American politics is in crisis. Together, the founders of The Lincoln Project have spent over 200 years electing Republicans. But now, they’ve sparked a nationwide movement with a singular mission: To defeat Donald Trump and Trumpism. Ron Steslow hosts fellow political experts Reed Galen, Jennifer Horn, George Conway, Steve Schmidt, Mike Madrid, Rick Wilson, and John Weaver, and more as they defy their party and reveal how Trump will be defeated, discuss what’s at stake in the 2020 election, and share the stories of voters all across America who are putting country over party.
Republicans’ Border Bluff—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On this weekly roundup, Biden praises the border security deal and pledges to “shut down” the border if it passes, an Iranian-backed militia kills three U.S. soldiers in Jordan, and Nikki Haley goes on offense.
This week’s panel:
Ron Steslow
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder)
Olivier Knox (veteran politics and foreign policy reporter, most recently at The Washington Post )
Segments this week:
(02:35) The border deal
(18:00) Iran-backed militias
(36:13) Nikki Haley
[Politicology+] The MAGA conspiracy theory that the Super Bowl is rigged and Taylor Swift is a PsyOp.
Not yet a Politicology+ subscriber? It’s a private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. Upgrade now at politicology.com/plus.
Check out Olivier’s substack: https://olivierknox.substack.com/
Watch Spiritual Warriors: Decoding Christian Nationalism at the Capitol Riot —https://bit.ly/3UqNfl6
Send your questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/OKnox
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
Related reading:
Segment 1:
WP - Lankford defends bipartisan border security bill after attacks by Trump, GOP
The Hill - House Republicans poised to torpedo GOP’s best chance in years to pass border bill | The Hill
Axios - Bloomberg poll: Biden losing ground to Trump on immigration
White House - Statement from President Joe Biden On the Bipartisan Senate Border Security Negotiations | The White House
WSJ - A GOP Border Reckoning - WSJ
Segment 2:
CNN - Jordan drone attack: Three US troops killed at Tower 22, more than 30 injured | CNN Politics
NPR - U.S. identifies the 3 service members killed in drone strike in Jordan : NPR
NYT - 3 American Soldiers Killed in Drone Strike in Jordan, U.S. Says
Axios - Biden says he's decided how to respond to deadly Jordan attack
AP - Iran threatens to respond to any US strikes as Biden weighs how to react to a base attack in Jordan
Segment 3:
The Bulwark - An Open Letter to Nikki Haley - by Michael Wood
NYT - Nikki Haley Goes After Trump and Biden in ‘Grumpy Old Men’ Campaign - The New York Times
Axios - Nikki Haley's coast-to-coast money week
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2/2/2024 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 35 seconds
Politicology Mailbag with Mike Madrid
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Ron Steslow respond to your feedback and answer your questions on our latest mailbag episode.
(01:35) Lauren Boebert’s district switch
(05:35) Shifting demographics and political alignment in the U.S.
(08:05) The moral and ethical considerations for former Trump supporters and the importance of genuine contrition
(27:00) The significance of union endorsements in the current political landscape
(41:10) Global tensions and the interconnection between various forms of warfare, including the potential onset of a world war
Have a question for a future Mailbag episode? Send it over to us at podcast@politicology.com!
You can also leave us a voice message at (202) 455-4558
Follow Ron, and Mike on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
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1/31/2024 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 26 seconds
[+] AI, Elections, and Embedded Values [Preview]
Hagar Chemali, Mike Madrid, and Ron Steslow discuss AI systems, the fight over whose values are embedded within the technology, what it will say, and what it will be used for.
Related reading:
Axios - AI's next fight is over whose values it should hold
https://www.axios.com/2024/01/24/values-ai-chatgpt-alignment
CNBC - OpenAI quietly removes ban on military use of its AI tools
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/16/openai-quietly-removes-ban-on-military-use-of-its-ai-tools.html
NBC News - Fake Joe Biden robocall tells New Hampshire Democrats not to vote Tuesday
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/fake-joe-biden-robocall-tells-new-hampshire-democrats-not-vote-tuesday-rcna134984
Axios - OpenAI suspends developer behind Dean Phillips bot
https://www.axios.com/2024/01/21/dean-phillips-chat-gpt-ai-bot-suspension
Wired - OpenAI Quietly Scrapped a Promise to Disclose Key Documents to the Public | WIRED
https://www.wired.com/story/openai-scrapped-promise-disclose-key-documents/
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1/26/2024 • 24 minutes, 59 seconds
It’s Go Time —The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On this weekly roundup, Biden and Trump win the New Hampshire primaries, the evolving politics of the worsening border crisis, and the “incredibly stark” assessment that Russia could win their war against Ukraine in a matter of weeks.
This week’s panel:
Ron Steslow
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder)
Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN)
Segments this week:
(03:00) The New Hampshire Primary
(18:37) The Fight Over Border Security
(37:47) Ukraine Aid
[Politicology+] AI systems, the fight over whose values are embedded within the technology, what it will say, and what it will be used for.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Check out Oh My World!: https://www.ohmyworld.tv/
Read Akhil and Vikram Amar Amicus brief: https://bit.ly/3HxTZFR
Send your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
Related reading:
Segment 1:
ABC News - Haley captures independents and college grads, but Trump base holds fast in NH: Exit poll - ABC News
NY Times - New Hampshire Primary: Trump Defeats Haley, but She Vows to Stay in Race - The New York Times
CNN - Biden wins New Hampshire primary, CNN projects, with successful write-in campaign
Segment 2:
NYTimes - Opinion | Why Biden Must Collide With the Democratic Party on Immigration - The New York Times
CBS News - Americans increasingly see border as crisis, call for tougher measures, CBS News poll finds
Politico - Lead GOP negotiator: No border package vote this week, 'very hopeful' on deal text - Live Updates - POLITICO
NYTimes - With Border Deal Near, Parole and Money Take Center Stage in Senate Talks
ABC News - Supreme Court allows federal agents to remove razor wire Texas placed at border - ABC News
The Hill -Chip Roy: Texas should ignore Supreme Court’s border razor wire ruling | The Hill
Segment 3:
NBC News - 'Incredibly stark': Biden aides give lawmakers a grim assessment of Ukraine without more aid
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1/26/2024 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 25 seconds
ENCORE: The Power of Silence — Part 2
We live in a loud world that’s getting louder.
We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications.
But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it?
In fact, what is silence, anyway?
How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships?
Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise
(02:38) What we can all learn from how the Amish evaluate new technology
(07:25) The attention economy and why it’s not working for us
(13:44) Understanding “ma” and how we can use it to resolve conflict
(22:14) Using quality over quantity to measure productivity
(26:26) Ways to incorporate silence in your everyday life
(35:35) Silence and expanded states of consciousness using psychedelics
You should read Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise : http://bit.ly/3UIGJU2
FollowJustin, Leigh, and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/JustinZorn
https://twitter.com/LeighMarz
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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1/24/2024 • 55 minutes, 38 seconds
ENCORE: The Power of Silence — Part 1
We live in a loud world that’s getting louder.
We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications.
But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it?
In fact, what is silence, anyway?
How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships?
Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise
(02:33) Leigh and Justin’s backgrounds
(07:04) Why they began practicing silence in their own lives
(12:50) Why silence feels scary
(18:30) What is noise?
(22:12) Internal silence is what people think it is
(30:19) The connection between noise and rigid thinking
(37:27) The historical significance of silence
You should read Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise : http://bit.ly/3UIGJU2
FollowJustin, Leigh, and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/JustinZorn
https://twitter.com/LeighMarz
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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1/24/2024 • 59 minutes, 1 second
The Buzzsaw Primary —The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On this weekly roundup, Trump wins the uneventful Iowa caucus, rising tensions in the Middle East, and the dynamics of the Democratic primary
This week’s panel:
Ron Steslow
Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP)
Alex Thompson (National Political Correspondent for Axios)
Marc Polymeropoulos (Former CIA Official)
Segments this week:
(02:20) The Iowa Caucus
(08:30) Rising tension in the Middle East
(36:46) The Democratic Primary
[Politicology+] Davos and the garish display of wealth with growing income inequality.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Send your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/LPDonovan
https://twitter.com/AlexThomp
https://twitter.com/Mpolymer
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYTimes - Iowa Caucus Results 2024: Trump Wins - The New York Times
CBS News - Iowa caucus turnout for 2024 and how it compares to previous years - CBS News
Des Moines Register - Early call of Trump as winner of Iowa Caucuses stirs anger. Here's why it happened
Segment 2:
Time - Iran Fires Missiles at Iraq, Syria and Pakistan—What to Know | TIME
WSJ - Houthis Turn Their Sights on U.S. Ships, Vow to Keep Attacking Red Sea Targets - WSJ
CNN - Iran-backed militia vows more attacks after US Embassy in Iraq comes under fire | CNN Politics
Politico - Biden's Yemen strike reignites Congress' battle over war powers - Live Updates - POLITICO
Segment 3:
(From Feb, 2023) ABC News — Democrats approve new primary calendar for 2024 - ABC News
Miami Herald - 2024 New Hampshire primary has a twist — it doesn't matter for Democrats. Wait, what?
NBC News - Inside the 'weird' write-in campaign needed to help Biden win New Hampshire
Vox - Democrats’ bizarre New Hampshire primary fight, explained. - Vox
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1/20/2024 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 19 seconds
Trump’s Courtroom Campaign
Donald Trump is facing 91 counts in 4 criminal cases and a host of civil litigation.
In this episode, Michael Zeldin (Former federal prosecutor) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the 4 criminal cases, Trump’s civil fraud trial and more.
Segments to look forward to:
(02:03) Overview of the cases and legal troubles
(06:40) Trump’s civil fraud trial in New York
(15:02) The huge damages in Rudy Giluiani’s defamation trail
(19:17) Mark Meadows attempt to move the Georgia case to Federal Court
(24:07) The plea deals in Georgia and what they say about the DA’s case
(26:10) What impact the alleged affair between the D.A. and lead prosecutor could have on the case
(29:44) The question of presidential immunity
(39:30) How the appellate court decision on immunity could impact the Trump trial timelines
(44:47) Fischer v. The United States and how that case could change the federal election subversion case against Trump
(52:52) Some questions the courts will need to answer about Section 3 of the 14th Amendment
Check out Michael’s podcast, That Said: https://bit.ly/3S0n0iA
Follow Ron and Michael on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/MichaelZeldin
Email your questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
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1/17/2024 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 48 seconds
Wildcards—The Weekly Roundup
On this weekly roundup, the wildcards in the 2024 presidential election and how we’re reading the race, and the politics and policy of the border crisis.
This week’s panel:
Ron Steslow
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert)
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education, and Politics at Third Way)
Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff at Carly Fiorina Enterprises)
Segments this week:
(02:10) The 2024 Presidential Race
(41:28) The border crisis
[Politicology+] The “swatting” hoaxes targeting elected officials, judges, and Special Counsel Jack Smith
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Send your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
Check out Third Way: https://www.thirdway.org/
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYTimes - A Super PAC Forms to Support No Labels - The New York Times
The Atlantic - Trump’s Lawyer Walked Into a Trap - The Atlantic
CNN - Takeaways from the appeals court hearing on Donald Trump’s immunity claims | CNN Politics
ABC News - SCOTUS to consider Trump 14th Amendment ballot disqualification case - ABC News
Axios - Biden speech: Trump's "lies brought a mob" to D.C. on Jan. 6
God Made Trump video
Segment 2:
CBS News - Pressured by record migrant crossings, White House weighs tough concession in border talks with Congress - CBS News
CBS News - Americans increasingly see border as crisis, call for tougher measures, CBS News poll finds
CNN- A border deal to nowhere? House GOP ready to reject Senate compromise on immigration | CNN Politics
NY Daily News - Migrants at Floyd Bennett to be evacuated to Brooklyn high school, per Adams' admin order
NY Times - Opinion | Why Biden Must Collide With the Democratic Party on Immigration - The New York Times
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1/12/2024 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 45 seconds
Hagar Chemali on Pentagon’s Communication SNAFU
The U.S. is monitoring more national security threats than at any point since World War II and last week, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin went to the hospital because of complications from a recent survey.
But no one told the President for three days.
In this episode, Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) joins Ron Steslow to discuss Austin’s hospitalization and the delay in telling the White House.
Segments to look forward to:
(01:45) Ron sets the stage with a rundown of the timeline of Sec. Austin’s hospitalization and when the White House was informed
(03:13) Hagar breaks down her initial reaction to the news and the political and media uproar
(05:00) The role of the Secretary of Defense in national security and what risks Austin’s absence could have posed
(06:43) Hagar provides an overview of the current national security climate, including the rising tension in the Middle East, the ongoing war in Ukraine, the situation in China and Taiwan and places Austin’s hospitalization in this broader context.
(14:11) The standard protocols for handling this situation within government agencies
(33:11) Analyzing the political and public relations fallout from the incident, and how it could impact domestic politics and foreign policy
Check out Oh My World!: https://www.ohmyworld.tv/
Follow Ron and Hagar on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
Email questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
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1/10/2024 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 23 seconds
‘The Insurrection Pivot’ —The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On this weekly roundup, the ongoing immigration crisis, the legal and illegal corruption in Congress, and President Joe Biden’s insurrection pivot.
This week’s panel:
Ron Steslow
Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention)
Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP)
Segments this week:
(02:23) The border crisis
(24:05) Congressional stock trading and Bob Menendez’s corruption charges
(45:30) The Biden campaign’s pivot to Trump’s role in the insurrection
[Politicology+] Is this the beginning of the end of DEI?
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Send your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/LPDonovan
Check out Unusual Whales:
https://twitter.com/unusual_whales
Related reading:
Segment 1:
The Hill - House GOP to begin 2024 with focus on border | The Hill
ABC News - Migrant encounters along southwest border reach all-time high of 302,000 - ABC News
Fox News - Migrant encounters at southern border hit record 302K in December, sources say
Fox News - Eric Adams says NYC is at ‘breaking point’ as he warns of another surge of migrants from Texas
Chicago Sun Times - With Chicago’s migrant crisis worsening, Biden should step up
Politico - Opinion | The Root Causes of Congressional Dysfunction - POLITICO
Segment 2:
Unusual Whales - The Unusual Whales Congress Trading Report for 2023
ABC News - Citizen watchdogs eye Congress' 'killing it' approach to stock trading - ABC News
CNN - Sen. Menendez charged with receiving gifts from Qatar in new allegations in corruption scheme | CNN Politics
Segment 3:
Axios - Biden will target Trump in speech at war site on Jan. 6 anniversary
Wash Post: Biden campaign amps up focus on Trump, starting with Jan. 6 speech - The Washington Post
AP News - 2024 election: Biden will start the year at sites of national trauma | AP News
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1/5/2024 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 50 seconds
Encore: Rule Makers and Rule Breakers
Michele Gelfand (Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Professor of Psychology by Courtesy at Stanford University) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss culture, social norms, and her book Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World
(01:46) Why she decided to study culture
(04:34) What are tight and loose cultures
(06:12) Why tight and loose cultures evolve
(10:38) The tradeoffs between tight and loose and how different cultures responded to the Covid pandemic
(16:19) Tightness-looseness and willingness to change
(19:57) Red and Blue vs Tight and Loose
(30:36) Tightening around core values, even in loose cultures
(34:56) Real and manufactured threats
(44:15) How we we can put this framework into action
You should read Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: https://amzn.to/3Qy8DQc
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Follow Michele and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/MicheleJGelfand
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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1/3/2024 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 53 seconds
Orange Man Ban? —The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On Monday, Egypt proposed a plan for a long-term ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) and Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight) discuss Hamas rejecting the plan and the bias in media coverage about the war.
Then they dive into the plagiarism allegations levied against Harvard President Claudine Gay
Next, they discuss the debate around Section 3 of the 14th Amendment and Donald Trump’s eligibility to be president
Segments this week:
(02:06) Israel-Hamas
(12:30) Harvard Plagiarism Allegations
(35:06) Trump’s Ballot Eligibility
[Politicology+] Your Phone Is Listening to Every Word You Say
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Send your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/ZackCz
To learn more about the 14th Amendment argument, listen to these great deep dives on Yale Professor Akhil Amar’s podcast:
Amarica's Constitution: The Two Experts on Section Three - Special Guests William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: The Two Experts, Part Two - Special Guests William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: An Officer and a President on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: 2 Experts, 3 Courts, Section 3, Part 3 - Special Guests William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: The World Turns to Section Three
Related reading:
Segment 1:
TIME - Egypt Proposes Ceasefire Amid One of the Deadliest Israeli Airstrikes Yet to Hit Gaza Strip
Reuters - Hamas, Islamic Jihad reject Gaza gov. overhaul for permanent ceasefire, Egyptian sources say | Reuters
Israel National News - New York Times headline falsely claims Gaza war has most Arab deaths in 40 years
NYT - Opinion | I Am Gaza City’s Mayor. Our Lives and Culture Are in Rubble. - The New York Times
JP - NYT criticized for running op-ed by Hamas-appointed Gaza mayor - The Jerusalem Post
Segment 2:
NYT - Harvard Finds More Instances of ‘Duplicative Language’ in Claudine Gay’s Work - The New York Times
WP - Opinion | Harvard’s president, Claudine Gay, should resign now - The Washington Post
NYT - Opinion | Why Harvard’s Claudine Gay Should Go - The New York Times
Jewish Insider - Harvard controversy casts spotlight on Penny Pritzker, former Obama official atop university board
Segment 3:
CNN - Michigan Supreme Court rejects ‘insurrectionist ban’ case and keeps Trump on 2024 primary ballot | CNN Politics
Politico - Michigan Supreme Court allows Trump to appear on 2024 primary ballot - POLITICO
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12/29/2023 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 13 seconds
Encore: Why We Buy
In our digital age, people have grown to see social media platforms as mere tools and applications.
Marcus Collins, the award-winning marketer, former digital strategist for Beyoncé, and author of "For The Culture", argues otherwise.
Join host Ron Steslow as he sits down with Marcus to unravel the deep-seated influence of culture on social media and our daily choices.
Marcus elaborates on his assertion that "social media is people" and why understanding this fundamental idea changes our approach to digital platforms. He also delves into the crucial role of culture in hyperpolarization and how it weaves into the fabric of our society.
Segments to look forward to:
(01:20) How Marcus came to study culture: "I feel like I'm at my best when I'm helping people realize the best version of themselves…”
(04:26) The connection between marketing and psychology
(08:42) The importance of purpose in advertising: "Start with what you believe and when you start with what you believe people who see the world the way you do go, 'Finally, someone said it. That's my person.'”
(17:02) The influence of culture on consumer choice
(20:40) The connection between culture and politics
(24:00) Case study: How Patagonia leveraged culture to build their brand
(30:00) Case study: Donald Trump's cultural strategy in the 2016 election
(32:09) Understanding tribes and congregations
(37:27)”The brain is a prediction machine”
(40:00) The role of culture in hyperpolarization
(42:14) The state of anti-Trump Republicans within the broader Republican culture
(44:00) How subcultures develop and operate
(50:00) How preaching the gospel can get people to move
You Should Read For the Culture: https://amzn.to/3QjLDaH
Check out Predictably Rational by Dan Ariely: https://amzn.to/3rPeWHL
Follow Ron and Marcus on X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/marctothec
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12/27/2023 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 54 seconds
[+] ‘When the New York Times Lost Its Way’ [PREVIEW]
Hagar Chemali, Susan Del Percio, and Ron Steslow discuss Former New York Times Opinion Editor James Bennet’s scathing analysis of The New York Times and their illiberal bias in The Economist
Related reading:
The Economist - When the New York Times lost its way
https://www.economist.com/1843/2023/12/14/when-the-new-york-times-lost-its-way
Judith Miller -I used to work for the New York Times. Former editor is right about paper becoming a 'culture of intolerance'
https://judithmiller.com/27403/new-york-times-intolerance
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12/22/2023 • 35 minutes, 56 seconds
Trump Disqualified in Colorado—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On Tuesday, the Colorado State Supreme Court ruled Donald Trump is eligible to be on the ballot in the state.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Hagar Chemali and Susan Del Percio discuss the ruling and how it will impact the political landscape.
Then they dive into the negotiations over border security, immigration reform and foreign military aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan
Next, they discuss the alarming levels of Holocaust denialism among younger Americans and the antisemitism in public schools.
Segments this week:
(03:30) Colorado Supreme Court Case
(25:00) Border security and foreign military aid
(46:10) Alarming levels of Holocaust denialism
[Politicology+] Former New York Times Opinion Editor James Bennet’s scathing analysis of The New York Times and their illiberal bias
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Send your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
To learn more about the 14th Amendment argument, listen to these great deep dives on Yale Professor Akhil Amar’s podcast:
Amarica's Constitution: The Two Experts on Section Three - Special Guests William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: The Two Experts, Part Two - Special Guests William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: An Officer and a President on Apple Podcasts
Amarica's Constitution: 2 Experts, 3 Courts, Section 3, Part 3 - Special Guests William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on Apple Podcasts
Related reading:
Segment 1:
CBS News - Colorado Supreme Court rules Trump is disqualified from presidency for Jan. 6 riot - CBS News
The Hill - Dan Patrick suggests taking Biden off ballot in Texas | The Hill
Axios - Landmark Trump ruling gives Supreme Court an unexpected New Year's agenda
Axios - Congress erupts after court disqualifies Trump from Colorado ballot
Segment 2:
NYT - Congress Abandons Ukraine Aid Until Next Year as Border Talks Continue - The New York Times
WP - Opinion: A border deal can save Ukraine, aid Israel and Taiwan, and help Biden
WP - Opinion | A deal on Ukraine and immigration would show that the center can hold - The Washington Post
The Hill - Border Patrol says surge in border crossings is overwhelming its resources | The Hill
NBC News - Xi warned Biden during summit that Beijing will reunify Taiwan with China
Segment 3:
The Economist - One in five young Americans thinks the Holocaust is a myth
FP - How U.S. Public Schools Teach Antisemitism | The Free Press
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12/22/2023 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 42 seconds
Ukraine Must Win
Over the last few months, there’s been a stark change in tone from some of Ukraine’s biggest supporters—there’s a growing pessimism that Ukraine can take back their land from the Russian invaders and win the war.
In this insightful episode, host Ron Steslow invites Molly McKew, an expert on Russian influence and information warfare, to discuss the ongoing Ukraine conflict. As we approach nearly 700 days since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, this episode delves into the war's current state, the changing narratives, and the strategic implications for global democracy.
Segments to look forward to:
(01:27) Understanding the current state of the war
(06:50) The change in attitudes toward Ukraine
(11:10) The delay in ramping up production capacity for munitions
(15:20) What do the numbers of “military capacity” losses actually mean?
(19:05) Ukraine’s counteroffensive
(25:05) The need for a change in military strategy
(30:13) The domestic political implications if Ukraine doesn’t win
(39:00) What Ukraine needs to do to win and what we need to do to help them
(49:10) Whether a negotiated settlement is feasible
Follow Ron and Molly on X:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/MollyMcKew
Email questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com.
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12/20/2023 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 44 seconds
Politicology Mailbag with Mike Madrid
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Ron Steslow respond to your feedback and answer your questions on our latest mailbag episode.
(01:20) Wendy H. asks “Why isn't anyone talking about the fact that if Trump gets back into office, he will not try to leave once his time is up?”
(04:53) Your feedback on our two-part ‘Holy War’ episode and Mike’s reaction to the New Apostolic Reformation
(14:55) Listener Rohanna W. inquires: "What motivates Steve Bannon, and what resources can help understand his goals?"
(20:21) John R. asks: "Why don't political leaders like Biden utilize the power of short, aspirational speeches?"
(27:11) Your feedback on our two-part ‘Identity Trap’ episode with Yascha Mounk
(27:50) John from Augusta shares thoughts on enforcing the 14th Amendment against Trump.
(33:55) Ron shares your reviews
Have a question for a future Mailbag episode? Send it over to us at podcast@politicology.com!
Follow Ron, and Mike on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
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12/15/2023 • 48 minutes, 10 seconds
Encore: Does giving make you happy? with Dr. Catherine Sanderson
Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about how giving can make you happier.
(02:08) What is happiness and how can we measure it?
(08:31) Does giving make you happy or do happy people give more?
(10:20) Types of giving and the impact on happiness
(14:50) The effect of giving on bad moods
(28:58) Gratitude letters
The Positive Shift by Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://benbellabooks.com/shop/the-positive-shift/
Politicology - March 10: Becoming Moral Rebels with Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://politicology.com/episodes/dr-catherine-sanderson-becoming-moral-rebels/
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
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Follow Catherine and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/SandersonSpeaks
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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12/13/2023 • 1 hour, 29 seconds
Liz Cheney vs. Dark Trump—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
The new, darker Donald Trump and his allies have been previewing how he’d use the Oval Office to seek revenge if he gets reelected.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Olivier Knox (National Political Correspondent) discuss Trump’s darker turn and what, if anything, we can do now to prepare for a potential second term.
Then they look at Liz Cheney raising the alarm about Donald Trump, how her potential presidential run could impact the 2024 race, and her call for a potential new conservative party.
Next, they discuss the remarkably bad testimony from the presidents of Harvard, Penn, and MIT, the double standard for protecting free speech, and how they’re using the value of free speech as a weapon to punish disfavored speech.
Segments this week:
(02:34) Dark Trump
(22:17) Liz Cheney and the 2024 election
(37:14) The college presidents who won’t say calls for genocide are bullying and harassment
[Politicology+] Kevin McCarthy’s resignation and why lawmakers are ditching congress at a record pace
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/oknox
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
Related reading:
Segment 1:
The Atlantic—The Danger Ahead - The Atlantic
WP - Trump and allies plot revenge, Justice Department control in a second term - The Washington Post
Segment 2:
Axios - Meet the spoilers: Who's declared or considering third-party White House bids
NPR - Democracy is at stake if Trump is reelected, Liz Cheney warns in her new book
Segment 3:
The Dispatch - Antisemitism Is Just a Symptom - The Dispatch
The Atlantic - There Is No Right to Bully and Harass
Politico - 5 takeaways from college antisemitism hearing - POLITICO
Axios - University leaders criticized after Congressional hearing on antisemitism
Mediaite - Democrats Mock Harvard President for Citing Commitment to Free Speech During Anti-Semitism Hearing: 'Harvard Ranks Last' on Free Speech
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12/8/2023 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 34 seconds
Encore: The Real Cost of Cheap Food
Over the last 100 years, we have streamlined the process of food production. A hundred years ago, 99% of people were engaged in the agricultural process in some way. Today, that number is 1%. As a result, our relationship with food has become desperately impersonal. But what are the consequences of all that efficiency?
Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of our food systems with Jeff Tkatch (CEO of the Rodale Institute) and host Ron Steslow. In this captivating conversation, we dig deep into the living soil beneath our feet, our disconnection from nature, and the mechanisms driving our extractive farming systems.
Jeff provides a comprehensive understanding of the difference between soil and dirt, explaining why one gives life while the other is lifeless. He shares his personal journey towards regenerative agriculture and elaborates on the role Rodale Institute plays in shaping the future of farming.
Segments to look forward to:
(2:10) Understanding the difference between soil and dirt: "If soil could talk to us, what would it be saying right now? Feed me. Rest me. Water me. Feed me. Rest me. Water me. I'm a living, breathing organism just like you. And by the way, you depend on me for life."
(03:30) Jeff's journey into regenerative agriculture and the role of the Rodale Institute
(13:30) How we became disconnected from nature and our food
(15:30) Who feeds the world?
(16:20) A deep dive into the extractive farming system and the need for sustainable agricultural practices
(19:50) Unraveling the incentives that have shaped our agricultural system
(23:00) The various faces of agriculture: sustainable, regenerative, and organic regenerative
(27:35) The cost of organic food and the unseen cost of not eating organic
(30:00) “Agriculture is the great healer of our time”
(37:15) Policy changes that could revolutionize farming and an overview of the Pennsylvania State Farm Bill
(40:52) The challenge of organic food fraud
(51:10) How changing our understanding of food production could reduce polarization: “It starts with gratitude...when we begin to see our brother and sister through food, we're creating a metaphorical table. We're actually sitting down at a table every moment of every day here in this country and hopefully around the world."
Learn more about the Rodale Institute: https://www.rodaleinstitute.org/
Get involved and connect with local farmers near you. As Jeff says, "Everybody should get to know a farmer."
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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12/6/2023 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 58 seconds
Who’s Buying ‘Bidenomics’?—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Over 100 of the hostages taken captive by Hamas have been freed over the last week as part of a ceasefire deal with the Israeli government
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) and Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP) discuss the deal and the bias in media reporting about the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Then they look at the “Bidenomics” messaging falling flat, voters' low trust in president Biden to handle the economy, and what he can do to change it before the election.
Next, they discuss the negotiations in congress over increasing border security in exchange for aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
Segments this week:
(02:30) Israel-Hamas
(28:08) Bidenomics messaging falling flat
(40:04) Border security
[Politicology+] The power of the administrative state and how Donald Trump could wield it in a second term.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/LPDonovan
Related reading:
Segment 1:
Tablet - An Insider’s Guide to the Most Important Story on Earth
Axios - How Arab American voters' backlash could imperil Biden's 2024 campaign
NBC News - In major speech, Schumer warns of consequences if Americans don't condemn antisemitism
TOI - Hamas 'willing' to extend temporary ceasefire by additional 4 days -- report | The Times of Israel
Segment 2:
The Bulwark —Dear Democrats: Here Are the Facts of Life
Axios— Americans' savings are dwindling, new poll shows
CBS News - Americans need an extra $11,400 today just to afford the basics - CBS News
Axios - U.S. economy was hotter than previously thought, new GDP data shows
Gallup - Poor Marks for Biden: Middle East, Economy, Foreign Affairs
FRED - Consumer Loans: Credit Cards and Other Revolving Plans, All Commercial Banks (CCLACBW027SBOG) | FRED | St. Louis Fed
Segment 3:
Politico - Playbook: Why the left is blanching at the border talks - POLITICO
WSJ - Senators’ Top Target in Border Talks: Tighter Asylum Rules for Migrants - WSJ
The Bulwark - Biden's Dangerous Border Problem - by Charlie Sykes
The Dispatch - An Increasingly Unsustainable Stalemate on Immigration - Chris Stirewalt - The Dispatch
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12/1/2023 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 17 seconds
Whispered in Gaza
A woman is weeping over a covered body on a street in Gaza. She's surrounded by people. She turns to the camera and screams: “All this is because of the dogs of Hamas.”
And then two men grab her and literally silence her. They hold a hand over her mouth.
What if we could hear real stories from people living in Gaza about how Hamas treats them?
