The Assignment with Audie Cornish

In a presidential race destined to come down to a handful of swing states, Arizona is a political puzzle: a Sun Belt state that’s historically gone red, but went for Biden in 2020. Do the changing demographics prime it for Harris, or will it turn back to Trump? John King talks with two swing voters who exemplify how Arizona defies stereotypes — and represent exactly who the parties are trying to win over. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Colleges and universities are still dealing with the political fallout of last spring’s campus protests and encampments. It’s a political fight that’s led to the ouster of high-profile university presidents and generated national debate and even Congressional hearings. Audie talks with Michael Roth, president of Wesleyan University, about how campus protests over Gaza offer a lens on wider arguments about academic freedom. And we hear the perspective of Sam Hilton, a Wesleyan student and executive editor of the student newspaper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Audie talks with actor and producer LeVar Burton about the political events that shaped his life and informed the way he guided younger generations, especially as they grappled with the political and cultural events of their own time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kamala Harris has “Freedom.” Donald Trump has “God Bless the USA” (and a lot of cease-and-desist letters). What makes for a good campaign song? And why do we respond so viscerally to the ones that work? Audie talks with DJ Cassidy, who DJ'd the DNC Roll Call. And Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, who studies the use of music in political campaigns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We've watched Democratic leaders hand the reins to the next generation at their surprisingly lit convention in Chicago this week. Audie sits down in with CNN’s Van Jones and Evan McMorris-Santoro of the nonprofit news site NOTUS (News of the United States) to talk about who’s taking the stage and changing the party.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kara Swisher, a renowned journalist and author known for her sharp insights into Silicon Valley, discusses the evolving political alliances between tech moguls and leaders like Trump and Kamala Harris. She explores how Trump uniquely captured the attention of big donors and the anti-woke movements gaining traction in Silicon Valley. The conversation delves into the intricate dynamics of tech politics, revealing the complex relationship between money, influence, and societal impact within the ever-changing political landscape.

In this discussion, journalist Elle Reeve, known for her impactful reporting during the Unite the Right rally, dives into the dark evolution of the fringe right. She explores how extremist ideologies have permeated mainstream politics and the alarming blend of alt-right and pro-Trump rhetoric. Reeve shares her firsthand experiences covering violent protests and the chilling profiles of mass shooters. She emphasizes the need for resilience and emotional intelligence in combating radicalization, offering insights into the complex dynamics of identity and societal impact.

Kevin Madden, a CNN Political Commentator and former advisor to Mitt Romney, and Doug Heye, ex-head of communications for the RNC, delve into the complexities of political messaging as Donald Trump navigates the diverse landscape surrounding Kamala Harris. They discuss the challenges of addressing race and gender in political attacks without backlash. The duo also explores the evolving strategies for 2024 campaigns, the importance of personal narratives, and the delicate balance of communicating sensitive issues to avoid alienating voters.

Every presidential campaign eventually finds ways to take advantage of the cultural moment. Vice President Harris’s current moment in the viral sun happened as soon as she became the frontrunner of the Democratic ticket. How and why did it happen? Audie talks with two observers: researcher Nina Jankowicz, who studied online gendered abuse and disinformation against women in political life. And Deja Foxx, who worked on Harris's 2019 campaign when she was just 19 years old, leading the digital team’s influencer and surrogate strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After three weeks of battling an intense debate from within his own party, President Joe Biden made a surprise announcement on Sunday, ending his re-election campaign. Shortly after, he endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Audie talks with Phil Mattingly, CNN’s Chief Domestic Correspondent. He takes us inside Biden’s historic decision and tells us what to expect from here.CNN: Inside Biden’s unprecedented exit from the presidential race Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices