The Conversation with Dasha Burns

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.

Jason Miller, a senior adviser to Donald Trump with extensive experience in his campaigns, discusses the former president's unconventional strategy as Election Day approaches. They delve into how Trump is using podcasts and relatable storytelling to connect with voters, despite the controversies surrounding him. Miller defends Trump's approach to engage with middle America and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in political messaging. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by other candidates like Kamala Harris in the current political landscape.

Isaiah Thomas, a Philadelphia City Councilmember and basketball coach, joins Charlie Gerow, a Republican consultant and Trump surrogate, to dissect Pennsylvania's political landscape. They discuss the staggering $1 billion campaign investment and the tight race dynamics. Key topics include the outreach strategies to Latino voters by Republicans and waning support among Black men for the Democrats. The speakers highlight the importance of grassroots efforts and the shifting allegiances that could reshape the electoral map as the election approaches.