
THE DAILY BLAST with Greg Sargent
Every weekday, The New Republic’s Greg Sargent brings you a fresh way of thinking about the biggest political stories of the moment, offered up in an entertaining, information-packed conversation with a leading lawmaker, journalist, or newsmaker. We go deep into the stories behind the headlines leading TNR and other news outlets—while making it fun and fast.
Latest episodes

Aug 1, 2024 • 24min
Trump’s Bizarre Rant About Kamala’s Blackness Exposes MAGA’s Weakness
Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, discusses Donald Trump’s odd tirades about her identity following a rally in Georgia. She reveals how Trump’s comments reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of race and politics in America. The conversation highlights the MAGA right's panic over her rising popularity, and how it clashes with shifting cultural values regarding diversity. Expert Nicholas Grossman provides insight into the disconnect within Republican strategies and the potential pitfalls they face as the political landscape evolves.

8 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 29min
Trump’s Ugly New TV Ad Mocking Kamala Harris’ Dancing Demands Pushback
Douglas Rivlin, a senior official at America’s Voice with extensive immigration expertise, dives into Donald Trump’s new ad campaign mocking Kamala Harris. The discussion reveals the ad's underlying themes connecting her dancing to immigration issues, prompting a serious Democratic response. Rivlin analyzes the complexities of migration, including root causes like poverty and climate change, and critiques the divisive political rhetoric. He advocates for humane immigration policies that reflect American values while addressing labor needs and community impacts.

Jul 30, 2024 • 27min
GOPers Finally Admit It: J.D. Vance’s Weirdness Is a Fiasco for Trump
This discussion features J.D. Vance, a politician and author facing scrutiny for his unconventional public image, and veteran reporter Jill Lawrence, who analyzes political narratives. They explore the increasing unease among Republicans regarding Vance's suitability as Trump's running mate. The conversation highlights how Vance's peculiarities may alienate suburban voters and challenge traditional GOP strategies. It also delves into how Democrats can leverage these vulnerabilities to reshape political messaging around family dynamics and values.

Jul 29, 2024 • 27min
Trump’s Mental State Suddenly Takes a Darker Turn: “I’ve Gotten Worse”
In a riveting discussion, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, an expert on authoritarianism and strongman politics, dives deep into Trump's recent alarming rhetoric. He boldly claims the upcoming election might be our last, raising red flags about democracy. Ben-Ghiat highlights how Trump’s approach keeps his followers in a state of frenzy, focusing on threats and imagined enemies. The conversation also touches on the implications of election denial and the dangers of fostering unity while suppressing dissent, painting a chilling picture of the current political climate.

Jul 26, 2024 • 22min
MAGA’s Repulsive New Attacks on “Laughing Kamala” Show Hidden Weakness
Guest Jenifer Fernandez Ancona discusses the recent attacks on Kamala Harris's laugh and temperament by MAGA, suggesting they may backfire. The podcast explores Harris's appeal and potential to revitalize the Democratic Coalition. Analysis of recent poll numbers reveals Harris's strength among key demographics. The chapter highlights the contrast between Harris's positivity and MAGA's negativity.

Jul 25, 2024 • 31min
Pete Buttigieg Destroys J.D. Vance’s Ugly “Childless Cat Lady” Smear
Melissa Gira Grant joins to discuss J.D. Vance's 'childless cat lady' remark, prompting Pete Buttigieg's sharp response. They delve into gender views, nationalism, family ideologies, and Kamala Harris's focus on reproductive freedom.

Jul 24, 2024 • 23min
J.D. Vance’s Shocker on Trump and Sexual Assault Unmasks the True MAGA
Tech writer Gil Duran discusses J.D. Vance's shift from Trump critic to MAGA supporter, the influence of Curtis Yarvin on Vance, and the potential threat posed by Vance's authoritarian ideology.

Jul 23, 2024 • 29min
Fox News's Awful New Kamala Harris Smears Hit Nuclear Levels of Idiocy
Elaina Plott Calabro, from The Atlantic, discusses the struggles Fox News faces in attacking Vice President Kamala Harris. They ridicule her laugh and debate her political identity. The right's challenges to pigeonhole Harris could impact the presidential race.

Jul 22, 2024 • 29min
Trump's Alarming New Rant About Dictators Exposes Media's Epic Failure
Rick Wilson discusses Trump's alarming praise of dictators at a rally, highlighting the GOP's shift towards authoritarianism. The media's failure to alert voters to the dangers of Trump's rhetoric is emphasized. Insights on Trump's authoritarian ambitions and corrupt transactions are explored, along with strategies to beat him in the election.

Jul 19, 2024 • 25min
Matt Gaetz’s Weird “AI Sex Doll” Speech Caps RNC Descent Into Madness
Guest Ron Filipkowski discusses the bizarre events at the Republican National Convention, including Matt Gaetz's controversial speech and the cult-like behavior of attendees. The episode explores the rise of MAGA celebrities, J.D. Vance's political evolution, and Trump's influence on the GOP loyalty dynamics.