The Conversation with Dasha Burns

Freshman Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.) is the first out transgender member of Congress. Within days of her election this past November, she faced attacks from Republican colleagues who tried to draw her into a public conflict. Nevertheless, McBride has continued to find ways to forge ties across the aisle.  In this week’s episode of The Conversation, Rep. McBride tells POLITICO’s Dasha Burns why she has prioritized bipartisanship: “Every person in this country goes to work in a workplace where there are people who think differently, live differently, look differently than they do. They figure out how to make it work. They treat one another with respect. This is the one place where we seem to not be able to muster the same maturity and mutual respect that Americans across this country muster every single day when they go into the workplace.” McBride says she hopes to bring “a sense of kindness and grace” to Congress despite the “reality TV show nature” of today’s politics. The two also discuss the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, how the Democratic Party can rebuild its coalition without “reinforcing right-wing framing” over culture war issues and why her pursuit of bipartisan legislation is in part a direct response to President Trump. “If we can't figure out how to solve problems across our political divide,” she tells Burns, “then I believe Trumpism only grows and worsens in this country.” Plus, White House reporter Myah Ward on Trump’s trip to Scotland and what it revealed about the working relationship between the president and European leaders.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Martin Makary is getting lobbied by the MAHA movement to restrict food dyes and ultra-processed foods, as well as by the food, agriculture and pharmaceutical industries to reduce government oversight.  “We want to go bold and there are a lot of things to do,” Makary tells POLITICO’s Dasha Burns. “But we also want to find common ground and work incrementally.” At the same time, he says, “The amount of pressure I feel from industry or other branches of government is zero.” Makary also discusses how the agency is addressing women’s health and access to mifepristone, what he calls a “child vaping epidemic,” and explains the rationale behind FDA staffing cuts as well as some controversial hires.  Plus, White House reporter Jake Traylor joins Burns to discuss the mood inside the White House amid the fallout over the Jeffrey Epstein story, why President Trump is “itching” to get back on the campaign trail ahead of the 2026 midterms and whether GOP candidates in swing districts will welcome him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt, a strategist within the Republican Party and a key player during the Trump administration, shares insights on his work with a $9.4 billion rescissions bill and his vision for Medicaid reform. He argues against labeling his foreign policy as isolationist, emphasizing a pragmatic approach. Joining him, POLITICO reporter Ben Jacobs discusses the growing impact of social media influencers in politics, illustrating how platforms like TikTok are reshaping electoral dynamics, especially among younger voters.

Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar and veteran immigration law enforcement official, discusses the implications of the $170 billion allocated for deportation efforts. He defends ICE's tactics and challenges misconceptions about undocumented workers. Salena Zito, a journalist and author, shares gripping insights from her new book on the near assassination of Trump, reflecting on the emotional fallout of political violence and its impact on America’s political climate. Their conversation intertwines law enforcement and the complexities of political engagement.

Marco Rubio, a prominent figure serving as Secretary of State and National Security Advisor, shares insights on the complex Israel-Iran conflict. Alex Bruesewitz, a key strategist for Trump, discusses his rise in political consulting and the power of online debates in mobilizing the MAGA coalition. Felicia Schwartz provides on-the-ground updates from NATO's efforts to mediate ceasefire talks. The conversation delves into the intricacies of digital activism, political trolling, and the impact of celebrity interactions on international diplomacy.

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.