The Assignment with Audie Cornish

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

Former President Donald Trump thrilled the Republican National Convention by entering the arena with a bandage on his right ear, evidence of the assassination attempt from two days prior. With fervor running high, Trump announced that his running mate would be bestselling author and Senator JD Vance from Ohio. Meredith McGraw covers the Trump campaign for POLITICO and she’s here to explain how this choice impacts the presidential race. Her book, out in August, is titled “Trump in Exile.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

America was shaken on Saturday as former president Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. It’s an event of historical significance that’s already re-shaping the presidential race. Kristen Holmes is here to explain how. She’s the CNN correspondent assigned to the Trump campaign, and Kristen and Audie met up on Monday at the CNN-POLITICO Grill on day one of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Audie Cornish chats with Pulitzer Prize winner Emily Nussbaum about the rise and impact of reality TV. They discuss the evolution, manipulation, and dynamics of reality shows, including the influence of shows like The Apprentice on politics. Nussbaum sheds light on the world of reality television and its controversial nature.