Politicology

Political strategist Mike Madrid and author Sasha Issemberg discuss the challenges of disinformation in campaigns, strategies for voter suppression, response to wrong information online, and the generational shift in campaign decision makers.

For ad-free version of this episode, subscribe to Politicology+ at https://politicology.com/plusIt’s been one year since the horrific terrorist attack in Israel on October 7th. Hamas terrorists entered Israel and brutally raped and murdered over 1,200 people and gleefully live streamed some of the most horrific scenes we've ever seen. Over 200 people were abducted into Gaza by Hamas and a lot has changed over the last year. Tensions are continuing to rise and war is continuing to spread in the region.In this episode, visual poet Nitzan Mintz and street artist  Dede Bandaid join Ron Steslow to discuss the impact of their guerrilla art poster campaign aimed at raising awareness for hostages kidnapped by Hamas. They reflect on the emotional toll of the ongoing situation, the importance of community support, and the role of art in advocating for humanity. They share personal experiences of trauma, resilience, and hope, emphasizing the need for continued awareness and action to bring the hostages home.Then Ron talks to Jodi Rudoren, editor-in-chief of The Forward about the unprecedented attack on October 7th, its impact on Israeli and American Jewish communities, and The Forward’s new podcast series Make Art Not WarSegments to look forward to:(03:09) The Impact of the Campaign(06:22) Focusing on the Humanity of Hostages(09:21) The Emotional Toll of the Hostage Crisis(16:50) Community Support and Resilience(23:27) The Role of Art in Advocacy(26:59) Hope and Responsibility(29:54) The Power of Community(32:42) How unprecedented the October 7th attack was (35:00) Impact on Israeli and American Jewish Communities(41:17) Differentiating Coverage in a Polarized Media Landscape(54:52) Art as a Response to ConflictFollow Ron on Twitter:https://twitter.com/RonSteslowFollow Dede, Nitzan, and the campaign on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kidnappedfromisrael/https://www.instagram.com/nitzanmintz/https://www.instagram.com/dedebandaid/Check out The Forward and Make Art Not War: The Forward: https://forward.com/Make Art Not War: https://forward.com/podcasts/make-art-not-war/Email your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at ‪(202) 455-4558‬  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To unlock Politicology+ visit politicology.com/plusThis week, we have a special crossover episode with The Latino Vote Podcast.We talk about Kamala Harris’s trip to the southern border and shift in messaging on border security.Then, we discuss Donald Trump leaning into Christian “spiritual warfare” and how it could shape challenges to the election.Later, we dive into the Wall Street Journal’s analysis of the increase in reliance on government spending and how it is shaping both parties’ push for populist economic policies.Finally, Ron, Mike, and Chuck answer questions from the live audience.Joining Ron Steslow on this week’s panel: Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder)Chuck Rocha (Founder of Solidarity Strategies) Segments this week:(03:51) Harris goes to the southern border (16:05) Trump leans into spiritual warfare (26:45) Increasing reliance on government spending (36:28) Audience questions Not yet a Politicology+ member? Don’t miss all the extra episodes on the private, ad-free version of this podcast. Upgrade now at politicology.com/plus.Send your questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at ‪(202) 455-4558‬Watch Deadlock: An Election Story—https://bit.ly/3zJvsNQFollow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):https://twitter.com/RonSteslowhttps://x.com/madrid_mikehttps://x.com/ChuckRochaRelated readingsSegment 1: CNN - Harris tries to turn the tables on Trump by embracing the border as a key issue | CNN PoliticsSegment 2: Twitter - Response to Trump tweetThe Bulwark - How ‘Left Behind’ Got Left Behind - by Matthew D. TaylorPew - In Tight U.S. Presidential Race, Latino Voters' Preferences Mirror 2020Salt Lake Tribune - LDS Republican Jeff Flake, former U.S. senator, endorses Kamala Harris for presidentSegment 3: WSJ - Americans Are More Reliant Than Ever on Government Aid - WSJQ&A: Watch Deadlock: An Election Story—https://bit.ly/3zJvsNQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the full and ad-free version of this episode, subscribe to Politicology+ at https://politicology.com/plusIn this conversation, John Spencer, an urban warfare expert,  discusses the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly focusing on the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. He explains the differences between Hezbollah and Hamas, the implications of Iran's involvement, and the evolving nature of warfare, including precision strikes and tactical innovations. Spencer emphasizes the importance of understanding the global stakes and America's role in maintaining the international order amidst these conflicts.Segments to look forward to:(01:24) The Current Situation in the Middle East(04:16) Understanding Hezbollah vs. Hamas(12:22) Iran's Role, Imminent Missile Attacks, and Escalation RisksFollow Ron and John on X (formerly Twitter):https://twitter.com/RonSteslowhttps://x.com/SpencerGuardEmail your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at ‪(202) 455-4558‬  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s discussion features Donald Trump, the former President known for his controversial approach, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and North Carolina gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson. The panel dives into the potential chaos if Trump contests the election results and the implications of Harris's support for eliminating the filibuster to protect abortion rights. They weigh in on Robinson's inflammatory remarks and the broader impact on the Republican party amid mounting scandals.

Marcus Collins, an award-winning marketer and former digital strategist for Beyoncé, dives deep into the interplay of culture, consumer choices, and social media. He asserts that social media represents people, not just platforms, and stresses the importance of authenticity in marketing. Collins illuminates how cultural influences drive purchasing decisions and connects these dynamics to the hyperpolarization of society. He also showcases Patagonia's purpose-driven branding as a prime example of aligning values with effective marketing strategies.

This week dives into the alarming rise of political violence, spurred by reckless rhetoric. Discussions unfold on a second assassination attempt against Donald Trump and the implications for security. The panel tackles absurd rumors about migrants eating pets and how Trump's campaign is navigating the chaotic online landscape. They wrap up by highlighting the manipulation of Wikipedia articles, warning listeners about the reliability of information online. A thoughtful exploration of modern political dynamics awaits!

Deb Otis, Director of Research at Fair Vote, joins to explore the transformative power of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV). She explains how RCV allows voters to express their true preferences, reducing the need for candidates to cater to extremes. The discussion highlights successes in states like Alaska and Maine, where RCV has altered political dynamics and empowered moderate candidates. They also address challenges, including backlash against the system and its implications for future elections. It's a fascinating look at reshaping democracy!

Lucy Caldwell, a Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and an advisor to the Forward Party, joins to discuss the recent debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump. They analyze Harris's strategy in baiting Trump into revealing his character and the implications of Liz and Dick Cheney endorsing her. The conversation highlights how endorsements can reshape voter dynamics and explores electoral reforms aimed at reinvigorating democracy. Caldwell offers insights into connecting with undecided voters as the 2024 elections approach.

Scott Lincicome, an economist and Vice President of General Economics at the Cato Institute, joins to tackle the complexities of economic policies under Trump and Harris. He critiques how economic news is reported, highlighting common misconceptions. The rise of economic populism is dissected, revealing its influence on policies and voter sentiments. They also examine proposals like eliminating taxes on tips and assess the financial burden of tariffs on consumers. Additionally, Lincicome discusses the intricate role of executive power in shaping immigration and economic policy.