THE DAILY BLAST with Greg Sargent

In this thought-provoking discussion, A.B. Stoddard, a columnist for The Bulwark and a staunch critic of Donald Trump, dives into the alarming threats Trump has made against his enemies and his disturbing rhetoric on immigration. Stoddard sheds light on how Trump is preparing his supporters for potential violence post-election and critiques the normalization of authoritarian tactics in today's political climate. With polls showing a tight race, the episode raises urgent questions about voter awareness and the challenges facing Democrats in conveying the gravity of Trump's dangerous message.

During an event billed as a speech about the economy, Donald Trump was addled and confused, rambled incoherently, and launched into strange non sequiturs. Yet The New York Times’s initial news story made the event sound far more normal than it was. Is the press doing an adequate job of analyzing Trump’s deteriorating mental state? We think the answer is an emphatic “no.” We talked to former reporter Meredith Shiner—author of a recent piece for The New Republic about the successes of GOP media ref-working—who explained why the press largely fails to scrutinize Trump’s mental unfitness for the presidency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Kurtz, executive editor at Talking Points Memo, dives into the recent uproar surrounding Donald Trump's remarks about Arlington National Cemetery. He unpacks how Trump's distortion of events highlights a troubling culture of intimidation within MAGA politics. Kurtz discusses the emotional fallout from Trump's actions, particularly among grieving families, and the concerning implications of his rhetoric on accountability in government. The conversation sheds light on the dark side of political influence and the urgent call for integrity in democratic values.

In a fascinating discussion, Leah Greenberg, a veteran organizer and co-founder of Indivisible, reveals how increasing enthusiasm for Kamala Harris is reshaping the political landscape. She highlights the alarming fundraising disparities facing GOP candidates as they grapple with this sudden shift. Greenberg emphasizes the power of grassroots organizing and personal stories in mobilizing support, especially around reproductive rights. The conversation dives into the importance of local victories and the growing engagement against extremist positions.

Anne Lutz Fernandez, a keen observer of political discourse, joins the conversation to discuss Donald Trump's recent controversial Fox News interview. They dissect Trump's claims of divine endorsement and his assertion of a 'right' to interfere in elections. The talk delves into the darker undertones of the MAGA movement, including its ethno-nationalistic elements and implications for democracy. They also explore how Trump's rhetoric shifts accountability, fostering division while reshaping American identity in alarming ways.

Jonathan Bernstein, a political scientist and author, joins to discuss a recent scandal involving Donald Trump's campaign team at Arlington National Cemetery. The conversation reveals shocking details about the physical confrontation with an official and the backlash from the Army. They unpack the erosion of the rule of law and the unsettling intimidation tactics that echo historical injustices. Bernstein stresses the urgent need for oversight as the upcoming elections loom, highlighting the dangers posed by Trump's authoritarian rhetoric.

David Sirota, editor-in-chief of The Lever and host of a podcast on Washington corruption, dives into the recent ad by Kamala Harris that sharply critiques Donald Trump's ambitions and Project 2025. They discuss the alarming implications of Trump's potential re-election and the normalization of corruption in politics. Sirota explores the historical context of political corruption and emphasizes the need for transparency and reform. The conversation sheds light on how corruption messaging could influence voter sentiment and drive advocacy for integrity in governance.

Tom Bonier, an analyst from TargetSmart, discusses the significant surge in voter registration among key Democratic demographics, particularly after Kamala Harris entered the race. He highlights increases among black, Hispanic, and young voters, signaling a transformation in the electorate. Bonier shares insights on the growing support for Harris and the evolving dynamics within her voter base. He balances optimism with realism about her chances, emphasizing the importance of these trends for the upcoming elections.

James Carville, a veteran Democratic strategist known for his keen analysis of political dynamics, discusses the pressure Donald Trump is under as he distances himself from his advisers. Carville delves into Trump's conflicting debate strategies and how internal campaign tensions reveal his insecurity against challengers like Kamala Harris. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic political presentation and effective communication, particularly in today's evolving electoral landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability in messaging.

Asha Rangappa, an author and global affairs expert, discusses Donald Trump's recent acknowledgment of his precarious position against Kamala Harris. She explores how Harris has shifted the political narrative, undermining Trump's former aura of invincibility. The conversation touches on the strategies of authoritarian politics, emphasizing the need for hope over fear. Rangappa highlights how community connections can foster resistance to autocracy while examining Trump's psychological struggles as both a powerful figure and perceived victim.