Runaway Country with Alex Wagner
Crooked Media
Being an American right now is a wild ride. Every day brings a new controversy, breathless media narratives, and the same loud voices rushing in to score political points. Then another Truth Social post drops and the circus moves on. But all that noise is drowning out the actual story. On her new podcast Runaway Country, veteran journalist Alex Wagner talks to the voices at the center of the headlines: from the fringes of the resistance, to the marrow of MAGA, to the many people who’ve found themselves smack-dab in the crosshairs of a fight they never asked for. Because if you want to understand our unreal times, you’ve got to talk to the very real people who are experiencing it all first-hand. Join Alex as she brings together the stories of everyday Americans trapped in our national car with no brakes, alongside conversations with some of the smartest thinkers in politics. Buckle up, this road could lead anywhere.
New episodes every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts, and @RunawayCountryWithAlexWagner on YouTube.
If you have a story to share, send us an email or one-minute voice note at runawaycountry@crooked.com.
New episodes every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts, and @RunawayCountryWithAlexWagner on YouTube.
If you have a story to share, send us an email or one-minute voice note at runawaycountry@crooked.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 16min
ICE Arrests Are Only the Beginning
David Wilson, an immigration attorney from Minneapolis, sheds light on the harrowing treatment of detainees, revealing a surge in habeas filings and inadequate medical care amid chaotic processing. Jacob Soboroff, a national reporter, shares his on-the-ground insights into community protests against aggressive ICE tactics, likening current policies to those of the previous administration while detailing the psychological toll on families. Together, they discuss how these enforcement actions ripple through neighborhoods, impacting schools and overall community stability.
51 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 1h 6min
Trump and MAGA Justify Renee Good’s Death
In this conversation, Michael Moore, the former Chief of Police of Los Angeles, shares his expertise on policing tactics and accountability, especially in the wake of Renee Good's tragic death. He critiques ICE's escalation tactics and highlights how inflammatory rhetoric can incite violence. Meanwhile, political commentator Tim Miller discusses America's polarized perceptions of the incident, questioning whether the nation is inclined towards authoritarianism. Their insights reveal complex dynamics of law enforcement and political implications surrounding this case.
26 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 1h 3min
Trump’s Terrifying Imperial Fantasies
Join Jon Favreau, a keen political commentator from Pod Save America, and Ben Rhodes, a former deputy national security advisor, as they delve into Trump’s alarming imperial ambitions. They dissect the chaotic operation against Maduro in Venezuela and the fraught U.S. foreign policy landscape. The duo highlights the political risks for Republicans and critiques Democrats’ hesitance. Rhodes draws unsettling parallels between Trump and global autocrats while suggesting the potential backlash from voters against prolonged military engagements. It's a riveting discussion on power dynamics and consequences.
10 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 1h 19min
Will the Supreme Court Finally Stand Up to Trump in 2026? (with Melissa Murray)
Melissa Murray, an NYU law professor and co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, joins former FTC Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter to discuss major Supreme Court issues. They dive into the legality of Trump's tariffs and the fight for agency independence, with Slaughter sharing her shocking firing experience. Murray contextualizes the cases, emphasizing the threat to birthright citizenship and voting rights. The conversation reveals underlying tensions in the court and explores the implications for democracy and public trust.
11 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 12min
What the Hell is Happening at the Pentagon? (with Sen. Elissa Slotkin & Ben Rhodes)
In this engaging discussion, national security reporter Nancy Youssef reveals the challenges of covering defense without Pentagon access. U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin shares insights into the political dilemmas facing service members and the chilling effects of unlawful orders. Former Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes critiques the reputational damage of current Pentagon leadership, highlighting the risks of authoritarianism. Together, they explore the intersection of military oversight, political loyalty, and the urgent need for transparency.
5 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 47min
Making America White Again (with Joy Reid)
Joy Reid, a prominent television host and political commentator, joins to discuss the implications of the Trump administration's immigration policies. They dissect how recent violence is being leveraged as a pretext to fuel an ethno-nationalist agenda. Joy argues these policies echo exclusionary trends from the 1920s and connect to a coalition seeking mass deportation. The dangers of cultural erasure and economic decline due to immigrant exclusion are highlighted, with warnings about the long-term consequences for American society.
Nov 20, 2025 • 53min
Trump Cracks on Epstein Files
Marina Lacerda, a brave survivor of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse, passionately discusses the importance of releasing the investigative files for survivor healing and accountability. She shares insights into her journey, emphasizing the need for transparency. Joining her is George Conway, who provides legal analysis of the recent congressional bill, detailing potential pitfalls of redaction and the political implications of Trump's sudden support. They explore the fractures within the Republican party and the broader impacts on justice for survivors.
Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 14min
Hasan Piker on the Democrats' Bullies and Republican Nazis
Morris Katz, a political strategist advising progressive campaigns, joins Hasan Piker, a passionate Twitch streamer known for his left-wing commentary. They tackle the Democrats' struggles under political bullying and the concerning rise of fascist tendencies in the GOP. Katz emphasizes the need for authentic leadership and rallying voters, while Piker links today's right-wing movements to historical fascism. Both stress creating a clear, progressive vision to combat extremism and reclaim the political narrative for a healthier democracy.
13 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 53min
A Wipeout and a Showdown (with Chris Hayes)
In this engaging conversation, Chris Hayes, host of MSNBC's All In and a noted political commentator, shares insights on recent Democratic wins, discussing their implications for future strategies as the government shutdown drags on. He delves into the concept of 'thermostatic public opinion' and the importance of clear messaging in securing victories. Hayes also contemplates the risks of leveraging ACA subsidies amid the shutdown and whether removing the filibuster could restore legislative accountability. Their dynamic exchange captures the urgency and stakes of current political battles.
10 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 59min
Dems Take the Gloves Off (with David Plouffe)
David Plouffe, a veteran Democratic strategist, discusses threats to democratic institutions and the necessity for Democrats to adopt aggressive tactics against GOP redistricting. Richard von Glahn, grassroots organizer from Missouri, shares insights about mobilizing efforts to collect signatures against mid-decade gerrymandering. They examine California's Prop 50 as a strategic countermeasure and highlight the urgency of addressing partisan redistricting plans that threaten electoral fairness. Both guests emphasize the need for proactive responses to safeguard democracy.
