The Dispatch Podcast

GOP hardliners, Senate's progress, challenges faced by McCarthy and the House Freedom Caucus, operating challenges and potential consensus in the House, potential aftermath and uncertainties of government shutdown.

The podcast discusses the GOP's leadership incompetence, the shutdown fiasco, voters' perceptions of GOP candidates, the evolving relationship between Donald Trump and pro-life groups, and the perception of Trump's electability.

Senator Tom Cotton joins the podcast to discuss American support for Ukraine against Russian invasion, defending Taiwan, domestic politics and Republican strategy, and concerns about Mitch McConnell's health and media focus.

The podcast discusses the GOP's embrace of violent rhetoric, the disputed value of Mike Pence's anti-populist turn, the potential dangers of secession talk and crisis mentality, concerns about radicalization and political violence within the GOP, and the need for genuine arguments to move beyond the populist movement.

The podcast discusses the impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden, the problematic Iranian prisoner deal, Kim Jong Un and Putin's relationship, and concerns about Biden's fitness for office.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's impeachment trial and its implications for the Republican Party. The shift away from small government values in the party. Influence of the Wilkes Brothers and Tim Dunn in Texas Republican politics. The controversy surrounding Paxton's impeachment and the importance of government efficiency.

Discussion on the polls showing Americans' dissatisfaction with Joe Biden and Donald Trump as presidential candidates. Concerns about Biden's age and mental fitness. Analysis of the Republican primary challenges and Mike Pence's speech. Examination of the impact of the migrant crisis on Democrats. Exploration of the influence of 9-11 on conspiracy theories and the political landscape. Parallels drawn between COVID and post-9/11 conspiracy theories.

Mike, Steve, and Jonah discuss China's manifest destiny, Biden's economic outreach, big dollar donors scanning the Republican field, Kari Lake's losing attitude, mob rule of institutions, and whether Vivek Ramaswami is worth voters' time. They also explore the impact of the first Republican debate, strategies for DeSantis' campaign, and the impact of DeSantis and Trump on Republicans.

Michael Beckley, associate professor of political science at Tufts University and a non-resident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, discusses the growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, including China and North Korea's hostility. The podcast explores foreign policy views within the Republican Party on China's threat, the challenges of alliance building, and the rising concern over North Korea's nuclear capabilities.

Discussion about the GOP primary debate, including standout moments and the debate's significance. Analysis of the aftermath of a revolt in Russia and its implications for Putin's regime. Critique of Joe Biden's lack of communication skills and analysis of his response to a question. Exploring the intellectual and political relevance of constitutional arguments. Analyzing an unread article and podcast episode raising doubts about arguments against Donald Trump.