THE DAILY BLAST with Greg Sargent

Moira Donegan, a journalist for The Guardian known for her sharp political analysis, joins to discuss the bizarre renaming of the Kennedy Center after Trump. They explore the growing cult-like worship surrounding him amidst his physical and political decline. Moira highlights alarming Fox News poll findings showing waning support and links Trump's need for public reassurance to his health issues. The conversation delves into the implications of these dynamics for the future of MAGA and Trump's diminishing influence.

Grace Seegers, a staff writer for The New Republic focusing on Congress and policy, joins to dissect the rising tensions within the GOP. The discussion highlights a revolt among House Republicans against Speaker Mike Johnson over Affordable Care Act subsidies, with tempers flaring on both sides. Seegers provides insight into the electoral motives behind the dissenters, the potential fallout from expiring subsidies, and the broader implications for health care access. It's a deep dive into a party at odds and the human costs of political strife.

Asawin Suebsaeng, a political reporter for Zeteo, delves into the recent revelations from White House chief of staff Susie Wiles. Wiles candidly admits that Trump's prosecutions are driven by retribution, shedding light on the administration's dynamics. Suebsaeng discusses how this statement provides defense lawyers with ammunition against selective prosecutions, while exploring the ostentatious praise press secretary Karoline Leavitt offers Trump to deflect scandals. The conversation also examines the implications of these dynamics for democracy and rising authoritarianism.

Alex Shephard, a senior editor at The New Republic and expert on MAGA politics, joins to discuss a surprising shift within the MAGA movement. After Trump’s controversial remarks on Rob Reiner’s death, Marjorie Taylor Greene’s empathetic response struck a chord, highlighting divisions among loyalists. Shephard explains how Greene’s insight into Trump’s waning influence might forecast trouble for him, as dissent grows and even his pollsters sound alarms. The conversation reveals unfolding rifts in MAGA that could reshape future politics.

Joining the discussion is Rob Shapiro, an economist and policy analyst recognized for his work on macroeconomic policy. They dive into Trump's chaotic messaging on affordability, revealing how his rhetoric directly ties him to rising costs. Shapiro highlights the implications of tariff policies and explains the GOP’s panic over looming midterm disasters. As they scrutinize productivity versus wage stagnation, Shapiro predicts worsening economic conditions for Republicans heading into 2026. It's an eye-opening look at the clash between Trump’s policies and voter perception.

William Saletan, a staff writer at The Bulwark known for his political analysis, joins the conversation to unpack Trump's recent outbursts about his declining poll numbers. They dissect the noticeable shift in the Latino vote away from Trump, fueled by his immigration policies, and the implications for the GOP's future. Saletan critiques Trump's racially charged rhetoric as an 'ethnic predator' tactic, and they highlight community backlash against harsh immigration enforcement, showcasing a public turning against ethnonationalism.

U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin, a constitutional law scholar, dives into Trump's attempts to gerrymander the 2026 midterms and the backlash from Indiana Republicans. He outlines his new bill for ranked-choice voting, emphasizing how it can prevent gerrymandering and promote fairness in elections. Raskin argues that this reform can help build coalitions and mitigate the risks posed by aggressive redistricting, urging Democrats to mobilize against GOP tactics. His insights blend legal analysis with a call to action to protect voting rights.

Joined by Tess Bridgeman, co-editor of Just Security and former national security lawyer, the discussion dives deep into the fallout surrounding Pete Hegseth's defense of a controversial military action. Bridgeman critiques the legality of the bombing campaign and reveals the troubling evidence that suggests the victims were waving for help. She highlights the wavering support from lawmakers and addresses the implications for accountability concerning President Trump's involvement. Their conversation underscores the urgent need for oversight and a legal reevaluation of military actions.

Vedant Patel, a former State Department and White House official, discusses alarming rhetoric from Trump aimed at the Somali community. He highlights the echo of past divisive language and critiques Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt's cult-like defense of these comments. Patel also addresses the troubling rise in ICE activities targeting Somalis, the implications of Temporary Protected Status, and the administration's threats regarding denaturalization. His insights shed light on the dangerous manipulation of political discourse and the impact on marginalized communities.

In this discussion, Amanda Litman, president of Run for Something and a key progressive organizer, dives into the surprising shift in voter sentiment following the Tennessee special election. She highlights how Trump's explosive rants against the Democrats’ affordability message are signaling deeper GOP woes. Amanda explains factors like high voter turnout and economic anxiety driving the shift, while warning about risks from mid-decade redistricting. She outlines strategies for Democrats to maintain momentum heading into 2026, emphasizing local candidate support and effective messaging.