Impolitic with John Heilemann

David Hogg, a Parkland survivor and gun control activist, shares his bold vision for the Democratic Party. He reveals plans to allocate $20 million through his PAC to galvanize younger candidates who challenge the status quo. Hogg discusses the backlash from party leaders resistant to change and emphasizes the necessity of grassroots activism for future political reform. He also outlines generational divides in addressing issues like gun safety, drawing parallels between past and present societal threats, making a compelling case for a refreshed Democratic strategy.

Mark Whitaker, former editor in chief of Newsweek and author of "The Afterlife of Malcolm X," explores the enduring relevance of Malcolm X. He delves into the mysteries surrounding Malcolm's assassination and his immense influence on modern social justice movements, notably Black Lives Matter. The discussion also highlights how Malcolm's legacy continues to resonate through hip-hop culture and inspire conversations about equity today. Whitaker emphasizes the complex relationship between Malcolm and Martin Luther King Jr., showcasing Malcolm's lasting impact on American identity.

Jake Tapper, CNN's Washington anchor and author of 'Original Sin', joins Alex Thompson, Axios's national political correspondent, to dissect Biden's presidency and the controversies in their new book. They discuss the cover-up surrounding Biden's declining health and the rising conspiracy theories following his prostate cancer announcement. The conversation dives into the Democratic Party's struggles with transparency and the implications of Biden’s age on the 2024 election, revealing internal dynamics and media scrutiny amid growing public skepticism.

Pablo Torre, an ESPN and MSNBC commentator and host of the award-winning video podcast Pablo Torre Finds Out, discusses the electric intersection of sports, culture, and politics. He dives into the controversy surrounding Wayne Gretzky's ties to Donald Trump and Pete Rose's reinstatement debates, highlighting how fame shapes narratives in sports. Pablo also shares gripping insights on the wrongful conviction case of Charles Flores, emphasizing the ethics of justice in the sports realm. The conversation weaves humor with serious themes, offering a rich tapestry of contemporary sports culture.

David Jolly, a former Florida Republican congressman now eyeing a gubernatorial run as a Democrat, shares his thoughts on the ethical dilemmas surrounding Trump’s recent trip to the Middle East, including a controversial $400 million jet from Qatar. He highlights the chaos within House Republicans regarding key legislation and reflects on his political transformation and the evolving dynamics of Florida’s Democratic landscape. Jolly dives into the implications of foreign policy influenced by corporate interests, raising critical questions about American values.

Davis Guggenheim, an Oscar and Emmy Award-winning documentarian, shares insights from his latest film, 'Deaf President Now!'. He discusses the groundbreaking 1988 protests at Gallaudet University, shedding light on the civil rights movement that many are unaware of. Guggenheim connects his past works, like 'An Inconvenient Truth' and 'Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie', emphasizing the importance of storytelling in advocating for marginalized communities. He also recounts a transformative experience with Denzel Washington that shifted his career perspective.

Ashley Parker and Michael Scherer, both staff writers at The Atlantic with extensive experience covering Donald Trump, dive into his surprising political comeback. They discuss Trump's quirky remarks about Canadian statehood and his unique diplomatic style. The conversation also touches on his trade dilemmas, with a critical look at his promise-versus-reality approach. Additionally, they explore his humorous commentary on Alcatraz, dissecting its cultural significance and Trump's knack for distraction in the political arena.

Anthony Scaramucci, a hedge fund manager and former White House Communications Director, dives into the chaos of the Trump administration. He critiques the sycophantic culture among cabinet members and discusses the recent personnel shake-up, including the surprising firing of Mike Waltz. Scaramucci offers insights on Trump's handling of his trade war and his discomfort with confrontation, revealing how these dynamics are affecting American politics. His unique blend of humor and political analysis keeps the conversation engaging and thought-provoking.

Ben Smith, the editor-in-chief of Semafor and a veteran journalist, discusses the rightward shift of Silicon Valley politics influenced by private group chats. He reveals how these clandestine forums emerged during Covid, led by figures like Marc Andreessen, and have shaped media narratives. Smith also shares insights on Trump’s political gravity and the evolving ambitions of Semafor, while elevating 'Margin Call' to iconic status in Wall Street cinema. It's a fascinating exploration of the intersection between tech, politics, and media dynamics.

In this discussion, political analyst Peter Hamby, a Puck partner, dives into the whirlwind of Donald Trump's first 100 days back in office. They unpack pivotal political events and the Democratic Party's evolving strategies, shedding light on the surprising and the predictable from this tumultuous period. Hamby highlights the disillusionment among young voters and the urgent need for meaningful engagement with this demographic. Additionally, the impact of Elon Musk's actions on Republican politics and grassroots movements are explored, painting a dynamic picture of the current political landscape.