The Conversation with Dasha Burns

Jason Smith, the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee from Missouri, discusses his commitment to tax policies that support working families and small businesses. He shares his vision for a significant reconciliation package aimed at unity within the GOP, navigating the challenges of diverse factions. Smith emphasizes the importance of tax cuts for lower earners while exploring the political implications of these policies on elections. The conversation dives into the intricate legislative processes and the necessity of fulfilling campaign promises in times of rising inflation.

Michael Froman — former U.S. Trade Representative, Deputy National Security Advisor and current president of the Council on Foreign Relations — joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss the state of affairs in the world that Trump is stepping into, how world leaders are watching and reacting to Trump’s every word and what he thinks Trump will do differently than Biden in global hot spots like Ukraine, Taiwan, Israel, and yes… Greenland.Eugene Daniels is a Playbook co-author for POLITICO.Michael Froman is the president of the Council on Foreign Relations.Kara Tabor is a producer for POLITICO audio. Alex Keeney is a senior producer for POLITICO audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Harris serves as the Global Editor-in-Chief at POLITICO, offering sharp insights into global politics, while Nicholas Vinocur, Editor-at-large in POLITICO's Europe newsroom, dives deep into European political currents. They discuss the potential ramifications of Donald Trump's anticipated return to the White House in 2025, exploring how key appointments could reshape U.S. foreign policy. Tensions within Europe regarding Ukraine and the ongoing political landscape are also tackled, filled with humor and personal stories from the political sphere.

Kirsten Hillman, the Canadian ambassador to the U.S. and a key negotiator in the USMCA, joins to delve into the complex dance between Canada and the Trump administration. Discussions include how Trudeau is navigating Trump's comedic jabs and serious tariff threats. Hillman highlights the political turbulence Canada is facing while trying to maintain strong diplomatic relations. The conversation also touches on the changing nature of international diplomacy under Trump's leadership, emphasizing the need for continuous dialogue despite the challenges.

Rodney Davis, Head of Government Affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and former U.S. Representative, discusses rebuilding ties with the Republican Party. He shares insights on navigating the complex relationship between big business and politics amid the Trump era. Davis highlights the importance of personal connections and effective lobbying strategies while addressing past tensions over tariffs and endorsements. He emphasizes the Chamber's commitment to supporting pro-business candidates and collaborating on critical economic issues.

Jared Huffman, California's 2nd district representative and former attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council, discusses the urgent need for generational change within the Democratic Party. He explores the shifting leadership dynamics in Congress, emphasizing the balance between experience and new perspectives. Huffman shares insights on his transition from environmental advocacy to seeking a leadership role in the Natural Resources Committee, and highlights the importance of addressing pressing issues like public lands and bipartisan cooperation.

Senator Kevin Cramer from North Dakota, a key early supporter of Trump, shares insights on the challenges Senate Republicans face as they navigate Trump’s cabinet choices. He discusses the implications of Matt Gaetz's withdrawal from the attorney general nomination and the evolving dynamics between Trump and the Senate. Topics include military sexual assault reform, the debate over women in combat roles, and the necessity for thorough vetting in confirmations. Cramer emphasizes the importance of party unity amid rising tensions.

Sherrod Brown, former Democratic Senator from Ohio, discusses the lessons from his defeat and the broader implications for the party's identity. He highlights the urgent need for Democrats to reconnect with their working-class base, emphasizing labor rights and inclusivity. Brown critiques the party's messaging challenges and the disconnect between its priorities and voters' needs. He argues for a renewed focus on union support and a historical link between labor rights and civil rights, suggesting that a thoughtful rebranding is essential for future success.

Meridith McGraw, a national political correspondent for POLITICO and author of "Trump in Exile," teams up with Mike DeBonis, Playbook editor at POLITICO, to dissect the nuances of a potential second Trump term. They discuss who might fill Trump's cabinet, the evolving GOP leadership, and how Democrats will strategize after their recent losses. The conversation touches on the shifting dynamics within the Republican Party, the rise of the America First Policy Institute, and how Trump's policy priorities may clash with a new political landscape.

Lakshya Jain, CEO of Split Ticket, and Logan Phillips, founder of Race to the White House, delve into the world of election forecasting. They dissect early voting trends and the dynamics of swing voters, emphasizing how polls can be more revealing than often credited. The duo shares insights on the evolving voter landscape, noting how demographics and candidate experience influence decisions. They conclude with intriguing predictions about which races could signal the next president on Election Night.