Sharpton’s foundation received $500 thousand from the Harris campaign just days before he conducted a friendly interview with her on the network. Next, Andrew Walworth talks to New York Post writer Miranda Devine, author of Laptop from Hell, about why Joe Biden decided to pardon Hunter now and whether other pardons will come in the future. And then Tom Bevan talks to RCP White House correspondent Phil Wegmann about how the White House press office is dealing with the Hunter Biden pardon. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Taibbi, an independent journalist known for his insights on media bias, discusses Wikipedia's treatment of RCP's polling average and the media's influence in the election. Tim Shriver, CEO of UNITE, emphasizes the need for civil political dialogue in today's divisive climate, urging citizens to engage respectfully. Nellie Bowles, columnist and author, reflects on the evolving landscape of activism and journalism, delving into themes of cancel culture and societal change. Each guest brings a unique perspective on improving public discourse and understanding in a polarized world.

Andrew, Tom and Carl discuss the origins and history of the Thanksgiving holiday in America. Then, RCP National Correspondent Susan Crabtree and White House correspondent Phil Wegmann join the discussion to talk about the past year in politics and look forward to changes in 2025. Next, RealClear Defense editor David Craig and former State Department official Peter Berkowitz talk about veterans’ affairs and foreign policy challenges for the incoming Trump administration. And rounding it out, RCP Senior Copy Editor Cathi Warren joins the fun to talk about what she is thankful for, and to provide an insight into what goes into publishing RealClearPolitics daily. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andrew, Tom and Carl discuss Kamala Harris’ video remarks to supporters released on Monday, and Harris campaign senior advisor David Plouffe's revelation that Harris’ internal polling never showed her with a lead. They also talk about the nomination of lockdown critic Jay Bhattacharya of Stanford University to head the National Institutes of Health. Next, Andrew Walworth talks to Jay Bhattacharya, Trump’s nominee to head the NIH, about the importance of free speech and unfettered debate in discussing scientific issues. And winding it up, Carl Cannon talks with Emily Jashinsky, Washington correspondent for UnHerd, about Trump’s plan to “drain the swamp,” and what it may mean for business-as-usual within the beltway. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sean Trende, Senior elections analyst at RealClearPolitics, and John Feehery, Republican strategist, dive into the recent dismissal of federal cases against Donald Trump, spotlighting its potential impact on his political journey. They discuss Biden's controversial proposal to cover weight loss drugs under Medicare, and the implications of Trump's suggested 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, raising concerns about trade dynamics. The duo also analyzes voter trends in California, particularly the evolving support for Republicans among Hispanic voters as the political landscape shifts.

Laura Forcum, President of the Independent Center and expert on independent voters, joins the discussion to delve into the political landscape. She highlights how independent voters are gaining influence, especially among younger generations disenchanted with traditional parties. The group also examines the implications of recent polls showing public support for Trump's transition, the local resistance to immigration laws, and the complexities of pardoning January 6th defendants. Forcum shares tips for navigating political discussions during Thanksgiving dinners, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue.

Charles McElwee, Editor of RealClear Pennsylvania, shares insights on the political shifts in Pennsylvania, particularly after the recent Senate race. Frances Collins, former NIH Director, discusses the delicate balance between politics and science during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for trust in healthcare. The conversation also touches on the ICC's arrest warrants for Israeli officials, raising questions about international law biases, as well as the escalating tensions in Ukraine that impact global politics.

Andrew, Tom and Carl discuss the withdrawal of the nomination of former Congressman Matt Gaetz for attorney general (and his political future) and they also discuss the status of Pete Hegseth’s nomination to head the Department of Defense. Plus, they talk about the upcoming conflict between state and municipal leaders and the Trump administration over federal deportation of illegal immigrants. Next, they discuss how the RCP Average performed in terms of anticipating the results of the 2024 election, and the fight over transgenders using female facilities in Congress. And finally, Andrew and Carl talk to RCP contributor Peter Berkowitz of the Hoover Institution about US policy toward China and the role public diplomacy may play in the upcoming Trump administration. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.