The Center for Peace Communications is helping to do just that with the video testimony they’ve published in their “Whispered in Gaza” and “Voices in Gaza” projects.
In this episode, Joseph Braude (president of the Center for Peace Communications) joins Ron Steslow to discuss how Gazans talk about Hamas, the way they are treated and who they blame for the war.
Segments to look forward to:
(03:03) Joseph’s background and how it shaped his understanding of the Arab world.
(05:30) The “Whispered in Gaza” project.
(09:09) The challenges and process of creating the “Whispered in Gaza” project amid the repressive Hamas regime.
(10:08) Joseph recounts emotional stories gathered from Gazans, revealing the harsh realities of life under Hamas.
(10:38) The discussion turns to how well these stories represent the views of Gazans and the broader implications for Palestinian society.
(12:12) Ron and Joseph discuss the challenges and biases in media coverage of the Gaza situation.
(25:00) How the global perception of Hamas has been disconnected with the realities in Gaza.
(30:00) Exploring how Gazans view the October 7th Attack, Israel’s response, and how they blame Hamas for the humanitarian crises.
(32:16) Challenges to delivering aid to those who need it most in Gaza.
(35:12) Discussion on the possibilities of change in the governance of Gaza.
(36:33) Joseph offers clarity on common misunderstandings about the Israel-Palestine conflict.
(42:40) Joseph shares the plea from their interviewees that their voices be heard.
(45:17) Final thoughts on how listeners can show meaningful support to Gazans striving for change.
Watch the video testimony in Whispered in Gaza: https://bit.ly/3GnQyRA
Follow Ron and Joseph on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/josephbraude
Email questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com.
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11/30/2023 • 53 minutes, 25 seconds
More Than a Messaging Problem—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On Tuesday, Israel approved a short-term ceasefire in exchange for the return of hostages being held captive by Hamas in Gaza.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) discuss the deal, Hamas’s wide reaching financial empire, and the fight against jihad.
Then they look at the challenges facing Joe Biden as he heads toward reelection, the policy failure hurting him with Latino voters, and why messaging alone won’t fix the problems
Next, they discuss Sam Altman’s firing and rehiring at OpenAI and the tension between rapid commercialization and extreme caution over the risks AI poses to humanity.
Segments this week:
(02:30) Israel-Hamas
(22:03) Democrats’ problems run deeper than messaging
(47:30) OpenAI and tensions over the speed of commercialization
[Politicology+] Donald Trump becoming even more unhinged, the stakes in the 2024 election, and the challenge of building an anti-Trump coaltion…again.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
Related reading:
Segment 1:
Axios - Israeli Cabinet meets to vote on deal with Hamas on hostage release and ceasefire
The Economist - Inside Hamas’s sprawling financial empire
WP - Opinion | Joe Biden: U.S. won’t back down from the challenge of Putin and Hamas - The Washington Post
WP - U.S. close to deal with Israel and Hamas to pause conflict, free some hostages - The Washington Post
FP - Why Western Women Are Converting to Islam | The Free Press
Quillette - The Return of the Progressive Atrocity
Segment 2:
NYT - Biden Faces Economic Challenges as Cost-of-Living Despair Floods TikTok - The New York Times
The Dispatch - Support for Israel Is Costing Biden. But for How Long? - Chris Stirewalt - The Dispatch
CNN - CNN Poll: Trump narrowly leads Biden in hypothetical rematch | CNN Politics
NYT/Siena College Cross tabs -Cross-Tabs: October 2023 Times/Siena Poll of the 2024 Battlegrounds
Segment 3:
The Atlantic - The Money Always Wins - The Atlantic
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11/24/2023 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 12 seconds
Holy War—Part 2
Amid the sea of Trump flags outside the Capitol on January 6th, there were signs that read “Jesus is my Savior, Trump is my President.” A group of protestors carried a giant cross as they marched around the Capitol.
Why were these Christian images on prominent display?
What role did Charismatic Christianity play in the buildup to the riot at the capitol?
How is it continuing to shape our politics?
In this two-part episode, Matthew Taylor (writer and creator of the audio-documentary series “Charismatic Revival Fury: The New Apostolic Reformation” ) joins Ron Steslow to discuss how non-denominational Charismatic Christianity built to the attack on January 6th and what it will mean going forward.
Segments to look forward to:
(01:43) The theological basis for believing Trump being chosen by God to be president
(06:15) Belief that political leaders are appointed by God
(11:10) Strategic spiritual warfare at the Capitol on January 6th
(16:44) The discourse of violence in Charismatic Christianity leading to jan
(24:04) The lack of understanding of Charismatic Christians in American media
(37:06) Being precise about the threats to pluralism presented by part of Charismatic Christianity
(43:16) What he’s seeing in the subculture as we head to 2024
Listen to the full Charismatic Revival Fury series: https://bit.ly/49jqqVb
Follow Ron and Matt on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/TaylorMatthewD
Email questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com.
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11/22/2023 • 1 hour, 19 seconds
Losing The Information War—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On Wednesday, President Joe Biden met with Chinese Leader Xi Jinping for the first time in a year after months of building tensions between the two countries.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Molly McKew (writer and lecturer on Russian influence and information warfare) and Zack Czajkowski (former Lincoln Project Political Director; Principal at Title Fight) discuss the meeting and how it connects to the Israel-Hamas war and Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Then they look at Joe Biden’s denial of the multiple battleground state polls showing Donald Trump leading in 2024
Next, they discuss Israel’s raid on a Hamas command center at Gaza’s largest hospital and the spiraling distrust in news media.
Segments this week:
(1:44) Biden-Xi Meeting
(28:18) Biden’s polling denial
(47:30) Israel raids Hamas command center at Gaza hospital
[Politicology+] Speaker of the House “MAGA Mike Johnson” working with Democrats to successfully avoid a government shutdown and what you really need to know about the strange flag prominently posted outside his office.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/MollyMcKew
Related reading:
Segment 1:
AP News—Biden and Xi are meeting in San Francisco, seeking better US-China relations despite tough issues
Axios—Biden holds much-anticipated meeting with China's Xi
Axios—Chinese state media turns on the charm ahead of Biden-Xi meeting
Segment 2:
C-SPAN—President Biden White House Departure | November 9, 2023 | C-SPAN.org
Bloomberg—Israel-Hamas War Has Voters Trusting Trump Over Biden in Key States: Poll - Bloomberg
Toplines
CNN—Joe Manchin won’t run for reelection, giving GOP an opening to flip West Virginia seat | CNN Politics
Axios—Manchin says he would consider 2024 presidential run
Segment 3:
Reuters—Hamas command centre, weapons found at Gaza hospital, Israeli military says | Reuters
NYT—U.S. Says Hamas Operates Out of Gaza Hospitals, Endorsing Israel’s Allegations - The New York Times
BBC—Apologizing for error saying Israel was targeting medical teams during operation
NYT—Israel Accuses Freelance Photographers of Advance Knowledge of Oct. 7 Attack - The New York Times
NBC—Throngs gather for March for Israel rally at D.C.’s National Mall to condemn antisemitism
FreeP—Metro Detroit Jews miss March for Israel due to bus driver walk-out, trip organizers say
The Atlantic—Hamas Must Go - The Atlantic
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11/17/2023 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 31 seconds
“We Just Want Our Hostages Back”
Over the last month, a compelling global poster campaign has emerged, gripping cities and towns worldwide with its poignant message.
These posters, emblazoned with the word "Kidnapped" in bold letters, feature some of the 240 people abducted from Israel into the Gaza strip by Hamas on October 7.
This campaign, now viral, transcends language barriers, its message echoing through the streets from Times Square billboards to remote corners of the world.
The faces on these posters not only symbolize the heinous act committed by Hamas but also reflect the deep longing and hope of families for the safe return of their loved ones.
In this episode, visual poet Nitzan Mintz and street artist Dede Bandaid join Ron Steslow to discuss their work and the poster campaign.
(02:05) Nitzan and Dede discuss their early careers and influences
(10:56) Insights into the conception and motivation behind their moving poster campaign
(18:18) The process of creating and distributing the posters, and the challenges faced
(31:25) How media coverage influenced public perception and the campaign's impact
(37:50) Their reactions to people vandalizing and ripping down the posters
(48:23) How you can get involved and support the campaign
(51:18) Nitzan and Dede share the emotional toll and their commitment to this effort
If you’d like to put up posters, you can download them here: kidnappedfromisrael.com
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
Follow Dede, Nitzan, and the campaign on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kidnappedfromisrael/
https://www.instagram.com/nitzanmintz/
https://www.instagram.com/dedebandaid/
Email questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com.
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11/15/2023 • 1 hour, 49 seconds
"A Party of Losers"—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
On Tuesday, Democrats and abortion rights advocates scored election victories in Virginia and Ohio
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) discuss the results of those elections and the New York Times / Siena College Poll that has Trump leading Biden in five of six battleground states.
Then they discuss the foreign influence campaigns shaping our culture and politics from TikTok to universities.
Next, they dive into Donald Trump’s plans to hire lawyers who will help him defy the law—even if it won’t hold up in court.
Segments this week:
(1:44) Elections and the NYT Poll
(28:18) Foreign Influence
(47:30) Trump preparing to hire lawyers who will help him defy the law
[Politicology+] The third Republican primary debate.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
Related reading:
Segment 1:
WP—Exit poll results from Ohio Issue 1 ballot measure on abortion rights - The Washington Post
Axios—Virginia Democrats seize statehouse, dashing Youngkin's hopes for GOP takeover
NYT/Siena college—Cross-Tabs: October 2023 Times/Siena Poll of the 2024 Battlegrounds
NYT—Abortion Rights Fuel Big Democratic Wins, and Hopes for 2024 - The New York Times
NYT—Tuesday Was Great for Democrats. It Doesn’t Change the Outlook for 2024. - The New York Times
Segment 2:
The Free Press—Is Campus Rage Fueled by Middle Eastern Money? | The Free Press
The Guardian—TikTok is part of China’s cognitive warfare campaign | Nita Farahany | The Guardian
The Economist—Israel is more popular than social-media posts suggest
Axios—On TikTok, views of pro-Palestine posts far surpass views of pro-Israel posts
Segment 3:
NYT—If Trump Wins, His Allies Want Lawyers Who Will Bless a More Radical Agenda
Insider—Trump wants to use the DOJ to probe high-profile critics if he wins a second term in 2024, report says
The Dispatch Podcast—Trump Davidians
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11/10/2023 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 43 seconds
Holy War—Part 1
Amid the sea of Trump flags outside the Capitol on January 6th, there were signs that read “Jesus is my Savior, Trump is my President.” A group of protestors carried a giant cross as they marched around the Capitol.
Why were these Christian images on prominent display?
What role did Charismatic Christianity play in the buildup to the riot at the capitol?
How is it continuing to shape our politics?
In this two-part episode, Matthew Taylor (writer and creator of the audio-documentary series “Charismatic Revival Fury: The New Apostolic Reformation” ) joins Ron Steslow to discuss how the non-denominational Charismatic Christianity built to the attack on January 6th and what it will mean going forward.
Segments to look forward to:
(04:55) Matt’s Background
(10:42) Why January 6th made him examine this brand of Charismatic Christianity
(17:00) Why he used “Charismatic Revival Fury”
(21:21) How January 6th intersected with Charismatic Christianity
(26:19) How independent Charismatic leaders became early Trump supporters
(35:18) Why “Christian Supremacy” is a better than “Christian Nationalism”
(38:38) How the term “White Christian Nationalism” misses the multi-racial makeup of the movement
(44:47) The theology that led to an increase in political engagement among Charismatic Christians
Listen to the full Charismatic Revival Fury series: https://bit.ly/49jqqVb
Follow Ron and Matt on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/TaylorMatthewD
Email questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com.
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11/8/2023 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 59 seconds
The Kids Are Not Alright —The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Since Hamas launched their horrific terrorist attacks in Israel, violent antisemitism has spiked across the United States and most visibly on college campuses
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention) and Marc Polymeropoulos (Former CIA Official) discuss how it’s fueling the fracturing of the Democratic party and what it could mean for Democratic politics.
Then they discuss Iran’s role in the Israel-Hamas war and how our foreign policy failures could further destabilize the region.
Segments this week:
(02:24) Rising Antisemitism
(24:38) Biden takes heat from his own party on Israel
(53:01) Iran’s role in the Israel-Hamas war
[Politicology+] The Minnesota congressman who’s running to challenge Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination—and the shadow primary to become the nominee if Biden bows out.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Listen to our conversation with Marc about his book: https://bit.ly/3u0XUI0
Get Marc’s book Clarity in Crisis: https://bit.ly/3MsP7VH
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/Mpolymer
Related reading:
Segment 1:
The Dispatch—The MAGAfication of the Left - The Dispatch
CNN—Cornell student accused of threatening to kill Jewish students is expected in court today | CNN
NPR—Cornell student arrested in connection with antisemitic threats on New York campus
Reuters—US antisemitic incidents up about 400% since Israel-Hamas war began, report says | Reuters
LA Times—Opinion: Nothing has prepared me for the antisemitism I see on college campuses now
Politico—Jewish leaders to Biden officials: ‘We’ve never seen anything like this ever’ - POLITICO
Segment 2:
Time—https://time.com/6330102/biden-israel-gaza-arab-americans-trump/
NBC—Swing-state Muslim Americans threaten to vote against Biden
[March 2023] Gallup—Democrats' Sympathies in Middle East Shift to Palestinians
Politico—The generational rift that explains Democrats' angst over Israel - POLITICO
JP—Hillary Clinton: 'People who call for ceasefire do not understand Hamas' - Israel News - The Jerusalem Post
Segment 3:
ABC News—Yemen's Houthi rebels claim attacks on Israel, drawing their main sponsor Iran closer to Hamas war - ABC News
Yahoo News—How Biden miscalculated on Iran
Axios—Behind the Curtain: Rattled U.S. government fears wars could spread
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11/3/2023 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 1 second
Encore: Celeste Headlee on Having Better Conversations
To unlock Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus
Journalist, Public Speaker and Author Celeste Headlee (@CelesteHeadlee) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to reveal the science and history behind human communication, share keys to unlock deeper conversations, and explain how critical empathy is for our ability to listen and connect. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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11/2/2023 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 12 seconds
I’ll Have To Google Him—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
After more than three weeks of chaos, the House of Representatives has elected a new Speaker.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Katty Kay (veteran reporter and NYT bestselling author) and Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) discuss Speaker Mike Johnson’s rise to take the gavel, the most pressing issues before the House, and putting a bonafide election denier in the Speaker’s chair.
Then they discuss Qatar’s role as an intermediary in hostage negotiations, a financial backer of Hamas, a major ally of the United States, and their quest to buy influence from major U.S. universities.
[Politicology+] The continuing erosion of support for democracy and data that indicate the appetite for political violence is rising across the spectrum.
Segments this week:
(02:22) Mike Johnson becomes speaker
(31:31) Qatar
[Politicology+] The erosion of support for democracy and increasing willingness to resort to political violence
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Find out more about Katty’s work with Claire Shipman: https://www.kayandshipman.com/
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/KattyKay_
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
Related reading:
Segment 1:
Axios—What to know about new House Speaker Mike Johnson
NBC News—GOP speaker nominee Mike Johnson played a key role in efforts to overturn the 2020 election
The Hill—Democrats seize on new Speaker Mike Johnson’s anti-abortion record | The Hill
The Hill—Where House Speaker Mike Johnson stands on Ukraine, Israel | The Hill
Segment 2:
The Free Press—Qatar’s War for Young American Minds | The Free Press
The Guardian—Yuval Noah Harari backs critique of leftist ‘indifference’ to Hamas atrocities
The Atlantic—The Reckoning That Is Coming for Qatar - The Atlantic
Axios—Behind the Curtain: Rattled U.S. government fears wars could spread
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10/27/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 52 seconds
Encore: Dr. Catherine Sanderson on Becoming Moral Rebels
Join Politicology+ now for exclusive content - https://politicology.com/plus
Dr. Catherine Sanderson, Poler Family Professor, Chair of Psychology at Amherst College and the author of Why We Act: Turning Bystanders Into Moral Rebels joins host Ron Steslow to analyze why Trump was able to exert control on the Republican party, how to recognize leaders who will stand up for what’s right—and what we can do to become moral rebels.
Catherine Sanderson Twitter: @SandersonSpeaks
Ron Steslow Twitter: @RonSteslow
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10/25/2023 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 51 seconds
TAPPED: The Moral Upside Down
In the two weeks since Hamas began their terrorist attacks in Israel, many people around the globe have, stunningly, taken to the streets to cheer on the assault.
Ron Steslow calls Yascha Mounk (Author of The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time), to explain the people cheering Hamas on, the identity synthesis that is driving their action, the failure of major news organizations pushing out Hamas’s press releases, and the elite institutions that have chosen deafening silence in this moment.
Note: We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed and about the events of the war every day. We may not know the full extent of the terrorist attacks for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services.
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10/24/2023 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 39 seconds
Biden Visits Israel— The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Against a backdrop of American and Israeli flags, President Joe Biden told Israel that as long as the United States stands, Israel will never be alone.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) discuss the Biden’s trip, Hamas’s lie that Israel bombed a hospital, the major news sources, including the New York Times that published Hamas’s lie, and the information war
Then they break down the House GOP’s struggle to find a new Speaker. After we recorded, the House Republican conference scrapped their plan to install Patrick McHenry as an interim Speaker.
Segments this week:
(02:04) Biden’s trip to Israel
(38:40) The Speaker election drags on
[Politicology+] The Donald Trump legal battle that’s flying under the radar—and that could keep him off the ballot in 2024.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
Follow Mike on Threads:
https://www.threads.net/@mykemadrid
Related reading:
Segment 1:
AP—President Biden wraps up his visit to wartime Israel with a warning against being 'consumed' by rage
White House —Remarks by President Biden on the October 7th Terrorist Attacks and the Resilience of the State of Israel and its People: TEXT | VIDEO
The Free Press—When the Misinformation Comes From Inside the House | The Free Press
Axios—Gaza hospital blast: Initial U.S. intel assessment is Israel "not responsible"
Segment 2:
CNN—Jim Jordan loses second vote for House speaker amid steep GOP opposition | CNN Politics
Axios—Bipartisan talks gain steam as Jim Jordan struggles with speaker vote
Jake Sherman—NEW -- HOW HOUSE DEMS THINK ABOUT EMPOWERING SPEAKER PRO TEM
Axios—GOP scrambles for escape hatch as Jim Jordan falls short again
Politico—Jim Jordan’s allies tried strong-arming his GOP critics. It backfired. - POLITICO
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10/20/2023 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 52 seconds
TAPPED: “I Will Not Submit”
Hamas’s attack on Israel has heightened concerns about safety and security for Jewish people around the globe.
Ron Steslow calls Michael Masters, National Director and CEO of the Secure Community Network, to discuss the threats to Jewish communities in the United States and what organizations and individuals can do to increase their safety
We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed every hour, including confirmation from the Israeli government details about the brutal murder of babies. We may not know the full extent of their barbarism for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services.
Learn more about United Hatzalah: https://israelrescue.org/
Learn more about NATAL: https://www.afnatal.org/
Learn more about the Secure Community Network: https://www.securecommunitynetwork.org/
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10/20/2023 • 33 minutes, 7 seconds
TAPPED: Mind Over Media
The Internet is awash in horrifying images and videos coming from inside Israel and Gaza.
Ron Steslow calls Catherine Sanderson, Ph.D. (Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College), to discuss what you can do to mind your mental health when consuming disturbing media.
Note: We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed and about the events of the war every hour, including the blast at the hospital Catherine talked about during this call. We may not know the full extent of the terrorist attacks for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/20/2023 • 30 minutes, 3 seconds
TAPPED: Why the Gaza hostage crisis is different
During Hamas’s rampage in Israel last weekend, they kidnapped an estimated 150 people, including women, children, and the elderly.
Ron Steslow calls Danielle Gilbert, Ph.D. and Assistant Professor of Political Science at Northwestern University (and Liz Gilbert Cohen’s sister), to discuss the Gaza hostage crisis, how hostage taking tactics developed and why this situation is different.
They discuss Hamas’s vow to use hostages as human shields and what the conditions for hostages might be, and what types of negotiations we may see.
We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed every hour, including confirmation from the Israeli government details about the brutal murder and beheading of babies. We may not know the full extent of their barbarism for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services.
Read Danielle’s article in Good Authority: https://bit.ly/3ZWkNIf
Learn more about Dr. Gilbert: http://www.danigilbert.com/
Read the Bellingcat guide on maintaining mental hygiene: https://bit.ly/3ZX6d3a
Learn more about Hostage US : https://hostageus.org/
Learn more about the Bring Our Families Home Campaign: https://bit.ly/3FhQN0c
Learn more about the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation: https://bit.ly/3tuAlXQ
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10/14/2023 • 53 minutes, 30 seconds
“Things Have Forever Changed”— The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Israel is still reeling from an unprecedented and gruesome terrorist attack by Hamas last weekend. Over a thousand Israelis, including babies, children and the elderly, have been brutally massacred.
On this weekly roundup, guest host Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Rina Shah (Former Senior Aide on Capitol Hill) reflect on the horrifying news.
They discuss the morally repugnant pro-Hamas rally in New York City endorsed by the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America and the Democrats condemning the event.
They break down President Biden’s address reaffirming U.S. support for Israel and the importance of the U.S. being a global leader in times of crisis.
Next, they look at Republicans scrambling to elect a new Speaker of the House and what happens when performative politics meets a real world crisis
Segments:
(02:27) The terror attacks in Israel
(35:17) The Speaker campaigns
[Politicology+] Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announces his independent presidential run .
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow Mike and Rina on Threads:
https://www.threads.net/@mykemadrid
https://www.threads.net/@rinaindc
Follow Lucy on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYT—Hamas Leaves Trail of Terror in Israel
CNN—Children found ‘butchered’ in Israeli kibbutz, IDF says, as horror of Hamas’ attacks near border begins to emerge
The Hill—The ghosts of Gaza | The Hill
C-SPAN—President Biden Delivers Remarks on Hamas Attacks on Israel (Video) | Text
WP—Democratic divisions over Israel resurface after ‘cease-fire’ comments - The Washington Post
NYT—U.S. Envoy to NATO Says Aid to Israel Won’t Come at Ukraine’s Expense - The New York Times
Segment 2:
NYT—Hamas Leaves Trail of Terror in Israel
CNN—Children found ‘butchered’ in Israeli kibbutz, IDF says, as horror of Hamas’ attacks near border begins to emerge
The Hill—The ghosts of Gaza | The Hill
C-SPAN—President Biden Delivers Remarks on Hamas Attacks on Israel (Video) | Text
WP—Democratic divisions over Israel resurface after ‘cease-fire’ comments - The Washington Post
NYT—U.S. Envoy to NATO Says Aid to Israel Won’t Come at Ukraine’s Expense - The New York Times
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10/13/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 29 seconds
TAPPED: Terror in Israel
Ron Steslow calls Hagar Chemali to discuss the brutal terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in Israel, the massive intelligence failure, how the U.S. and Israel have responded, the reports Iran helped to organize and green light the attack, and why more leaders at home should be condemning the attacks.
We’re learning more and more about the atrocities Hamas has committed every hour, including details about the brutal murder and beheading of babies. We may not know the full extent of their barbarism for some time. To keep up to date on breaking news, check trusted news sources like the Associated Press and other newswire services.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/2023 • 52 minutes, 52 seconds
McCarthy Ousted— The Weekly Roundup
For the first time in American history, the Speaker of the House of Representatives was ousted in a vote of no confidence.
On this weekly roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) discuss the Republican infighting, the reforms Matt Gaetz asked for, what it means, and where we go from here .
Then they break down Robert F. Kennedy Jr. teasing a third party presidential run, who it could help and who it could hurt
Finally, they look at the organized labor stories all over the headlines and what the renewed strength of organized labor could mean for our elections.
Segments to look forward to:
(02:28) McCarthy loses the Speaker’s gavel
(33:45) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. flirts with a third party presidential run
[Politicology+] The realignment in working class voters and rising organized labor
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Listen to Will Baude on Advisory Opinions: https://bit.ly/3LN5snH
Listen to William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen on America’s Constitution with Akhil Amar: Part 1: https://apple.co/48IK7W6 | Part 2: https://apple.co/48IKiRg
Check out Hands Off my Rewards: https://handsoffmyrewards.com/
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/stranter
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYT—Behind Kevin McCarthy’s Extraordinary Downfall as House Speaker - The New York Times
CNN—October 3, 2023 - Kevin McCarthy ousted as Speaker of the House
The Hill—5 takeaways from the ouster of Kevin McCarthy as Speaker | The Hill
NYT—Gaetz’s Ouster of McCarthy Draws Attention to His Ethics Issues - The New York Times
WP—Months of bad blood between McCarthy and Democrats help sink his speakership
Segment 2:
NYT—Robert Kennedy Jr. Hints Strongly at Third-Party Presidential Bid - The New York Times
Politico—Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s super PAC preps for him to run for president as an Independent - POLITICO
The Dispatch —RFK JR. Could Play Spoiler, but Not for Biden - Chris Stirewalt - The Dispatch
Echelon Insights Verified Voter Omnibus
Nate Silver —RFK Jr. probably won't hurt Biden. He might even help him.
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10/6/2023 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 26 seconds
ENCORE: Misunderstanding Misinformation
Claire Wardle (co-founder and co-director of the Information Futures Lab, and Professor of the Practice at the Brown School of Public Health) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the challenges( and failures) in improving our information landscape
(02:12) Claire’s background and how it led to her research
(05:52) Why terms like “misinformation,” “disinformation,” and “malinformation” have become less and less useful
(08:45) How the real world doesn’t fit the framework of “misinformation” and “disinformation”
(10:50) Why we share stories online and how that shapes the information environment
(21:40) The problems that arise from research silos
(25:13) How platforms can include users in content moderation decisions
(37:07) What role do troll farms actually play in information pollution?
(39:44) How the focus on foreign actors stops researchers, academics, and government officials from reflecting sincerely on their failures
(44:00) Why we share stories online and how that shapes the information environment
(50:28) Improving community-led resistance
(55:53) How viewing social media users as a product shapes content moderation decisions
(1:01:30) How AI could impact the information landscape…
Watch Operation InfeKtion from the New York Times: https://bit.ly/3IjJUxo
Read Claire’s piece “Misunderstanding Misinformation”: https://bit.ly/3IlSFa1
Watch the video op-ed where the NYT turned Claire into Adele: https://bit.ly/3MzvNq5
Follow Ron and Claire on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/cward1e
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10/4/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 2 seconds
Vintage Trump and a Car Wreck Debate— The Weekly Roundup
Can Donald Trump use the UAW strike to win over voters in Michigan?
Did anyone need to hear Mike Pence tell a sex joke?
Has a key member of the Senate been compromised by Egypt?
On this weekly roundup, guest host Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) and guests Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Marc Polymeropoulos (Former CIA Official) dive into all of that and more.
They break down Donald Trump’s speech outside Detroit and his return to the economic populism that fueled his 2016 campaign.
Then they turn to the second Republican Presidential debate and the growing rifts in the party over support for Ukraine
Next, they look at NJ Senator Robert Menendez’s indictment over allegations he aided the Egyptian government in exchange for cash
Finally, they look at bombshell new reporting that Iran orchestrated an information campaign to influence how the West views Tehran
Segments to look forward to:
(02:10) Trump’s Speech and the Republican Debate
(19:29) The Menendez Indictment
(42:57) The Iran Experts Initiative
[Politicology+] The whistleblower testimony alleging the CIA tried to cover up its own assessment that Covid-19 likely came from a lab leak.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Check out Hagar’s show Oh My World on YouTube: https://www.ohmyworld.tv/
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/Mpolymer
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYT—Trump Tries to Court Blue-Collar Workers at a Nonunion Factory
WP—Opinion | Vivek Ramaswamy has a China problem — and a Hunter Biden problem
WP—Candidates’ differences on Ukraine reflect stark divide within GOP - The Washington Post
Segment 2:
SDNY—U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, His Wife, And Three New Jersey Businessmen Charged With Bribery Offenses | United States Department of Justice
NPR—Senate Democrats to Bob Menendez: Resign : NPR
NBC News—Sen. Bob Menendez pleads not guilty to bribery charges as resignation calls grow louder
Just Security—The Ongoing National Security Threats Posed by Senator Bob Menendez
Segment 3:
Semafor—Inside Iran’s Influence Operation | Semafor
Iran International —Inside Tehran’s Soft War
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9/29/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 44 seconds
ENCORE: Of Boys and Men—Part 2
Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men.
(02:04) The toxicity of “toxic masculinity”
(08:00) The “right” at war and the “left” in denial
(13:00) How negative partisanship only increases the problem
(15:00) The differences in funding and institutional support for men and women
(23:00) Redshirt the boys
(28:00) The criticism Richard has faced for his writing on boys and men
You can order the book here: https://www.brookings.edu/book/of-boys-and-men/
Follow Ron and Richard on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/RichardvReeves
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9/27/2023 • 43 minutes, 30 seconds
ENCORE: Of Boys and Men—Part 1
Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men.
(02:13) Richard’s work and how it led to studying boys and men
(04:00) The risks if the problems are not addressed
(07:30) The gendered education gap
(0z8:20) How economic shifts have impacted men
(11:20) Intersectionality in the research on gender
(30:30) Recognizing these problems as structural and not individual
(34:40) Weighing the biological differences between women and men
You can order the book here: https://www.brookings.edu/book/of-boys-and-men/
Follow Ron and Richard on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/RichardvReeves
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9/27/2023 • 46 minutes, 4 seconds
$moke and Mirrors—The Weekly Roundup
While lawmakers argued over the federal budget, our national debt passed $33 trillion dollars this week.
On this week’s roundup, host Ron Steslow and guests Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP), Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica), and Romina Boccia (Director of Budget and Entitlement Policy at the Cato Institute) discuss why it’s significant and break down the fighting within the Republican party as they argue over a budget.
Then they break down how the auto worker strike has Joe Biden caught between two key democratic constituencies
They also discuss the migrant crisis in New York City and how it’s growing rifts in the Democratic party
Finally, they look at Biden’s defiance in the wake of a Federal Appeals Court ruling that said his Administration likely violated the First Amendment and his campaign’s alarming move to combat what it’s calling “political misinformation.”
Segments to look forward to:
(02:40) The Debt and the Budget fight
(31:31) The United Auto Workers Strike
(46:00) New York City Migrant Crisis
[Politicology+] The Biden 2024 campaign’s alarming move to combat what it’s calling “political misinformation.”
