RealClearPolitics Podcast

Andrew Walworth and RCP White House correspondent Phil Wegmann discuss the reassignment of National Security Advisor Mike Waltz to become the next U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Also, a look at the implications of the minerals agreement between Ukraine and the U.S., signed Wednesday night. Then, Andrew Walworth, Tom Bevan, and Carl Cannon discuss the battle between Democratic strategist James Carville and Democratic National Committee Vice Chair David Hogg. Also, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) faces a decision: whether to run for the top Democratic spot on the House Oversight Committee or pass in order to spend more time in the field. Next, Carl Cannon talks to RCP columnist John Maxwell Hamilton about Abundance, a new book by Ezra Kelin and Derek Thompson that provides advice to progressives. And finally, Andrew Walworth talks to RCP White House correspondent Phil Wegmann about President Trump’s efforts to change the way senior government officials are compensated, and the future of DOGE after Elon Musk.

Andrew Walworth, Tom Bevan, and National Review columnist Heather Wilheim preview tonight’s speech by 2024 Democratic Presidential nominee Kamala Harris. They also discuss Wisconsin’s Supreme Court decision to suspend Milwaukee circuit judge Hannah Dugan, who has been charged with helping an illegal immigrant avoid arrest by ICE agents. Plus, they chat about Trump’s campaign-style speech in Detroit delivered on Tuesday evening, and his oval office interview with ABC News senior national correspondent Terry Moran. Next, Tom Bevan talks to RCP contributor and author Greg Orman about the first 100 days of organized opposition to the second Trump administration. How fares “The Resistance"? And finally, Andrew Walworth talks to Law Professor and Boston Herald columnist Wendy Murphy about a landmark case involving why women can’t register for the draft, and why this is - in her view “the most important women’s rights case of the past 50 years”.

Sean Trende, Senior Elections Analyst at RealClearPolitics, joins the conversation to dissect the complexities of Trump's second term. The discussion includes the impact of tariffs on the economy and voter sentiment, examining how these strategies might shape public perception. The podcast also tackles the contentious issue of sanctuary cities and how recent Canadian elections reflect broader geopolitical dynamics. With Trump's influence looming over international politics, the dialogue reveals the intricate interplay of local and global factors in shaping voter behavior.

Andrew Walworth, Tom Bevan, and Carl Cannon discuss coverage of the first 100 days of Trump’s second administration, and why Trump continues his love/hate relationship with the mainstream press. Then, they discuss this weekend’s trip to New Hampshire by Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker and his comments on fellow Democrats. And, Attorney General Pam Bondi launches an inquiry into the Democratic fundraising platform ActBlue, which has raised $16 billion for progressive causes since 2004 and is already the subject of investigation by 19 state attorney generals. Plus, they talk about the latest developments in the Ukraine War, including this weekend’s meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and reaction to Putin’s proposal for a three-day ceasefire to commemorate Russia’s’ victory over Germany in WWII. Then, Andrew talks with diplomatic historian James S. Robbins, author of "This Time We Win: Revisiting The Tet Offensive" about this week’s 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, and the lasting legacy of the Vietnam War on America and the world.

Andrew Walworth, Tom Bevan, and RCP White House correspondent Phil Wegmann discuss the arrest of Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan on obstruction charges after she allegedly helped an illegal immigrant evade FBI agents who were waiting outside her courtroom. Then, after yesterday’s deadly Russian attack on Kyiv, they wonder: is Donald Trump going to push Russia for concessions at the peace table? Plus, they joke about this weekend’s 2025 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, and poke fun with this week’s “You Can’t Be Serious” segment. Next, Tom Bevan talks to Stuart Taylor, Jr., president of Princetonians for Free Speech and an RCP contributor, about the Trump administration’s decision to suspend hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to the university over its treatment of Jewish students. And closing up the week, RCP Contributor Charlie Stone talks to Peter Beinart, author of Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning about the founding of the Jewish state, the current situation in Gaza, and the chances for peace.

Heather Wilhelm, a National Review columnist, shares her insights on the escalating tensions between Donald Trump and Harvard University, including shifting opinions among young voters. Chris Ruddy, the CEO of Newsmax Media, discusses the network’s rise and the changing dynamics of media consumption, particularly how digital platforms are reshaping the television landscape. They also delve into legal challenges Trump faces regarding tariffs and the broader implications of public sentiment towards his economic policies.

In this engaging discussion, Virginia Representative Don Beyer, a former U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland, delves into the ramifications of trade wars on the automotive industry and examines the controversial tariffs affecting companies like Tesla. His insights on capitalism's 'creative destruction' are fascinating. Meanwhile, National political correspondent Susan Crabtree tackles California's pressing environmental crises, particularly the Tijuana River sewage contamination, and explores the evolving dynamics in state politics. Their perspectives bring a vibrant understanding of current political and environmental challenges.

Vince Bielski, a reporter from RealClear Investigations, shares insights on the unexpected revival of public schools in southern states, particularly Louisiana and Mississippi. He highlights significant improvements tied to educational reforms and effective teacher training. The conversation also touches on the broader economic landscape under the Trump administration, including challenges with the Federal Reserve and trade relations with China. Bielski's observations on these developments prompt reflections on voter perceptions and the evolving nature of educational success.

Journalist Joel Kotkin, known for his insightful analysis on socio-political matters, joins the discussion to unravel California's complex politics. He highlights the unintended consequences of progressive policies that have widened class divisions and hampered upward mobility. The conversation also touches on the glaring disparity between California's tech elite and the everyday realities faced by its residents. Additionally, the impact of Pope Francis' legacy on global politics and societal issues is explored, revealing the intersection of faith and governance.

Andrew Walworth, Tom Bevan, and Carl Cannon discuss Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying: if there is no movement in the Ukraine peace talks within the next few days, President Trump is prepared to “move on.” And they talk about Senator Chris Van Hollen's (D. MD) meeting with Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who is in a Salvadoran prison after being deported from the United States. They also discuss the meaning of Saturday’s 250th anniversary of the first combat of the American Revolution: the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Plus, this week’s “You Can’t Be Serious” segment. Next, Tom Bevan talks to Pollster Spencer Kimball about a brand-new poll from RealClear Opinion Research that looks at Americans’ attitudes on two hot-button issues: tariffs and immigration. And finally, Carl Cannon talks to RCP contributors Cathi Warren and Anne Welty about the outbreak of measles in Texas and the role of immunization in stopping its spread.