American politics is undergoing seismic changes that will alter the course of history. At Words Matter, we believe that facts, evidence, truth and objective reality are necessary and vital in public discourse. Our hosts and guests have broad experience in government, politics and journalism -- this gives them a unique ability to explain recent events and place them in historic context. Together, with fellow journalists, elected officials, policy-makers and thought-leaders, they will analyze the week's news and get at the real truth behind all the distracting headlines. New episodes are released on Fridays.
The Impending Border Battle
Greg Abbott and the House Republicans are using the border as a political poker chip, with disastrous implications for immigrants. As Abbott continues to defy the Supreme Court and the House refuses to pass immigration reform, what does the Biden administration need to do? Norm and Kavita discuss the answers and more.
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1/30/2024 • 40 minutes, 7 seconds
Is it Time to Panic Yet?
Donald Trump is now the GOP's presumptive nominee. How should the Biden team be responding? What should they be doing differently.?David Rothkopf joins Norm and Kavita to analyze the good, the bad, and the ugly of the election so far and what comes next.
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1/25/2024 • 36 minutes, 18 seconds
Does the Trump Train Have Brakes?
The Iowa caucus was a blowout. Trump trounced DeSantis and Haley, leaving us all wondering how much longer they will hold on. But how much can we actually learn from the caucus? Norm and Kavita are back to break down the lessons from Iowa and the trouble for Trump looming on the horizon.
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1/19/2024 • 29 minutes, 1 second
Political Prognostications for the New Year
With 2023 in the rearview mirror, many of our greatest political challenges remain unresolved. Norm and Kavita are back for a new year with new political prognostications about what 2024 holds for Congress and what will undoubtedly be a dramatic campaign season.
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1/5/2024 • 38 minutes, 29 seconds
Dr. Ornstein's Political Prescriptions for Smart Democrats
Democrats have their work cut out for them moving into the new year. With monumental elections on the horizon, Norm has plenty of ways the Democrats can press the advantage. In this insightful episode, David Rothkopf fills in for Kavita to discuss the House, Senate, and presidential elections.
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12/15/2023 • 26 minutes, 43 seconds
The Fight for Abortion in Texas and Senate Skullduggery
Norm and Kavita are back! Republicans at both the state and national level have continued to chip away at abortion rights, with a case in Texas drawing national attention and the ire of the state’s AG, Ken Paxton. In addition, Senate Republicans have blocked Ukraine funding, demanding border action. Join us as we break down all this and more.
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12/8/2023 • 29 minutes, 41 seconds
The First Rule of Congressional Fight Club
Norm and Kavita are breaking the rules this week to talk about congressional fight club. With threats of violence by multiple GOP members, its clear that tensions are high as Republicans struggle to govern. With the government shutdown pushed to next year, join us as we break down the political field heading into 2024.
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11/17/2023 • 37 minutes, 44 seconds
Should We Be Worried About 2024 Polls?
Recent polls on a Biden and Trump showdown in 2024 aren’t great for the incumbent president. But with just under a year to go before the election, how worried should we really be? David Rothkopf joins Norm to explain how Biden can bounce back and why the lunacy of the Republican Party will be its own undoing.
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11/7/2023 • 28 minutes, 46 seconds
Managing Mental Health with Dr. Ben Miller
In the face of such overwhelming bad news, it’s all too easy to feel hopeless. Dr. Ben Miller joins Kavita and Norm to talk about the narrative of mental illness in mass shootings, and shares ways that we can maintain good mental health even when the news is bleak. Don’t miss this important episode.
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10/30/2023 • 47 minutes, 15 seconds
Words Matter - So Close and Yet So Far: The Search for a Speaker
Two failed votes for Jim Jordan later, and the House is still no closer to electing a speaker. Norm and Kavita break down what could come next for a speaker pro tempore-led Congress and where the Republican caucus will go from here.
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10/19/2023 • 40 minutes, 31 seconds
A Little Bit of Everything with Laurie Garrett
With Norm away this week, Kavita is joined by Laurie Garrett for a conversation on a potpourri of topics. From the situation in Israel, to the House speaker race, to updates on COVID, there is a little bit of everything in this week’s episode. Don’t miss it!
