There was no shortage of finger-pointing and recrimination among the chattering classes after Donald Trump’s election. But now, as the dust settles and 2024 comes to a close, it’s high time for some soul-searching and reflection, That’s the goal of this year’s final episode of Inside the Hive, where Brian Stelter—who returned to his alma mater as Chief Media Analyst at CNN earlier this year—is joined by Hive Editor Michael Calerone and Executive Editor Claire Howorth to unpack what they got wrong in 2024 as well as the lessons they can take into next year. For one, as Howorth points out, that means redefining what constitutes “alternative media,” which proved unexpectedly instrumental in turning out new parts of Trump’s base. Calderone also adds that political charisma and celebrity also can’t go underestimated, arguing that Democrats should strive to elevate leaders who can communicate effectively in a variety of formats. “The next person,” he says, “is gonna need star power.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Democrats effectively lost the 2024 presidential race a year earlier by rallying behind a deeply unpopular incumbent, New York Times politics reporter Astead Herndon argues in a frank discussion with host Brian Stelter about Joe Biden’s legacy. Herndon, who also hosts “The Run-Up” podcast, talks about how Democrats (and some in the media) missed major warning signs about how Biden’s age and accomplishments were perceived outside the D.C. bubble—and where the party goes next.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Ian Bassin, co-founder of Protect Democracy and former Obama administration lawyer, joins Michael Calderone, editor of Vanity Fair’s The Hive, to unpack the implications of Joe and Mika's Mar-a-Lago meeting with Trump. They discuss the normalization of Trump's rhetoric by media figures and how this may impact journalistic integrity. The conversation further explores how media could respond to authoritarian pressures, the challenges of maintaining independent journalism, and the evolving dynamics of power and media in Trump's era.

There was a time, not long ago, in which most people might have scoffed at the idea that Elon Musk, an entrepreneur with aspirations to save the world from climate change, would become a right-wing folk hero. And yet, that's precisely the transformation he underwent this year. The billionaire CEO of Tesla—now known for his ardent support of Donald Trump and his endless philippics against the “woke mind virus”—has become a major power player in the MAGAverse, and is set to head up a new initiative in Trump’s second administration, so called the "Department of Government Efficiency." In the latest episode of Inside the Hive, VF special correspondent Nick Bilton and New York Times tech reporter Kate Conger unpack what brought Musk into the MAGAverse, how he plans to gut the regulatory state under Trump, and why the duo’s ego-fueled bromance may be destined to blow up. “I think we are on a collision course of personalities with these two,” Conger predicts. “[Musk is] going to want complete control...and I don't think Trump is going to be willing to give him that." Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

On this post-election episode, host Brian Stelter checks in with Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Radhika Jones and contributing editor Jeff Sharlet, getting their gut-level reactions to Donald Trump’s triumph and perspective on the evolving MAGA movement, which now include the likes of Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. They discuss the language of fascism, male identity politics, and the need to cut through the Trumpian noise to uncover what’s really happening in a second term at a national and local level.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Claire Howorth, executive editor at Vanity Fair, and Bess Levin, politics correspondent, share deep insights on the tense atmosphere leading up to the crucial November elections. They explore how voter sentiments, especially regarding reproductive rights, are reshaping the political landscape. The duo discusses critical down-ballot races and the media's challenges on election night, emphasizing the importance of navigating anxiety and finding humor during these unpredictable times. Together, they promote a hopeful yet cautious outlook.

The Republican Party has long been lacking in courage. But profiles in it can still be found among the scores of Trump administration staffers who have come out against their former boss, at potentially immense personal cost. One among them: Sarah Matthews, who served as Donald Trump’s deputy press secretary until January 6th. On the latest episode of Inside the Hive, Matthews opens up about the “cognitive dissonance” she experienced as a spokesperson for Trump, recalls how the Capitol riot became her breaking point, and unpacks why she has thrown her support behind Kamala Harris’s campaign, even if doing so puts a target on her back. “Donald Trump is so much bigger than just me,” she says. “The guilt that I would feel” from sitting on the sidelines,” Matthews adds, “would have been much greater than the fear that I might feel right now.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Ian Sams, senior spokesman for Kamala Harris's 2024 campaign, shares insights on the innovative media strategies being employed to engage undecided voters. He discusses the campaign's diverse outreach, from Howard Stern to 'Call Her Daddy.' Michael Calderone, editor at Vanity Fair’s The Hive, analyzes the contrasting approaches of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, especially Trump's focus on right-wing media to capture young male voters. The conversation highlights the challenges both candidates face in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Stacey Abrams, an influential author and former Georgia representative, dives into the crucial topic of voter suppression. She discusses strategies to boost voter registration, especially among marginalized communities. Abrams reflects on her role in flipping Georgia from red to purple, emphasizing grassroots efforts to enhance democratic participation. The conversation also touches on historical insights and the need for civic accountability in the face of challenges, all while promoting her new children's book aimed at tackling social injustices.

James Carville, a legendary Democratic strategist known for his candid insights and work with Bill Clinton, dives into the political landscape. He discusses Kamala Harris's campaign, advocating for a bold presence to contrast freshness with Donald Trump's staleness. Carville critiques identity politics and emphasizes grassroots engagement, especially concerning abortion rights. He argues that understanding voter dynamics is key to overcoming Republican narratives and stresses the importance of winning elections to inspire political participation.