The Powers That Be: Daily

Dive into the fascinating dynamics of the 1968 presidential election, revealing how Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon navigated their political rivalry. Discover the unexpected role of Reverend Billy Graham as a spiritual mediator between the two leaders during the turbulence of the Vietnam War. This exploration highlights the intricate dance between religion and politics, shedding light on how individual decisions shaped the course of history.

Art world insider Marion Maneker dives into the turmoil at Sotheby’s, revealing how Ron Perelman, once the richest man in the U.S., is unloading $1 billion in art amid a market crash. Patrick Drahi's ownership is also in jeopardy as Emirati investors eye potential acquisition. Discussions highlight the impact of rising interest rates on the auction house's debt and creative strategies for survival. This deep exploration into the financial nuances and power plays of the art market is both enlightening and riveting!

Bill Cohan, a financial expert and author, dives into the tale of Ron Perelman, the former billionaire forced to sell his luxurious possessions for a simpler life. They discuss the impact of the U.S. housing crisis and the role of private equity in the rental market. Cohan compares Perelman's financial decline to that of Carl Icahn, shedding light on the pitfalls of wealth and ambition. The conversation reflects on how aging financiers grapple with their relentless drive, ultimately questioning the motivations behind their high-stakes decisions.

John Heilemann, a sharp political analyst, and Dylan Byers, a media-savvy reporter, dish on the latest vice presidential debate between Tim Walz and J.D. Vance. They break down the candidates’ strategies and performances, assessing how the encounter may affect undecided voters. The conversation touches on key issues like immigration and political messaging while pondering the true influence of debates versus their entertainment value. Expect insightful takes on how media narratives shape voter sentiment in this fast-paced political landscape.

Abby Livingston, a political analyst, dissects the upcoming V.P. debate with Tim Walz, a progressive Midwest governor, and J.D. Vance, a Republican who embodies a contrasting vision. They explore the significance of this debate in a historical context, noting its potential to shift perspectives. Styles and strategies are scrutinized, focusing on social media's role in modern campaigns. They also discuss the unpredictable nature of politics and how candidates are working to engage voters on key issues like agriculture and Ukraine.

Jon Kelly, a commentator on political events and media scandals, joins to unpack the upcoming Vice Presidential debate and the Nuzzigate controversy. They delve into how debate performances could sway crucial undecided voters. The discussion also highlights Netflix's revolutionary shift to a performance-based pay structure, examining its implications for Hollywood's creative landscape. As they navigate these topics, the conversation is rich with insights into media's role in shaping political narratives.

Tara Palmeri, a political expert known for her insights on Trump's strategies, joins Corey Lewandowski, the campaign strategist who has reentered Trump's circle. They delve into Trump's obsession with media narratives and his legal threats against journalists. The discussion turns to the intricacies of his microtargeting campaign for 2024, as internal dynamics shift with Lewandowski's influence. With debates shaping the political landscape, both guests reveal how Trump's tactics are evolving amid growing competition and public perception.

Bill Cohan, a Wall Street expert, joins Peter Hamby to discuss the alarming working conditions faced by junior bankers, particularly following tragic incidents at BofA. They dive into the cultural pressures and lack of work-life balance that define the industry. The conversation also shifts to the ongoing legal saga of Sam Bankman-Fried, exploring how his mental health claims might influence his potential sentencing. The discussion highlights the intersection of high-stakes finance and the complexities of the judicial system.

Julia Ioffe, an astute journalist known for her sharp analysis of global politics, joins to discuss the escalating violence in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah. They explore the broader implications of this conflict and examine the diverging strategies of the Israeli government and Hamas. Ioffe also sheds light on the Biden administration's approach to the United Nations General Assembly, addressing its challenges and the urgent global issues on the agenda, including climate change and geopolitical tensions.

Dylan Byers, a seasoned journalist, and Olivia Nuzzi, a political journalist entwined in a scandal, candidly explore the explosive fallout from her sexting controversy with R.F.K. Jr. They delve into why such scandals captivate media attention, unraveling the complex dynamics of gender and power. The discussion also highlights the unique challenges faced by women in journalism during controversies and the implications for their public perception. As they dissect the scandal's nuances, listeners gain insights into the ever-evolving media landscape.