

The Daily Punch
Punchbowl News
Weekday mornings, The Daily Punch brings you inside Capitol Hill, the White House and Washington for an unfiltered look at the key players and stakes of all major issues of the day. Power. People. Politics. Hosted by Punchbowl News founders, journalists and best-selling authors Anna Palmer and Jake Sherman.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 16, 2025 • 9min
The Readback: Senate Dems face a tough map
Senate Democrats are gearing up for a challenging electoral map next year. The discussion includes the shifting dynamics in critical states like Georgia and Texas. Key candidates are analyzed amidst the unpredictable nature of political trends. Light-hearted moments from the Cornhole Tournament add a fun twist. Overall, strategies and obstacles faced by the party highlight the fierce competition on the horizon.

Aug 15, 2025 • 11min
Democrats' new California map
Donald Trump's influence looms over Indiana Republicans as they grapple with redistricting strategies. Meanwhile, California Democrats are shifting from a nonpartisan model to a more aggressive electoral approach, stirring internal debates. Arizona's Medicaid cuts are becoming a pivotal issue, potentially reshaping political tactics in upcoming elections. The podcast highlights key political figures and the ongoing power dynamics in Washington, providing a lively discussion on the implications of these developments.

Aug 14, 2025 • 14min
Inside Trump's legislative plans for D.C.
Dive into Trump’s ambitious push for a new D.C. security fund, facing significant pushback from Congress. The GOP strategizes for Democratic primaries in heated battleground districts amidst rising crime concerns. Meanwhile, tech exporters are rattled by Nvidia and AMD’s new chip sales fee to China, raising alarms about regulatory impacts. Explore bipartisan worries regarding China's policies and the implications of Louisiana's congressional redistricting as key midterm elections loom.

Aug 13, 2025 • 12min
Trump's BLS pick faces Senate test
A controversial nomination is under fire as Trump's pick for the Bureau of Labor Statistics faces tough Senate confirmation hurdles due to questionable past comments. The stakes are high in this politically charged environment. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is gaining momentum with strategic recruitment for 2026, navigating a challenging Republican landscape. Key dynamics are also unfolding in Alabama, where Representative Barry Moore aligns closely with Trump, igniting competition and internal strife within the Democratic ranks.

Aug 12, 2025 • 14min
The 8-figure mission to try to rescue Cornyn
Sen. John Cornyn is facing a tough primary challenge from Ken Paxton amid alarming polling for his seat. The GOP is bracing for a potential financial race to secure Cornyn’s future. Meanwhile, the latest inflation report could reshape political discussions, particularly around Trump’s trade policies. As Texas grapples with redistricting, tensions rise within the Democratic Party, showcasing generational divides among representatives. All eyes are on how these dynamics will play out in the lead-up to the midterms.

Aug 11, 2025 • 13min
The 2026 Senate map: Hits and misses
Democrats are eyeing a narrow path to reclaim the Senate, with key battlegrounds in states like Georgia and Michigan. The dynamics of redistricting are also heating up, as former Attorney General Eric Holder meets with House Democrats about upcoming challenges. Meanwhile, Republicans are strategizing to maintain their majority, especially in critical areas like Texas and Ohio. The discussion also touches on the impact of healthcare issues, including new Medicare requirements, adding another layer to the political landscape.

Aug 9, 2025 • 13min
The Readback: The fog of tech policy
Ben Brody, a tech reporter and co-author at Punchbowl News, dives into the ongoing complexities of tech policy. He discusses the implications of tariffs on semiconductors and highlights Tim Cook's recent $100 billion commitment to U.S. manufacturing. The conversation also touches on President Trump's comments regarding Intel's CEO and the mixed reactions to a tech executive's controversial gesture in the Oval Office. Brody sheds light on the intricate dynamics of U.S.-China relations within the semiconductor landscape.

Aug 8, 2025 • 13min
Inside the GOP's redistricting push
Republicans are pushing for mid-decade redistricting to gain House seats before 2026, while Democrats struggle to respond. The hosts delve into the strategic maneuvers in states like Florida, reflecting on the changing political landscape. They also report on Speaker Mike Johnson's donor retreat, where tech billionaire Alex Karp shared insights with key supporters. Additionally, unexpected diplomacy from Senator Steve Daines shines a light on America's role in brokering peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, blending politics with international relations.

Aug 7, 2025 • 12min
The generational brawl inside the Democratic Party
The Democratic Party is experiencing a dynamic generational clash as younger candidates challenge veteran incumbents. This shift highlights growing demands for fresh leadership among voters. Meanwhile, Senator Tom Cotton raises alarms over national security, urging tighter controls on foreign access to sensitive systems. The podcast also delves into budgetary battles that threaten job security for government employees, reflecting the ongoing tensions within the party and beyond. It's a fascinating look at how evolving priorities are reshaping the political landscape.

Aug 6, 2025 • 9min
Members flock to Israel as Gaza war deepens
Lawmakers are flocking to Israel as the Gaza crisis escalates, highlighting the splits within the Democratic Party over support for Israel. This trip could influence future primaries. Meanwhile, Democrats are preparing for the potential fallout from the expiration of Obamacare subsidies at the end of the year. The political landscape is shifting as they navigate these challenges, particularly with 2026 midterms on the horizon.