The Muckrake Political Podcast

The co-hosts dive into Trump's controversial 'Thanksgiving peace plan' for Ukraine, revealing how it favors Putin and endangers U.S. support. They discuss Marjorie Taylor Greene's resignation, hinting at the fractures within MAGA as Trump's influence grows. A captivating analysis unfolds around Zahra Mamdani's interaction with Trump, showcasing his vulnerability to flattery. Finally, they explore the shocking collapse of DOGE cryptocurrency and the wider implications for federal agencies and international aid.

The hosts dive into the controversial release of Epstein files, speculating that the outcome may be more of a political maneuver than true accountability. They scrutinize Trump’s dramatic reactions and draw parallels to the Mueller report, warning of a doctored narrative. The conversation shifts to the intertwining of organized crime and the national security state, revealing deep-rooted issues in governance. They also touch on the financial implications of tech stocks, like Nvidia, and end on a light note discussing cultural tidbits, from movies to music.

Hosts delve into newly revealed Epstein emails, revealing Trump's frantic attempts to involve the DOJ against Clinton and Summers. They explore the growing evidence implicating powerful figures and the culture of impunity that allows it. The duo discusses Marjorie Taylor Greene's surprising pivot towards civility and critiques Jamie Raskin's big-tent strategy for Democrats. They also speculate on the future of the GOP, highlighting Ted Cruz's ambitions for 2028 and the ideological factions vying for influence in a post-Trump world.

John Cavanaugh, a two-term Nebraska state legislator and congressional candidate, shares insights on his mission for public service. He discusses the ban on congressional stock trading and the repeal of the diaper tax, emphasizing concrete wins for families. Cavanaugh also addresses the impact of erratic trade policies on local agriculture and the ramifications of ICE raids in meatpacking towns. He advocates for nonpartisan redistricting and highlights voter concerns about healthcare and social security, all while aiming to rebuild public trust in government.

Jared Yates Sexton, a political commentator and analyst, joins to discuss the Democrats' recent capitulation on a shutdown deal and its implications. They dive into the empty promise of an ACA vote and the troubling pardons for 2020 fake electors. The conversation touches on weaponized investigations targeting political opponents and the lavish Mar-a-Lago parties amidst economic struggle. They also critique the introduction of 50-year mortgages as a path to lifetime debt, Elon Musk’s wealth, and the media's silence on Trump’s declining health, all highlighting the stark societal divide.

This is a preview of our full Weekender. Support the show by signing up to our Patreon and get access to the full Weekender episode each Friday as well as special Live Shows and access to our community discord: http://patreon.com/muckrakepodcast In a live Weekender taping, Jared Yates Sexton holds down the fort while Nick Hauselman battles the “Socialist Republic of New York,” then tags in for a fast, sharp Q&A. The guys break down what Zoran Mamdani’s win actually signals, whether AOC just gained real 2028 juice, and why Gavin Newsom looks like yesterday’s model in a changing market. They torch the Heritage crowd’s flirtation with Nick Fuentes, talk shutdown brinkmanship and mutual-aid politics, and lay out practical protest security in a surveillance state. There’s a quick detour through JFK/FDR alt-history, a brutal review of that Springsteen movie, and a courtside reality check on a foul-fest Lakers–Spurs game featuring a very mortal Wemby. It’s smart, a little spicy, and deeply unsentimental—just how Muckrake listeners like it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The hosts discuss the seismic shifts in New York City's mayoral race, focusing on Zoran Mamdani's unexpected surge and its implications for the Democratic establishment. They analyze Mamdani's authenticity and appeal, contrasting it with Andrew Cuomo's divisive tactics. The conversation dives into the potential consequences of a Mamdani victory for progressive movements and highlights alarming reports of ICE activities near polling places, raising concerns about voter intimidation and state-sanctioned coercion. Come for the political drama, stay for the insightful analysis!

Support the show by signing up to our Patreon and get access to the full Weekender episode each Friday as well as special Live Shows and access to our community discord: http://patreon.com/muckrakepodcast It’s a Halloween Weekender so co-hosts Jared Yates Sexton and Nick Hauselman start with candy talk, then dive into the Pentagon’s plan for a 23,500-troop National Guard “reaction force” slated to spin up Jan 1 and be fully operational by Apr 1, and what that signals about ballot boxes, civil unrest, and creeping authoritarianism. They hit Trump’s chest-thumping about reviving nuclear testing, the tech-military money pipeline, and why eugenics-flavored rhetoric keeps popping up. Then it’s SNAP benefits triage, emergency funds that won’t cover the full need, and the cruelty baked into the politics. For dessert, Nick’s West Wing binge meets Jared’s analog-horror picks, plus a quick Nightmare on Elm Street rewatch pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a shocking turn, Trump demolishes the East Wing for a lavish ballroom while millions face food insecurity due to SNAP cuts. The hosts dissect this juxtaposition of elite excess and public suffering, linking it to a looming humanitarian crisis. They explore the role of political theater in the shutdown and how it reveals deep-seated anti-welfare ideologies. Shifting gears, they discuss U.S. interests in Venezuela, warning of reckless regime-change tactics and highlighting the need for mutual aid as communities grapple with growing desperation.

Greg Rosenfeld, a criminal defense attorney from Palm Beach County, dives into the complexities of judicial deference and absolute immunity in the current legal landscape. He discusses how these concepts may protect executive actions, including the deployment of the National Guard, and critiques how the Supreme Court's decisions contribute to a more imperial presidency. The conversation highlights troubling aspects such as partisan favoritism in the judiciary and the impact of shadow-docket rulings on legal accountability. It's a captivating exploration of power dynamics in today's politics.