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10/12/2023 • 50 minutes, 18 seconds
The Speaker Has Left the Building
Another average week for the US Congress. With the shocking removal of Speaker McCarthy by a small cadre of his own party, the divisions within the Republican Party have reached new levels. Thankfully, Kavita is back with Norm to try and make sense of it all.
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10/6/2023 • 38 minutes, 26 seconds
R.I.P GOP: A Political Party is a Terrible Thing to Waste
The Republican Party is falling apart before our very eyes. Between the anarchic second presidential debate and the impending threat of a destructive government shutdown, it’s clear that the party is not going quietly. David Rothkopf and Norm discuss all this and more.
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9/29/2023 • 33 minutes, 58 seconds
Rantapalooza: Norm and David are Triggered
Norm and David are not happy, and for good reason.The latest judiciary committee hearing reminds us all how far down the rabbit hole the Republican party has gone in the pursuit of scorched-earth politics, but it is not the only example of Republican lunacy this week. Norm and David break down the latest news and more in suitably ranty fashion.
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9/22/2023 • 31 minutes, 55 seconds
Is It Time For a New Generation? The Narrative Around Joe Biden
It is no secret that the media remains hyper-focused on Joe Biden’s age and the growing desire for a younger generation of politicians. As the election cycle continues to ramp up, Norm and Kavita break down how the conversation around Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will make waves in 2024.
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9/15/2023 • 28 minutes, 43 seconds
Words Matter - Georgia’s Special Grand Jury Is On My Mind
The latest special grand jury report from Georgia reveals recommended charges against 39 people including Senator Lindsey Graham. With Senator Graham and other high-profile individuals being named, Norm and Kavita break down DA Fani Willis’s potential course of action and more, including the latest on Trump's numerous cases.
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9/8/2023 • 30 minutes, 47 seconds
Back to School Special: Trials and Tribulations
School is back in session this week as Norm and Kavita tackle the latest in Trump's many trials. Trump remains the frontrunner despite a deluge of legal woes, but new information coming to light daily and the threat of the 14th amendment could imperil his candidacy. Tune in for all this and more.
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8/31/2023 • 32 minutes, 22 seconds
Special Edition: After a Lightweight Debate on to Weightier Issues
Last night’s Republican debate may not have had a clear winner, but America was the clear loser. In this special episode, David Rothkopf joins Kavita Patel and Norm Ornstein to discuss the Republican presidential debate and what it means for the future of the party, why Ramaswamy is the front-runner for most unhinged candidate, and how Donald Trump still won - even though he wasn’t there.
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8/24/2023 • 25 minutes, 37 seconds
Best Of - On the Fringe No Longer: Republicans Mainstream the Extreme
Norm and Kavita are taking a much deserved break this week, so we're bringing you one of the best episodes of 2022.
Original Description:
July 23, 2022
On this week's episode, we talk about how the Republican Party is embracing ideologies that used to be fringe, how the media is missing the mark, and what the future of the GOP could look like. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Matt Birk, David Brooks, and Joe O'Dea.
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8/18/2023 • 38 minutes, 10 seconds
Will Legal Drama Actually Empower Trump?
With the sound defeat of Issue 1 in Ohio, Norm and Kavita discuss whether Democrats can apply the lessons learned to 2024. Also on the agenda are the latest developments with Trump’s documents case in Florida, and whether or not the myriad legal woes will actually help Trump in the next election. Don’t miss it.
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8/11/2023 • 32 minutes, 7 seconds
Breaking Down the January 6th Indictment
If you've been watching as much coverage of the indictment as we have, then you're probably more confused than ever. Norm and Kavita are here to make sense of it all, discussing what the indictment really means, how we got to this point, and what it will mean for Trump and the Republicans moving into 2024.
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8/4/2023 • 42 minutes
If You Can’t Take the Heat… Talking Climate, the Border, and More
It’s hot here in DC, but we’re not alone. Norm and Kavita talk climate change and what the administration can do to combat disinformation to change the conversation around climate. Additionally, we discuss what the Democrats can and should be doing to stop Governor Abbott’s abhorrent policies at the border. For all this and more, tune in!
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7/27/2023 • 46 minutes, 9 seconds
The Republicans' Race to the Bottom with Mary Trump
The Republican party is not sending their best. With the 2024 election cycle ramping up, Norm and guest Mary Trump break down the lackluster field of Republican candidates and the issues propelling their narrative. Also on the table are Trump’s latest legal woes. What effect could they have in 2024, and why are people upset about the January 6th indictment? Join us and find out.
