

Lost Debate
The Branch
Lost Debate is a weekly podcast from The Branch that brings you news, ideas, and arguments from around the political spectrum. We engage in the good-faith discussions that too much of our society and media miss. It's hosted by Ravi Gupta, a former Obama staffer turned school principal.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 25, 2024 • 45min
Debate Prep, Diddy, Fed Moves
Rob Copeland returns to offer insightful commentary on pivotal political and economic topics. He and Ravi discuss whether upcoming debates should proceed without key candidates, the challenges of appealing to urban voters, and the Fed's influence on interest rates and inflation. They also explore the turmoil in commercial real estate and the banking sector. Additionally, they touch on Diddy’s complex personal narrative, highlighting the multifaceted nature of celebrity relationships and the ambitions tied to them. A thought-provoking dive into interconnected issues!

Sep 24, 2024 • 50min
Defining Harris, Conflicting Polls, Declining Crime, Zooming to Class
The podcast dives into the bizarre twists of the presidential race, focusing on Harris's debate strategies versus Trump's evasive tactics. It unpacks surprising polling dynamics in battleground states, shedding light on how campaign ads shape public perception. The discussion then tackles the latest crime statistics and the political tug-of-war surrounding them. Wrapping up, a study on the effectiveness of remote learning during COVID-19 reveals unexpected insights for traditional education, challenging preconceived notions about online instruction.

Sep 19, 2024 • 59min
Scandals to Solutions: How to Save Democracy with Bradley Tusk
Ravi welcomes Bradley Tusk, an author and political strategist, to explore pressing political issues. They discuss Trump's immigration messaging and its potential impact on his campaign. Tusk shares insights from his new book, advocating for mobile voting as a way to boost electoral participation and combat voter apathy. They also delve into New York City politics, examining Mayor Eric Adams' legal challenges and the implications for the 2025 mayoral race. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of democracy!

Sep 19, 2024 • 51min
New York's Political Crisis is an American Crisis
Journalist and political commentator Ross Barkan joins to analyze New York City's political turmoil under Mayor Eric Adams. They discuss the federal investigations into his administration and the significant turnover among key leaders. Barkan highlights the parallels between New York's governance challenges and those facing cities nationwide. The conversation also delves into the complexities of bureaucracies impeding accountability, the struggles of small businesses, and the impact of upcoming elections on local politics.

Sep 17, 2024 • 55min
The Ticking U.S. Debt Bomb
Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent and lead writer at Vox, joins Ravi to dissect the intricate web of the U.S. national debt. They discuss the historical context of deficits and how they resonate with Americans today, particularly through healthcare costs. The conversation highlights the role of immigration in economic stability and explores innovative self-insurance strategies in healthcare. As the U.S. inches closer to record debt levels, they consider potential reforms essential for sustainable fiscal policy.

Sep 16, 2024 • 20min
Springfield and a Dangerous New Phase of the Campaign
Former President Donald Trump, known for his polarizing views, and politician JD Vance discuss the dangerous rise of misinformation and its real-world consequences, particularly in communities like Springfield, Ohio. They highlight the emotional toll of political exploitation, especially concerning incidents involving immigrants. The conversation shifts to the escalating tensions of the 2024 election, addressing the implications of hate-driven rhetoric and the need for accountability among political leaders in a climate ripe for misunderstanding and instability.

Sep 15, 2024 • 51min
The Return of Campus Protests and K-12 Curriculum Wars
Ravi chats with Emma Green, a journalist from The New Yorker specializing in education and social issues. They delve into the chaos at Columbia University, highlighting the impact of protests on staff like security guards. The discussion then shifts to the rise of classical education and its ideological implications in today's polarized climate. Emma also examines the challenges of K-12 curriculum debates, touching on community values and the future of public education amid shifting political landscapes.

Sep 12, 2024 • 1h 7min
Debate Moments, Inside the Spin Room, Elon in Trumpworld
Gabriel Debenedetti, a National Correspondent for New York Magazine, and Tara Palmeri, Senior Political Correspondent at Puck News, delve into the recent presidential debate. They discuss the strategic maneuvers of Harris and Trump, revealing behind-the-scenes spin room dynamics. The duo also highlights the evolving role of Elon Musk in Trump's campaign and examines internal struggles within the Trump campaign, addressing personnel shifts and public perception challenges. It's a captivating look at the current political landscape and the strategies shaping it.

Sep 11, 2024 • 28min
Post-Debate Reaction + Taylor Swift Endorsement
Vice President Kamala Harris, a trailblazer in American politics, and former President Donald Trump, known for his provocative style, faced off in a high-stakes debate. They delved into hot-button issues like immigration and abortion, where Harris showcased confidence while Trump struggled with responses. Unexpected moments emerged, including a surprising handshake. The discussion critically examined the fallout of January 6 and emphasized the need for unity in the face of divisive rhetoric, making for a compelling political dialogue.

Sep 8, 2024 • 1h
The Red State Education Revolution
In this enlightening conversation, Andrew Clark, president of yes. every. kid., delves into the evolving landscape of education reform in America. He discusses the growing popularity of Education Savings Accounts and the implications for public versus private schooling. Andrew highlights the impact of changing demographics and increased calls for individualized learning. The dialogue also touches on the decline in public school enrollment and the rise of homeschooling, emphasizing the need for diverse educational options tailored to family and community needs.