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/LPDonovan
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
https://twitter.com/RominaBoccia
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYT—U.S. National Debt Tops $33 Trillion for First Time
Cato—Don’t Let the Government‐Shutdown Charade Distract You From the Debt Crisis
Axios—GOP defectors sink McCarthy's push to advance Pentagon funding
NYT—Right-Wing House Republicans Derail Pentagon G.O.P. Bill, Rebuking McCarthy - The New York Times
The Hill—McConnell: Government shutdowns are ‘a loser for Republicans’ | The Hill
Segment 2:
WP—Biden aides try to quell tension with UAW as Trump plans Detroit trip - The Washington Post
Politico—‘Trump scooped us’: Dems sound alarm on Biden’s handling of the auto worker strike - POLITICO
Politico—Autoworkers lash out at Biden in the UAW president’s hometown - POLITICO
Segment 3:
NYT—In Escalation, Adams Says Migrant Crisis 'Will Destroy New York City'
WSJ—Why Biden’s Border Policies Aren’t Working - WSJ
WP—Opinion | On immigration, Democrats should admit they are wrong - The Washington Post
NYT—Suing. Heckling. Cursing. N.Y.C. Protests Against Migrants Escalate
NBC—Concern rises in the Biden administration that New York has fumbled its migrant problem, U.S. officials say
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9/22/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 9 seconds
The Identity Trap—Part 1
Even after historic civil rights progress over the last sixty years, there’s no denying that certain groups of people still face real, serious, and even systemic discrimination.
In pursuit of justice, many well-meaning activists have made identity central to their cause—arguing, for example, that in order to right wrongs, rules and laws must treat people differently, not equally, depending on the groups to which they belong.
Whatever you think of the term “wokeness,” this new ideology has spread like wildfire through academia, journalism, entertainment, governments, and corporations, radically changing politics, policy, and our public discourse.
But what if they have missed the mark?
What if crusading identitarianism is doing more harm than good?
What if it’s actually chipping away at some of the bedrock principles of our liberal democracy?
If we want honest answers, we have to take these ideas seriously.
In this two-part series, host Ron Steslow and Yascha Mounk break down his new book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time.”
In this first episode, they discuss the rapidly changing meanings of words like “woke” and why Yascha coined the term “identity synthesis” to replace it.
They look at the spread of the identity synthesis and how quickly it is changing our politics.
They dive into the intellectual underpinnings of the identity synthesis and why Yascha decided to write the book now.
Segments to look forward to:
(04:21) Yascha’s background
(06:50) Why he decided to write this book
(16:30) Why Yascha uses the term “trap”
(21:40) The philosophical underpinnings of the “Identity Synthesis”
Get the book:
Order a hardcover copy: https://amzn.to/3PKN6pR
Get the audiobook: https://amzn.to/3Ps7CKe
Get it on Kindle: https://amzn.to/3rpAB9B
Follow Ron and Yascha on X (previously Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/Yascha_Mounk
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/2023 • 46 minutes, 2 seconds
The Identity Trap—Part 2
Even after historic civil rights progress over the last sixty years, there’s no denying that certain groups of people still face real, serious, and even systemic discrimination.
In pursuit of justice, many well-meaning activists have made identity central to their cause—arguing, for example, that in order to right wrongs, rules and laws must treat people differently, not equally, depending on the groups to which they belong.
Whatever you think of the term “wokeness,” this new ideology has spread like wildfire through academia, journalism, entertainment, governments, and corporations, radically changing politics, policy, and our public discourse.
But what if they have missed the mark?
What if crusading identitarianism is doing more harm than good?
What if it’s actually chipping away at some of the bedrock principles of our liberal democracy?
If we want honest answers, we have to take these ideas seriously.
In this two part series, host Ron Steslow and Yascha Mounk break down his new book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time.”
In this second episode, they discuss how the identity synthesis moved from college classrooms, to Tumblr, to newsrooms and workplaces.
They discuss the common “with us or against us” attitudes the identity synthesis produces and the infighting at progressive institutions over identity issues.
They discuss the impact that “cancel culture” can have over trust in scientific research and why the identity synthesis isn’t compatible with liberal democracy.
Segments to look forward to:
(01:14) How the identity synthesis moved from college classrooms, to Tumblr, to the workplace
(10:40) The “with us or against us attitude” that dominates institutions overtaken by the identity synthesis
(16:00) The crippling infighting at progressive institutions over identity issues
(16:50) The identity synthesis and cancel culture
(26:32) How cancel culture erodes trust in research and institutions
(36:21) Why the identity synthesis is incompatible with liberal democracy
(44:00) How to handle backlash
Get the book:
Order a hardcover copy: https://amzn.to/3PKN6pR
Get the audiobook: https://amzn.to/3Ps7CKe
Get it on Kindle: https://amzn.to/3rpAB9B
Follow Ron and Yascha on X (previously Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/Yascha_Mounk
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/2023 • 55 minutes, 27 seconds
I Was Promised an Impeachment— The Weekly Roundup
Host Ron Steslow and guests Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight), Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education, and Politics at Third Way) , and Jim Swift (Senior Editor at The Bulwark) break down the intra-party politics around the Biden impeachment inquiry and what it could mean for the electoral dynamics in 2024.
They also discuss the piece by one of Joe Biden’s favorite columnists urging him not to run in 2024.
Finally, they break down the ruling from the 5th Circuit court of appeals ruling that the White House and some government agencies likely violated the first amendment in their communications with social media companies about content moderation
Segments to look forward to:
(02:41) Biden Impeachment Inquiry
(22:12) Should Joe Biden Run in 2024?
(33:10) What’s the line between coercion and persuasion when government agencies push for content moderation?
[Politicology+] “What Mitt Romney Saw in the Senate,” and why he won’t seek reelection next year.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/JimSwiftDC
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
Related reading:
Segment 1:
WP—Kevin McCarthy directs House committees to open Biden impeachment inquiry - The Washington Post
Vanity Fair—Marjorie Taylor Greene: Impeach Biden Now or I'll Shut Down the Government | Vanity Fair
NYT—Trump Privately Encouraged Republican Lawmakers to Impeach Biden - The New York Times
NBC News—Far-right Republicans tell McCarthy his impeachment inquiry won't soften their spending demands
Politico—How Donald Trump’s DOJ gave Biden a major assist in the coming impeachment probe - POLITICO
Segment 2:
Axios—Biden's words fuel impeachment push
WP—Opinion | President Biden should not run for reelection in 2024 - The Washington Post
Segment 3:
WP—5th Circuit finds Biden White House, CDC likely violated First Amendment
The FP—The Government Censored Me and Other Scientists. We Fought Back—and Won. | The Free Press
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9/15/2023 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 36 seconds
ENCORE: Testimony—Part 1
You can order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation now at https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, “Christian Trumpism,” and his new memoir.
(03:28) Why Jon wrote the book
(08:10) Being a “border-stalker”
(14:36) The Jesus Movement
(21:07) Understanding the different motivations (abortion and race) for Evangelicals joining the Republican party
(23:00) The insular church community and how it impacted his worldview
(30:00) How Christian belief in the end times impacts action
(32:50) The connection between being a spiritual warrior and a political warrior
(36:15) Spiritual ecstasy as a sign of devotion to God (and the burnout it caused)
(41:41) How anti-intellectualism reinforced the social bubble
Order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation—https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
Follow Ron and Jon on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/jonward11
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9/13/2023 • 55 minutes, 34 seconds
ENCORE: Testimony—Part 2
You can pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation now at https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, “Christian Trumpism,” and his new memoir.
(06:05) Why Sarah Palin resonated with so many Christians
(10:36) What having difficult conversations can teach you engagement and defensiveness
(20:00) Evangelicals showing more fear than faith
(28:50) How the structures in evangelical communities enabled Trump to distort reality
(31:06) Right Makes Might vs Might Makes Right
(36:32) How can outsiders engage positively with Evangelicals on reforming the movement
Pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation—https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
Follow Ron and Jon on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/jonward11
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9/13/2023 • 49 minutes, 52 seconds
Trump’s (Easiest) Path To Victory— The Weekly Roundup
Host Ron Steslow and guests Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) spill the tea on No Labels’ irresponsible presidential gambit and examine the very real need for structural reform in our political system. Then they dive into rising concerns among parents about their kids’ anxiety, an award-winning essay from a high schooler’s perspective, the record low trust in public schools, and the ‘family feud’ in the GOP that presents a political opportunity for Democrats—but does the will exist to meet it?
Segments to look forward to:
(02:13)The No Labels’ presidential blunder
(29:09) The GOP’s ‘family feud,’ rising concerns among parents, how our public school system is failing high-achievers and struggling students alike, and a political opportunity for Democrats
[Politicology+] MAGA Republicans in Wisconsin attempting to oust a State Supreme Court Justice who was just elected in a landslide because their gerrymandered maps hang in the balance.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
Related reading:
Segment 1:
WP—No Labels preps playbook to select presidential candidates, broaden support - The Washington Post
The Dispatch—Democrats Are Making a Risky Bet A With Biden
CBS—Larry Hogan says he has "not closed the door" to running for president under a No Labels ticket - CBS News
Third Way—No Labels’ Magic Polling Asterisks
Segment 2:
Politico—What Republicans’ ‘Family Feud’ Gets Wrong About Parenting in America - POLITICO
The Free Press—A Constitution for Teenage Happiness | The Free Press
Politico—California kids may get personal finance 101 - POLITICO
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9/8/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 18 seconds
Democracy Under Duress: The U.S.-Israel Relationship
Picture this: It’s the middle of the Israeli summer and the sun is blazing down. Crowds of people are in the streets, banners aloft, voices raised. Protests have erupted over extremely controversial reforms—reforms that sound alarm bells about the very foundations of Israeli democracy.
Switch scenes to Chicago, Illinois. A Democratic congresswoman calls Israel a 'racist state.' Fairly swiftly, her colleagues in Washington, DC disavow her words, reaffirming the extraordinarily close but complex U.S.-Israel alliance.
In this episode host Ron Steslow and Avi Mayer (Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post) break down the judicial reforms in Israel, the tinderbox of recent protests, that incendiary “racist state” comment, and the legislative maneuvering that followed—Congress's reaffirmation that yes, we “will always be a staunch partner and supporter of Israel.”
Segments to look forward to:
(02:00) The importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship for both nations
(09:00) Basic overview of how Israel’s political system works
(13:30) The aggressive push for controversial judicial reform in Israel
(24:34) How some of the proposed reforms would limit the power of the Supreme Court
(28:20) The crisis that could arise from a standoff between the Knesset and the Supreme Court
(31:00) What compromise might look like
(35:18) Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s remarks that Israel is a “racist state”
(42:00) The House of Representatives’ resolution reaffirming support for Israel
(44:44) Anti-Semitism from across the political spectrum
Follow Ron and Avi on X (previously Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/AviMayer
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9/6/2023 • 54 minutes, 26 seconds
“A New Club Of Thugs”— The Weekly Roundup
What will BRICS expansion mean for the United States?
Is your pension paying for China’s aircraft carriers?
How did China spend four years conducting an influence campaign on the biggest social media platforms before they were caught?
Why do Republican voters think Donald Trump has the best chance at beating Joe Biden in 2024?
Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores the latest political news with this week’s guests: Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN).
Segments to look forward to:
(02:44) The BRICS Summit and expansion
(08:01) Breaking down the biggest news about the U.S. China Relationship
(12:44) China’s real estate market crisis
(22:40) Is your pension fueling the Chinese military and surveillance state?
(35:30) Meta executes its largest ever removal of accounts linked to a four-year-long Chinese influence campaign
(:50) Why Republicans Don’t want to be saved by Donald Trump
[Politicology+] How Artificial Intelligence will shape our elections and be a tool for bad actors on the world stage.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
You should check out Oh My World on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ohmyworldwithhagarchemali
Related reading:
Segment 1:
CBS News—The 4 biggest moments from this week's BRICS summit — and why they matter - CBS News
CNN—BRICS expansion is a big win for China. But can it really work as a counterweight to the West? | CNN
CNN—China's Xi unexpectedly skipped a key BRICS event. No one is saying why
CNBC—China's property giant Evergrande files for bankruptcy protection in Manhattan court
WP—Opinion | Rep. Mike Gallagher: U.S. investment in problematic Chinese companies has to stop - The Washington Post
NYT—Meta’s ‘Biggest Single Takedown’ Removes Chinese Influence Campaign - The New York Times
SCMP—Republican candidates talk ‘tough on China’ as Trump skips first debate
Segment 2:
NYT—The Thing Is, Most Republicans Really Like Trump - The New York Times
Jonathan Last—Joe the Plumber and Partisan Schadenfreude
The Atlantic—The Fourteenth Amendment Fantasy
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9/1/2023 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 10 seconds
[+] "Flood The Zone” [Preview]
Hagar Chemali, Mike Madrid, and Ron Steslow discuss how Artificial Intelligence will shape our elections and be a tool for bad actors on the world stage.
What we read:
Bloomberg—Opinion: We Need AI Arms Control to Keep the New Cold War From Turning Hot
Scientific American—How AI Could Take Over Elections--And Undermine Democracy - Scientific American
The Guardian—The Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman review – AI, synthetic biology and a new dawn for humanity | Computing and the net books | The Guardian
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9/1/2023 • 35 minutes, 31 seconds
ENCORE: The Power of Emotional Intelligence
Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College) joins Ron Steslow to discuss emotional intelligence and how it impacts success in the workplace, politics, and our everyday lives
(01:40) What emotional intelligence is and how we measure it
(03:55) Why emotional intelligence is important
(07:03) How self-awareness impacts emotional intelligence
(10:15) How you can build self-awareness
(13:05) How regulating your emotions shapes your emotional intelligence
(16:20) Ways you can improve how well you manage and regulate your emotions
(21:19) The importance of grit in emotional intelligence
(24:43) Emotional intelligence and being a moral rebel
(39:39) The “dark side” of emotional intelligence
(41:39) Why emotional intelligence needs a moral backbone
(50:53) How you can improve your emotional intelligence
You can measure your emotional intelligence using this test: http://bit.ly/3DPYxpX
Follow Ron and Catherine on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/SandersonSpeaks
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8/30/2023 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 53 seconds
TAPPED: Molly McKew on Prigozhin Plane Crash
Ron Steslow calls Molly McKew to discuss the plane crash that killed Yevgeny Prigozhin, why Putin decided to kill his former henchman, and what it means for the war in Ukraine
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8/29/2023 • 19 minutes, 57 seconds
The Vice Presidential Primary Debate — The Weekly Roundup
Did anyone land a successful punch at the Republican Debate? (And did it matter?) Our reactions to Trump’s interview with Tucker Carlson, and the new song that catapulted a relatively unknown country singer to conservative folk hero and progressive hate object status
Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores the most important political news with guests Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), Liam Donovan (Principal at Bracewell LLP) and Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention).
Segments to look forward to:
(02:18) A deep dive into the first Republican primary debate, who won and who lost, Nikki Haley’s swipe at Donald Trump, and Vivek Ramaswamy’s annoying performance that could endear him to MAGA voters
(31:50) Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson counterprogramming the debate with a pre-taped interview where they discussed whether Trump’s political rivals would try to kill him and whether we’re heading toward a civil war.
(41:40) The little known Virginia country singer who was catapulted to conservative folk hero and progressive hate object status for the song “Rich Men North of Richmond”
[Politicology+] The continued legal troubles for Hunter Biden and how Joe Biden can respond to the Republican attacks.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/LPDonovan
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
Related reading:
Segment 1:
Politico—How Fox’s Republican debate moderators are thinking about the Trump question - POLITICO
NYT—Debate Live Updates: Republican 2024 Candidates, but Not Trump, to Face Off - The New York Times
Segment 2:
X—Tucker Carlson Interview with Donald Trump
CNN—Trump already taped interview with Tucker Carlson that will air on GOP debate night | CNN Politics
The Hill—Tucker Carlson asks Trump: Are you worried ‘they’re going to try and kill you?’ | The Hill
Segment 3
YouTube—Oliver Anthony Rich Men North of Richmond
AZ Lyrics—Oliver Anthony - Rich Men North Of Richmond Lyrics | AZLyrics.com
NY Post—What people are getting wrong about 'Rich Men North of Richmond'
NYT—How ‘Rich Men North of Richmond’ Reached the Top of the Charts
Intelligencer—Oliver Anthony and the Incoherence of Right-Wing Populism
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8/25/2023 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 22 seconds
Rank The Vote, Rock The Boat
Imagine a world where candidates no longer need to pander to the extremes, where minor candidates don’t tip elections one way or another, and where your vote can truly represent your values. Sounds like a dream, right?
States like Alaska and Maine are already proving it's possible. And they’re doing it with Ranked Choice Voting.
In this episode host Ron Steslow and Deb Otis (Director of Research at Fair Vote) break down ranked choice voting, how it works, the way it’s changing politics in states like Alaska and Maine, and what it could mean for other campaigns and how it could help us reign in extremism.
Segments to look forward to:
(02:12) How Deb started working on Ranked Choice Voting reform
(03:05) What Ranked Choice Voting is and how it differs from our current system
(07:40) Different forms of Ranked Choice Voting
(12:00) How Ranked Choice Voting pushes candidates to appeal to more of the electorate
(14:36) Ranked Choice Voting in partisan primary elections
(17:30) The impact on extremist candidates like Sarah Palin in the 2022 Alaska House Race
(20:50) How Ranked Choice Voting helped Lisa Murkowski hold off a primary challenge from her right
(22:01) The repeal effort in Alaska
(28:48) How Ranked Choice Voting has changed the way states are governed
(31:51) Ranked choice voting in New York City primaries
(35:35) Why Democrats are fighting Ranked Choice Voting in Nevada
(43:37) What other states can learn from Alaska and Maine
(47:47) Using Ranked Choice Voting in Presidential Primary elections.
Learn more about Fair Vote: https://fairvote.org/
Learn about how Ranked Choice Voting is being used in presidential primaries: https://bit.ly/3QXWwz0
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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8/23/2023 • 54 minutes, 24 seconds
The State of Georgia v. Donald John Trump—The Weekly Roundup
On Monday, Donald Trump was hit with his fourth criminal indictment of the year this time by a Grand Jury in Fulton County, Georgia.
What are the allegations in this newest indictment? How is the District Attorney, Fani Willis, using a law designed to fight organized crime to prosecute Trump’s plot to steal the 2020 election? What will the timeline for these cases be?
Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores these questions Michael Zeldin (former federal prosecutor).
Segments to look forward to:
(01:23) An overview of the current criminal cases Donald Trump is facing
(12:40) Why prosecutors will need to prove criminal intent in the Washington, D.C. case (and why they won’t in the Mar-a-Lago documents case)
(16:00) How a Grand Jury returns a true bill of indictment in Georgia
(22:00) What the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act is and how it’s used in Georgia
(28:50) How normally legal activity can be charged when it’s part of a criminal enterprise.
(35:00) How the RICO charges will allow prosecutors to show the full story of the plot to steal the election in Georgia
(40:00) Whether defendants will have to serve prison time if convicted
(44:00) Why Mark Meadows wants to move the case to federal court
(56:58) Why the Georgia case and the indictment in Washington, DC can have overlap
(1:07:40) The differences between Willis’s and Smith’s strategies.
(1:15:34) What the timeline of these trials might look like
(1:23:05) Whether Doanld Trump should be pardoned if convicted of a federal crime
Read more about the differences between Georgia and Federal law about lying to officials: The Two Big Questions Answered by Trump's Georgia Indictment
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
Check out Micahel’s Podcast That Said: https://apple.co/3qAaPz6
Related reading:
The full indictment
NYT—Trump Georgia Indictment: Read the Full Text, Annotated - The New York Times
(Video) ABC News—Fulton County, GA District Attorney Fani Willis announces indictment against Trump
NYT—The Two Big Questions Answered by Trump's Georgia Indictment
AJC—Who's who in the Georgia Trump indictment
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8/18/2023 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 9 seconds
ENCORE: Worthy of Protection — Part 1
To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law
(01:25) History of laws protecting creativity
(09:20) What IP lawyers do
(12:50) What led Géraldine to fashion IP
(20:50) Fashion as political
(35:50) How politicians send messages through fashion choices
(41:41) Fashion as a signifier of political groups
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
Follow Géraldine on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/designedbylaw/
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8/16/2023 • 50 minutes, 13 seconds
ENCORE: Worthy of Protection — Part 2
To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law
(01:26) Fashion in Politics
(05:36) Iteration, interpretation, and inspiration
(09:47) The need for time in fashion and democracy
(14:24) Environmental impact of fashion
(26:42) The impact of AI on fashion
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
Follow Géraldine on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/designedbylaw/
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8/16/2023 • 54 minutes, 29 seconds
A Trumped Up State Of Mind — The Weekly Roundup
Should Donald Trump be pardoned if he’s convicted? Why are state legislatures trying to consolidate power and limit ballot referenda? What do spending decisions have to do with the Gerontocracy?
Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores these questions with guests Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight).
Segments to look forward to:
(02:00) Why the election subversion case against Trump is harder to prove than the documents case and whether Trump should be granted clemency if convicted.
(21:21) Ohio voters defeat a measure to make amending the Constitution harder and what it says about the balance between direct democracy and the legislative system.
(38:38) Breaking down the Medicaid maintenance after Covid protections end, the challenge of reigning in deficits without political backlash, and how this relates to the gerontocracy.
[Politicology+] The lawsuit against Lizzo and “the narcissism of singular personalities.”
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
Related reading:
Segment 1:
NYT—https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/08/us/politics/trump-indictment-fake-electors-memo.html
The Dispatch —The New Trump Indictment Is Less Clear Cut - The Dispatch
NYT—Opinion | The Trial America Needs - The New York Times
Segment 2:
NYT—Ohio Voters Reject Constitutional Change Intended to Thwart Abortion Amendment
Axios—Ohio referendum win for abortion rights sets stage for fights in other states
Politico—Ohio’s Abortion Ban Is Rekindling a Century-Old Battle Over Direct Democracy - POLITICO
Segment 3
Politico—Biden's health care wins are being undone — and at the worst possible time
Bloomberg—US Treasury Boosts Quarterly Borrowing Estimate to $1 Trillion
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8/11/2023 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 46 seconds
ENCORE: Any Given Tuesday with Lis Smith
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
What does it take for a mid-west mayor to become a viable presidential candidate?
What’s it like to be a crisis communications expert in the eye of New York City Tabloids?
What does it take to go from a field organizer to one of the most well respected communications strategists in American politics?
Lis Smith (former senior advisor to presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her career working on twenty-something political campaigns, and her new memoir, Any Given Tuesday: A Political Love Story
(01:25) Why “Any Given Tuesday?”
(02:56) What drew her to politics?
(07:48) Candidates as people, not two-dimensional characters
(10:57) What can losing campaigns teach you?
(14:45) Being in the eye of a tabloid news story
(29:32) How not to use Twitter (and how you can use it well)
(37:50) Tailoring comments on cable news
(45:11) Candidate Pete’s communications strategy
(56:21) The Gay Talk Express
You should read Any Given Tuesday: https://bit.ly/3AimMu7
Follow Lis and Ron on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3AimMu7
https://twitter.com/Lis_Smith
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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8/9/2023 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 53 seconds
A Capitol Offense — The Weekly Roundup
What will Donald Trump’s third indictment mean for his presidential campaign? How does the breakdown of Hunter Biden's plea deal impact President Joe Biden? How will New York City's migrant crisis shape national politics?
Join our guest host, Susan Del Percio, as she explores these questions with guests Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education, and Politics at Third Way) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica).
Segments to look forward to:
(02:42) Understanding the latest indictment of Donald Trump for his attempts to subvert the 2020 election
24:20) Analyzing the collapse of Hunter Biden’s plea deal, the testimony of his business partner before Congress, and the potential implications for Joe Biden
(34:34) Unraveling the crisis unfolding in New York City as it grapples with a surge in migrants
[Politicology+] The hot button topic of California's new math framework, the drive for equity in math education, and the critical need to support high achieving students.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
Related reading:
Segment 1:
CNN—Takeaways from the indictment of Donald Trump for efforts to overturn his 2020 election defeat | CNN Politics
NYT—Trump Faces New Charges in Mar-a-Lago Classified Documents Case - The New York Times
NYT—Can the Race Really Be That Close? Yes, Biden and Trump Are Tied.
NYT—Trump Faces New Charges in Mar-a-Lago Classified Documents Case - The New York Times
NYT—Biden Shores Up Democratic Support, but Faces Tight Race Against Trump
Segment 2:
NYT—Hunter Biden Plea Deal Put on Hold as Judge Questions Its Details - The New York Times
CNN—Takeaways from the stunning Hunter Biden hearing and what happens now | CNN Politics
WP—Opinion Why the Hunter Biden plea fiasco will be a drag on Democrats
CNN—Devon Archer: Former business partner says Hunter Biden sold 'illusion' of access | CNN Politics
FOX News—Biggs says Archer didn’t know anything about a bribe
Segment 3
ABC7—Calls for federal action as asylum seekers wait in line outside Roosevelt Hotel
NYT—Migrants Will Sleep Outdoors Because ‘There Is No More Room,’ Adams Says - The New York Times
Politico—NYC Mayor Adams warns Biden about spiraling migrant crisis - POLITICO
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8/4/2023 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 35 seconds
Why We Buy
In our digital age, people have grown to see social media platforms as mere tools and applications.
Marcus Collins, the award-winning marketer, former digital strategist for Beyoncé, and author of "For The Culture", argues otherwise.
Join host Ron Steslow as he sits down with Marcus to unravel the deep-seated influence of culture on social media and our daily choices.
Marcus elaborates on his assertion that "social media is people" and why understanding this fundamental idea changes our approach to digital platforms. He also delves into the crucial role of culture in hyperpolarization and how it weaves into the fabric of our society.
Segments to look forward to:
(01:20) How Marcus came to study culture: "I feel like I'm at my best when I'm helping people realize the best version of themselves…”
(04:26) The connection between marketing and psychology
(08:42) The importance of purpose in advertising: "Start with what you believe and when you start with what you believe people who see the world the way you do go, 'Finally, someone said it. That's my person.'”
(17:02) The influence of culture on consumer choice
(20:40) The connection between culture and politics
(24:00) Case study: How Patagonia leveraged culture to build their brand
(30:00) Case study: Donald Trump's cultural strategy in the 2016 election
(32:09) Understanding tribes and congregations
(37:27)”The brain is a prediction machine”
(40:00) The role of culture in hyperpolarization
(42:14) The state of anti-Trump Republicans within the broader Republican culture
(44:00) How subcultures develop and operate
(50:00) How preaching the gospel can get people to move
You Should Read For the Culture: https://amzn.to/3QjLDaH
Check out Predictably Rational by Dan Ariely: https://amzn.to/3rPeWHL
Follow Ron and Marcus on X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/marctothec
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8/2/2023 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 54 seconds
ENCORE: The Workingman’s Party?
This episode was originally released on October 12, 2022
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Ruy Teixeira (Nonresident Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute), Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to discuss the erosion of support for Democrats among Hispanic voters
(03:01) Ruy’s background
(17:00) The trend of Hispanic voters moving away from the Democratic party
(34:10) Joe Biden’s low approval rating among Hispanic voters
(35:40) What factors are driving the trend
(38:11) The Latino vote taking on the characteristics of the American electorate
(50:48) How Democrats could win back more Hispanic voters
(58:02) The tension between working class voters and voters concerned about environmental issues
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Follow Mike, Scott and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/stranter
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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7/28/2023 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 31 seconds
ENCORE: Free Speech Culture
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Some of the most vexing political controversies, policy questions, and cultural crises of our current moment trace their orbit around the singular legal and cultural gravity of our 1st Amendment—and the radical, enlightenment wisdom enshrined in it.
What has really been going across college campuses—and what’s at stake for wider society outside the confines of higher education?
Is the colloquial public square, practically speaking, now privately held by a handful of tech titans?
How has the idea of “free speech” become so shockingly misunderstood that one of our major political parties can persuade a large swath of the country that a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol is “legitimate political discourse?”
Greg Lukianoff (President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE)) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss FIRE’s fight to protect free speech on—and, now, off—campus.
(02:15) Greg’s background and FIRE’s role in protecting the First Amendment
(5:15) The Coddling of the American Mind
(10:30) The state of free speech on college campuses
(30:20) What’s driving the complaints on college campuses
(39:55) FIRE moving off campus to create a culture of free speech
(41:05) Why they decided to take on off campus speech issues
(50:31) Limits to protected speech
(59:10) Free speech and Big Tech
(1:04:25) Creating a culture of free speech
Visit FIRE’s Website: thefire.org
Follow Greg and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/glukianoff
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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7/26/2023 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 38 seconds
[+] Grain and Ammo [Preview]
Molly McKew joins Frank Salder, Andy Kroll, and Ron Steslow to discuss Russia's decision to halt Ukraine's Black Sea grain exports and its ramifications on the conflict and the rest of the world—especially Africa. She also addresses the US running out of the ammunition it pledged to Ukraine.
What we read:
Bloomberg—US Suspends Wuhan Institute of Virology’s Access to Federal Funding - Bloomberg
Newsweek—Pentagon Making Race-Specific Bioweapons to Target Citizens, China Says
NYPost—RFK Jr. says COVID may have been 'ethnically targeted' to spare Jews
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7/22/2023 • 33 minutes, 10 seconds
Trump’s Planning A Power Grab — The Weekly Roundup
Donald Trump has a plan to consolidate even more power if he wins in 2024. So, where’s the political will to constrain such a power grab while there’s time?
Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he and guests Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) delve deep into these pivotal discussions.
Segments to look forward to:
(2:11) We dive into Donald Trump’s announcement that he's the target of the grand jury investigation into 2020 election subversion, and other Republican candidates' reluctance to confront him.
(12:23) We then examine Trump's re-election agenda to reshape the executive branch for more control over independent agencies, explore the 'unitary executive theory,' and consider the implications of Congress’ failure to check growing executive power. (We'll also delve into Julian Assange's indictment for leaking classified materials.)
(42:12) We inspect the Health and Human Services' move to halt funding for the Wuhan Institute of Virology, probe the handling of the COVID-19 origin investigation, and discuss how failures in dominant media breed uncertainty.
