The Conversation with Dasha Burns

Kevin Hassett, the former Chair of the White House National Economic Council, shares his insights on the economic fallout from the government shutdown, emphasizing the urgency to reopen government and the positive effects of tariff policies amidst controversy. Kevin O'Leary, Shark Tank judge and investor, discusses his bullish outlook on TikTok while critiquing federal investment in Intel. Both guests delve into the political strategies behind the shutdown, the impacts on the economy, and the importance of Fed independence, providing a multifaceted view of current economic challenges.

James Talarico, a former Texas state representative and rising U.S. Senate candidate, discusses his faith-driven approach to politics. He critiques Democrats for failing to represent many in Texas and emphasizes the need to reform democracy rather than simply defend it. Talarico also highlights the significance of humor and nuance in political discourse while advocating for better immigration policies. Joining him is Megan Messerly, a Politico reporter, who analyzes free speech controversies and the limits of press freedom, stirring a lively debate on media access.

Sriram Krishnan, a venture capitalist and White House Senior Policy Advisor for AI, shares insights on U.S. AI strategy and competition with China, emphasizing a market-focused approach to AI development. He discusses the importance of steering clear of 'woke' biases in government-funded AI and stresses enhancing everyday Americans' lives through technology. Jack Blanchard, POLITICO managing editor, analyzes Trump's pivotal state visit to the UK, exploring his relationship with Prime Minister Keir Starmer amidst royal traditions and rising populism.

John F. Harris, Global Editor-in-Chief at Politico and a political history expert, delves into the death of Charlie Kirk and its implications for free speech in America. They discuss the shockwaves of political violence and the lack of unifying leadership during such tragedies. The conversation explores the historical context of political violence, urging a shift towards respectful dialogue amidst divisive rhetoric. Harris emphasizes the critical role of journalism in conveying truth and fostering accountability in these turbulent times.

The Conversation with Dasha Burns is back! In Season 1, Burns sat down with some of the most powerful players in Washington to get their perspectives on what’s really going on inside The White House. Join The Conversation again as Burns continues to explore how President Trump and his team are fundamentally reshaping the country, and how Democrats are tackling this new era of American politics. Full episodes will now air every Friday, starting Sept. 12. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.