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7/21/2023 • 41 minutes, 34 seconds
The Economy Under Biden is Great; Why Don’t We Act Like It?
With the economy continuing to rally despite the odds, why are conversations about Biden’s economic performance so negative? Norm and Kavita discuss why voters have differing perceptions of the economy, and how they will play a key factor in the 2024 election. They also discuss the Vice President’s performance so far, and whether she will be an asset or liability to Biden’s reelection campaign. All this and more on the latest episode of Words Matter.
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7/14/2023 • 40 minutes, 7 seconds
How the Biden Administration Can Fix the Agencies Trump Broke
With recent developments around the indictment of Donald Trump, Norm and Kavita discuss how the executive branch and Congress can work to repair agencies damaged by the Trump presidency. Looking to the future, how do the administration and other elected officials craft a more responsible federal government? Discover the answers in this week's episode.
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7/7/2023 • 30 minutes, 15 seconds
Supreme Court Strikes Down Affirmative Action
Norm and Kavita are back to discuss today’s headline story; the Supreme Court’s decision striking down Affirmative Action. Norm and Kavita break down the implications of the ruling, as well as the state of the Biden presidency with recent discussions surrounding the President’s health.
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6/30/2023 • 36 minutes, 5 seconds
Supreme Court Rules On Biden’s Immigration Guidelines, Justice Alito and More
Norm and Kavita are back this week to discuss the 8-1 ruling in favor of the Biden administration’s immigration enforcement guidelines. From there, they turn their attention to Justice Alito, who earlier in the week wrote a preemptive opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal addressing the ProPublica investigative piece which disclosed his fishing trips with a Billionaire Hedge Fund manger that petitioned the Supreme Court to rule in his favor in his business dealings. Don’t miss it!
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6/23/2023 • 38 minutes
Check Your Blood Pressure Before You Listen to this Episode
The lies and deflections from Republicans defending Trump have spun up the ire of "Words Matter" co-host Norm Ornstein. So in this episode he not only explains why but guest co-host David Rothkopf tries unsuccessfully to defuse his anger. Instead, both recount the facts surrounding the case for which Trump was arraigned this week and the likely cases to come and frankly, the outrage only grows. Join them to understand why it is fully justified.
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6/16/2023 • 31 minutes, 59 seconds
We Have a Debt Ceiling Deal!
Norm and Kavita discuss the passing of the debt ceiling deal in the House of Representatives. Since taping, the bill also passed the Senate and is expected to be signed as early as Friday, June 2, 2023 by President Biden. In the members-only section, they discuss the recent alleged recordings of former President Trump stating that he knew that documents in his possession were classified. Tune In!
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6/2/2023 • 34 minutes, 38 seconds
DeSantis Announces Candidacy
Norm and Kavita are both traveling, but that doesn’t stop them from discussing the issues. This week, in this abbreviated version of Words Matter, Norm and Kavita discuss Ron DeSantis’s presidential bid announcement, the Surgeon General’s announcement on the impact of social media on adolescents and the Nebraska Abortion Case.
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5/26/2023 • 33 minutes, 9 seconds
Words Matter: Have We Turned the Corner on the Debt Ceiling Negotiations?
This week, Norm and Kavita discuss the latest developments in the negotiations between the White House and lawmakers on the debt ceiling. In the members only segment, they discuss some wins for Democrats in elections in Florida and Pennsylvania. Tune In!
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5/19/2023 • 28 minutes, 31 seconds
Justice is Being Served
This week, Norm and Kavita discuss the E. Jean Carroll Civil verdict and Trump’s CNN town hall meeting. In the bonus section, they discuss Congressman’s Santos’ legal woes and the latest in the debt ceiling negotiations. Join us for this timely discussion.
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5/12/2023 • 40 minutes, 16 seconds
The Latest on the Debt Ceiling, Trump's Legal Woes, Clarence Thomas Payments, The Proud Boys Convictions
On this week's episode of Words Matter, Norm and Kavita discuss the latest developments on the debt ceiling, the Seditious Conspiracy convictions of the Proud Boys, Trump's legal woes and Clarence and Ginni Thomas.
