The Conversation with Dasha Burns

Carlos Lozada, a top book critic, delves into the political lines of 2024 through analyzing books by Obama, Trump, Biden, and more. Insights on Supreme Court dynamics, Trump's influence on the book industry, and comparing Trump and Obama's presidential self-regard. Exploring potential presidential candidates' memoirs, policy challenges, and the role of ghostwriters in speeches and books.

Rep. Nancy Mace's political journey with Trump's support, facing revenge plots in a heated primary, her prediction for Trump's victory margin, and the backstory of the scarlet 'A' incident. Exploring the complexities of political leadership, personal struggles, advocacy for women's rights, and analysis of Tim Scott, January 6th aftermath, and border policy. Resilience against sexism in politics and defiance towards unfair media treatment.

Rep. Jim Himes and Ryan Lizza discuss Russian space weapons, Section 702 reforms, and behind-the-scenes drama at the Intelligence Committee. Topics include space militarization, satellite threats, declassification risks, oversight obligations, and challenges in passing Section 702 legislation.

Sen. Chris Murphy shares the untold backstory of the bipartisan border bill that fell apart due to Donald Trump's influence. He reveals the challenges in negotiations, unexpected turns with Senator McConnell, and the public demand for new laws. The podcast delves into reflections on respect, career sacrifices in politics, and intensive text-focused negotiations. Murphy discusses unforeseen challenges at the Southern border, adaptive leadership, and personal support from family during tough times.

Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (D-Texas) discusses the unique role she plays as one of President Joe Biden’s campaign co-chairs who is also opposed to some of the key policies he is pursuing on immigration and in the Middle East.  On this episode, she tells Deep Dive host and Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza: Her views on Biden’s border policies and the senate bill  Her own ideas of what a winning immigration policy looks like  Her concerns about Biden’s policies in the Middle East — and what she fears is the potential political fallout for his re-election What might be on the agenda at the next secret meeting of Biden’s campaign co-chairs Whether she’d rather Biden run against Nikki Haley or Donald Trump Ryan Lizza is a Playbook co-author for POLITICO.Veronica Escobar is the representative for Texas's 16th district. 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

Former top pollster and strategist for Bill and Hillary Clinton, Mark Penn, discusses his controversial polls and the potential for a third-party candidate. They also explore the support for Joe Biden and the doubts surrounding his candidacy. The episode dives into Trump's strengths and weaknesses in the 2016 and 2020 campaigns, the rise of immigration as a top issue, and Biden's negotiation strategy. Overall, a fascinating conversation on the current political landscape.

Joe McQuaid, the longtime publisher of The New Hampshire Union Leader – the 161-year old conservative paper that has operated like a Republican party boss for many decades – joins Deep Dive to tell host and Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza everything you need to know about Tuesday’s New Hampshire primary, including whether or not Nikki Haley can win, if she’ll get the Union Leader’s endorsement, and whether New Hampshire’s primacy in American politics has come to an end.Ryan Lizza is a Playbook co-author for POLITICO.Joe McQuaid is the former publisher of The New Hampshire Union Leader.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

David Axelrod, former top Obama strategist, offers tough medicine to Joe Biden's campaign. He critiques Biden's skills as a candidate and communicator, expresses concerns about his age, and emphasizes the need for Democrats to be worried about the polls. The podcast also discusses the role of a commentator, the importance of maintaining a clear narrative in a presidential campaign, and the strategy behind Biden's decision to run for re-election.

Ryan Lizza and Jonathan Martin discuss the potential stumbling of Trump, the status of DeSantis' campaign, underestimating Nikki Haley, and the impact of the legal system on Trump's strength. They also analyze potential scenarios for the Republican primaries in 2024, the impact of indictments on a campaign in Iowa, and the influence of Trump on Democratic politics.

Former president of the American Enterprise Institute, Arthur Brooks, discusses the relationship between power and happiness in Washington. He shares insights on obtaining happiness and the problem with relying on worldly achievements. The podcast also explores collaborations with influential figures, the evolution of intelligence over the lifespan, and the dangers of workaholism. Seven rules for long-term happiness and well-being are highlighted, along with coping with anxiety and managing social media.