[Politicology+] Molly McKew joins the panel for this week’s Politicology+ episode to unpack Russia's decision to halt Ukraine's Black Sea grain exports and its ramifications on the conflict and the rest of the world—especially Africa. She also addresses the US running out of the ammunition it pledged to Ukraine.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
Related reading:
Segment 1:
CNN—Donald Trump says he's a target of special counsel's criminal probe into 2020 election aftermath | CNN Politics
NBC News—Trump lashes out after target letter from special counsel leading Jan. 6 probe
CBS News—16 Michigan residents face felony charges for fake electors scheme after 2020 election - CBS News
Segment 2:
NYT—Trump Plans to Expand Presidential Power Over Agencies in 2025 - The New York Times
Rolling Stone—Biden's DOJ Is Pressuring Journalists to Help Build Its Case Against Assange
Segment 3
Bloomberg—US Suspends Wuhan Institute of Virology’s Access to Federal Funding - Bloomberg
Newsweek—Pentagon Making Race-Specific Bioweapons to Target Citizens, China Says
NYPost—RFK Jr. says COVID may have been 'ethnically targeted' to spare Jews
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7/21/2023 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 32 seconds
The Real Cost of Cheap Food
Over the last 100 years, we have streamlined the process of food production. A hundred years ago, 99% of people were engaged in the agricultural process in some way. Today, that number is 1%. As a result, our relationship with food has become desperately impersonal. But what are the consequences of all that efficiency?
Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of our food systems with Jeff Tkatch (CEO of the Rodale Institute) and host Ron Steslow. In this captivating conversation, we dig deep into the living soil beneath our feet, our disconnection from nature, and the mechanisms driving our extractive farming systems.
Jeff provides a comprehensive understanding of the difference between soil and dirt, explaining why one gives life while the other is lifeless. He shares his personal journey towards regenerative agriculture and elaborates on the role Rodale Institute plays in shaping the future of farming.
Segments to look forward to:
(2:10) Understanding the difference between soil and dirt: "If soil could talk to us, what would it be saying right now? Feed me. Rest me. Water me. Feed me. Rest me. Water me. I'm a living, breathing organism just like you. And by the way, you depend on me for life."
(03:30) Jeff's journey into regenerative agriculture and the role of the Rodale Institute
(13:30) How we became disconnected from nature and our food
(15:30) Who feeds the world?
(16:20) A deep dive into the extractive farming system and the need for sustainable agricultural practices
(19:50) Unraveling the incentives that have shaped our agricultural system
(23:00) The various faces of agriculture: sustainable, regenerative, and organic regenerative
(27:35) The cost of organic food and the unseen cost of not eating organic
(30:00) “Agriculture is the great healer of our time”
(37:15) Policy changes that could revolutionize farming and an overview of the Pennsylvania State Farm Bill
(40:52) The challenge of organic food fraud
(51:10) How changing our understanding of food production could reduce polarization: “It starts with gratitude...when we begin to see our brother and sister through food, we're creating a metaphorical table. We're actually sitting down at a table every moment of every day here in this country and hopefully around the world."
Learn more about the Rodale Institute: https://www.rodaleinstitute.org/
Get involved and connect with local farmers near you. As Jeff says, "Everybody should get to know a farmer."
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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7/19/2023 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 58 seconds
Trump Is Not The Standard — The Weekly Roundup
Shouldn’t we hold our leaders like President Biden to higher standards than the ones Republicans set for Donald Trump?
Join our host Ron Steslow, as he discusses this and more with Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN). We'll learn why Susan still holds onto financial disclosure forms from two decades ago and Hagar explains how the Barbie movie is impacting geopolitics.
Segments to look forward to:
(02:44) Unpacking ongoing investigations concerning the Biden family
(24:50)This week's NATO summit and what it could mean for the on the war in Ukraine
(48:50) Exploring the movement in eastern Oregon to shift state borders and align with Idaho and what it says about our hyperpartisan times
[Politicology+] Tune in as we dive into Meta's latest venture, Threads, whether it can really challenge Twitter, and the escalating dispute between tech titans Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
What we read:
Segment 1:
NYT—Competing Accounts of Justice Dept.’s Handling of Hunter Biden Case - The New York Times
NYT—U.S. Attorney in Hunter Biden Case Defends Investigation to House Republicans - The New York Times
NYT—David Weiss Rebuts I.R.S. Official’s Account of Request in Hunter Biden Case - The New York Times
NYT—The G.O.P. Backed Gal Luft on Hunter Biden Claims. Now He’s Indicted. - The New York Times
WP—Indictment of GOP’s ‘missing’ informant becomes conspiracy fodder
WP—Opinion | Millions flowed to Biden family members. Don’t pretend it doesn’t matter. - The Washington Post
Segment 2:
BBC—Turkey backs Sweden's Nato membership - BBC News
NYT—Despite Successes at NATO Summit, Divisions Remain - The New York Times
WP—Zelensky slams NATO’s declaration on Ukraine membership - The Washington Post
UnHerd—Fiona Hill: Pax Americana is over - The Post
Segment 3
Idaho State Journal—Greater Idaho movement wins over another Oregon county | Local | idahostatejournal.com
Idaho Statesman—Greater Idaho Movement claims 12th Oregon county to vote in favor of moving the state line
NYT—Opinion | Are Your Neighbors Mostly Democrats or Republicans? - The New York Times
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7/14/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 37 seconds
ENCORE: True Crime in the Post-Truth Era
To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
How does murder during a robbery-gone-wrong become an international conspiracy theory?
What even is a true crime story in the post-truth era?
Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica, former DC Bureau Chief for Rolling Stone) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss his new book, A Death on W Street: The Murder of Seth Rich and the Age of Conspiracy.
(01:34) What drew Andy to the Seth Rich story
(08:48) The facts of the Seth Rich case
(12:44) How conspiracy theories have changed in the 21st Century
(21:08) Russia, the DNC leak, and the need for a scapegoat
(24:22) The intersection of conspiracy theories
(29:06) The conspiracy theory economy
You should read A Death on W Street: https://andy-kroll.com/
Follow Andy and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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7/12/2023 • 52 minutes, 43 seconds
“Class Matters”— The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder), Tom Nichols (Staff Writer at The Atlantic) and host Ron Steslow discuss some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(05:38) The Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action
(27:00) The short-lived rebellion in Russia and the invasion of Ukraine
(40:34) America’s relationship with war and the difference between patriotism and nationalism
[Politicology+] The Federal Court ruling restricting the Biden administration's communications with social media platforms.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/RadioFreeTom
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
What we read:
Segment 1:
NPR—Supreme Court guts affirmative action, effectively ending race-conscious admissions
WSJ—Can Colleges Be Racially Diverse Without Affirmative Action? Experience Suggests No
WP—Biden faces renewed pressure to embrace Supreme Court overhaul - The Washington Post
NYT—Opinion | On Race and Academia - The New York Times
Segment 2:
CNN—Ukraine warns Russia might attack the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. How worried should we be?
NYT—After Armed Rebellion, Putin Tries to Reinforce His Defenses
CBS—U.S. could decide this week whether to send cluster munitions to Ukraine - CBS News
Insider—Russia has 'lost nearly half' of its combat effectiveness since invading Ukraine, UK defense official says
Segment 3
Atlantic—Reclaiming Real American Patriotism - The Atlantic
Politico—Opinion | It's Time For Progressives to Reclaim the Fourth of July - POLITICO
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7/7/2023 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 28 seconds
The Power Code
Katty Kay (veteran reporter and four-time NYT bestselling author) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her new book The Power Code: More Joy. Less Ego. Maximum Impact for Women (and Everyone), co-written with Claire Shipman.
(02:12) Katty’s background and why she started looking at power
(07:07) Women are passing men in college degrees, but not the boardroom
(13:10) Why women have been more likely to avoid power
(16:10) “Power over” vs “power to”
(20:20) How reframing power changes how women approach power
(25:57) The connection between power and status
(33:04) Your brain on power
(38:30) Does power corrupt?
(54:30) What can you do to improve your power code?
Get The Power Code: https://www.kayandshipman.com/books
Follow Ron and Katty on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/KattyKay_
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7/5/2023 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 12 seconds
“Bidenomics” — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio ((MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention), Zack Czajkowski (Principal at Title Fight) and host Ron Steslow unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:20) The President’s bold bet on “Bidenomics”
(16:20) How Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is appealing to voters
(45:2 0) Liz Cheney: “We’re electing idiots”
[Politicology+] Canada’s new law requiring social media companies to pay licensing fees for news stories shared on the platform and a bill in the U.S. Senate that could bring the same policy here…
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/ZackCz
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
Follow Liz on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/lizgilbertcohen/
What we read:
Segment 1:
Politico—Biden puts all his chips on the table with a push on ‘Bidenomics’ - POLITICO
CNN—The 'Bidenomics' plan, explained | CNN Politics
CSPAN—President Biden Delivers "Bidenomics" Speech in Chicago | C-SPAN.org
Segment 2:
The Free Press—What RFK Jr. Gets Right—and What He Gets Wrong | The Free Press
NYT—Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Draws Support From Outside the Democratic Party - The New York Times
WP—RFK Jr. is surging only in polls among Republicans - The Washington Post
NYT—Go Ahead. Debate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Twitter—RFK Jr and Bill Maher
Segment 3
WP—Liz Cheney on what’s wrong with politics: ‘We’re electing idiots’ - The Washington Post
WP—House votes to send articles of impeachment against Biden to committees
CNN—McCarthy attempts damage control after questioning Trump's strength as a candidate | CNN Politics
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6/30/2023 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 24 seconds
Immigration: Too Big To Solve?
Frank Sharry (Founder of America’s Voice) and David Bier (Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute) join host Ron Steslow to discuss some of the biggest issues in immigration policy and what’s getting in the way of immigration reform
(01:52) Why Frank and David started focusing on immigration policy
(04:25) What the first principles of immigration policy should be
(14:00) Areas of policy agreement on the center-left and center-right
(28:20) The movement toward nativism on the far-right
(33:21) Robert Kenney Jr’s trip to the border
(36:32) A closed border vs Secure border
(46:40) How difficult it is to legally immigrate to the U.S.
(1:02:20) Seeing immigration as a problem to be managed vs opportunity to for country to grow
(1:09:00) What meaningful immigration reform could look like
Follow Ron, Frank, and David on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/FrankSharry
https://twitter.com/David_J_Bier
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6/29/2023 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 11 seconds
TAPPED: Coup In Russia?
Ron Steslow calls Molly McKew to discuss the escalating security crisis between Russia and the Wagner group, the private army that’s been fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
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6/24/2023 • 17 minutes, 14 seconds
Alito’s Private Jet Imbroglio — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and host Ron Steslow unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:04) Justice Samuel Altio’s private jet imbroglio and Senate Democrat’ push for court reform
(30:33) China’s plans to build a joint military training facility in Cuba
(39:13) Fed Chairman Powell’s appearance before the House Financial Services committee
[Politicology+ Preview] Hunter Biden’s plea deal
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
What we read:
Segment 1:
ProPublica—Justice Samuel Alito Took Luxury Fishing Vacation With GOP Billionaire Who Later Had Cases Before the Court
WSJ—Justice Samuel Alito: ProPublica Misleads Its Readers - WSJ
Segment 2:
WSJ—Beijing Plans a New Training Facility in Cuba, Raising Prospect of Chinese Troops on America’s Doorstep - WSJ
CNN—Blinken says he 'made very clear' US 'would have deep concerns' about Chinese military activities in Cuba | CNN Politics
Segment 3
CNN—Key takeaways from Fed Chair Powell's testimony
Politico—Fed poised for respite on rate hikes. Now the hurt begins. - POLITICO:
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6/23/2023 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 17 seconds
China Wants A New World Order
Evan Medeiros (Penner Family Chair in Asia Studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and Former Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the increasing tension in the United States’ relationship with China:
(02:31) How Evan became interested in China
(04:04) Biden’s meeting with Xi in 2011
(07:00) What Evan learned about Xi during that visit
(09:39) CCP reform campaign
(12:50) How the relationship changed as Xi became leader
(16:50) How the invasion of Crimea changed who Xi viewed the west
(20:10) China’s role in current invasion of Ukraine
(22:10) China’s rejection of universal values
(26:50) China’s “Global Civilization Initiative”
(28:18) How the Global Civilization Initiative could shape China’s relationship with the rest of the world
(29:41) How Xi views Taiwan
(30:52) Biden’s commitment to protect Taiwan
(42:00) Reassessing our economic relationship
Follow Evan on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-medeiros-b36733/
Follow Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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6/22/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 15 seconds
Boogeyman—The Weekly Roundup
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) and Amy Walter (Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Cook Political Report with Amy Walter) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:00) The reactions to Donald Trump’s indictment
(36:36) The politics of privacy, including controversy over a federal program that allows the government to engage in surveillance
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Supreme Court’s decision rejecting racially gerrymandered voting maps in Alabama that diluted Black voters’ power.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
https://twitter.com/amyewalter
What we read:
Segment 1:
WSJ—Trump’s Indictment May Pull Us Back From the Brink - WSJ
Politico—The Senate GOP's quiet but mighty Trump skeptics - POLITICO
Politico—Biden orders DNC and reelect to remain silent about Trump’s indictment - POLITICO
The Dispatch—‘But Her Emails’ Is Not the Defense of Trump His Supporters Would Like It to Be - Jonah Goldberg - The Dispatch
NYT—Christie Attacks Trump in CNN Town Hall, Calling Conduct Detailed in Indictment ‘Awful’ - The New York Times
CBS News—Trump delivered defiant speech after indictment hearing. Here's what he said. - CBS News
CNBC—'Trump can't win': Koch network releases ads targeting ex-president
Segment 2:
WP—National security officials make case for keeping surveillance powers to skeptical Congress - The Washington Post
CNN—FBI announces new curbs on controversial surveillance program as Congress considers whether to renew it | CNN Politics
Forbes—Jon Ossoff Grills Top FBI Official Over Abuses Of Citizens' Civil Liberties
Wired—The US Is Openly Stockpiling Dirt on All Its Citizens | WIRED
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6/16/2023 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 18 seconds
“Dead To Rights” — George Conway on Trump’s 2nd Indictment
George Conway (conservative attorney and Lincoln Project co-founder) and Ron Steslow discuss Donald Trump’s indictment on federal charges over his mishandling of classified documents and obstructing the government's efforts to reclaim them.
(01:38) Historical significance of charges
(08:50) Outlining the charges
(16:15) How this case is different from Biden and Pence cases
(19:40) The significance of the tape of Trump admitting the documents were classified in 2021
(21:12) The impact that being on a “rocket docket” could have
(25:40) How the jury makeup will (or won’t) impact the verdict
(29:40) Trump’s potential defense strategy
(42:00) Trump’s trouble getting a lawyer in Florida
(54:14) What the best and worst case scenarios could look like
(55:39) Judge Aileen Cannon being assigned the case
Follow Ron and George on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/gtconway3d
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6/14/2023 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 18 seconds
Spoiler Alert?—The Weekly Roundup
Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:06) The No Labels plan for a third party presidential run
(26:44) The primary field gets more crowded as Chris Christie and Mike Pence enter the field
(40:25) Jonathan Hadit’s proposal to keep phones out of school
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Biden Administration’s proposed plans to ban certain household appliances.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/ThirdWayMattB
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
What we read:
Segment 1:
Bulwark—The No Labels Delusion
Third Way—Does No Labels’ Math and Map Get Them to the White House? – Third Way
NYTimes—‘No Labels’ Eyes a Third-Party Run Against Biden and Trump. Is Joe Manchin Interested? - The New York Times
CNN—New Hampshire GOP Gov. Chris Sununu says he will not run for president in 2024: CNN Exclusive
NBC News—Maine election officials say No Labels may be misleading voters in its third-party push
Segment 2:
NYT—Pence Delivers Strong Rebuke to Trump in Campaign Announcement - The New York Times
CNN—Chris Christie kicks off 2024 campaign with sharp attacks on Trump | CNN Politics
Politico—Cornel West announces he's running for president - POLITICO
NBC News—Ron DeSantis makes a surprise visit to the southern border
Segment 3:
The Atlantic —Get Phones Out of Schools Now
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6/9/2023 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 55 seconds
ENCORE: The Power of Silence — Part 2
We live in a loud world that’s getting louder.
We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications.
But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it?
In fact, what is silence, anyway?
How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships?
Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise
(02:38) What we can all learn from how the Amish evaluate new technology
(07:25) The attention economy and why it’s not working for us
(13:44) Understanding “ma” and how we can use it to resolve conflict
(22:14) Using quality over quantity to measure productivity
(26:26) Ways to incorporate silence in your everyday life
(35:35) Silence and expanded states of consciousness using psychedelics
You should read Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise : http://bit.ly/3UIGJU2
FollowJustin, Leigh, and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/JustinZorn
https://twitter.com/LeighMarz
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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6/7/2023 • 50 minutes, 38 seconds
ENCORE: The Power of Silence — Part 1
We live in a loud world that’s getting louder.
We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications.
But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it?
In fact, what is silence, anyway?
How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships?
Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise
(02:33) Leigh and Justin’s backgrounds
(07:04) Why they began practicing silence in their own lives
(12:50) Why silence feels scary
(18:30) What is noise?
(22:12) Internal silence is what people think it is
(30:19) The connection between noise and rigid thinking
(37:27) The historical significance of silence
You should read Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise : http://bit.ly/3UIGJU2
FollowJustin, Leigh, and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/JustinZorn
https://twitter.com/LeighMarz
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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6/7/2023 • 54 minutes, 1 second
‘A Hostage They Couldn’t Shoot’—The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:44) The deal to raise the debt ceiling
(19:30) How getting this close to a default impacts the global economy and foreign affairs
(33:52) Dianne Feinstein’s return to the Senate, her increasing reliance on aides, and the calls for her resignation coming from the left
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Politics of delusion and how our misconceptions about what other people think could fuel an anti-democracy spiral
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Check out Oh My World with Hagar Chemali on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@omwshow
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
What we read:
Segment 1:
NYT—New Details in Debt Limit Deal: Where $136 Billion in Cuts Will Come From
NBCNews—Debt ceiling vote live updates: House will take up the Biden-McCarthy plan tonight
NPR—Far-right members threaten a 'reckoning' over McCarthy's debt limit deal
AP—House debt ceiling vote to avert default on track with Biden and McCarthy both confident of passage | AP News
The Dispatch—Loaded With Gimmicks, but Still Worth It - Brian Riedl - The Dispatch
Segment 2:
AP News—What it would mean for the global economy if the US defaults on its debt | AP News
NYT—Republicans Are Putting Our Standard of Living at Risk
Segment 3:
NYT—Dianne Feinstein Relies Heavily on Staff to Function in Senate - The New York Times
WP—California Democrats divided on Dianne Feinstein serving to term’s end - The Washington Post
NYT—Why Dianne Feinstein, Like Many Before Her, Refuses to Let Go
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6/2/2023 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 48 seconds
‘Give Ukraine What it Needs to Win’
Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) joins Ron Steslow to answer a listener's question about how the current war in Ukraine differs from Russia’s invasion of Georgia in 2008 and the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and why support for Ukraine is greater now than it was then.
(01:12) Keith’s question
(09:40) Russia’s invasion of Georgia
(12:00) How unprepared the U.S. was to respond
(15:14) Russia’s invasion of the Crimean peninsula
(37:00) Why there was so little resistance to Russia’s annexation of Crimea
(43:14) How our domestic politics shaped the lackluster response to Russia’s aggression.
(47:51) What makes this invasion of Ukraine different?
You should check out Great Power: https://www.greatpower.us/
Follow Ron and Molly on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/MollyMcKew
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5/31/2023 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 31 seconds
[+] “Faith in America” [Preview]
Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina), Nina Verghese (senior director and head of campaigns and advocacy at APCO Worldwide), and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) continue their conversation with Ron Steslow about the 2024 Republican Primary and Tim Scott’s campaign announcement.
Get more episodes like this by joining our Politicology+ community. Visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Note: due to technical issues, we were unable to remove the background noise on this week’s episode. It’s not up to our usual standards and we’re working to ensure it doesn't happen again.
(00:37) Tim Scott’s campaign launch.
Watch his ad: https://bit.ly/3MUU1vc
(06:18) Tim Scott’s plan to appeal to evangelical voters
(08:37) The significance of Tim Scott’s $22 million war chest
(15:10) Kellyanne Conway advising Miami Mayor Francis Suarez as he mulls a presidential campaign
(19:30) Mike Pence’ plan to return Republicans to their pre-Trump party
(23:40) Is there a constituency for Asa Hutchinson and Chris Sununu
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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5/26/2023 • 28 minutes, 2 seconds
DeCision 2024
Crack the code of the 2024 Republican primary race with the intellectual firepower of four seasoned strategists with 80+ combined years working and running Republican campaigns.
This week, Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina), Nina Verghese (Senior Director and Head of Campaigns and Advocacy at APCO Worldwide), and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to discuss Ron DeSantis’s campaign announcement and the rest of the 2024 Republican Primary.
Note: due to technical issues, we were unable to remove the background noise on this week’s episode. It’s not up to our usual standards and we’re working to ensure it doesn't happen again.
(02:40) Ron DeSantis’s campaign launch
(07:20) DeSantis hitting his messaging points and leaning into his covid messaging
(13:37) The significance of Elon Musk and David Sacks in the launch
(18:30) The impact that DeSantis’s ground game spending could have on early primaries
(31:37) Trump’s growing lead over DeSantis
(35:00) Nikki Haley tries to brand DeSantis as Trump without the charm
Watch her ad here: https://bit.ly/45xAnfP
(38:14) Haley’s upcoming CNN town hall
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
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5/26/2023 • 53 minutes, 41 seconds
TikTok Showdown: The RESTRICT Act Debate
TikTok's potential risk to US national security is raising tough questions about how to address the challenge—legally. With 150 million Americans' personal data possibly falling into the hands of the Chinese Communist Party and fears of election interference via a foreign-controlled algorithm, TikTok finds itself in the harsh glare of the U.S. government's scrutiny. Broad bipartisan support favors aggressive action to ban the platform, but is such action even constitutional?
Join Joe Cohn, Director of Legislative and Policy at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, and Hagar Chemali, former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN. Together with host Ron Steslow, they dissect the potential impact of the RESTRICT Act that could not only ban TikTok but delegate sweeping power to the executive branch to go even further.Tune in to explore the delicate balance between national security and preserving free speech rights.
(03:10) The tensions between national security and the First Amendment
(10:39) How Edward Snowden’s leak shows this tension
(16:05) The national security risks that TikTok presents
(20:52) What is the status quo for determining if national security concerns can trump free speech rights?
(23:57 ) What the RESTRICT Act is and what it does
(26:23) First Amendment concerns about the RESTRICT Act as it’s currently written
(32:03) How this legislation relates to speech codes
(43:43) Changes that legislators could make to the RESTRICT Act to better protect free speech
(1:05:40) The new Montana Law banning TikTok
(1:07:00) How China might respond if the RESTRICT Act passes
Check out Oh My World! with Hagar Chemali on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ohmyworldwithhagarchemali
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5/24/2023 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 28 seconds
ChatGPT Goes to Washington — The Weekly Roundup
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way), Al Cardenas (former advisor to Presidents Regan and George H.W. Bush), and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:22) Sam Altman at the Senate hearing on Artificial Intelligence
(26:00) The Durham Report on the origins of the FBI’s investigation into Donald Trump
(37:37) The APA’s warning about the harms of social media use for teenagers and record high rates of depression
[Politicology+ Preview] President Biden’s politically-savvy push to bridge the degree gap for non-college educated workers.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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https://twitter.com/AlCardenasFL_DC
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What we read:
Segment 1: Senate AI hearing
NYT—Sam Altman, ChatGPT Creator and OpenAI CEO, Urges Senate for AI Regulation - The New York Times
Politico—AI hearing leaves Washington with 3 big questions - POLITICO
CNBC—Here's what happened during OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's first congressional hearing on artificial intelligence
WP—AI chatbots won’t enjoy tech’s legal shield, Section 230 authors say - The Washington Post
Segment 2: The Durham Report
Politico—Takeaways from the Durham report on the Trump-Russia probe - POLITICO
CNN—Special counsel John Durham concludes FBI never should have launched full Trump-Russia probe
WP—Durham report sharply criticizes FBI's 2016 Trump campaign probe
NYT—Durham Report Finds Fault With FBI Over Trump-Russia Investigation - The New York Times
Segment 3: Teens and Social Media
Gallup—U.S. Depression Rates Reach New Highs
NPR—Major psychologists' group warns of social media's potential harm to kids
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5/19/2023 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 35 seconds
Misunderstanding Misinformation
Claire Wardle (co-founder and co-director of the Information Futures Lab, and Professor of the Practice at the Brown School of Public Health) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the challenges( and failures) in improving our information landscape
(02:12) Claire’s background and how it led to her research
(05:52) Why terms like “misinformation,” “disinformation,” and “malinformation” have become less and less useful
(08:45) How the real world doesn’t fit the framework of “misinformation” and “disinformation”
(10:50) Why we share stories online and how that shapes the information environment
(21:40) The problems that arise from research silos
(25:13) How platforms can include users in content moderation decisions
(37:07) What role do troll farms actually play in information pollution?
(39:44) How the focus on foreign actors stops researchers, academics, and government officials from reflecting sincerely on their failures
(44:00) Why we share stories online and how that shapes the information environment
(50:28) Improving community-led resistance
(55:53) How viewing social media users as a product shapes content moderation decisions
(1:01:30) How AI could impact the information landscape…
Watch Operation InfeKtion from the New York Times: https://bit.ly/3IjJUxo
Read Claire’s piece “Misunderstanding Misinformation”: https://bit.ly/3IlSFa1
Watch the video op-ed where the NYT turned Claire into Adele: https://bit.ly/3MzvNq5
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5/17/2023 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 2 seconds
Musical Chairs — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder), Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Romina Boccia (Director of Budget and Entitlement Policy at the Cato Institute) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:05) The negotiations for raising the debt ceiling and cutting spending
(34:30) The end of Title 42 and the surge in migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border
[Politicology+ Preview] The rise of white nationalist Hispanics
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/RominaBoccia
What we read:
Segment 1: Debt Ceiling negotiations
NYT—Biden and McCarthy Reach No Consensus on Debt Ceiling as Possible Default Looms - The New York Times
CNN—Biden to meet with congressional leadership again on Friday as threat of national debt default looms | CNN Politics
WP—White House leaves door open to deal that resolves debt ceiling crisis - The Washington Post
CNN—43 Senate Republicans vow to oppose debt ceiling increase without spending cuts | CNN Politics
NYT—What’s in the House GOP Debt Limit Bill - The New York Times
NYT—What Would the G.O.P. Plan Actually Do to the Budget? - The New York Times
Cato—The GOP’s Modest Debt Limit Proposal | Cato at Liberty Blog
Cato—Designing a BRAC-Like Fiscal Commission To Stabilize the Debt | Cato at Liberty Blog
Segment 2: End of Title 42
NBCNews—Biden admin to allow for the release of some migrants into the U.S. with no way to track them
Pew—Hispanics’ views on key issues facing the nation | Pew Research Center
NYT—U.S. Is Said to Consider Reinstating Detention of Migrant Families - The New York Times
Reuters—US family immigration detention won't restart 'at this time,' official says | Reuters
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5/12/2023 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 2 seconds
In Money We Trust
Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) joins Ron Steslow to put the biggest financial stories in the news into context
(02:00) What would it mean to hit the debt limit?
(03:21) What a U.S. default would mean for individuals
(04:30) The role of trust in the monetary system
(07:00) How does the Fed control money supply
(12:50) Why the size of U.S. debt matters
(14:50) How Bitcoin is different from other crypto currencies
(20:17) How a new dominant currency would impact the U.S. economy
(23:23) The difference between our current currency and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs)
(27:00) The risks of CBDCs
Follow Ron and Donna on Twitter:
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5/11/2023 • 53 minutes, 8 seconds
Collapse of Reality? — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Jon Ward (Chief National Correspondent at Yahoo News) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:00) Artificial Intelligence shaking up our political landscape
(34:43) J.P. Morgan’s purchase of First republic bank after it collapsed
[Politicology+ Preview] President Biden’s “Freedom” messaging in his reelection campaign and his move to send troops to the border in anticipation of a major influx of migrants next week
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
You should read Jon’s book Testimony: https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
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5/5/2023 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 41 seconds
The Fight for Zimbabwe — Part 2: Prosperity, Justice, and Modernization
In Part 2, recorded 9 months after Part 1, Ron Steslow and Robert Chapman (Candidate for President of Zimbabwe) look at how the landscape has changed since they first talked, Robert’s goals for rebuilding the economy and infrastructure in Zimbabwe, why this is in America’s interest, the growing Chinese influence in Africa, the fight for democracy and the challenges his campaign has faced, and his plan to win.
(01:40) The security challenges of Robert’s campaign
(07:00) Why Robert is running for president of Zimbabwe
(14:10) The challenge of economic development
(22:10) The state of the campaign
(24:52) Corruption and election interference in Zimbabwe
(41:00)The Al Jazeera investigation into Corruption in gold mining
(53:00) Building critical infrastructure over empty promises
(59:39) The importance of stabilizing the currency
(1:05:00) The influence of BRICS countries in Zimbabwe
Learn more about Robert’s campaign: https://duz.org.zw/
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https://twitter.com/DrivenChapman
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5/3/2023 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 14 seconds
The Fight for Zimbabwe — Part 1: Confronting a Failed State
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
This is a story about human rights, corruption, hyperinflation, rapacious economic development, a currency war, a diaspora, and one man’s mission to make meaningful change for suffering people in a failed state.
Robert Chapman (Candidate for President of Zimbabwe) join Ron Steslow to discuss the history of Zimbabwe and his campaign to become its next president :
(02:15) Robert’s background and childhood
(09:10) Bitcoin and green energy
(11:50) Zimbabwe’s war for liberation
(16:35) The Reign of Mugabe
(23:17) Land reallocation and hyperinflation
(29:39) A military coup and its aftermath
(35:50) Economic collapse and government corruption
Learn more about Robert’s campaign here
Follow Ron and Robert on Twitter:
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5/3/2023 • 49 minutes, 27 seconds
Tuckered Out — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:15) Fox News and CNN fire Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon
(20:35) Joe Biden’s anticlimactic announcement that he’s running for reelection and the responses to it
(43:03) President Zelensky’s phone call with Chinese Leader Xi Jinping and what it could mean for Xi’s positioning as a global statesman
[Politicology+ Preview] The climate activist group deflating tires and losing support for their cause
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Check out Oh My World with Hagar Chemali on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@omwshow
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4/28/2023 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 11 seconds
Politicology Mailbag with Mike Madrid & Anthony York
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Anthony York (Senior Communications Advisor to Gov. Gavin Newsom) join Ron Steslow to answer Politicology listeners’ questions:
(00:30) Why hasn’t Biden done more to codify political norms?
(06:16) How social media has changed the way we connect and political organizing
(11:31) How should polling about America being “headed in the wrong direction” reflect on the president?
(16:26) Do Democrats really just have a communications issue?
(20:28) How can campaigns communicate to people who aren’t interested in listening?