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5/6/2023 • 38 minutes, 45 seconds
Too Numerous To Count (TNTC)
This week, as Kavita so eloquently put it, there are so many issues to discuss. Norm and Kavita tackle the debt ceiling, touch on the Disney/DeSantis dispute and in the members only section, discuss the Biden 2024 announcement. Don't miss this timely discussion.
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4/28/2023 • 32 minutes, 59 seconds
Could the US Default on its Debt?
On this week’s episode of Words Matter, Norm and Kavita discuss the GOP’s debt ceiling proposal. In the members only section, Norm and Kavita discuss the situation with Dianne Feinstein and how it’s impacting the Senate.
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4/21/2023 • 31 minutes, 24 seconds
Why Does the Judiciary Branch Wield So Much Power?
On this week’s episode of Words Matter, Norm and Kavita discuss a number of judiciary issues, including reproductive health. In a special extended bonus section, Norm and Kavita tackle Clarence Thomas and Diane Feinstein.
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4/14/2023 • 34 minutes, 28 seconds
Why Can't We Have an "Operation Indictment Warpspeed?"
Note: This episode was taped prior to the announced indictments of Donald Trump. The absence of real indictments against Donald Trump allows him to set the narrative. That's not a good thing. So maybe prosecutors should consider drinking a little more Red Bull, having a few more cups of coffee. This is getting ridiculous. We discuss with Dr. Kavita Patel, Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf. We also discuss who will be the GOP candidate for president when Trump and DeSantis flame out. And we consider the imponderable: Why is George Santos still a member of Congress. Join us for answers to all the most pressing political questions.
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4/7/2023 • 38 minutes, 10 seconds
Sue the Gunmakers, Tax the Bullets, Just Do Something!
In the wake of yet another tragic mass shooting--and we're averaging two per day this year in the US--Americans are again asking the question what can be done. The response of the GOP: "Nothing." That's their plan and it has worked so far to make the U.S. a very dangerous place. So what can we do to help combat this national gun pathology? On this episode of "Words Matter" Dr. Kavita Patel, Norm Ornstein and David Rothkopf discuss. Don't miss it.
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3/31/2023 • 33 minutes, 5 seconds
The Politics of Justice
Trump might finally be indicted but what impact will that have on the political landscape? Kavita and Norm seek to answer that question during this engaging conversation. Members get a bonus conversation about COVID and the recent UN Climate Report.
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3/24/2023 • 37 minutes, 14 seconds
Bail outs for thee but not for me?
Silicon Valley Bank collapsed in spectacular fashion last week but the Biden administration stepped in to save its depositors. Was that the right thing to do and what can prevent things like this happening in the future? Norm and Kavita discuss during this thoughtful conversation. Members get a bonus conversation about Ron DeSantis and his views about the war in Ukraine.
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3/17/2023 • 32 minutes, 7 seconds
Our Two Speed Country
From the media and books to drag shows and voting, states is in the South have been trying to turn back the clock. Kavita and Norm talk about these updates, what they mean for the country as a whole, and what we can do about it. Members get a bonus conversation about Walgreens.
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3/10/2023 • 34 minutes, 3 seconds
Lab Leaks and Committees Speak
Congress is back in session and there is lots of news. First Kavita and Norm talk about the Department of Energy's report around the "Lab Leak" theory and then they discuss Attorney General Merrick Garland's testimony in front of the House Judiciary Committee. Members of The DSR Network get a bonus conversation about the recent hearing on the Equal Rights Amendment.
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3/3/2023 • 44 minutes, 39 seconds
East Palestine's toxic plume and America's toxic politics
Kavita is back from her trip but the problems in the country haven't moved much. The train derailment in East Palestine has caused concerns about environmental and health impacts while the right-wing media pushes it as race issue. Members of The DSR Network get access to a bonus segment about Mark Brnovich.
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2/24/2023 • 32 minutes, 9 seconds
Nikki Haley Jumps In
On this week's episode, Kavita is still out of town. So Norm and producer Grant Haver talk Nikki Haley getting into the Presidential race, her potential candidacy, and what this means for the future of our democracy. Members of The DSR Network get access to a bonus segment about the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.
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2/17/2023 • 33 minutes, 20 seconds
The State of Our Union Is....
On this week's episode, Kavita is still out of town. So Norm and producer Grant Haver talk about the State of the Union, what it says about the future prospects for Joe Biden, and if it matters. Members of The DSR Network get access to a bonus segment about the House "oversight" hearings on Twitter and the weaponization of government.
