The Dispatch Podcast

Rich Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and former National Security Council staffer, dives into the potential foreign policy shifts for a second Trump administration. The conversation covers the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, highlighting the dangers of hostage diplomacy. Goldberg also critiques the U.S. stance on Qatar and the evolving Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the need for a hardline approach toward Iran's nuclear threat. Lastly, they discuss the implications of Russia's role in global diplomacy.

The podcast dives into the aftermath of a significant election, analyzing Kamala Harris's campaign failures. Discussions highlight her disconnect with working-class voters and challenges posed by economic issues like inflation. The influence of identity politics on voter behavior and internal strife within the Democratic Party are also explored. There's a focus on shifting voter demographics, particularly within the Latino community, and the complexities of political journalism in a polarized landscape. The conversation underscores the need for objective reporting amidst growing partisanship.

Charlie Dent, a former GOP representative and current senior policy advisor at DLA Piper, shares his expertise on Pennsylvania's political landscape. He discusses the potential paths for Kamala Harris to win in swing areas and the role of abortion rights as a pivotal issue for voters. Dent highlights the importance of the Puerto Rican community in shaping election dynamics and critiques the GOP's recent ideological shifts. He also reflects on election integrity and the implications of Trump's influence on the party's future.

Steve Kornacki, a national political correspondent for NBC News with a reputation for his polling prowess, joins the discussion. They delve into whether polling is still valuable, especially with closely tied races. The complexities of the gender gap in voting and the impact of 'garbage-gate' on turnout spark engaging debates. The conversation also taps into shifting voter dynamics in Wisconsin, highlighting disenchanted Republicans and innovative polling methods, ultimately dissecting the unpredictable nature of upcoming elections.

Hugh Hewitt, a nationally syndicated radio host and keen political commentator, discusses the potential pitfalls of a Kamala Harris presidency. He probes whether she stands for anything substantial and contrasts her with Donald Trump's strategic mindset. Hewitt articulates a compelling case for voting Trump, highlighting his foreign policy decisions and defense strategies. The conversation delves into the complexities of political loyalty, national security risks, and the current Republican landscape, raising alarms about accountability and future leadership.

Dive into the latest geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia, Ukraine, and Israel. Discover the intriguing influence Liz Cheney has on Kamala Harris' strategy. Enjoy a discussion on the dynamics of spousal voting and how it’s shaped by personal relationships. Explore the complexities of political identity and the impact of abortion stances. The conversation wraps up on a lighter note with fun takes on Halloween candies and costumes, weaving personal anecdotes into political discourse.

David Frum, a respected Staff writer at The Atlantic and former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, shares his insights on why he's supporting Kamala Harris in the upcoming election. He discusses how the Republican Party has shifted away from conservative values under Trump, highlighting Trump as a 'unique danger' to democracy. Frum also delves into U.S. foreign policy comparisons, particularly regarding Israel, and reflects on emerging Canadian leaders amid housing crises. His viewpoint provides a fascinating look into the evolving political landscape.

Megan McArdle, a columnist known for her keen economic and political insights at The Washington Post, joins the discussion on Kamala Harris' proactive media strategy, including her notable Fox News interview. They analyze whether Harris is truly ready for media scrutiny and tackle the complex intersection of sexism and partisanship in political reporting. The conversation also explores shifting voter dynamics and the intriguing concept of 'steel manning,' emphasizing the importance of understanding opposing arguments to enrich political discourse.

Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian-American activist and senior fellow at The Atlantic Council, shares his insights on life in Gaza. He discusses the complexities of public opinion under Hamas's control and the contrasting governance between Hamas and the PLO. The conversation delves into Palestinian aspirations for peace, exploring whether this sentiment is shared widely among Gazans. Alkhatib also addresses the humanitarian implications of the Israeli blockade and the challenges of negotiating a two-state solution amidst rising extremism.

Tevi Troy, a former official in the George W. Bush administration and presidential historian, dives into the intersection of business and politics. He discusses the intriguing dynamics between CEOs like Elon Musk and U.S. presidents, focusing on shifting political loyalties and the risks involved. Troy explores the selective enforcement of policies and asks whether Republicans are indeed anti-business. He also shares strategies for improving government engagement and emphasizes the vital role of CEO-president relationships in shaping effective policies.