Have a question for a future Mailbag episode? Send it over to us at podcast@politicology.com!
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4/26/2023 • 34 minutes, 41 seconds
Are We Funding The Taliban? — The Weekly Roundup
Doug Jones (former U.S. Senator from Alabama), Michael Steele (former Chairman of the RNC), and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:38) The bombshell report from the U.S. Government's top Afghanistan watchdog
(40:44) The settlement in the Dominion Voting Systems defamation lawsuit against Fox News
[Politicology+ Preview] America’s police exodus and the challenges with recruiting and retaining police officers across the country
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Watch the interview with Elon Musk here: https://youtu.be/a2ZBEC16yH4
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https://twitter.com/DougJones
https://twitter.com/MichaelSteele
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4/21/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 44 seconds
Leaks and Hostages
Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the recently revealed leaked intelligence documents, the 21-year-old leaker, the WSJ reporter detained in Russia, and how all of this impacts the war in Ukraine
(01:25) **Conversation Update** What we know about the identity and motivations of the leaker and the leak that there are 14 U.S. troops in Ukraine
(14:33) What we know about what’s in the documents
(25:00) How this can change how Ukraine and other allies share more information with the U.S.
(31:00) A detour about Snowden
(36:33) How this leak could impact our relationship with other allies
(47:00) The potential goals of the leak
(53:33) The WSJ reporter detained in Russia
(57:40) The visibility of recent Russian hostages
(01:10:00) The significance of Finland joining NATO
You should check out Great Power: https://www.greatpower.us/
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4/17/2023 • 1 hour, 33 minutes, 52 seconds
“They Have Given This Truly No Thought” — The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager), Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica), and James Kirchick (columnist for Tablet magazine and writer at large for Air Mail) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:20) The No Labels insurance plan to … re-elect Donald Trump?
(34:34) Jon Stewart’s accusation of “corruption” at the Pentagon
[Politicology+ Preview] Tim Scott announces an exploratory committee
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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4/14/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 31 seconds
Of Boys and Men—Part 2
Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men.
(02:04) The toxicity of “toxic masculinity”
(08:00) The “right” at war and the “left” in denial
(13:00) How negative partisanship only increases the problem
(15:00) The differences in funding and institutional support for men and women
(23:00) Redshirt the boys
(28:00) The criticism Richard has faced for his writing on boys and men
You can order the book here: https://www.brookings.edu/book/of-boys-and-men/
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4/12/2023 • 54 minutes, 30 seconds
The People of NY v. Donald J. Trump — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Anthony York (Senior Communications Advisor to Gov. Gavin Newsom) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:00) The indictment of Donald Trump, how the prosecution could fuel his campaign, and how this could impact the 2024 presidential election
(36:26) The new cyber warfare
[Politicology+ Preview] California Governor Gavin Newsom’s plan to combat rising authoritarianism in red states
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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4/7/2023 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 40 seconds
PREVIEW: [+] “Don’t Tell Me I’m Not a Patriot”
Anthony York, Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow discuss California Governor Gavin Newsom’s plan to combat authoritarianism in red states.
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4/7/2023 • 24 minutes, 20 seconds
Of Boys and Men—Part 1
Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men.
(02:13) Richard’s work and how it led to studying boys and men
(04:00) The risks if the problems are not addressed
(07:30) The gendered education gap
(0z8:20) How economic shifts have impacted men
(11:20) Intersectionality in the research on gender
(30:30) Recognizing these problems as structural and not individual
(34:40) Weighing the biological differences between women and men
You can order the book here: https://www.brookings.edu/book/of-boys-and-men/
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4/6/2023 • 57 minutes, 4 seconds
Everyone’s on TikTok — The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:06) The shooting at a private Christian school in Nashville
(26:06) The influencers pressuring Congress to block a forced sale of TikTok
(42:00) Why public opinion polling on federal spending isn’t helpful and Biden’s attacks on Republican proposals for Social Security—the same proposals he made in the senate.
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Donald Trump kicks off his “Retribution” Tour at a rally in Waco, Texas
Listen to our conversation about hate crimes with Michael Masters: https://link.chtbl.com/fNs7kICy
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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3/31/2023 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 49 seconds
Testimony—Part 2
You can pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation now at https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, “Christian Trumpism,” and his new memoir.
(06:05) Why Sarah Palin resonated with so many Christians
(10:36) What having difficult conversations can teach you engagement and defensiveness
(20:00) Evangelicals showing more fear than faith
(28:50) How the structures in evangelical communities enabled Trump to distort reality
(31:06) Right Makes Might vs Might Makes Right
(36:32) How can outsiders engage positively with Evangelicals on reforming the movement
Pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation—https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
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3/29/2023 • 1 hour, 52 seconds
Bitter Medicine? — The Weekly Roundup
Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) and Beth Fukumoto (former Hawaii House Minority Leader) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:44) The Fed’s rate hike in the midst of turmoil for the banking system, how it will impact consumers, and how that could impact our politics
(13:00) The Biden Administration’s crackdown on fentanyl at the U.S. Mexico border
(23:00) The left-wing media campaign trying to turn the public against U.S. military support for Ukraine
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Trump allies buying property around the Capitol to build a MAGA Campus.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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3/24/2023 • 57 minutes, 7 seconds
Testimony—Part 1
You can pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation now at https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, “Christian Trumpism,” and his new memoir.
(03:28) Why Jon wrote the book
(08:10) Being a “border-stalker”
(14:36) The Jesus Movement
(21:07) Understanding the different motivations (abortion and race) for Evangelicals joining the Republican party
(23:00) The insular church community and how it impacted his worldview
(30:00) How Christian belief in the end times impacts action
(32:50) The connection between being a spiritual warrior and a political warrior
(36:15) Spiritual ecstasy as a sign of devotion to God (and the burnout it caused)
(41:41) How anti-intellectualism reinforced the social bubble
Pre-order Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation—https://www.jonwardwrites.org/
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3/23/2023 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 34 seconds
Bank Runs, Bailouts, and Backlash — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention), and Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:07) The Silicon Valley Bank Collapse
(34:28) Biden’s Threat to Ban TikTok, national security, and data security concerns
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Ron DeSantis’s claim that the support for Ukraine isn’t vital to national interest, the ongoing fight over support for Ukraine within the Republican party, and the opportunity it presents for Democrats…if they can seize it.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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https://www.instagram.com/lizgilbertcohen/
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3/17/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 36 seconds
Encore: Democracy Interventions with Prof. Robb Willer
What are the psychological forces driving that partisan animosity?
What’s causing Americans to vote for anti-democracy candidates?
Are there any interventions that might actually work to turn down the heat and save our democracy?
Robb Willer, professor of sociology, psychology, and organizational behavior at Stanford University talks with Ron Steslow about Stanford’s Strengthening Democracy Challenge, reducing partisan animosity and support for anti-democracy candidates .
(01:31) Robbs background
(02:46) The growth of polarization and partisan animosity
(15:08) The Strengthening Democracy Challenge
(22:40) Negative partisanship and support for undemocratic candidates
(29:46) How cues from leaders can reduce support for anti-democracy candidates
(32:17) Working together and respectfully discussing differences reduces partisan animosity
(37:47) Misperceptions about how how you’re viewed by members of another party fuels animosity
(46:47) Is there hope for overcoming animosity and acceptance of undemocratic candidates?
(53:16) How to implement these ideas
(59:23) The role of emotions in decision making
You should check out the interventions we discussed:
Elite Cues: https://bit.ly/3TEeS6Z
Positive Contact (Heineken Ad): https://bit.ly/3N74PEM
Misperceptions: https://bit.ly/3W4iMaN
Fear of Democratic Collapse: https://bit.ly/3W4awHO
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3/15/2023 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 51 seconds
The Other January 6th — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), Scott MacFarlane (CBS News Congressional Correspondent), and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:25) Tucker Carlson’s release of clips of security footage from the capitol on January 6th and how he’s shaping the narrative about the attack
(21:35) Joe Biden’s budget blueprint,his plans for deficit reduction, and how House Republicans are planning to cut costs
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Washington, DC’s criminal code reform that’s going to fail in congress, Joe Biden’s announcement that he’ll sign a law overruling the City Council and what it means for home rule in the District
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/MacFarlaneNews
https://twitter.com/stranter
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3/10/2023 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 27 seconds
“I’m in the Ponzi Business” — Part 2
In the second part of this two part episode, Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) and Justin Weitz (partner at the law firm Morgan Lewis) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the downfall of FTX and Sam Bankman-Fried
(03:21) What the guilty pleas from other FTX leaders could mean for SBF
(09:40) SBF’s “apology tour” and how it could benefit the prosecution
(10:32) The charges against SBF filed in December and the superseding indictment issued in February
(12:30) How the FTX saga changes the urgency of conversations about regulation
(19:30) The impact of the FTX collapse on public perception
Follow Ron and Donna on Twitter:
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You can find Justin here: http://bit.ly/3L4spDj
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3/8/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 18 seconds
“Fox is Captive to its Audience” — The Weekly Roundup
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) join guest host Lucy Caldwell to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:13) Lori Lightfoot’s defeat in the Chicago Mayor’s race and what this signals about voters’ perceptions of crime
(39:17) The bombshell revelations about how Fox News in recent court filings
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The rise of the perennial candidate and consultant grift
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
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3/3/2023 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 37 seconds
“I’m in the Ponzi Business” — Part 1
Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) and Justin Weitz (partner at the law firm Morgan Lewis) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the downfall of FTX and Sam Bankman-Fried
(03:20) Differences among types of crypto
(06:16) How crypto is viewed by federal law enforcement
(08:20) Misconceptions about whether and how Bitcoin can be tracked
(13:30) Where FTX sat in the industry landscape before it fell apart
(17:15) Crypto farming and the” black box” interview
Listen to the full "black box" interview from Bloomberg: http://bit.ly/3yyFu0h
(29:35) What makes fraud fraud
(32:38) What led to the collapse of FTX
Watch that debate: https://bit.ly/3IIwwlt
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3/1/2023 • 55 minutes, 44 seconds
Rational Actors
You can complete the survey here: https://politicology.com/feb24questions
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina) join host Ron Steslow to discuss the 2024 Republican Primary and Nikki Haley’s campaign announcement.
(02:54) Why we’re doing an episode about the Republican primary
(17:26) Why the Republican primary will be important for Democrats
(27:25) Nikki Haley’s launch ad
You can watch the ad here: http://bit.ly/41k4c1n
(35:16) The timing of Nikki Haley’s announcement
(43:00) Nikki Haley’s lane in the primary field
(45:51) Nikki Haley’s Fox News Sunday interview
(47:20) Fundraising off Don Lemon’s comment that Haley is “past her prime”
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2/24/2023 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 1 second
The War Has Changed The World
Anne Applebaum (Pulitzer Prize winning historian) and Tom Nichols (staff writer at The Atlantic ) join Ron Steslow to discuss Russia’s invasion of Ukraine that is now a year old, how it has changed the way the world operates, and where we go from here
(01:42) How the world has changed as a result of Russia’s invasion
(06:40) How the network of autocracies empowered Putin's invasion
(17:07) War being fought in the information battleground
(28:00) Ukraine’s values argument shaping perception of the invasion
(35:33) The importance of civic patriotism
(39:35) The impact the war in Ukraine will have on the global fight for democracy
Follow Ron, Anne, and Tom on Twitter:
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https://twitter.com/RadioFreeTom
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2/22/2023 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 12 seconds
“This is a Catastrophe” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Justin Talbot Zorn (Cofounder of Astrea Strategies) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:26) The train derailment in East Palestine Ohio
(26:13) Joe Biden’s plan to request the largest DOD budget in U.S. history
(42:24) The House Oversight Committee’s investigation into the Biden family and what it could mean for a reelection campaign
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Dianne Feinstein announces she won’t run for reelection in a California Senate race that could be the second biggest election of 2024
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
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https://twitter.com/JustinZorn
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2/17/2023 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 2 seconds
Above The Law?
Jay Schweikert ( research fellow with the Cato Institute’s Project on Criminal Justice) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the qualified immunity doctrine, its origins, and how it stands in the way of protecting civil rights
(03:05) What qualified immunity is and how it developed
(04:21) How does it stop people from holding law enforcement accountable
(11:05) How courts determine that a “clearly established right” has been violated
(23:44) The importance of qualified immunity reform in any policing reform discussion
(31:19) The arguments against ending qualified immunity
(40:05) How qualified immunity applies to public employees beyond law enforcement
(44:39) The goals of civil rights lawsuits
(46:00) Potential avenues for qualified immunity reform
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2/15/2023 • 1 hour, 19 minutes
‘I Enjoy Conversion’— The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Al Cardenas (former advisor to Presidents Regan and George H.W. Bush), and Liz Gilbert Cohen (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:26) The State of the Union
(26:13) The border crisis
(42:24) The Chinese spy balloon, “deepfake” misinformation campaigns, and co-parenting with the CCP
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] New York Times article about the Republicans making education issues a centerpiece of their campaigns
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
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2/10/2023 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 35 seconds
The Power of Emotional Intelligence
Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College) joins Ron Steslow to discuss emotional intelligence and how it impacts success in the workplace, politics, and our everyday lives
(01:40) What emotional intelligence is and how we measure it
(03:55) Why emotional intelligence is important
(07:03) How self-awareness impacts emotional intelligence
(10:15) How you can build self-awareness
(13:05) How regulating your emotions shapes your emotional intelligence
(16:20) Ways you can improve how well you manage and regulate your emotions
(21:19) The importance of grit in emotional intelligence
(24:43) Emotional intelligence and being a moral rebel
(39:39) The “dark side” of emotional intelligence
(41:39) Why emotional intelligence needs a moral backbone
(50:53) How you can improve your emotional intelligence
You can measure your emotional intelligence using this test: http://bit.ly/3DPYxpX
Follow Ron and Catherine on Twitter:
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https://twitter.com/SandersonSpeaks
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2/8/2023 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 53 seconds
“All About That Base” — The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:15) The killing of Tyre Nichols and the renewed push for policing reform
(24:33) Biden and McCarthy meet in the Oval Office to begin talks on raising the debt ceiling
(41:12) The Atlantic piece about how our constant need for entertainment has blurred the line between fiction and reality
Read We’re Already Living in the Metaverse: http://bit.ly/3HUqLSP
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] New York Times column about whether and how long Democrats can hold together the new ‘Vote Blue No Matter Who!’ Coalition
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
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2/3/2023 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 47 seconds
Send In The Leopards
Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, the United States and Germany sending tanks to Ukraine and how Ukraine is preparing for another Russian offensive as we head toward spring
(01:32) What led to the U.S. and Germany sending tanks to Ukraine and how it will shape the war
(14:36) What other resources Ukraine needs for the next phase of fighting
(21:05) What should we expect to come next in the war
(24:14) Russia’s attempts to push Belarus into the fighting
You should check out Great Power: https://www.greatpower.us/
Follow Ron and Molly on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/MollyMcKew
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2/1/2023 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 35 seconds
“This Is The Way” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Hagar Chemali (Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:12) The FBI finds more classified documents at President Biden's Delaware home, former Vice President Mike Pence’s lawyers find classified documents in his home.
(23:00) Ruben Gallego’s announcement that he’s running for the Arizona Senate seat in 2024
You should check out Gallego’s announcement ad: https://bit.ly/3HaqnxU
(44:07) The Wisconsin Supreme Court election and campaigns losing any pretense of judicial neutrality
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] A new plan to get conservative voters to respond to climate messages—as long as they don’t come from liberals
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
You should check out Hagar’s YouTube Chanel, Oh My World: https://www.youtube.com/@omwshow
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/HagarChemali
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1/27/2023 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 11 seconds
In Search Of
Pat Condo (Founder and CEO of Seekr Technologies) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the media landscape, their search tool that uses Artificial Intelligence to index websites and news stories to rate the content so readers can make better informed choices about what they read.
(02:26) From navigation technology to search technology
(05:46) Why he decided to create Seekr
(37:50) What makes Seekr different from other search engines
(44:22) The incentive structure for news organizations
(51:20) How Seekr measures political lean in articles
(55:20) How AI generated news stories can change the media landscape
(1:02:06) Pat’s end goal in creating Seekr
You should check out Seekr: https://www.seekr.com/
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https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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1/25/2023 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 11 seconds
Raise the Roof — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:14)The evolving story about President Biden’s lawyers finding classified documents and the lack of transparency from the White House
(24:41) The looming fight over raising the debt limit and a more responsible way Republicans could lower spending
(43:33)ChatGPT, the AI chatbot taking the world by storm, how it could mike our lives easier, and what it could do to our politics
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene renounces QAnon on FOX News and how viral conspiracy theories are hurting democracy .
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/AndyKroll
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1/20/2023 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 13 seconds
PREVIEW: [+] The Re-Education of MTG [Members Only]
Susan Del Percio, Andy Kroll, and Ron Steslow discuss Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene renouncing QAnon on FOX News and how viral conspiracy theories are hurting democracy.
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1/20/2023 • 29 minutes, 51 seconds
Secret City with James Kirchick
James Kirchick joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book Secret City: The Hidden History of Gay Washington
(01:55) Why he wrote the book
(06:43) The interwoven political history and gay history in Washington
(14:33) The melting pot of the gay community and why it was seen as a threat
(19:55) The trope that whatever is bad must be gay
(31:51) The Lavender Scare
(35:53) The tension between the gay loyal foot soldiers of Ronald Reagan and courting the religious right
(49:00) What was challenging about writing the book
You should read Secret City: The Hidden History of Gay Washington: http://bit.ly/3wgiORk
Follow James Kirchick and Ron on Twitter:
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1/19/2023 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 33 seconds
“Insurrectionist Speaker Kevin McCarthy” — The Weekly Roundup
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) and MIke Pesca (Host of the Gist and Not Even Mad) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:28) Insurrectionist Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the concessions he made to get the gavel, and how it could impact the House
(23:53) The news that classified documents were found in Joe Biden’s former office
(33:12) The parallels between the January 6th attack on the Capitol and the riots in Brazil last weekend
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Joe Biden’s pivot toward the center ahead of an expected 2024 campaign and how the move could help Democrats hold on to some non-college educated voters .
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
https://twitter.com/pescami
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1/13/2023 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 18 seconds
The New Rainmakers with Danny Hogenkamp
Founder and CEO of Grassroots Analytics Danny Hogenkamp joins Ron Steslow to discuss how digital fundraising and the incentives of the outrage economy have changed the way campaigns bring in money and how it influences our political landscape.
(03:50) The traditional role of fundraising in political campaigns
(11:11) Why he decided to create Grassroots Analytics
(15:31) The demographic shifts among donors to Republicans and Democrats
(27:51) The shift from high dollar to grassroots fundraising on campaigns
(32:22) The impact of the outrage economy and hyper-performative politics on fundraising
(36:03) How donor lists can move from campaign to campaign
(39:50) The use of A.I. in writing fundraising emails
(47:06) The criticism that Grassroots Analytics is a “donor pimp”
(51:07) More political races are starting earlier and earlier
Check out Grassroots Analytics: https://www.grassrootsanalytics.com/
Follow Grassroots Analytics and Ron on Twitter:
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1/11/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 26 seconds
“Kevin McCarthy is an Empty Vessel” — The Weekly Roundup
Katie Hill (Former Congresswoman), Lucy Caldwell (political strategist) and MIke Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:01) Kevin McCarthy’s struggle to secure the gavel as Speaker of the House
(38:38) Elise Stefanik’s move from Paul Ryan’s protege to his greatest political disappointment
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The George Santos Scandal, why the lies should have been exposed during the campaign and one congressman’s proposal to punish politicians who lie about their education and work history
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/KatieHill4CA
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
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1/6/2023 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 31 seconds
Encore: January 6 through a Photographer’s Lens
To unlock exclusive premium content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
On the anniversary of the attack at the Capitol, photographer Gabriella Demczuk walks listeners through her firsthand account of the January 6, 2021 insurrection, from Donald Trump’s “Stop The Steal” rally on the National Mall to the gallery of the House chamber as rioters breached the Capitol.
(03:01) Getting the assignment for January 6
(05:45) Reading the crowd at the rally
(07:35) Rep. Madison Cawthorn, in his own words
(10:30) Back to the U.S. Capitol
(12:46) Looking out the East Front
(13:33) Capitol under lockdown
(16:25) Trying to do our jobs
(17:10) Sheltering in the House chamber
(25:53) Bursting the “safe space” bubble
(30:01) Reflections walking home
(32:43) [Lack of] Republican remorse
(34:33) The fragility of democracy
What Madison Cawthorn Saw At The Insurrection by Olivia Nuzzi
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1/4/2023 • 56 minutes, 38 seconds
Looking back on 2022 — The Weekly Roundup
As we get ready to ring in the new year, we look back at some of the of the biggest moments and some of our favorite weekly roundup segments from 2022 :
(00:53) Lanae Erickson, Al Cardenas, and Ron Steslow discuss Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelesky’s speech before congress in March
(20:56) Mike Madrid, Lucy Caldwell, and Ron Steslow break down one of the prime time January 6th committee hearings and discuss Trump’s movements during the attack and his “dereliction of duty
(46:28) Mike Madrid, Susan Del Percio, and Ron Steslow discuss the long standing relationship between Hollywood and the Pentagon and the summer blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick
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https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
https://twitter.com/AlCardenasFL_DC
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12/30/2022 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 29 seconds
Encore: Rule Makers and Rule Breakers
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
Michele Gelfand (Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Professor of Psychology by Courtesy at Stanford University) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss culture, social norms, and her book Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World
(01:46) Why she decided to study culture
(04:34) What are tight and loose cultures
(06:12) Why tight and loose cultures evolve
(10:38) The tradeoffs between tight and loose and how different cultures responded to the Covid pandemic
(16:19) Tightness-looseness and willingness to change
(19:57) Red and Blue vs Tight and Loose
(30:36) Tightening around core values, even in loose cultures
(34:56) Real and manufactured threats
(44:15) How we we can put this framework into action
You should read Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: https://amzn.to/3Qy8DQc
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12/28/2022 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 53 seconds
What Gives You Hope?
As 2022 draws to a close, Ron Steslow asks some of your favorite Politicology guests to share what has given them hope in 2022.
In this episode:
Susan Del Percio
Carly Fiorina
Catherine Sanderson
Sen. Doug Jones
Kristyn Komarnicki
Lanae Erickson
Leigh Marz
Mehran Sahami
Jennifer Horn
Liz Gilbert
Molly McKew
Lucy Caldwell
Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand
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12/23/2022 • 40 minutes, 20 seconds
Encore: Deeper Than Agreement
This episode is a little bit different. And personal. Kristyn Komarnicki, director of dialogue and convening at Christians for Social Action, and Darren Calhoun, a justice advocate, worship leader, and Associate Fellow at CSA, join Ron Steslow to discuss intentional dialogue, and how we can use their techniques in the relationships that matter to us.
To unlock more episodes, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(07:06) What is dialogue? How is it different from everyday conversations?
(8:19) What does a curated dialogue look like?
(20:23) How do you prepare for something like this?
(27:34) Why lean into conflict, even when you don’t like conflict?
(32:28) Political fights vs dialogue—what is our role in specific conversations?
(40:44) How important is “grace” in having dialogue that allows for growth?
Would you like to support Kristyn’s and Darren’s work? The “Oriented to Love” dialogue program is funded by tax-deductible donations like yours. To ensure your contribution goes directly to their work, use this dedicated link: https://christiansforsocialaction.salsalabs.org/mainotldonationpage/index.html
For more information about the “Oriented To Love” program, visit https://christiansforsocialaction.org/programs/oriented-to-love/
Listen to our conversation with Celeste Headlee: https://link.chtbl.com/zm8RwNPm
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12/21/2022 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 56 seconds
“There’s No Turning Back for Them” — Hagar Chemali on the Protests in Iran
Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN and former Middle East Director at the National Security Council in the Obama White House Hagar Chemali joins Ron Steslow to discuss the protests in Iran
(01:46) What started the protests and how they’ve evolved
(06:19) How these protests compare to previous ones
(08:08) The role of the Supreme Leader in Iran
(10:57) Why it’s difficult to get accurate news from Iran
(15:55) Why ending the mandatory hijab rule wouldn’t end the protests
(23:00) What we know about executions of protestors
(31:41) Tension of US interests vs democratic values
(55:40) Iran's place on the UN Commission on the Status of Women
(1:01:37) How the protests in Iran connect to the other protests happening around the globe
You should watch Oh My World on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3WkfAXK
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12/14/2022 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 42 seconds
“The Constitution Cannot Be Suspended”— The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Tharon Johnson (Georgia political strategist) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:40) The Georgia Senate Runoff
(21:02)Donald Trump’s bad week and his call to terminate the constitution
(41:41) Mark Leibovich’s piece in the Atlantic about whether Ron DeSantis can overcome his “robotic quality”
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Time Magazine names Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as the 2022 person of the year.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Read “Just Wait Until You Get to Know Ron DeSantis” in The Atlantic: http://bit.ly/3VQeKm0
Listen to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Reith Lecture on Freedom Of Speech: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1-freedom-of-speech/id318705261?i=1000588114737
Read “Prominent Gay Republicans Helped Smooth the Way for Marriage Bill” in The New York Times:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/08/us/politics/marriage-bill-gay-republicans.html
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12/9/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 54 seconds
Encore: Does giving make you happy? with Dr. Catherine Sanderson
Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about how giving can make you happier.
(02:08) What is happiness and how can we measure it?
(08:31) Does giving make you happy or do happy people give more?
(10:20) Types of giving and the impact on happiness
(14:50) The effect of giving on bad moods
(28:58) Gratitude letters
The Positive Shift by Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://benbellabooks.com/shop/the-positive-shift/
Politicology - March 10: Becoming Moral Rebels with Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://politicology.com/episodes/dr-catherine-sanderson-becoming-moral-rebels/
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12/7/2022 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 29 seconds
“The Circus is Back”— The Weekly Roundup
Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor of Psychology and Chair of Psychology at Amherst College) and James Lynch (Communications Strategist) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:58) The Trump Circus and Republicans’ response to his meeting with a white nationalist
(19:41) The protests in China and the global fight for democracy
(34:20) ‘Political hobbyism’ in the workplace
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The Senate passes the Respect for Marriage Act with 12 Republican votes and the shift in support for marriage equality on both sides of the aisle
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Read “Political Hobbyism Has Entered the Workplace” in The Atlantic: https://bit.ly/3ugynrd
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https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/SandersonSpeaks
https://twitter.com/JamesGLynch
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12/2/2022 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 37 seconds
Politicology Mailbag with Lucy Caldwell & Mike Madrid
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) join host Ron Steslow Ron Steslow to answer Politicology listeners’ questions:
(01:21) Explaining the far-left and the far-right
(12:26) Did the tactic of pushing election deniers in Republican primaries hurt the Democrats’ brand?
(14:56) What should Democrats do with a ‘trifecta’ in Michigan?
(18:07) How do you react to the conflation of the American flag with Donald Trump supporters and the Canadian flag with the Freedom Convoy?
(26:17) Why do we need to reauthorize different pieces of legislation?
(30:30) How do you stay sane and focused during these uncertain times?
Have a question for a future Mailbag episode? Send it over to us at podcast@politicology.com!
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12/1/2022 • 59 minutes, 19 seconds
“Window Shopping” — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(01:44) Republicans window shopping for a Trump alternative
(18:36) Why divided government is more productive than you’d think
(34:40) The federal government failing to follow conflict of interest laws and the shifting dynamics in congress on the issue
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The World Cup, the Iranian Soccer team’s protest, and the challenges when businesses work with oppressive regimes
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
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11/25/2022 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 35 seconds
TAPPED: Giving Thanks with Molly McKew
Ron Steslow calls Molly McKew (lead writer at GreatPower.us) to talk about her recent trip to Ukraine to deliver the winter gear that Politicology listeners helped acquire for members of the Ukrainian AFU Stratcom team.
Read Molly’s latest newsletter: http://bit.ly/3VoNjyV
Follow Ron and Molly on Twitter:
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11/24/2022 • 43 minutes, 44 seconds
The Power of Silence — Part 2
We live in a loud world that’s getting louder.
We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications.
But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it?
In fact, what is silence, anyway?
How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships?
Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise
(02:38) What we can all learn from how the Amish evaluate new technology
(07:25) The attention economy and why it’s not working for us
(13:44) Understanding “ma” and how we can use it to resolve conflict
(22:14) Using quality over quantity to measure productivity
(26:26) Ways to incorporate silence in your everyday life
(35:35) Silence and expanded states of consciousness using psychedelics
You should read Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise : http://bit.ly/3UIGJU2
FollowJustin, Leigh, and Ron on Twitter:
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11/23/2022 • 58 minutes, 38 seconds
“Welcome the Hotel Mar-a-Lago”— The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:10) Retired Florida man makes an announcement
(19:38) Republican infighting over who will lead the party in congress
(35:20) The Russian War in Ukraine and Anne Applebaum’s piece about why the Russian Empire must die
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Sam Bankman-Fried, Elizabeth Holmes, Elon Musk, and America’s Guru Problem
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To join us there, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Read “The Russian Empire Must Die” by Anne Applebaum: http://bit.ly/3GqE6Sl
Read “Fear of Nuclear War Has Warped the West’s Ukraine Strategy”: http://bit.ly/3Xc8d64
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
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11/18/2022 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 6 seconds
The Power of Silence — Part 1
We live in a loud world that’s getting louder.
We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications.
But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it?
In fact, what is silence, anyway?
How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships?
Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise
(02:33) Leigh and Justin’s backgrounds
(07:04) Why they began practicing silence in their own lives
(12:50) Why silence feels scary
(18:30) What is noise?
(22:12) Internal silence is what people think it is
(30:19) The connection between noise and rigid thinking
(37:27) The historical significance of silence
You should read Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise : http://bit.ly/3UIGJU2
FollowJustin, Leigh, and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/JustinZorn
https://twitter.com/LeighMarz
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11/17/2022 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 1 second
“A Fate Worse Than Death” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Anthony York (Senior Communications Advisor to Gov. Gavin Newsom) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:10) The lack of a Red Wave and the surprisingly good midterms for Democrats
(08:50) Democrats’ Florida Problem
(22:33) Republicans’ Donald Trump Problem
(50:00) The potential Trump vs DeSantis showdown in the Republican Primary
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] What could (and should) the political futures of Beto O’Rourke and Stacy Abrams look like after losing the Governors races in Texas and Georgia
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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https://twitter.com/anthonyyork49
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11/11/2022 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 38 seconds
A Red…Splash?
Ron Steslow calls some Politicology fan favorites to discuss the midterm elections, the surprisingly good night for Democrats, the races that are still too close to call, and what it could mean for future elections.
(00:44) Susan Del Percio on the Democratic strategy to set up races against extreme MAGA candidates
(05:29) Mike Madrid on the biggest surprise from last night and the early count out of Nevada
(10:52) Tharon Johnson on what Sen. Warnock needs to do to win in the December runoff
(23:48) Lucy Caldwell on the gap between Mark Kelly and Katie Hobbs early vote counts and why she’s cautiously optimistic that Hobbs can still win
(35:31) Zack Czajkowski on the unexpected victory for Democrats in the North Carolina 13th Congressional District
(49:16) David Becker on what the midterms could mean for election integrity moving forward
(57:47) Lanae Erickson on why the Dobbs decision—and not the student loan forgiveness plan— drove turnout for Democrats in Pennsylvania
(1:05:45) Marc Polymeropoulos on the importance of people with national security experience in politics
(1:14:19) Former DCCC Chair and Former Congressman Steve Israel on how the slimmer margin for Republicans could give the extremist wing more leverage in the next congress
Follow this episodes guests on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/DelPercioS
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/TharonJohnson
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
https://twitter.com/ZackCz
https://twitter.com/beckerdavidj
https://twitter.com/RepSteveIsrael
https://twitter.com/Mpolymer
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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11/10/2022 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 13 seconds
ELECTION DAY: State of the Vote
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Have you made your plan to vote? Visit https://iwillvote.com/ to make sure you’re registered and find your polling location
This week, Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ joins host Ron Steslow to set the table for what to expect in the midterm elections.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(01:38) How the generic ballot looks
(02:50) Movement in Senate forecasting
(03:40) The claim that Republicans are gaming polling averages
(07:40) The challenge of polling response bias
(09:30) Races that could indicate a good or bad night for Democrats
(15:53) Whether low turnout still favors Republicans
(22:14) A race that could indicate whether the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning Roe v Wade increased turnout
Follow Decision Desk HQ’s live election results: https://results.decisiondeskhq.com/
Follow Kiel and Ron on Twitter:
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11/8/2022 • 35 minutes, 21 seconds
“The Crisis is Here” — The Weekly Roundup
Doug Jones (Fmr. Democratic U.S. Senator from Alabama), Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:11) The Fed’s rate hikes, Biden’s push to expand the workforce, and the threats to Social Security heading into the midterms
(23:03) Liz Cheney endorses her first Democratic candidate and John Fetterman drops an ad featuring two Trump-voting former Republicans—his parents.
(42:33) The attack on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, in their San Francisco home
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The biggest misconception about money in politics and the outrage economy driving political fundraising and media coverage
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/dougjones
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
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11/4/2022 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 7 seconds
“The Big Truth” with Major Garrett and David Becker
Major Garrett (CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent) and David Becker (Executive Director of The Center for Election Innovation and Research) talk with Ron Steslow about their new book, The Big Truth, the lies about the 2020 election, and how we can restore trust in our electoral system.
(01:55) Why they decided to write the book now
(05:00) Setting the stakes for our current state of distrust in elections
(08:57) How Trump supporters view the breakdown in democratic norms
(14:17) Why we can’t lose sight of the January 6 riot
(24:00) How election denialism has changed electoral politics
(34:53) How the Federalist Papers predicted a Trump-like figure
(38:42) The threat of pushing election deniers in primary elections
(43:21) The “Big Truth” of the 2020 election
(57:10) How geographic sorting changes trust in elections
(1:13:11) Where do we go from here?
Follow Major, David, and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/MajorCBS
https://twitter.com/beckerdavidj
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11/2/2022 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 34 seconds
State of the Vote: 7 Days to Go
To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
This week, Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ joins host Ron Steslow to break down the biggest movement in polling and modeling, where it’s happening, in what races, and why.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(01:36) Changes to the election environment
(05:00) How the Senate races have shifted
(06:53) Republicans increased odds of taking the Senate
(06:53) What’s moving the needle in Pennsylvania and Nevada
(12:17) What’s going on in the House races
(14:20)What we can (and can’t) learn from early voting numbers
(18:37)The balance of power
You should check out Decision Desk HQ: https://decisiondeskhq.com/
Follow Kiel and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/KielTWilliams
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11/1/2022 • 32 minutes, 26 seconds
BONUS: You Need To Meet Rob Sand
One thing Pete Buttigeg, Elizabeth Warren, and Michael Bennet have in common? They all wanted Rob Sand’s endorsement in their Presidential campaigns.
Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand is a Democrat from a small town who likes to hunt and fish and has been able to connect with the white, non-college educated rural voters that Democrats across the country have been struggling to win. Ron Steslow and Mike Madrid talk with him about how he did it in 2018, how he’s doing it in this election cycle, and what Democratic candidates in higher profile races can learn.
(02:10) Why Rob decided to run for auditor
(05:25) How he can win Iowa voters as a Democrat
(08:47) How he picked up endorsements from 31 conservatives
(11:10) The “myth of monsters” and how it increases partisanship
(18:03)Humor as an election tool
(21:15) The advice he gave presidential primary candidates as they vied for the Iowa Caucuses
You should visit Rob’s campaign website: https://robsand.com/
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11/1/2022 • 37 minutes, 12 seconds
Will We Still Stand for Freedom? — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) Al Cardenas (former advisor to Presidents Regan and George H.W. Bush) and Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:45) Putin’s war in Ukraine and Kevin McCarthy’s threat to cut aid to Ukraine if Republicans take back the House.
(20:36) The Pennsylvania Senate Debate and the Nevada Senate race that can determine who controls the Senate in January
(47:02) The extremist groups threatening to intimidate voters in the midterm elections
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The effectiveness of the climate change activism food fight + Latinos naming climate change as a top issue heading into the midterms
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Support Molly McKew’s fundraiser for Ukranian AFU Stratcom’s winter gear: https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/8O0wORTDJg
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/MollyMcKew
https://twitter.com/AlCardenasFL_DC
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10/28/2022 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 28 seconds
Democracy Interventions with Prof. Robb Willer
What are the psychological forces driving that partisan animosity?
What’s causing Americans to vote for anti-democracy candidates?
Are there any interventions that might actually work to turn down the heat and save our democracy?
Robb Willer, professor of sociology, psychology, and organizational behavior at Stanford University talks with Ron Steslow about Stanford’s Strengthening Democracy Challenge, reducing partisan animosity and support for anti-democracy candidates .
(01:31) Robbs background
(02:46) The growth of polarization and partisan animosity
(15:08) The Strengthening Democracy Challenge
(22:40) Negative partisanship and support for undemocratic candidates
(29:46) How cues from leaders can reduce support for anti-democracy candidates
(32:17) Working together and respectfully discussing differences reduces partisan animosity
(37:47) Misperceptions about how how you’re viewed by members of another party fuels animosity
(46:47) Is there hope for overcoming animosity and acceptance of undemocratic candidates?
(53:16) How to implement these ideas
(59:23) The role of emotions in decision making
You should check out the interventions we discussed:
Elite Cues: https://bit.ly/3TEeS6Z
Positive Contact (Heineken Ad): https://bit.ly/3N74PEM
Misperceptions: https://bit.ly/3W4iMaN
Fear of Democratic Collapse: https://bit.ly/3W4awHO
Follow Robb and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/RobbWiller
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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10/27/2022 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 51 seconds
State of the Vote: 14 Days to Go
To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
This week, Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ joins host Ron Steslow to break down the biggest movement in polling and modeling, where it’s happening, in what races, and why.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(01:15) Changes to the election environment
(02:40) Why it the midterms might look like 2014
(04:44) How the Senate races have shifted
(09:10) Republicans increased odds of taking the Senate
(10:30) What’s going on in the House races
(15:25)The balance of power
You should check out Decision Desk HQ: https://decisiondeskhq.com/
Follow Kiel and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/KielTWilliams
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
https://twitter.com/decisiondeskhq
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10/25/2022 • 31 minutes, 39 seconds
‘Walking On Eggshells’ — The Weekly Roundup
Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor of Psychology and Chair of Psychology at Amherst College) and Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) join guest host Liz Gilbert to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:26) The latest January 6th Committee Hearing
(22:28) The most watched Senate races and wild debate performances
(34:34) Former president Barack Obama’s warning for Democrats not to be buzzkills
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The antisemitism from Donald Trump and Kanye West last week and whether you can separate art from the artist.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/ThirdWayMattB
https://twitter.com/SandersonSpeaks
https://twitter.com/_lizgilbert
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10/21/2022 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 59 seconds
‘They Really Do Believe’ with Scott MacFarlane
CBS News Congressional Correspondent Scott MacFarlane talks with Ron Steslow about the most critical filings and pivotal moments in the Feds’ ever-growing case against the January 6 insurrectionists.
(02:25) His move to CBS News
(03:19) The state of the prosecutions
(06:47) The types of sentences being issued
(09:30) How prosecutors are sifting through the evidence
(13:55) The “Public Authority Defense”
(28:13) Kevin McCarthy’s plea for police officers and families not to “politicize” the attack
(32:30) The threats and stories flying under the radar
Follow Scott and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/MacFarlaneNews
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10/19/2022 • 1 hour, 3 seconds
State of the Vote: 21 Days to Go
To unlock subscriber-only content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
This week, Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ joins guest host Mike Madrid to break down the biggest movement in polling and modeling, where it’s happening, in what races, and why.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(01:21) Changes to the election environment
(02:50) Overview of Senate Elections
(05:40) Movement in the Pennsylvania Senate Race
(08:16) The Georgia Senate Race
(10:37) What’s going on in the House races
(13:30) What to make of individual polls
(15:40)The North Carolina Senate race
(17:37)The balance of power
You should check out Decision Desk HQ: https://decisiondeskhq.com/
Follow Kiel and Mike on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/KielTWilliams
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/decisiondeskhq
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10/17/2022 • 32 minutes, 35 seconds
“Spectrum of Stupid” — The Weekly Roundup
Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina), Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way), and Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:02) Russia’s increased aggression, Tulsi jumps ship, Elon Musk’s “Peace Plan” that may have been written by Putin
(31:25) The Fed’s fight to against inflation and the danger of recession
(48:35) The Supreme Court ruling blocking Pennsylvania from counting undated ballots and the challenge to Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The leaked tape of racist remarks by LA City council members, what it means for the mythology of an emerging pluralistic society that’s better than our country’s past, and how the lack of decorum diminishes our faith in government.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Support Molly McKew’s fundraiser for Ukranian AFU Stratcom’s winter gear: https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/8O0wORTDJg
Follow this week’s panel on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/LanaeErickson
https://twitter.com/MollyMcKew
https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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10/14/2022 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 49 seconds
The Workingman’s Party?
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Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Ruy Teixeira (Nonresident Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute), Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to discuss the erosion of support for Democrats among Hispanic voters
(03:01) Ruy’s background
(17:00) The trend of Hispanic voters moving away from the Democratic party
(34:10) Joe Biden’s low approval rating among Hispanic voters
(35:40) What factors are driving the trend
(38:11) The Latino vote taking on the characteristics of the American electorate
(50:48) How Democrats could win back more Hispanic voters
(58:02) The tension between working class voters and voters concerned about environmental issues
Follow Mike, Scott and Ron on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/madrid_mike
https://twitter.com/stranter
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10/12/2022 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 31 seconds
State of the Vote: 28 Days to Go
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This week, Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ joins Ron Steslow to break down the biggest movement in polling and modeling, where it’s happening, in what races, and why.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(02:15) Changes to the election environment
(03:10) Overview of Senate Elections
(03:50) The most Senate Seat most likely to flip to Republicans
(06:16) Polling averages vs win likelihood in Ohio
(08:30) What’s going on in the House races
(12:52) The importance of turnout and how the mathletes predict it
You should check out Decision Desk HQ: https://decisiondeskhq.com/
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10/11/2022 • 37 minutes, 19 seconds
“The Insanity Defense” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert), and Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:02) OPECs move to slash oil production, the UN calling for the Fed to stop raising interest rates and what this is doing to the political environment
(25:32) President Joe Biden’s visit to Florida after Hurricane Ian and how the Biden/DeSantis meeting could impact politics
(40:43) The Georgia Senate race and Herschel Walker’s insanity defense for paying for a former girlfriend’s abortion
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The power of traditional journalism in the choose-your-own-adventure news landscape.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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10/7/2022 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 33 seconds
Free Speech Culture
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Some of the most vexing political controversies, policy questions, and cultural crises of our current moment trace their orbit around the singular legal and cultural gravity of our 1st Amendment—and the radical, enlightenment wisdom enshrined in it.
What has really been going across college campuses—and what’s at stake for wider society outside the confines of higher education?
Is the colloquial public square, practically speaking, now privately held by a handful of tech titans?
How has the idea of “free speech” become so shockingly misunderstood that one of our major political parties can persuade a large swath of the country that a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol is “legitimate political discourse?”
Greg Lukianoff (President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE)) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss FIRE’s fight to protect free speech on—and, now, off—campus.
(02:15) Greg’s background and FIRE’s role in protecting the First Amendment
(5:15) The Coddling of the American Mind
(10:30) The state of free speech on college campuses
(30:20) What’s driving the complaints on college campuses
(39:55) FIRE moving off campus to create a culture of free speech
(41:05) Why they decided to take on off campus speech issues
(50:31) Limits to protected speech
(59:10) Free speech and Big Tech
(1:04:25) Creating a culture of free speech
Visit FIRE’s Website: thefire.org
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10/6/2022 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 38 seconds
State of the Vote: 35 Days to Go
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This week, Scott Tranter and Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ join Ron Steslow to break down the biggest movement in polling and modeling, where it’s happening, in what races, and why.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(01:50) Changes to the election environment
(05:17) Overview of Senate Elections
(06:30) The movement in the Pennsylvania Senate Race
(10:50) What’s going on in the House races
(12:40) Democrats getting burned in the Michigan 3rd after playing with fire
(18:04) If youth voters can impact elections
(21:40) Are pollsters getting it wrong (again) in 2022?
You should check out Decision Desk HQ: https://decisiondeskhq.com/
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10/4/2022 • 43 minutes, 1 second
“It’s a Cultural Problem” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(03:14) Republicans “Commitment to America” Plan
(19:47) The Senate’s Electoral Count Act reform bill and the voter challenges around the country
(45:55) Russia’s new draft, the sham referendums in Ukraine, and the Nord Stream explosions
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Ron DeSantis’s leadership test and what it could mean for the 2024 election.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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9/30/2022 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 32 seconds
Worthy of Protection — Part 2
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Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law
(01:26) Fashion in Politics
(05:36) Iteration, interpretation, and inspiration
(09:47) The need for time in fashion and democracy
(14:24) Environmental impact of fashion
(26:42) The impact of AI on fashion
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9/28/2022 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 29 seconds
(NEW) State of the Vote: 48 Days to Go
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State of the Vote is back! In our first episode of 2022, Scott Tranter and Kiel Williams from Decision Desk HQ join Ron Steslow to break down the biggest movement in polling and modeling, where it’s happening, in what races, and why.
Decision Desk HQ are among the most trusted experts in measuring and modeling public opinion and election outcomes. They’re the mathletes behind major outlets like The Economist, Buzzfeed News, VOX Media, Insider, and The New York Times, for election night results and final calls on races.
(02:00) The election environment
(03:54) The historical trend in midterms
(05:36) Overview of Senate Elections
(08:00) Why Ron Jonson has a 90 percent chance of winning his Senate race
(11:43) What’s moving the needle in Nevada
(14:00) Why Republicans are gaining ground in the Iowa 3rd congressional district
You should check out Decision Desk HQ: https://decisiondeskhq.com/
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9/27/2022 • 33 minutes, 22 seconds
‘Fund the Police’ — The Weekly Roundup
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) and James Lynch (Senior Director at Purple Strategies) join guest host Lucy Caldwell to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:32) Pending legislation that could impact the midterms
(22:00) Trump’s QAnon Rally and Glenn Youngin stumping for Kari Lake
(39:00) Ron DeSantis’s Martha’s Vineyard Stunt and the very real immigration problems underneath
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] The January 6th Committee returns next week for their last scheduled public hearing. We’ll break down what we expect to see happen, what the committee needs to demonstrate, and the news that Ginni Thomas has agreed to meet with the committee.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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9/23/2022 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 4 seconds
Worthy of Protection — Part 1
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Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law
(01:25) History of laws protecting creativity
(09:20) What IP lawyers do
(12:50) What led Géraldine to fashion IP
(20:50) Fashion as political
(35:50) How politicians send messages through fashion choices
(41:41) Fashion as a signifier of political groups
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9/21/2022 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 13 seconds
“Broadening The Message” — The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager), Eric Koch (Founder of Downfield Strategies) and Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:26) Are we ready for a Ukrainian victory?
(26:53) The midterms seem to be tightening. Why is it happening and what will it mean?
(50:45) The New York Times’ expose on Hasidic schools in New York and the politics that allows these problems to exist
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] In the days following the 2020 election, Donald Trump vowed not to leave the White House. We talk about this new revelation in Maggie Haberman’s new book and whether journalists should be holding on to news stories for their book deals.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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9/16/2022 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 47 seconds
True Crime in the Post-Truth Era
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How does murder during a robbery-gone-wrong become an international conspiracy theory?
What even is a true crime story in the post-truth era?
Andy Kroll (Investigative Reporter at ProPublica, former DC Bureau Chief for Rolling Stone) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss his new book, A Death on W Street: The Murder of Seth Rich and the Age of Conspiracy.
(01:34) What drew Andy to the Seth Rich story
(08:48) The facts of the Seth Rich case
(12:44) How conspiracy theories have changed in the 21st Century
(21:08) Russia, the DNC leak, and the need for a scapegoat
(24:22) The intersection of conspiracy theories
(29:06) The conspiracy theory economy
You should read A Death on W Street: https://andy-kroll.com/
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9/14/2022 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 13 seconds
“Right On The Merits” — The Weekly Roundup
Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week and how they’re shaping the political landscape:
(02:17) President Biden’s speech at Independence Hall
(20:40) The federal judge granting a special master to review documents seized from Mar-a-Lago
(33:45) The post-Labor Day sprint toward the Midterm Elections
[Politicology+ Subscribers Only] Mary Peltola’s win in Alaska's special (ranked-choice) election, how this new voting method could slow down extremist candidates, and how it changes campaigns and strategy.
Politicology+ is our private, ad-free version of this podcast, where we also publish subscriber-only episodes, strategy, and analysis. To upgrade now, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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9/9/2022 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 36 seconds
Hate Crimes and Asymmetric Security
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Michael Masters (National Director and CEO of the Secure Community Network) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss the rise in mass shootings, antisemitism, and hate crime reports—and what individuals and communities can do to prepare themselves.
(08:14) What the Secure Community Network is and where it sits in the national security space
(14:03) The rise in active shooter incidents
(19:46) Has there been a spike in hate crimes?
(28:31) Hate crimes and the First Amendment
(32:00) How the rise in hate crimes has impacted the Jewish community
(51:01) What people can do to prepare for an emergency situation
(01:03:06) The importance of trainings for emergency preparedness
You can check out the Secure Community Network here: https://securecommunitynetworks.org/
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9/7/2022 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 22 seconds
Civil Warmongering — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Tharon Johnson (Founder/CEO of Paramount Consulting Group) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:12) Negative partisanship, escalating expectations of violence, and our “Us vs. Them” problem
(18:00) Will Biden’s student debt cancellation impact midterm voters?
(34:54) The Republican fundraising gap and the GOP grassroots donor base as a power vector
[Politicology+ Members Only] A top GA strategist’s on-the-ground perspective on the Georgia Senate and Gubernatorial races
// To get your private, ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed with extra episodes, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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9/2/2022 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 5 seconds
Fraught and Dubious: Student Debt Cancellation
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Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education & Politics at Third Way) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss President Biden’s executive order canceling student loans
(02:07) Biden’s student loan cancellation plan
(12:29) How canceling student loans could impact inflation
(17:20) What this could mean for future tuition hikes
(26:10) How it could impact non-college educated voters
(30:23) The legal problems with canceling student loans
(39:55) The Major Questions Doctrine
(43:58) The use of emergency powers in non-emergent situations
(48:53) The underlying problems in higher education and what lawmakers can do to solve these problems
You should read Lanae’s Medium Piece: https://bit.ly/3cp6jg0
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8/31/2022 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 54 seconds
“I Don’t Say His Name, Ever” — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Liz Gilbert (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:21) New revelations in the Mar-a-Lago search saga
(25:15) Are America’s best days behind us? Recent polling and what it could mean for the midterms
(41:15) How Republicans got steamrolled on the Inflation Reduction Act
[Politicology+ Members Only] Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin and what parts of the private lives of political power holders should matter.
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8/26/2022 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 3 seconds
Any Given Tuesday with Lis Smith
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What does it take for a mid-west mayor to become a viable presidential candidate?
What’s it like to be a crisis communications expert in the eye of New York City Tabloids?
What does it take to go from a field organizer to one of the most well respected communications strategists in American politics?
Lis Smith (former senior advisor to presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her career working on twenty-something political campaigns, and her new memoir, Any Given Tuesday: A Political Love Story
(01:25) Why “Any Given Tuesday?”
(02:56) What drew her to politics?
(07:48) Candidates as people, not two-dimensional characters
(10:57) What can losing campaigns teach you?
(14:45) Being in the eye of a tabloid news story
(29:32) How not to use Twitter (and how you can use it well)
(37:50) Tailoring comments on cable news
(45:11) Candidate Pete’s communications strategy
(56:21) The Gay Talk Express
You should read Any Given Tuesday: https://bit.ly/3AimMu7
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8/24/2022 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 53 seconds
“Crooks and Scoundrels” — The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:46) The Mar-a-Lago search saga and the developing politics
(24:09) Tuesday’s elections, Senate Republicans pulling down their ad buys, and Liz Cheney’s second act begins
(41:09) The Big Lie candidates trying to run state elections are now advancing to general elections
[Politicology+ Members Only] “Looking up” at the world and the U.S. role in it.
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8/19/2022 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 10 seconds
Encore: Democrats Have A Latino Problem with Mike Madrid — Part 1
In Part 1 of this wide-ranging conversation between Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow, co-founders of The Lincolns Project, the two political strategists discuss hidden Latino voting trends and how Democrats must better understand this part of the electorate in order to win pivotal electoral fights.
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(02:05) How we’re getting hispanic voting patterns wrong
(06:13) How Latino voter trends in California are different from the rest of the country
(19:35) How the California Latino population influences national polls
(30:13) Some lessons Democrats can learn to win more Latino votes
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8/17/2022 • 1 hour, 55 seconds
Encore: We have a Democracy Problem with Mike Madrid — Part 2
In Part 2 of this wide-ranging conversation between Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow, co-founders of The Lincoln Project, the two political strategists discuss what Latino voter trends can tell us about future elections and the erosion of democracy around the globe
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(01:49) Mike’s advice to Democrats and Republicans
(03:53) What the trend lines of Latino voters can tell us about 2024
(07:12) The new Reagan Democrats
(21:17) The erosion of institutions
(42:43) The tension between technology and democracy
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8/17/2022 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 22 seconds
Reasonable Search and Seizure — The Weekly Roundup
[Note: we recorded this episode before Attorney General Merrick Garland gave a statement about the warrant the FBI received to search Donald Trump’s residence at Mar-a-Lago.
In the statement, Garland said the Department of Justice has filed a motion to unseal that warrant and the property receipt. As of right now, we don’t know if Trump will support or oppose that motion, but it will be up to a federal judge to decide either way.]
Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) and Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor of Psychology and Chair of Psychology at Amherst College) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(03:00) The FBI’s search of Mar-a-Lago
(21:20) Republicans’ reaction to the search
(39:39) Lessons from John Fetterman’s campaign to win over rural voters in Pennsylvania
[Politicology+ Members Only] Liz Cheney’s primary election is next week. Her latest ad attacking Donald Trump features her father, Dick Cheney.
// To get your private, ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed with extra episodes, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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8/12/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 21 seconds
Rule Makers and Rule Breakers
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Michele Gelfand (Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Professor of Psychology by Courtesy at Stanford University) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss culture, social norms, and her book Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World
(01:46) Why she decided to study culture
(04:34) What are tight and loose cultures
(06:12) Why tight and loose cultures evolve
(10:38) The tradeoffs between tight and loose and how different cultures responded to the Covid pandemic
(16:19) Tightness-looseness and willingness to change
(19:57) Red and Blue vs Tight and Loose
(30:36) Tightening around core values, even in loose cultures
(34:56) Real and manufactured threats
(44:15) How we we can put this framework into action
You should read Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: https://amzn.to/3Qy8DQc
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8/10/2022 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 53 seconds
Poking the Panda — The Weekly Roundup
Al Cardenas (former advisor to Presidents Regan and George H.W. Bush) and Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:11) The Manchin-Schumer deal on the Inflation Reduction Act
(18:00) The U.S. kills the leader of al-Qaeda and Nancy Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan
(37:25) This week’s primary elections in Arizona and Michigan and the abortion rights ballot measure in Kansas
[Politicology+ Members Only] The success of moderate Democrats in primary elections
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8/5/2022 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 20 seconds
Encore: Anne Applebaum on the Twilight of Democracy
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Anne Applebaum (Pulitzer-prize winning historian and staff writer for The Atlantic)joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her book Twilight of Democracy, why America isn’t immune to the lure of authoritarianism, and the warning signs that we’re in danger of losing our republic.
(02:12) Why she wrote Twilight of Democracy
(06:30) The allure of authoritarianism
(10:40) What led to an authoritarian shift in the US
(19:29) The willingness to give up democracy for policy wins
(28:28) Rationalizing the descent to authoritarianism
(35:36) The importance of of state media in authoritarian regimes
(41:58) Breaking out of the media filter bubbles
(50:11) The paths forward for democracy
You should read Twilight of Democracy: https://bit.ly/3oGBdCV
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8/3/2022 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 59 seconds
“The R Word” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:10) The likelihood that we’re in a recession and why the Biden administration won’t say so
(29:27) The shift in Ted Cruz’s messaging on immigration and what the pivot could mean
(42:47) The January 6th prime time hearing, right-wing media going sour on Trump, and the continued Republican shift away from democracy
[Politicology+ Members Only] The intra-party posturing ahead of the presidential primary season and the quiet moves happening right now.
// To get your private, ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed with extra episodes, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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7/29/2022 • 1 hour, 33 minutes, 37 seconds
ENCORE: Carly Fiorina on Playing the Long Game
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Former presidential candidate and Former HP CEO Carly Fiorina joins Ron Steslow to discuss how short-term gains have gotten preferential treatment over long-term planning and success.
(04:39) The differences between short-term vs. long-term
(07:02) Expecting quick fixes to long-term problems
(15:30) The shift in corporate responsibility from just shareholders to stakeholders
(30:32) How the short-term goal of winning elections short-circuits governing
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7/27/2022 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 18 seconds
“Hitting The Red Button” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Murphy (Senior Strategist for John McCain and Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:54) Biden’s approval rating continues to fall and the Democrat’s priority gap
(18:40) The epidemic of Spanish-language misinformation
(29:07) The Democrats keep playing with fire pushing anti-democracy candidates in GOP primaries
[Politicology+ Members Only] The investigations (and investigations of investigations) Republicans will conduct if they take back congress and how Democrats can use them to their advantage
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7/22/2022 • 56 minutes, 42 seconds
War Weary
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John Sipher (Fmr. member of the CIA’s Senior Intelligence Service) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss the changes in the war in Ukraine and the global impact of Russia’s six-month invasion.
(02:03) The shift in fighting to the Donbas Region
(11:41) How the fighting now compares to the early days of the war
(17:25) Accusations European countries are slow-walking military aid
(29:42) The Holodomor and the use of food as a weapon
(34:14) Food trade and global security
(38:40) Should we think about Russia’s actions as terrorism?
(45:00) The prospect of Finland and Sweden joining NATO
(54:54) What the U.S. can do to support Ukraine
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7/20/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 24 seconds
“Playing With Fire” — The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) and Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:42) The January 6th committee’s hearing recounting the West Wing meeting about stealing the 2020 election
(27:33) The top 3 issues driving voters heading toward the midterms this fall
(47:58) The Democrats’ gamble to support election denier Kari Lake in the Arizona Republican primary race for Governor
[Politicology+ Members Only] A Politico piece calling for Jon Stewart to run for President if Joe Biden doesn’t run in 2024 and the rise of the entertainer/politician
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7/15/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 51 seconds
Beneath The Supreme Court Earthquake — Part 2
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Renowned constitutional scholar Akhil Reed Amar (Sterling Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the recent Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and why (as a liberal law professor) he agrees with the decision.
(01:40) What’s going on in the concurring opinions in Dobbs?
(06:24) How compelling was the liberal dissent in Dobbs?
(09:01) Is “substantive due process” an oxymoron?
(17:15) What are the alternative approaches to Originalism?
(22:27) The Federalist Society’s principles and their selection of Supreme Court Justices
(26:01) Is the Supreme Court “illegitimate?”
Read Akhil’s op-ed in the Wall Street Journal about the leaked Dobbs decision: https://on.wsj.com/3z6d6DH
Read Akhil’s piece in Time Magazine about how liberal justices should use Originalism: https://bit.ly/3AK3Vdo
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7/14/2022 • 57 minutes, 43 seconds
Beneath The Supreme Court Earthquake — Part 1
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Renowned constitutional scholar Akhil Reed Amar (Sterling Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the recent Supreme Court decision, including overturning Roe v. Wade, and why (as a liberal law professor) he agrees with that decision as well as their approach.
(01:50) What is Originalism?
(04:33) Changes in case law over time
(17:11) Why Griswold v. Connecticut (contraception) is different from Roe v. Wade (abortion)
(18:56) The outlier analysis
(34:10) How the Supreme Court treats precedent
(39:20) Women’s equality: the argument for abortion rights liberal justices should have made
Read Akhil’s op-ed in the Wall Street Journal about the leaked Dobbs decision: https://on.wsj.com/3z6d6DH
Read Akhil’s piece in Time Magazine about how liberal justices should use Originalism: https://bit.ly/3AK3Vdo
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7/14/2022 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 12 seconds
Rudderless, Aimless and Hopeless? — The Weekly Roundup
Susan Del Percio (MSNBC political analyst and crisis communications expert) and Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for the Social Policy & Politics Program at Third Way) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:10) The recent reports of a White House in disarray, and the Democrats doubting if President Biden can meet the moment
(23:42) The “New Right” building infrastructure and capacity at think tanks and advocacy organizations ahead of the midterms
(39:00) What to make of the Trump administration officials who are speaking out in support of the January 6th Committee.
[Politicology+ Members Only] Can bipartisanship survive the midterms?