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2/10/2023 • 39 minutes, 12 seconds
Modernizing Congress with Rep. Derek Kilmer
On this week's episode, Norm talks with Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-6) about his work as the Chair of the Modernizing Congress Committee, what they were able to accomplish, and what work is left to do. Members of The DSR Network get access to a bonus segment where Norm and producer Grant Haver talk reflect on the interview.
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2/4/2023 • 45 minutes, 24 seconds
What to do when the government does nothing about guns
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the never ending cycle of gun violence in the United States and what communities should do since the government is incapable of making progress on this issue. Members get a bonus conversation about the continuing kerfuffle about classified documents.
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1/27/2023 • 31 minutes, 9 seconds
America at the (debt) limit
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the debt limit, what the U.S. can do at this point to pay its bills, and where we expect this to end. Members get a bonus conversation about the West Wing reboot and China.
Read more about the debt limit here: https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IN/IN12045
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1/20/2023 • 34 minutes, 58 seconds
A House Divided Against Itself
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the start of a divided and performative Congress. Members of The DSR Network get a bonus conversation about Biden's classified documents and the Republicans investigations efforts across the government.
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1/13/2023 • 29 minutes, 54 seconds
Seeking a Speaker
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about Kevin McCarthy's quixotic quest to become speaker of the House and what it means for average Americans. What does this clown show mean for the most pressing issues facing the United States? Members of The DSR Network get a bonus conversation about the COVID crisis in China and how anti-vax terrorists are seizing on high profile deaths and injuries.
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1/6/2023 • 37 minutes, 30 seconds
Best Of: Walker, Oz, and What Happens if They Win?
Originally Aired: October 8, 2022
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the Senate races in Georgia and Pennsylvania. In the bonus segment, Words Matter Producer Grant Haver talks with Norm about what's on Democrats agenda if they win the midterms.
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12/30/2022 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Best Of: New York, Florida, and Dark Money Matters
Originally Aired: August 26, 2022
On this week's episode, we talk about the primaries in New York and Florida as well as the news the Leonard Leo now has over one billion dollars to spend on conservative political causes.
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12/29/2022 • 30 minutes, 19 seconds
Best Of: Midterm Madness
Originally Aired: August 12, 2022
On this week's episode, we talk about all the races we are following for the midterms, and our campaign experiences. You won't want to miss it!
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12/28/2022 • 33 minutes, 22 seconds
Best Of: The IRA Under the Microscope
Originally Aired: September 2, 2022
On this week's episode, we do a deep dive on the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. In the bonus segment, Norm talks about the latest Trump crime news and Biden's most recent speech.
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12/27/2022 • 36 minutes, 15 seconds
Best Of: Views from the Road: Liz Cheney, John Fetterman, and Chautauqua
Originally Aired: August 19, 2022
On this week's episode, we talk about Liz Cheney's defeat, the senate race in pennsylvania, and we get the view from Chautauqua. You won't want to miss it!
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12/26/2022 • 32 minutes, 19 seconds
Holiday Mailbag
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita answer your questions about everything from how to fix the Republican party, what policies are dividing the Democratic party, and much more. Members of the DSR Network get access to a bonus conversation featuring non-political questions around books that have impacted Kavita and Norm and how to turn off from the news.
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12/23/2022 • 42 minutes, 7 seconds
The Final Days of the 117th Congress
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita discuss what Congress needs to do before the holidays. Members of the DSR Network get access to a bonus conversation about the recently released texts from Republicans around January 6th. If you want to submit questions for next week's mailbag episode email podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com or tag us on your favorite social media app!
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12/16/2022 • 25 minutes, 47 seconds
Senator Warnock (D-GA) and Senator Sinema (I-AZ)
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita discuss Senator Warnock winning his run off race and what that means for his political ambitions and the Senate. They also discuss how the changing order of the Democratic primaries will impact 2024. Members of the DSR Network get access to a bonus conversation about the Senator Sinema leaving the Democratic party to become an independent.
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12/9/2022 • 29 minutes, 31 seconds
The Lame Duck Congress
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita discuss what remains on the agenda for the lame duck Congress including issues like the debt limit and the looming threat of a railroad strike. Members of the DSR Network get access to a bonus conversation about the respect for marriage act and World AIDS day.
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12/2/2022 • 33 minutes, 44 seconds
Best Of: The January 6th Hearings and the Ongoing Coup
Originally Aired: June 17, 2022
On this week's episode, we talk about the January 6th committee hearings, the Republican candidates for office that believe in the big lie, and how the media is talking about all of this. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Representative Liz Cheney, Pennsylvania Gubernatorial Candidate Doug Mastriano, and Tucker Carlson.
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11/18/2022 • 34 minutes, 45 seconds
Midterm Reflections
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita provide their analysis of the midterms, discuss what they got right (and wrong) heading in, and where this goes from here. Members of the DSR Network get a bonus segment on how the parties should react to the results headed into 2024.
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11/11/2022 • 30 minutes, 24 seconds
The Last One Before The Midterms
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita are joined by EJ Dionne to discuss his latest column "In the midterms, GOP extremism is the ghoul in the room" and then they give their predictions about the midterms. Members of the DSR Network get a bonus segment on Biden's speech on the value of Democracy.
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11/4/2022 • 40 minutes, 37 seconds
A Woman, Her Doctor, and the Debate Between Oz and Fetterman
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the debate between Oz and Fetterman and between Gretchen Whitmer and Tudor Dixon. In the bonus segment Producer Grant Haver and Norm talk about the crossover between foreign policy and domestic politics.
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10/28/2022 • 33 minutes, 18 seconds
Debating Debates
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the recent debates in races across the country including Marco Rubio v. Val Demings, Tim Ryan v. JD Vance, and Raphael Warnock v. Herschel Walker.
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10/21/2022 • 29 minutes, 40 seconds
The Elections Up And Down The Ballot
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the Senate races in North Carolina and Nevada as well as state and local races vital to defending democracy.
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10/14/2022 • 25 minutes, 33 seconds
Walker, Oz, and What Happens if They Win?
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about the Senate races in Georgia and Pennsylvania. In the bonus segment, Words Matter Producer Grant Haver talks with Norm about what's on Democrats agenda if they win the midterms.
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10/8/2022 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
The polls and polling with Anna Greenberg
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk with Anna Greenberg of GQR about the polls headed into the midterms and the broader conversation around the value of public polling in our extremely partisan environment.
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9/30/2022 • 37 minutes, 4 seconds
Political Stunts and Immigration Policy
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about immigration policy and the political stunts performed by Ron DeSantis and Greg Abbott around the issue. For members, Kavita and Norm talk about the latest Trump legal news.
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9/23/2022 • 27 minutes
Freight and Foreign Policy
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, Norm and Kavita talk about Biden's successful handling of the potential train workers strike and the intersection for foreign and domestic policy. For members, Kavita and Norm talk about the Fetterman-Oz race and a Washington Post Editorial about Fetterman's health.
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9/16/2022 • 28 minutes, 47 seconds
The State of Labor on Labor Day
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk with Michael Strain, the director of Economic Policy Studies, and the Arthur F. Burns Scholar in Political Economy at the American Enterprise Institute, about where the labor market is and what the recent reports tell us about the economy overall.
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9/9/2022 • 26 minutes, 2 seconds
The IRA Under the Microscope
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we do a deep dive on the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. In the bonus segment, Norm talks about the latest Trump crime news and Biden's most recent speech.
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9/2/2022 • 36 minutes, 15 seconds
New York, Florida, and Dark Money Matters
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about the primaries in New York and Florida as well as the news the Leonard Leo now has over one billion dollars to spend on conservative political causes.
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8/26/2022 • 30 minutes, 19 seconds
Views from the Road: Liz Cheney, John Fetterman, and Chautauqua
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about Liz Cheney's defeat, the senate race in pennsylvania, and we get the view from Chautauqua. You won't want to miss it!
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8/19/2022 • 32 minutes, 19 seconds
Midterm Madness
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about all the races we are following for the midterms, and our campaign experiences. You won't want to miss it!
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8/12/2022 • 33 minutes, 22 seconds
Political Potpourri: Biden's Messaging Problem, Abortion in Idaho and Kansas, and January 6th
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about why Biden's political successes are translating into better polling, abortion rights in Idaho and Kansas, and the latest news on January 6th. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Karine Jean-Pierre and Merrick Garland.
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8/5/2022 • 34 minutes, 22 seconds
It's the Economy, Stupid!
