The Conversation with Dasha Burns

Ro Khanna, a progressive California Congressman, discusses his unfiltered views on U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict and his take on why Democrats lost ground to Trump. He emphasizes the need for a substantive vision to revitalize the party. Sally Goldenberg, a senior politics editor, joins to analyze the chaotic New York City primary mayoral race and its implications for national Democratic strategies. Together, they highlight how new leadership and clear policies are crucial for moving forward.

Richard Grenell, former Special Envoy to President Trump and current head of the Kennedy Center, shares his thoughts on cancel culture and inclusivity in the arts. He argues that intolerance often comes from the left and discusses the need for the gay community to self-police at Pride events. Grenell also touches on his friendship with Melania Trump, his views on immigration, and a potential run for California Governor. Joining him, political reporter Melanie Mason delves into immigration protests in Los Angeles and Governor Gavin Newsom's response to Trump's military policies.

Rahm Emanuel, a seasoned political figure with roles from congressman to Chicago mayor, discusses the Democratic Party's urgent need to refocus on practical issues rather than divisive topics. He also addresses the rising anti-Semitism in America and speculates on the potential for a Jewish president. Joining him, Elizabeth Ralph of Politico Magazine delves into the fallout from Trump-era policies and shares insights on quirky trends like the increase of cosmetic surgery among D.C. men, mixing politics with personal narratives.

Dr. Mehmet Oz, a well-known physician and former TV host, now heads the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. He discusses pressing issues like potential Medicaid cuts and strategies to lower drug prices, emphasizing the importance of patient curiosity about their health. Also joining the conversation is Kyle Cheney, who dives into the legal showdown surrounding Trump's “Liberation Day” tariffs and its political implications. Together, they navigate the intersections of health policy, caregiving, and the ongoing legal battles influencing the political landscape.

Dive into engaging conversations that challenge traditional political narratives. The host explores how influential figures are shaping the current landscape with their unique insights. Expect candid discussions that go beyond sound bites and delve deeper into the realities of power in Washington and beyond. Collaborations are teased for richer perspectives on pressing issues.

Bret Baier, FOX News anchor and chief political anchor, shares his unique experiences in Trump’s Washington and engaging discussions with global leaders like Ukraine's Zelenskyy. He reveals anecdotes from playing golf with Trump and navigating high-stakes interviews. The conversation highlights the media's declining trust and the challenges of delivering unbiased journalism. Baier also discusses his role in covering pivotal Trump events and the changing dynamics of press relations during his presidency.

Ashley Etienne, a former adviser to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and VP Kamala Harris, candidly evaluates Hakeem Jeffries’ initial 100 days as House Democratic leader. She discusses the urgent need for Democrats to improve grassroots strategies to regain voter trust. The conversation dives into the inefficacy of political stunts and emphasizes the importance of unified messaging against Trump. Etienne critiques current leadership dynamics and stresses the significance of authentic voter engagement to enhance the party's effectiveness moving forward.

Longtime Democratic strategist Doug Sosnik joins Deep Dive host Dasha Burns to discuss the current identity crisis within the Democratic Party. Sosnik discusses insights from a presentation he’s shared exclusively with Playbook that details the path forward for the Democrats, including how to connect with voters, elevate the right new leaders, and whether or not to oppose Trump or work with him. Dasha Burns is the White House Bureau Chief at POLITICODoug Sosnik is a former Clinton adviser and political strategist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert Doar, President of the American Enterprise Institute, shares insights on the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, particularly amid Trump's influence. He discusses how traditional conservatives are adapting to the rise of national populism and their strategies for promoting free trade and global leadership. Doar also highlights the new voices emerging in Congress, the complexities of U.S.-Russia negotiations, and the think tank's approach to fostering bipartisan support for Ukraine. Surprisingly, he expresses an optimistic view about the future of conservatism.

Calley Means, a special government employee at the Department of Health and Human Services and co-author of 'Good Energy,' discusses his strategic role in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Make America Healthy Again movement. They dive into critiques of the healthcare system's pharmaceutical focus, advocate for disease prevention over treatment, and emphasize food transparency. Means also outlines proposed SNAP reforms for healthier food access and urges a rethink of Medicare and Medicaid funding to prioritize lifestyle changes and empower frontline research.