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7/9/2022 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 27 seconds
ENCORE: Our Own Worst Enemy — Part 2
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In this two-episode conversation, Professor of National Security Affairs Tom Nichols joins Ron Steslow to discuss who is really to blame for the crisis in American democracy—and what we can do about it.
(00:50) The “horseshoe theory”
(06:56) Why globalization isn’t the boogeyman we think it is
(18:42) Civic duty and the pro democracy changes we need to make
(38:08) Figures who we can model
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7/6/2022 • 59 minutes, 17 seconds
ENCORE: Our Own Worst Enemy — Part 1
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In this two-episode conversation, Professor of National Security Affairs Tom Nichols joins Ron Steslow to discuss who is really to blame for the crisis in American democracy—and what we can do about it.
(01:43) Why it was difficult to write this book
(06:38) The feeling that we’re living in the “worst of times”
(15:32) Hedonistic adaptation
(18:22) Village Mentality and Banfield’s “Montegrano”
(29:03) The importance of public and private virtue
(37:18) The danger of nostalgia in the rise of illiberalism
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7/6/2022 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 53 seconds
‘The Trump-tanic’ is Sinking — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Liz Gilbert (President of the 2020 Democratic National Convention) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:21 ) The bombshell testimony from the January 6th committee hearing
(34:33) The political impact of the Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade
(52:25) Tuesday’s primary elections and the election deniers who lost the Republican primaries in Colorado
[Politicology+ Members Only] The deep divide in America’s white working class and how Republicans have used it to their advantage
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7/1/2022 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 56 seconds
Deep Democracy with Yonathan Keren — Part 2
Yonathan Keren (co-founder of House of Deep Democracy) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his work building deep democracy.
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(01:27) Asking the minority opinion to come along
(11:45) The importance of conflict
(26:41) The origins of Lewis Deep Democracy
(37:50) Deep democracy in interpersonal relationships
Find Yonathan on his website: https://houseofdeepdemocracy.nl/
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6/29/2022 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 13 seconds
‘The Republic is in Danger’ — The Weekly Roundup
Matt Bennett (Executive Vice President for Public Affairs at Third Way) and Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor of Psychology and Chair of Psychology at Amherst College) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:32) The Senate clears the first hurdle to passing the most significant gun legislation of the 21st century
(13:15) The January 6th committee outlining Trump’s involvement in the plot to steal the 2020 election
(26:01) Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony before congress, the stock market strain hitting retirement accounts, and Biden’s push for a temporary end to federal gas taxes
[Politicology+ Members Only] The New York Times’s latest “America in Focus” focus group
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6/24/2022 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 35 seconds
Deep Democracy with Yonathan Keren — Part 1
Yonathan Keren (co-founder of House of Deep Democracy) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his work building deep democracy.
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(01:15) What is “deep democracy”?
(03:11) Quantum theory and deep democracy
(17:00) Quantum theory and Identity
(28:35) Democracy that goes deeper than winner take all
(36:38) Bringing the minority view along with the majority
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6/23/2022 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 43 seconds
Barr Calls “Bullsh*t” — The Weekly Roundup
Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder) and Al Cardenas (former advisor to Presidents Regan and George H.W. Bush) join host Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:24) The start of the January 6th Committee’s public hearings
(23:48) Growing fears among Democratic leaders about Biden’s age being a liability
(36:43) Still rising inflation
[Politicology+ Members Only] How Disney’s new film Lightyear could take the culture war to infinity and beyond.
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6/17/2022 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 57 seconds
The Intimidation Game
For nearly four decades, Ben Ginsberg was one of the preeminent Republican election lawyers. Now he’s working to stop their attempts to subvert elections.
He and election law experts David Becker (Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research) join Ron Steslow to talk about the threats to elections officials and what it could mean for democracy.
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(02:10) Their backgrounds in election law
(10:03) Why they created the Election Official Legal Defense Network
(18:46) How threats to elections officials are changing
(30:50) The push for Republicans to recruit poll workers and the ‘precinct strategy’
(50:30) What will happen if we keep losing election officials?
Find the Election Official Legal Defense Network at eoldn.org
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6/16/2022 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 38 seconds
“A Lot of Riches” — The Weekly Roundup
Frank Sadler (Chief of Staff to Carly Fiorina) and Michael Slaby (former Chief Technology Officer to the 2012 Obama campaign) join guest host Lucy Caldwell to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:26) The recall election of San Francisco’s District Attorney, the rise in crime, and what it might mean for elections this fall
(31:25) Did Facebook destroy democracy? What will Sheryl Sandberg’s exit mean for Meta
(52:55) President Biden’s planned trip to Saudi Arabia and what it means for our relationship with the authoritarian regime
[Politicology+ Members Only] What to expect from the January 6th Committee’s public hearings
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6/11/2022 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 16 seconds
Part 2: Deepfakes and the Infocalypse with Nina Schick
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What does it mean when you can’t trust what you see with your own eyes or hear with your own ears? In the second half of this two-part episode, Author and political advisor Nina Schick joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse and what the use of synthetic media could mean for our politics and society.
(01:43) What can you do to protect yourself from deepfakes?
(05:09) Government-industry collaboration to educate consumers
(17:28) Deepfakes in the context of wider geopolitical uncertainty
(24:10) The “Liar’s Dividend”
(30:15) Disinformation and the “Autocrat’s Dream”
(33:34) Deepfakes in the Russia-Ukraine War
You should read Deepfakes: https://amzn.to/3NSgdDT
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6/8/2022 • 54 minutes, 16 seconds
“Bidenflation” — The Weekly Roundup
Communications expert Susan Del Percio and political strategist Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:15) Biden’s growing inflation problem
(38:48) Top Gun: Maverick and the Department of Defense’s history partnering on some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters
[Politicology+ Members Only] Who could vie for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024 and when a “sane” Republican might have a chance at national prominence. (What is a “sane” Republican, anyway?”)
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6/3/2022 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 19 seconds
Deepfakes and the Infocalypse with Nina Schick — Part 1
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What does it mean when you can’t trust what you see with your own eyes or hear with your own ears? In this two-part episode, Author and political advisor Nina Schick joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse and what the use of synthetic media could mean for our politics and society.
(01:44) Her career as a political consultant and how she came to focus on misinformation
(04:15) What deepfakes are
(07:34) What is the Infocalypse?
(09:10) How deepfakes have become available to the masses
(14:35) Can detection software keep up with advances in deepfakes?
(26:10) Deepfakes and non-consensual pornography
You should read Deepfakes: https://amzn.to/3NSgdDT
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6/1/2022 • 50 minutes, 28 seconds
TAPPED: Cancel Culture, Fair Elections, and Battleground Polarization with Prof. Doug Kriner
This is a preview of our TAPPED calls, which are typically for Politicology+ members only. Subscribe now or find out more at: https://politicology.com/plus
What’s different about the relative handful of battleground districts that will determine the balance of power in Washington? An unconventional new poll just took a closer look at that question—and the results are surprising. (They’re also instructive for operatives running competitive midterm campaigns right now.)
In this TAPPED call, I talk with one of the architects of the survey, Cornell Professor Douglas Kriner. Doug is an award-winning author and the Clinton Rossiter Professor in American Institutions at Cornell. Together with Rep. Steve Israel, chair of Cornell’s Institute of Politics and Global Affairs, teamed up with political polling veteran Anna Greenberg, Ph.D., to design this unique survey. They released the results during Cornell’s recent State of Democracy Summit on May 24, 2022.
Read more about the findings: https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2022/05/where-red-and-blue-meet-cancel-culture-fair-elections
Prof. Douglas Kriner: https://government.cornell.edu/douglas-l-kriner
Rep. Steve Israel: https://government.cornell.edu/steve-israel
Anna Greenberg, Ph.D.: https://twitter.com/Anna_Greenberg
Ron Steslow: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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5/27/2022 • 23 minutes, 47 seconds
19 Empty Beds — The Weekly Roundup
Communications expert Susan Del Percio and Democratic strategist Liz Gilbert join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:04) The school shooting in Uvalde, TX and red flag laws
(22:34) The biggest takeaways from Tuesday’s primary elections
(37:04) The Russian blockade stopping Ukraine’s grain exports and the dire consequences for global food security
[Politicology+ Members Only] The Democrats not-so-secret-search for an alternative to Joe Biden to top the ticket in 2024
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5/27/2022 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 12 seconds
Behind The Filter Bubble
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Algorithms are the secret sauce of Silicon Valley startups and social media giants. They are complex sets of rules—written in code—that dictate your experience when you’re scrolling through Twitter or Facebook or Instagram in your own digital ‘filter bubble.’ In this episode, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Rob Reich join Ron Steslow to discuss Elon Musk’s proposal to make Twitter’s algorithms open source and what algorithmic transparency could mean for users, for civil society, and for democracy.
(02:21) What social media algorithms do and how they impact what you see on platforms
(05:01) The embedded values on social media platforms
(11:07) How algorithmic transparency could help bad actors
(12:23) What algorithms look for and what they’re trained to do
(15:05) Content moderation and algorithmic amplification
(23:53) Transparency without going open source
(28:01) Algorithmic choice through “middleware”
(32:27) Consumer Choice, misinformation, and filter bubbles
(48:43) Whether Democracy can withstand this
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5/25/2022 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 17 seconds
The Great Replacement — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:28) The biggest stories coming out of Tuesday’s primary elections
(21:01) Great Replacement Theory
(43:20) DHS’s warning of political violence after the draft decision overturning Roe v. Wade
[Politicology+ Members Only] Elon Musk the dynamist
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5/20/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 48 seconds
Encore: Celeste Headlee on Having Better Conversations
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Journalist, Public Speaker and Author Celeste Headlee (@CelesteHeadlee) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to reveal the science and history behind human communication, share keys to unlock deeper conversations, and explain how critical empathy is for our ability to listen and connect. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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5/18/2022 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 45 seconds
The Intimidation Game — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategist Mike Madrid and communications consultant James Lynch join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(03:20) The stock market tumble, interest rate hikes, and voter concerns over gas & groceries
(19:07) Abortion rights protests after the leak of the draft opinion overturning Roe v Wade
(38:18) The DNC’s newly announced ad spend to reach Latino Voters
[Politicology+ Members Only] Elon Musk’s pledge to restore Donald Trump’s banned Twitter account
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5/13/2022 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 54 seconds
Modeling Victory — Part 2
In the second episode of this two part series, Øptimus co-founder and Data Science Director for Decision Desk HQ Scott Tranter joins Ron Steslow to talk about data science, polling, and modeling
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(00:59) The non-response bias and how data scientists must deal with it
(02:55) The decrease in response rates over time
(10:47) Likely vs eligible voters in polls and how to predict who’s likely to vote
(15:55) Finding respondents to fill cohorts
(28:05 ) Innovations in data science
(31:14) The numbers Scott is watching
My conversation with Mike Madrid about Latino Voting Trends: https://link.chtbl.com/CgkltIhG
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5/11/2022 • 54 minutes, 40 seconds
The End of Roe? — The Weekly Roundup
Former Texas State Senator Wendy Davis, political strategist Lucy Caldwell, and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join guest host Liz Gilbert to unpack the most important story of the week:
(02:15) Politico’s bombshell scoop that Justice Alito drafted a majority opinion overturning Roe v Wade
(14:23) The impact the decision could have on women
(17:45) The unprecedented leak from SCOTUS and what it could mean for the Court
(30:18) How this could impact the midterm elections
(52:39) What this could mean for other rights built on the same legal framework
(58:51)What listeners can do
[Politicology+ Members Only] We discuss the Ohio primary election and
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5/7/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 20 seconds
A Note from Ron
Ron checks in while on the road headed to Ukraine
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5/4/2022 • 3 minutes, 54 seconds
Modeling Victory — Part 1
In this two part series, Øptimus co-founder and Data Science Director for Decision Desk HQ Scott Tranter joins Ron Steslow to talk about data science, polling, and modeling
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(01:00) The role of a data scientist on a campaign
(04:20) What message testing is and how it’s used
(11:15) Understanding voters you need to persuade and voters you need to turn out
(15:16) Explaining sampling
(34:36) Polling vs modeling
(37:15) Why pollsters choose the cohorts they do
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5/4/2022 • 1 hour, 40 seconds
“A Moment Of Alignment” — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategist Mike Madrid and Psychology Professor Catherine Sanderson join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:02) Mark Meadows’ texts and the recently leaked Kevin McCarthy calls
(35:18) Elon Musk’s deal to acquire Twitter
[Politicology+ Members Only] We discuss a discuss a Politicology+ listener's email about hasty uses of the terms “misinformation” and “disinformation.”
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4/30/2022 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 43 seconds
France’s Mainstreaming Extremism
French Journalist Karen Lajon joins Ron Steslow to discuss France’s presidential election last weekend
To unlock more episodes, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(01:43) Karen’s work covering France and the world
(03:50 The climate heading into the elections
(05:08) The sentiment around Marine Le Pen and Emmanuel Macron
(09:33) Le Pen’s push to de-demonize the National Rally
(19:23) Le Pen’s ties to Putin
(25:34) What a LePen victory would have meant for France
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4/27/2022 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 18 seconds
The Long Game — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Mike Madrid and Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:52) The Democratic groups pushing to elect local election officials in anticipation of 2024
(21:34) The shift to a longer term war in Ukraine, and the US and allies sending heavier, more advanced weaponry
(46:56) How Dems are pushing back on “Defund the Police”
[Politicology+ Members Only] “Lighting Money On Fire” — Democratic donations flowing into unwinnable races // To get your private, ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed with extra episodes, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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4/22/2022 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 47 seconds
420 Special: Cannabis Politics with California’s ‘Pot Girl’
Amy O’Gorman Jenkins joins Ron Steslow to discuss cannabis policy and how public opinion on marijuana has changed.
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(01:56) How Amy became “Pot Girl”
(04:32) An overview of cannabis laws in the U.S.
(06:16) How public opinion has changed since CA legalized medical marijuana in 1996
(09:36) How cannabis laws have changed since 2012
(24:55) The myths of cannabis legalization
(30:05) State benefits for legalizing cannabis
(32:17) Concerns over legalization and the need for more research
(37:38) Barriers for entering the legal cannabis entry
(46:55) Predictions for Federal legislation
(54:01) An eye on hemp products
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4/20/2022 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 19 seconds
‘We Control Them All’ — The Weekly Roundup
Social policy and politics expert Lanae Erickson and crisis communications expert and MSNBC political analyst Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:06) The DOJ’s investigation into Donald Trump and Don Jr.’s plan to overthrow the government
(25:35) The rise in crime across the country and Joe Biden’s move to regulate ghost guns
(45:25) How rising inflation is impacting the housing market and what that could mean at the ballot box
[Politicology+ Members Only] The Supreme Court dissent pushing back on the use of the shadow docket // To get your private, ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed with extra episodes, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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4/15/2022 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 45 seconds
Encore: System Error — Part 2
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In the second part of this two-episode conversation, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein join Ron Steslow to discuss their book System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot.
(07:11) The modern day trolley problem
(16:54) Reorienting invention toward problem solving
(23:16) The other skills tech companies need
(28:53) The problem of the inventor/CEO
(39:57) What companies and governments can do to reshape how big tech operates
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4/13/2022 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 8 seconds
Encore: System Error — Part 1
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
In this two-episode conversation, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein join Ron Steslow to discuss their book System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot.
(05:42) Why they decided to write their book
(10:56) How venture capital has shaped Silicon Valley
(19:04) Optimization mindset meets Democracy
(37:36) Our privacy boundaries when it comes to government and private companies
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4/13/2022 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 8 seconds
"Crap Information Universe" — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Lucy Caldwell and Mike Madrid, and national security writer Molly McKew join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:13) The Bucha Massacre and the slew of news about Putin’s War
(50:52) Republicans vowing to attack corporations and advance authoritarianism if they take back the control of congress
[Politicology+ Members Only] What would happen if FOX news viewers watched CNN? We’ll talk about the impact changing the channel had in a 2020 study // To get your private, ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed with extra episodes, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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4/8/2022 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 58 seconds
It’s Numbers Season — Part 2
In the second part of this two part episode, Mike Madrid breaks down some recent polling numbers and discusses what it might mean during the midterm elections.
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(00:56) NBC News polling on candidate issues positions and how that can shape midterm races
(10:04) The negative impact of endorsements
(17:49) The negative impact of a Mitch McConnell or Marjorie Taylor Greene endorsement in Republican primary races
(24:33) How Biden’s low approval numbers in Arizona could shape their 2022 elections
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4/8/2022 • 47 minutes, 4 seconds
It’s Numbers Season — Part 1
In this two part episode, Mike Madrid joins Ron Steslow to discuss how political campaigns use polling data to make decisions and how pollsters gather data to measure public opinion.
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(01:00) What do you mean, “it’s numbers season?”
(03:54) What polling data does and doesn’t tell us
(07:19) Looking for trends in polling
(10:57) How polling data drives decisions on political campaigns
(16:33) the importance of sampling
(23:23) How pollsters weight their data
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4/6/2022 • 49 minutes, 42 seconds
[+] Hunter Biden's Laptop [Members Only]
The Justice Department’s investigation into Hunter Biden and the once-censored stories about Hunter Biden’s laptop we now know to be true—and why they matter.
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4/1/2022 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
7 Hours and 37 Minutes — The Weekly Roundup
Fmr. Senior CIA Official Marc Polymeropoulos and political strategist Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:34) The nearly eight hour gap in President Trump's White House phone logs from January 6th
(22:32) Putin’s War and Biden’s “regime change” line
(46:18) How the Left’s climate playbook needs to change
[Politicology+ Members Only] The Justice Department’s investigation into Hunter Biden and the once-censored stories about Hunter Biden’s laptop we now know to be true—and why it matters // To get your private, all-access, and ad-free Politicology+ podcast feed go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
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4/1/2022 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 11 seconds
War and Moral Rebels
Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to look at the psychological phenomenon of “moral rebels” and vis-a-vis Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
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(01:21) What is a moral rebel?
(3:14) The bystander effect in global crises
(08:00) Russians standing up against the war
(14:35) Why we’re drawn to moral rebels
(24:38) The importance of character
Read Catherine’s book Why We Act: Turning Bystanders into Moral Rebels: https://bit.ly/3ITMVSa
Listen to our earlier conversation about being moral rebels: https://link.chtbl.com/R_XnsySd
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3/30/2022 • 1 hour, 5 minutes
‘Gas and Groceries’ — The Weekly Roundup
Former congressman, DCCC chair, and head of Cornell University’s Institute of Politics and Global Affairs, Steve Israel, and political strategists Mike Madrid and Chuck Rocha join Ron Steslow to unpack some of the most important stories of the week:
(03:32) Mike Madrid’s New York Times Opinion Essay about Latinos voters moving to the Republican Party (Read it here: https://nyti.ms/3LlaZiN)
(24:00) How Ukraine is exploiting Putin’s fears with information warfare
(42:19) The Disney Employees’ walkout over the lack of corporate response to Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law, and the influence of employees on corporate actors
[Politicology+ Exclusive] How growing fears over inflation and stagflation can define the midterms // To unlock this segment now, go to politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.
Listen to Mike and Chuck on The Latino Vote podcast: https://apple.co/3wz2bl7
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3/25/2022 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 5 seconds
Deeper Than Agreement
This episode is a little bit different. And personal. Kristyn Komarnicki, director of dialogue and convening at Christians for Social Action, and Darren Calhoun, a justice advocate, worship leader, and Associate Fellow at CSA, join Ron Steslow to discuss intentional dialogue, and how we can use their techniques in the relationships that matter to us.
To unlock more episodes, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(07:06) What is dialogue? How is it different from everyday conversations?
(8:19) What does a curated dialogue look like?
(20:23) How do you prepare for something like this?
(27:34) Why lean into conflict, even when you don’t like conflict?
(32:28) Political fights vs dialogue—what is our role in specific conversations?
(40:44) How important is “grace” in having dialogue that allows for growth?
Would you like to support Kristyn’s and Darren’s work? The “Oriented to Love” dialogue program is funded by tax-deductible donations like yours. To ensure your contribution goes directly to their work, use this dedicated link: https://christiansforsocialaction.salsalabs.org/mainotldonationpage/index.html
For more information about the “Oriented To Love” program, visit https://christiansforsocialaction.org/programs/oriented-to-love/
Listen to our conversation with Celeste Headlee: https://link.chtbl.com/zm8RwNPm
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3/23/2022 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 56 seconds
‘A Precarious Moment’ — The Weekly Roundup
Social policy expert Lanae Erickson and Cuban-American attorney and ‘No Labels’ vice chairman Al Cardenas join Ron Steslow to discuss some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:25) Zelensky’s address to congress
(22:49) How the media and protestors are shaping opinions on the war
(45:48) The perception of public defenders and Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation hearing
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The unusual, high earning fundraiser for Liz Cheney and what it might mean for the future of the Republican party// To unlock this segment now, go to politicology.com/plus
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3/18/2022 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 48 seconds
The Plot to Steal the Presidency (and How to Stop It)
Matt Bennett, cofounder and executive vice president for public affairs at Third Way, and Jess Marsden, who oversees Protect Democracy’s election work, join Ron Steslow to discuss Third Way’s recent presentation about the plot to steal the presidency in 2024 and what we need to do to stop it.
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(02:08) Why Third Way developed their presentation
(03:59) Differences between November 2020 and now
(05:58) The shift from voter suppression to throwing out votes
(23:26) The “Independent State Legislature Doctrine”
(39:08) The parallel presidential campaign
(40:44) The coalition to prevent election theft
(51:48) What individuals can do
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Read the presentation: https://bit.ly/3HaWtIJ
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3/16/2022 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 1 second
War and Oil — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Mike Madrid and Lucy Caldwell, and National security writer Molly McKew discuss some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:41) The U.S. ban on Russian oil and how the Russian invasion can continue impacting Americans domestically
(50:20) Chinese state media pushing Russian propaganda and what it should mean for our relationship with China
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The one of the biggest and least understood voter demographics, and the seismic shift that top-level strategists are still missing // To unlock this segment now, go to politicology.com/plus
Read Molly’s newsletter: https://www.greatpower.us/
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3/11/2022 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 20 seconds
“Laboratories of Autocracy” — Part 2
In this two part series, Former Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party David Pepper joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book, Laboratories of Autocracy, and how state legislatures have contributed to the erosion of democracy—and why Ohio is emblematic of what’s happening around the country.
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(01:33) How “laboratories of autocracy” work
(09:46) The 80/20 strategy
(17:30) Moving from “Never Trump” to “Always Democracy”
(24:19) How we get on the same page about what the threats to democracy are
(31:00) What we can do to push back against rising autocracy
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Read Laboratories of Autocracy: https://www.laboratoriesofautocracy.com/
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3/9/2022 • 58 minutes, 22 seconds
Strength of the Union — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategist Mike Madrid and crisis communications expert Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to discuss Joe Biden’s first State of the Union address:
(01:56) Overall responses to the speech
(20:29) The response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
(39:59) Should Biden focus on domestic policy or Ukraine heading toward the midterms?
(47:01) Biden’s Unity Agenda
(51:30) Iowa Gov. Kim Reynold’s Republican Response to the State of the Union
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The corporate response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the corporations that asked the Biden administration to go soft on Putin // To unlock this segment now, go to politicology.com/plus
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3/4/2022 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 26 seconds
“Laboratories of Autocracy” —Part 1
In this two part episode, Former Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party David Pepper joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book, Laboratories of Autocracy, and how state legislatures have contributed to the erosion of democracy—and why Ohio is emblematic of what’s happening around the country.
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(01:34) Why Ohio is emblematic of what’s going on throughout the country
(05:57) How state legislatures fly under the radar
(08:31) The unintended consequences of term limits
(14:53) How gerrymandering shaped Ohio elections since 2011
(21:08) The dual problem of proportionality and competitiveness in gerrymandering
Politicology is supported by listeners like you. Can you pitch in right now at https://politicology.com/donate?
Read Laboratories of Autocracy: https://www.laboratoriesofautocracy.com/
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3/2/2022 • 59 minutes, 3 seconds
“Moral Amnesia” — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Mike Madrid and Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:01) The response to Russia’s invasion of Ukriane and America’s moral amnesia
(28:37) Republican Senator Rick Scotts’ 11 Point Plan to “Rescue America”
(45:38) Biden’s speech delivery on the Russian invasion and voter persuasion through the lens of political neuroscience
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The 2024 Republican Presiential hopefuls spending like crazy to build their national fundraising machines // To unlock this segment now, go to politicology.com/plus
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2/25/2022 • 1 hour, 33 minutes, 41 seconds
Emergency Pod: Russia Invades Ukraine
National security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew joins Ron Steslow to discuss the Russian military invasion of Ukraine, what it means for the US and the world, what impact sanctions could have, and what steps the U.S. should take to force a Russian retreat, and how she expects this crisis to end.
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2/25/2022 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 26 seconds
The Future of Food
You may know him from his dazzling dishes showcased on the hit Netflix TV series, “Chef’s Table,” but three-Star Michelin Chef Dan Barber (Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Blue Hill NYC) has a relationship with ingredients far deeper and more complex than pretty plates of food. In this episode, Chef Dan joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics and future of food and the consequences of how America feeds itself.
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(02:32) The current state of American agriculture
(06:15) What is the Third Plate?
(11:44) The connection between flavor and nutrition
(14:24) The importance of crop rotation
(34:14) Lab grown meat
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2/23/2022 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 50 seconds
Attack Vectors — The Weekly Roundup
Crisis Communications expert Susan Del Percio, Political strategist Liz Gilbert, national security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:09) Democrats have serious culture war vulnerabilities. What can they do to push back in the midterms?
(19:23) Russia is in position to invade Ukraine. Has Putin already won?
(46:13) The Canadian vaccine mandate protests continue. What’s behind the American support of the movement?
[Politicology+ Exclusive] After Donald Trump’s terrible, horrible, no good, very bad week, the sharks in the Republican party smell blood in the water. Susan, Liz, Molly, and Ron discuss why this matters and how to read their moves. // To unlock this segment now, go to politicology.com/plus
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2/18/2022 • 1 hour, 38 minutes, 44 seconds
Making A Majority
New Democrat Coalition Congressmen Brad Schneider (IL) and Colin Allred (IL) join Ron Steslow to talk about The New Dem Action Fund’s “Majority Makers” ad, telegraphing what the largest caucus of House Democrats believes they must do to keep control of the House in the upcoming midterm election.
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(00:54) What the New Democrat Coalition is
(04:37) Why the New Dems are the keystone of the Democratic majority in the House
(08:42) The challenges Dems are facing in the midterms
(15:11) Balancing defending seats and picking up vulnerable House seats
(17:37) Their sales pitch for the midterms
(57:17) The messaging challenges that come from the ideological diversity in the Democratic party
Find the New Dem Action Fund: http://newdemactionfund.com/
Watch the Majority Maker ad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPFldT0En7c
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2/16/2022 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 31 seconds
“Unload the Cannons” — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Mike Madrid and Lucy Caldwell, and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:48) The RNC declaring January 6th “legitimate political discourse”
(23:05) The truck driver protests in Ottawa
(45:43) The blue states dropping indoor mask mandates and mask mandates in schools
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Behind the NRCC’s push to recruit women and candidates of color in the 2022 midterms // To unlock this segment now, get your private Politicology+ feed at politicology.com/plus
Read “Open Everything” by Yascha Mounk in the Atlantic: https://bit.ly/3Jiu6c8
Listen to “Capturing Insurrection: January 6th through a Photographer’s Lens” on Politicology: https://link.chtbl.com/25LTM9on
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2/11/2022 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 32 seconds
Little Liars Everywhere—Part 2
In this two part series, election law expert and Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research David Becker joins Ron Steslow to talk about new election laws and the rising threats to election integrity.
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(01:13) Proposed Federal legislation around voting rights
(05:12) The Electoral Count Act and why it should be reformed
(24:18) Voter confidence in elections
(35:24) State laws we should expect to see in 2022
(39:58) How law changes can lead to confusion heading into elections
Find the Election Official Legal Defense Network at eoldn.org
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2/9/2022 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 17 seconds
‘Three-Fingers Full of Republicans’— The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Mike Madrid and Zack Czajkowski join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:03) The latest on January 6th, including Trump’s pledge to pardon insurrectionists, the EOs to seize voting machines, and why he thinks Kamala Harris gets to pick the president.
(34:10) Spotify and the Joe Rogan controversy as a flash point in the culture war
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The RNC’s push to remove Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger from the Republican Party// Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
Listen to “Dr. Catherine Sanderson on Becoming Moral Rebels”: https://link.chtbl.com/R_XnsySd
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2/4/2022 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 44 seconds
“Little Liars Everywhere” — Part 1
In this two part series, election law expert and Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research David Becker joins Ron Steslow to talk about new election laws and the rising threats to election integrity.
To unlock exclusive content, visit: https://politicology.com/plus
(01:14) The elections laws that were passed in 2021
(09:00) Arizona’s law stripping powers from the Secretary of State
(13:21) The attacks on voting by mail and dropboxes
(22:37) Local Elections officials under attack
(29:02) Party loyalists filling vacant election administration roles
(36:10) The Election Official Legal Defense Network
Find the Election Official Legal Defense Network at eoldn.org
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2/2/2022 • 57 minutes, 48 seconds
The Plot to Steal the Presidency — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategist Simon Rosenberg, communications consultant Susan Del Percio, and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:44) The Plot to Steal the Presidency and what Democrats can do to stop it
(21:14) Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer’s Retirement
(38:11) Newt Gingrich calls for investigations and jail time for January 6th Committee members.
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Joe Biden weighs sending troops to Eastern Europe as Russia builds troops on Ukraine’s border// Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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1/28/2022 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 20 seconds
The Cases of the Coup
Former federal prosecutor and legal analyst Michael Zeldin joins Ron Steslow to talk about the seditious conspiracy charges and the January 6th prosecutions.
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(01:48) The seditious conspiracy statute
(09:30) What these charges might mean for Trump’s inner circle
(18:02) Obstruction of Congress charges
(30:07) The SCOTUS decision allowing the House committee to get White House documents related to the attack
(34:56) January 6th Committee subpoenas
(43:23) Rudy Giuliani in legal jeopardy for his role in organizing fake electoral vote certificates
(51:15) Fulton County DA empanels a special grand jury to investigate Trump’s attempts to overturn the election
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1/26/2022 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 6 seconds
“Cleanup on Aisle Democracy” — The Weekly Roundup
Political strategists Mike Madrid and Liz Gilbert join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:16) Review Joe Biden’s first year in office
(26:08) The RNC’s pledge that candidates will boycott debates
(43:44) Tucker Carlson’s Russian Propaganda
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1/21/2022 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 58 seconds
On the Border of War
Retired CIA Senior Intelligence Service Officer John Sipher joins Ron Steslow to talk about how the Russian troop buildup at the Ukrainian border and the American response. Before retiring, Sipher ran the CIA’s Russia Operations at headquarters.