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about the economy and why inflation is up but unemployment is down as well as the deal around the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Jerome Powell and Joe Manchin.
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7/29/2022 • 30 minutes, 42 seconds
On the Fringe No Longer: Republicans Mainstream the Extreme
Each week, Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel, we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about how the Republican Party is embracing ideologies that used to be fringe, how the media is missing the mark, and what the future of the GOP could look like. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Matt Birk, David Brooks, and Joe O'Dea.
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7/22/2022 • 25 minutes, 56 seconds
It's All Healthcare: COVID, MonkeyPox, and Abortion
On this week's episode, we talk the continued COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of Monkeypox, and, for members, the current state of reproductive rights. We ground all of our analysis in the words Antony Fauci, Ashwin Vasan, Ashish Jha, and Andrea Miller.
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7/15/2022 • 30 minutes, 15 seconds
The Bill of Rights and the Continued Fight for Freedom
We're relaunching the show with new hosts Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel. Each week we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback as we continue to shape it moving forward. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about the first, second, ninth, and tenth amendments and for members we talk about disinformation and Twitter. We ground all of our analysis in the words of the Bill of Rights.
Links for your consideration:
https://www.heritage.org/firearms/commentary/these-10-examples-defensive-gun-use-underscore-second-amendments-true-purpose
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7/9/2022 • 40 minutes, 5 seconds
Supreme Injustices
We're relaunching the show with new hosts Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel. Each week we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback as we continue to shape it moving forward. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about the end of a monumental Supreme Court term and the explosive testimony of Cassidy Hutchinson before the January 6th committee. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Justice Barrett, Cassidy Hutchinson, and Kelly Shackelford.
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7/1/2022 • 33 minutes, 46 seconds
The January 6th Hearings and the Ongoing Coup
We're relaunching the show with new hosts Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel. Each week we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback as we continue to shape it moving forward. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about the January 6th committee hearings, the Republican candidates for office that believe in the big lie, and how the media is talking about all of this. We ground all of our analysis in the words of Representative Liz Cheney, Pennsylvania Gubernatorial Candidate Doug Mastriano, and Tucker Carlson.
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6/17/2022 • 32 minutes, 32 seconds
Guns: What Are They Good For?
We're relaunching the show with new hosts Norm Ornstein and Kavita Patel. Each week we will talk about the issues facing our country as we head into the midterms and what our leaders are saying and doing about them. We hope you like the show and we'd love to hear your feedback as we continue to shape it moving forward. If you have any comments feel free to send us an email at podcasts@thedsrnetwork.com.
On this week's episode, we talk about the epidemic of mass shootings in the country, the mental health red herring, and how this will impact the midterm elections in the fall. We ground all of our analysis in the words of America's political leaders like President Biden, Senators Mitch McConnell and Chris Murphy, and former Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo.
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6/6/2022 • 29 minutes, 21 seconds
Votes Matter: Counting to Nine on Abortion Rights
The Supreme Court is poised to overturn Roe v. Wade — or at least change the abortion-rights landscape dramatically. Katie sits down with Sarah Isgur and David French of The Dispatch to answer the question: Why is this happening?
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12/9/2021 • 37 minutes, 23 seconds
Words Matter Library: Daniel Patrick Moynihan, American Visionary
The Almanac of American Politics described Daniel Patrick Moynihan as “The nation’s best thinker among politicians since Lincoln and its best politician among thinkers since Jefferson.” Before his election to the US Senate in 1976, Moynihan served in the administrations of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon and Ford. He was ambassador to India, and U.S. representative to the United Nations, and was four times elected to the U.S. Senate from New York.
This week we are honored to add Daniel Patrick Moynihan: A Portrait in Letters of an AmericanVisionary to the Words Matter Audible Library. In this important book, distinguished journalist Steven Weisman compiles a vivid portrait of Moynihan’s life, in the senator’s own words. Moynihan's letters offer an extraordinary window into particular moments in history, from his feelings of loss at JFK’s assassination, to his passionate pleas to Nixon not to make Vietnam a Nixon war, to his frustrations over healthcare and welfare reform during the Clinton era.
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1/23/2020 • 35 minutes, 21 seconds
Lord Ashcroft - Words Matter Interview
Elise talks with Lord Ashcroft about the new round of Ashcroft in America research leading up to November's midterm elections - and about his new book "White Flag? An Examination of the UK's 'Defence Capability."
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