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(01:58) Russia’s troop buildup near Ukraine
(04:03) The Russia policy Biden inherited
(13:43) NATO’s open door policy
(18:00) The Republicans focus on state legislatures over federal laws
(21:29) The Biden-Putin phone calls
(24:06) False Flag operations
(46:50) How the US could Respond
(51:33) What John is watching for
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1/20/2022 • 1 hour, 13 minutes
Fauci Ouchie — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and communications consultant Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:25) Biden’s speeches about January 6th, jobs and the economy, and voting rights
(38:22) Fauci’s hot mic moment and the Biden administration’s covid messaging woes
(57:49) Trump Vs. Republican Senators who say the 2020 election was fair
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1/14/2022 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 43 seconds
Adventures In Federalism
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Political Strategist Lucy Caldwell joins Ron Steslow to talk about how the state-level infrastructure allows Republicans to develop similar laws in statehouses across the country.
(02:56) How state laws get written
(10:02)The role of legislative council
(13:56) How groups like ALEC and SPN work together to get laws passed
(28:24) The Republicans focus on state legislatures over federal laws
(39:12) How Democrats could build out their infrastructure
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1/13/2022 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 56 seconds
Better for the struggle — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(02:55) The January 6, 2021 Attack on the Capitol
(53:17) The Great Resignation and its impact on the economy
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1/7/2022 • 1 hour, 33 minutes, 59 seconds
Encore: January 6 through a Photographer’s Lens
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On the anniversary of the attack at the Capitol, photographer Gabriella Demczuk walks listeners through her firsthand account of the January 6, 2021 insurrection, from Donald Trump’s “Stop The Steal” rally on the National Mall to the gallery of the House chamber as rioters breached the Capitol.
(03:01) Getting the assignment for January 6
(05:45) Reading the crowd at the rally
(07:35) Rep. Madison Cawthorn, in his own words
(10:30) Back to the U.S. Capitol
(12:46) Looking out the East Front
(13:33) Capitol under lockdown
(16:25) Trying to do our jobs
(17:10) Sheltering in the House chamber
(25:53) Bursting the “safe space” bubble
(30:01) Reflections walking home
(32:43) [Lack of] Republican remorse
(34:33) The fragility of democracy
What Madison Cawthorn Saw At The Insurrection by Olivia Nuzzi
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1/6/2022 • 56 minutes, 38 seconds
Encore: The Pursuit of Happiness with Dr. Catherine Sanderson
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Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about happiness and how to harness the power of a positive mindset.
(02:49) The negative connotation of the “power of positive thinking” and adopting a growth mindset
(11:32) Revisiting the myth of monsters
(13:13) Redemption and reconciliation, and applying a growth mindset to others: the “fundamental attribution error”
(20:05) Let’s talk about stress
(22:43) Grieving shared loss and uncertainty
(28:20) Adequate sleep and happiness
(32:04) Smiling through the pain...and other methods
(36:17) Importance of conversations and meaningful relationships
(39:10) Bringing people together for political engagement
The Positive Shift by Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://benbellabooks.com/shop/the-positive-shift/
Politicology - March 10: Becoming Moral Rebels with Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://politicology.com/episodes/dr-catherine-sanderson-becoming-moral-rebels/
The Victory Lab by Sasha Issenberg https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/215192/the-victory-lab-by-sasha-issenberg/
Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert M. Sapolsky
https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780805073690
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1/5/2022 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 10 seconds
Farewell 2021 — The Weekly Roundup
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Communications expert Susan Del Percio and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:42) The right wing fight over Trump’s support for Covid vaccines
(17:05) The Republican push to make school board elections partisan
(29:38) The worst political predictions of 2021 and our predictions for 2022
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12/31/2021 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 21 seconds
We have a Democracy Problem — with Mike Madrid
In Part 2 of this wide-ranging conversation between Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow, co-founders of The Lincoln Project, the two political strategists discuss what Latino voter trends can tell us about future elections and the erosion of democracy around the globe
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(01:49) Mike’s advice to Democrats and Republicans
(03:53) What the trend lines of Latino voters can tell us about 2024
(07:12) The new Reagan Democrats
(21:17) The erosion of institutions
(42:43) The tension between technology and democracy
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12/29/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 22 seconds
“Covid Fatigue” — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategists Mike Madrid and Jon Boughtin join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:52) Joe Manchin tanks Biden’s policy agenda
(19:44) The January 6th Committee’s investigation into Donald Trump
(43:14) The newly reinstated “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Trump supporters going door to door looking for voter fraud over a year after the 2020 election// Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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12/24/2021 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 39 seconds
Democrats Have A Latino Problem — with Mike Madrid
In Part 1 of this wide-ranging conversation between Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow, co-founders of The Lincolns Project, the two political strategists discuss hidden Latino voting trends and how Democrats must better understand this part of the electorate in order to win pivotal electoral fights. Part 2 will be published on Wednesday, Dec 29, 2021
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(02:05) How we’re getting hispanic voting patterns wrong
(06:13) How Latino voter trends in California are different from the rest of the country
(19:35) How the California Latino population influences national polls
(30:13) Some lessons Democrats can learn to win more Latino votes
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12/23/2021 • 1 hour, 55 seconds
“The Texter is Inside the House” — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategists Liz Gilbert and Eric Koch join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:34) The Lawmakers who texted Former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows
(16:15) The Fox News hosts who pleaded for Trump to stop the insurrection
(44:51) The newly reinstated “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy
[Politicology+ Exclusive] TIME Magazine’s selection of Elon Musk as 2021 Person of the Year // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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12/17/2021 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 5 seconds
Does giving make you happy? with Dr. Catherine Sanderson
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Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about how giving can make you happier.
(02:08) What is happiness and how can we measure it?
(08:31) Does giving make you happy or do happy people give more?
(10:20) Types of giving and the impact on happiness
(14:50) The effect of giving on bad moods
(28:58) Gratitude letters
The Positive Shift by Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://benbellabooks.com/shop/the-positive-shift/
Politicology - March 10: Becoming Moral Rebels with Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://politicology.com/episodes/dr-catherine-sanderson-becoming-moral-rebels/
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12/15/2021 • 55 minutes, 14 seconds
The Coup In Progress — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and national security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:34) President Biden’s call with Putin about the Russian military buildup at the Ukrainian border
(16:15) Trump’s next coup that’s already underway
(44:51) The challenges of vaccine mandates
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12/10/2021 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 48 seconds
Scott MacFarlane on Prosecuting the Insurrection — Part 2
Award-winning investigative reporter Scott MacFarlane talks with Ron Steslow about the most critical filings and pivotal moments in the Feds’ ever-growing case against the January 6 insurrectionists.
(02:57) Where the insurrection investigation stands at this moment
(04:46) The differences between high-level and high-profile prosecutions
(00:00) The relationship between the DOJ investigation and the January 6th Committee investigation
(06:07) The January 6th committee’s subpoenas held up in court
(14:00) The conspiracy cases we’re watching play out
(15:03) The makeshift weapons of the insurrectionists
(17:13) The problem of too much evidence
(22:16) What sentences we should expect to see
(29:17) The defendants who are flying under the radar
(36:43) The threat of repeat attacks at statehouses
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12/9/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 16 seconds
Message & Discipline — The Weekly Roundup
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Crisis communications specialist Susan Del Percio and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:35) CNN Suspends Chris Cuomo
(21:17) The Omicron variant
(31:19) The “Big Lie”supporters running for key election official posts
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12/3/2021 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 27 seconds
‘The Rule of Law is Back’ with Adam Schiff
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Congressman Adam Schiff joins Ron Steslow to discuss his rise in prominence during the Trump presidency, the work of the January 6th committee, and his new book Midnight in Washington: How We Almost Lost Our Democracy and Still Could
(01:45) Serving as the Ranking Member on the House Intelligence Committee and being the lead impeachment manager
(05:36) What he was thinking on January 6th
(09:55)The work the January 6th Committee is doing
(18:03) The pernicious idea of American Exceptionalism
(22:20) Why he wrote his book, Midnight in Washington
(27:38) What we can do to protect against authoritarianism in the U.S.
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12/1/2021 • 48 minutes, 5 seconds
“Look Up” — The Weekly Roundup
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National security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew and political strategist Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important (international) stories of the week:
(01:35) China and their hypersonic missile
(21:17) Anne Applebaum’s Atlantic article “The Bad Guys are Winning”
(31:19) The civil war in Ethiopia
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11/26/2021 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 18 seconds
System Error — Part 2
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In the second part of this two-episode conversation, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein join Ron Steslow to discuss their book System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot.
(07:11) The modern day trolley problem
(16:54) Reorienting invention toward problem solving
(23:16) The other skills tech companies need
(28:53) The problem of the inventor/CEO
(39:57) What companies and governments can do to reshape how big tech operates
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11/24/2021 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 8 seconds
The Sh*tshow Must Go On — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategists Lucy Caldwell and Simon Rosenberg join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:35) Steve Bannon’s indictment for Contempt of Congress
(21:17 Beto O’Rourke’s 2022 campaign and how it fits into the midterms
(31:19) The Republicans playing footsie with a 2024 presidential run
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The increasing speculation around a Harris/Buttigieg primary fight in 2024// Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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11/19/2021 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 55 seconds
System Error — Part 1
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In this two-episode conversation, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein join Ron Steslow to discuss their book System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot.
(05:42) Why they decided to write their book
(10:56) How venture capital has shaped Silicon Valley
(19:04) Optimization mindset meets Democracy
(37:36) Our privacy boundaries when it comes to government and private companies
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11/17/2021 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 8 seconds
Double Exclamation — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategists Lucy Caldwell and Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:35) The growing list of subpoenas issued by the January 6th Committee
(21:08) The Bipartisan Infrastructure bill passes in Congress
(33:35) The highs and lows of the economic recovery
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11/13/2021 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 44 seconds
Carly Fiorina on Playing the Long Game
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Former presidential candidate and Former HP CEO Carly Fiorina joins Ron Steslow to discuss how short-term gains have gotten preferential treatment over long-term planning and success.
(04:39) The differences between short-term vs. long-term
(07:02) Expecting quick fixes to long-term problems
(15:30) The shift in corporate responsibility from just shareholders to stakeholders
(30:32) How the short-term goal of winning elections short-circuits governing
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11/10/2021 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 18 seconds
An Existential Crisis — The Weekly Roundup
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Social policy expert Lanae Erickson and national security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:35) The results of this week’s election
(17:16) The UN Global Climate Change Summit in Glasgow
(34:12) China’s Cryptocurrency and what it can mean for the U.S.
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11/5/2021 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 52 seconds
Winners Take All with Congressman Steve Israel
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Former Congressman and former Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Steve Israel sits down with Ron Steslow to discuss what Democrats must learn from the 2020 election and what they must do to have a shot at maintaining their majorities in 2022.
(01:59)The balance between local and national interest in races
(06:54) What we learned from the 2020 down ticket races
(20:23) The ideological diversity within the Democratic party and how it shapes campaigns and governing
(30:10) Keeping campaigns and messaging local
(33:26) What the driving topics of the midterms might be
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11/3/2021 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 24 seconds
Pandemic of Disinformation — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and communications expert Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:25) The latest in the Facebook whistleblower documents
(20:26) The Republicans in Congress who met with the January 6th organizers
(32:53) One step closer to Covid-19 vaccines for children ages 5-11
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The governor’s races in New Jersey and Virginia // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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10/29/2021 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 42 seconds
Strongmen — Part 2
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In the second part of this two-episode conversation, NYU Professor of History and Italian Studies Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Strongmen and what we can learn from the history of autocrats and those who stood up to them.
(01:13) The American rights obsession with Orban
(05:02) How authoritarians have used elections to come to power
(08:11) January 6th and how it will serve as a touchstone for the American authoritarian movement
(18:31) Trump’s recent rallies and how they fit into the patterns of authoritarians
(26:53) The ways people have pushed back against authoritarians and what we can do now
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10/27/2021 • 54 minutes, 37 seconds
"Majority Leader Manchin" — The Weekly Roundup
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Social policy expert Lanae Erickson and political strategist Frank Sadler join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:39) The Democratic House members retiring before the 2022 midterms
(18:37)The Striketober demonstrations at companies from Kellogg’s to John Deere
(31:41) The Virginia Gubernatorial election
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The reporting that West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin talked to associates about leaving the Democratic party // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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10/22/2021 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 51 seconds
Strongmen — Part 1
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In this two-episode conversation, NYU Professor of History and Italian Studies Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Strongmen and what we can learn from the history of autocrats and those who stood up to them.
(02:01) Why she decided to write her book
(04:18) Understanding Trump in the context of other autocratic leaders
(06:29) The warning signs of strongmen as the rise to power
(10:52) Why we don’t always see authoritarian leaders coming
(28:48) How the pandemic accelerated democratic decline
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10/20/2021 • 48 minutes, 41 seconds
"They’ll Remember That Sh*t” — The Weekly Roundup
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Democratic strategist Liz Gilbert and political strategist Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:45) The January 6th Committee ramps up pressure on subpoenaed Trump allies
(14:30) The good and bad of corporate citizenship
(39:35) The supply chain struggles and the looming holiday crisis
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The resignation of Raiders coach Jon Gruden after reports that he sent homophobic and misogynistic emails // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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10/15/2021 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 5 seconds
Submarines, German Elections, and Biden’s Speech at the U.N. — A Global Power Q&A with Molly McKew
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National security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew joins Ron Steslow to break down some of the most important international news stories:
(01:50) The U.S., U.K., and Australian security partnership and the submarine deal that angered the French.
(17:08) Joe Biden’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly
(18:16) How the German elections (and Angela Merkle’s decision not to seek reelection) will impact global politics
(36:02) The relationship between foreign policy and public opinion.
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10/13/2021 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 22 seconds
Bad Blood — The Weekly Roundup
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Communications Strategists Susan Del Percio and Eric Koch join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:27) The Facebook whistleblower’s 60 Minutes interview and testimony before congress
(21:12) Donald Trump begs to get back on Twitter and launches a new Make America Great Again Again PAC
(35:16) Taylor Swift’s masters get swept into the Virginia gubernatorial race
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The first round of subpoenas issued by the January 6th committee // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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What we mentioned:
MSNBC: Donald Trump's Twitter lawsuit is about 2024, not free speech— https://on.msnbc.com/3Bpttdg
Prejudice Reduction: Progress and Challenges— https://bit.ly/3uV7etb
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10/8/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 45 seconds
Our Own Worst Enemy — Part 2
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In this two-episode conversation, Professor of National Security Affairs Tom Nichols joins Ron Steslow to discuss who is really to blame for the crisis in American democracy—and what we can do about it.
(00:50) The “horseshoe theory”
(06:56) Why globalization isn’t the boogeyman we think it is
(18:42) Civic duty and the pro democracy changes we need to make
(38:08) Figures who we can model
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10/6/2021 • 59 minutes, 17 seconds
Dear Leader Zuckerberg — The Weekly Roundup
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National security writer and Georgetown University adjunct professor Molly McKew and political strategist Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:30)The ongoing debates over passing the Biden Agenda
(19:43) Facebook and the fight to get tech giants to reveal their data
(39:51) The struggles of women and LGBTQ people in Afghanistan under the Taliban
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The first round of subpoenas issued by the January 6th committee // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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10/1/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 41 seconds
Our Own Worst Enemy — Part 1
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In this two-episode conversation, Professor of National Security Affairs Tom Nichols joins Ron Steslow to discuss who is really to blame for the crisis in American democracy—and what we can do about it.
(01:43) Why it was difficult to write this book
(06:38) The feeling that we’re living in the “worst of times”
(15:32) Hedonistic adaptation
(18:22) Village Mentality and Banfield’s “Montegrano”
(29:03) The importance of public and private virtue
(37:18) The danger of nostalgia in the rise of illiberalism
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9/29/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 53 seconds
The New Single Issue Voter — The Weekly Roundup
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Communications expert Susan Del Percio and political strategist Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:42)The newest form of single issue voters and the rifts in the Republican party
(30:19) The looming debt limit crisis
(43:33) Major companies committing to training and hiring Afghan refugees
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The gossip, bombshells, and scoops from Bob Woodward and Robert Costa’s new book, Peril// Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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9/24/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 29 seconds
A Short Bench
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Social policy expert Lanae Erickson joins Ron Steslow to talk about how Republicans and Democrats view and prioritize federal judges
(01:25) The role and structure of the federal judiciary
(03:12) The impact Trump appointed judges can have
(07:06) Republicans focus on judges during campaigns
(11:11) What Republicans look for in judges
(17:41) What the Federalist Society is
(19:56) Why Democrats don’t have an equivalent to the Federalist Society
(34:14) “Living Constitution” judicial philosophy
(38:53) Executive branch enforcement of judicial decisions
(48:06) What you can do to affect the focus on judges
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9/22/2021 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 56 seconds
‘We Gotta Go Now’ — The Weekly Roundup
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Social policy expert Lanae Erickson and political strategist Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:47) President George W. Bush on 9/11 and January 6
(20:01) The new democracy protection bill in the Senate and why it might spark filibuster reform
(42:59) Biden’s vaccine mandate
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The political statements AOC and Billie Eilish made at the Met Gala // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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9/17/2021 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 31 seconds
The Pursuit of Happiness with Dr. Catherine Sanderson
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Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about happiness and how to harness the power of a positive mindset.
(02:49) The negative connotation of the “power of positive thinking” and adopting a growth mindset
(11:32) Revisiting the myth of monsters
(13:13) Redemption and reconciliation, and applying a growth mindset to others: the “fundamental attribution error”
(20:05) Let’s talk about stress
(22:43) Grieving shared loss and uncertainty
(28:20) Adequate sleep and happiness
(32:04) Smiling through the pain...and other methods
(36:17) Importance of conversations and meaningful relationships
(39:10) Bringing people together for political engagement
The Positive Shift by Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://benbellabooks.com/shop/the-positive-shift/
Politicology - March 10: Becoming Moral Rebels with Dr. Catherine Sanderson https://politicology.com/episodes/dr-catherine-sanderson-becoming-moral-rebels/
The Victory Lab by Sasha Issenberg https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/215192/the-victory-lab-by-sasha-issenberg/
Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert M. Sapolsky
https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780805073690
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9/15/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 35 seconds
Domestic Radicalization — The Weekly Roundup
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Former DNC president Liz Gilbert and Lincoln Project co-founder Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:41) The fever pitch across America’s school districts as mask and vaccine policies are hotly debated
(15:27) Governor Greg Abbott signs Texas’s anti-democracy bill into law
(31:15) What we can learn about the tradeoffs of direct democracy by watching California’s recall process
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The disgraced former president set to re-infect our politics // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
Center for Election Innovation and Research - https://electioninnovation.org/
Election Official Legal Defense Network https://eoldn.org/
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9/10/2021 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 4 seconds
Politicology Mailbag with Ron Steslow & Lucy Caldwell
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell joins Ron Steslow to answer Politicology listeners’ questions:
(00:24) What can be done about Fox News and right wing media lies?
(06:04) What happens if we “lose” and democracy fails?
(15:43) How do caucuses affect the legislative process?
Have a question for a future Mailbag episode? Send it over to us at podcast@politicology.com!
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9/8/2021 • 38 minutes, 37 seconds
Vigilante Injustice — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and attorney George Conway join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
(01:32) The political fallout from the Afghanistan withdrawal: how Republicans are reacting, and how public opinion has shifted in the last month
(21:31) why SCOTUS allowed an extreme and devious bill restricting abortion access in Texas to go into effect, and the more direct threat to Roe that has been overlooked in the news coverage
(43:02) How so-called “new puritanism” is trampling on classical liberal values
References from the show:
Anne Applebaum - The New Puritans: Mob Justice Is Trampling Democratic Discourse https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/10/new-puritans-mob-justice-canceled/619818/
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The House January 6 Committee’s latest records request, and Republican threats against private companies that comply // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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9/3/2021 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 22 seconds
Leaving Afghanistan: Part 2
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National security writer and researcher Molly McKew and Fmr. Senior CIA Official and author Marc Polymeropoulos continue their conversation with host Ron Steslow about America’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the role of the Biden and Trump administrations.
(01:03) Democrats must be willing to own their mistakes
(10:43) Debunking “inevitability” and mistruths from American leadership
(16:38) Life in Afghanistan now and what’s to come
(29:17) The Taliban’s approach to “governing”
(32:39) Crowd funding an evacuation
(41:20) What individuals can do to help
The Washington Post: How to help Afghan refugees and those trapped during the Taliban takeover
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2021/08/21/how-to-help-afghan-refugees/
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9/2/2021 • 1 hour, 6 minutes
Leaving Afghanistan: Part 1
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National security writer and researcher Molly McKew and fmr. senior CIA official and author Marc Polymeropoulos join host Ron Steslow to discuss the chaos and catastrophe in Afghanistan.
(03:10) Molly’s and Marc’s unique vantage points on Afghanistan
(14:33) Putting Afghanistan in context: America’s goals, and the war’s political legitimacy
(20:17) When counterterrorism became nation-building, how America projects military power, and the tension between America’s interests and values
(34:45) Trump’s deal with the Taliban, the decision to withdraw troops, and America’s pincer of isolationism
(49:01) Public opinion, foreign policy, and America’s total exit
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Clarity in Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the CIA by Marc Polymeropoulos
August 11 - Directed Energy Attacks and Leadership Lessons with Marc Polymeropoulos
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9/1/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 14 seconds
“Surfer on a Tsunami” — The Weekly Roundup
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Communications expert Susan Del Percio and political strategist Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at some of the most important stories of the week:
*Note: A full episode on Afghanistan will be published on Politicology on September 1. Tap the ‘Follow’ button now to be notified.*
(01:51) New mandates and new pushback as the Pfizer vaccine gains full FDA approval
(15:44) John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act passes the House on party lines
(31:24) The dark and dangerous turn Trump’s rallies have taken; the folly of ignoring them
References from the show:
March 31: Racial Gerrymandering and Voting Power with David Becker
July 7: “Democracy in Triage” with David Becker
Ron’s mention of Mandy Patinkin on Twitter
[Politicology+ Exclusive] “What is” next for Jeopardy! and what does this debacle tell us about how we scrutinize public figures? // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at https://politicology.com/plus
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8/27/2021 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 4 seconds
Capturing Insurrection: January 6 through a Photographer’s Lens
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Photographer Gabriella Demczuk walks listeners through her firsthand account of the January 6, 2021 insurrection, from Donald Trump’s “Stop The Steal” rally on the National Mall to the gallery of the House chamber as rioters breached the Capitol.
(03:01) Getting the assignment for January 6
(05:45) Reading the crowd at the rally
(07:35) Rep. Madison Cawthorn, in his own words
(10:30) Back to the U.S. Capitol
(12:46) Looking out the East Front
(13:33) Capitol under lockdown
(16:25) Trying to do our jobs
(17:10) Sheltering in the House chamber
(25:53) Bursting the “safe space” bubble
(30:01) Reflections walking home
(32:43) [Lack of] Republican remorse
(34:33) The fragility of democracy
What Madison Cawthorn Saw At The Insurrection by Olivia Nuzzi
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8/25/2021 • 56 minutes, 36 seconds
“Sacred Cows” — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and reporter Ben Jacobs join Ron Steslow to look at the most important stories of the week:
(01:39) Biden’s speech, who’s to blame for the bungled Afghanistan withdrawal, and lessons learned after 20 years in the “graveyard of empires”
(24:45) Water scarcity and wildfires in the West underscore the reality of our climate crisis
(50:19) Millions of T-Mobile users’ data was stolen as the web Whack-A-Mole continues
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Shots Fired at the NRA by NY AG Letitia James // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at https://politicology.com/plus
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8/20/2021 • 1 hour, 30 minutes, 47 seconds
Cuomo, Covid, and Climate, Oh My! — The Weekly Roundup
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Cuban-American attorney and ‘No Labels’ vice chairman Al Cardenas and social policy expert Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to look at the top stories of the week:
(02:08) Hurdles in the House for the trillion-dollar bipartisan infrastructure bill; Democrats’ plan for more spending and the urgency to address our climate crisis
(19:55) Red state Governors deny reality and responsibility through explosive growth in Covid infections
(38:13) Governor Cuomo denies, deflects, and resigns, and New York starts anew
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The My Pillow guy’s election conspiracy “Cyber Symposium” // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
July 28 - Despair, Hope, and the Fight for 'Libertad' in Cuba with Al Cardenas
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8/13/2021 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 12 seconds
Directed Energy Attacks and Leadership Lessons with Marc Polymeropoulos
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Fmr. Senior CIA Official Marc Polymeropoulos and author of Clarity in Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the CIA joins Ron Steslow to discuss Havana Syndrome, his struggle for treatment, and what he learned about leadership in 26 years at the CIA.
(01:14) Marc’s 26 year CIA career
(03:40) “Easily the most terrifying night of my life”
(04:58) Moscow’s motivation for directed energy attacks
(09:56) The CIA’s “call to arms” after the 2016 election
(12:44) Fighting for treatment
(16:29) Becoming a leader in times of crisis
(25:03) What happened in Helsinki?
(29:27) Morale—and dysfunction—through the Trump presidency
(33:26) When former senior officials speak out, listen
(36:46) Leadership principles versus the former president
(41:00) Identifying leaders among political candidates
(43:56) Protecting democracy domestically
(48:30) Showing and sharing the world with Marc’s family
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Proliferation of nationalism overseas, and the American affinity for the authoritarian right // Unlock now and get exclusive content on your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
Clarity in Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the CIA by Marc Polymeropoulos
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8/11/2021 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 14 seconds
High-Stakes Hot Potato — The Weekly Roundup
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Political strategist Lucy Caldwell and former Congresswoman Katie Hill join Ron Steslow to look at the top stories of the week:
(02:02) New York Attorney General Letitia James alleges Gov. Andrew Cuomo committed crimes, and Cuomo doubles down on his denial
(25:45) Democrats play high-stakes hot potato with the eviction moratorium
(50:07) The shifting politics of vaccine mandates
[Politicology+ Exclusive] // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
Her Time, Katie Hill’s political action committee
Pray Away
June 9 - Katie Hill on Revenge Porn, Cancel Culture, and Redemption
June 2 - “Strange Bedfellows”—The Weekly Roundup
Contact Your Senators to encourage their support for the Violence Against Women Act
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8/6/2021 • 1 hour, 25 minutes, 14 seconds
“Shame and Ostracization”— The Weekly Roundup
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Susan Del Percio and Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to look at the top stories of the week:
(01:35) First hearing of the House select committee investigating the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, and the heightened emotions felt through the frontline officers’ testimony
(37:58) Resurgent COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC’s new masking guidance, and what Americans’ preferred news source can tell us about vaccination rates
(1:08:40) Sneak peek of the latest Enemies of Democracy (Politicology+ series) episode on Rupert & Lachlan Murdoch
[Politicology+ Exclusive] The Olympics, Simone Biles, and the fight to define what patriotism looks like // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at https://politicology.com/plus
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7/30/2021 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 30 seconds
Despair, Hope, and the Fight for 'Libertad' in Cuba with Al Cardenas
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Attorney and fmr. special ambassador Al Cardenas joins Ron Steslow to reveal the dynamics of the unprecedented uprising in Cuba:
(01:50) The Cuban regime, U.S.-Cuba relations, and Al’s personal story
(12:53) The unprecedented “despair” factor
(15:23) Dissent in communist Cuba
(24:28) The American embargo misconception
(26:59) Options on the table for American intervention
(32:26) Hope for a free Cuba
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7/28/2021 • 52 minutes, 12 seconds
“You’ve Got To Feed The Beast” — The Weekly Roundup
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Mike Madrid and Jimmy Williams join Ron Steslow to look at the top stories of the week:
(01:49) McCarthy’s picks, and Pelosi’s veto, for the January 6 committee
(30:52) Billionaire space race ushers in new chapter of private space exploration
(42:00) OAN plans to launch a Spanish-language “MAGA channel”
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Trump’s close friend and inaugural committee chairman Tom Barrack faces charges for failing to register as a foreign agent // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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7/23/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 47 seconds
Trillion With a “T” — The Weekly Roundup
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Lucy Caldwell and Lanae Erickson join Ron Steslow to look at the top stories of the week:
(01:53) Texas Democrats break quorum and book it to Washington in a last-ditch effort to thwart the GOP anti-democracy bill
(14:14) Biden takes a stand on Republicans’ threats to our democracy
(35:12) The Senate’s one shot at a massive spending bill full of Democrats’ policy priorities
[Politicology+ Exclusive] CPAC, Jenna Ellis, and a bifurcating GOP // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at https://politicology.com/plus
“Democracy in Triage” with David Becker (July 7) https://politicology.com/episodes/democracy-in-triage/
“The Great Suppression” with Tharon Johnson (April 7)
https://politicology.com/episodes/the-great-suppression/
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7/16/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 23 seconds
Scott MacFarlane on Prosecuting the Insurrection
Award-winning investigative reporter Scott MacFarlane talks with Ron Steslow about the most critical filings and pivotal moments in the Feds’ ever-growing case against the January 6 insurrectionists.
(00:00) Sounds of January 6, 2021
(02:48) Scott’s Survivor’s Remorse
(04:16) Where the insurrection investigation stands at this moment
(06:45) Three Percenters, Proud Boys, Oath Keepers, oh my...
(09:14) The two “tiers” of defendants
(11:02) Corroborating conspiracy
(13:25) Defendants inside and outside the Capitol
(14:20) Who is saying what about the former President?
(17:37) Why aren’t we calling this “terrorism?”
(18:29) Insurrectionists’ hit list
(19:30) Hockey sticks, baseball bats, sharpened American flag poles, an axe, a knife, scissors, a tourniquet, pepper spray, chemical spray, bear spray, guns, brass knuckles, batons, pipes, zip ties, tasers, and stolen police riot shields
(20:51) “My client doesn’t understand how what he did is criminal”
(23:40) Three huge questions remain
(25:50) “The first big sentencing”
(28:00) Politicizing Ashli Babbitt
(30:10) Why we can’t “just get past this and move on”
(31:50) Reporting facts in a post-truth political environment
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7/14/2021 • 52 minutes, 54 seconds
“Vax That Thang Up” — The Weekly Roundup
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Democratic strategist Liz Gilbert and communications expert Owen Loftus join Ron Steslow to break down the top stories of the week:
(01:53) Kevin McCarthy’s January 6 committee conflict, and the lose-lose Republicans face as we learn more about the attack
(22:36) How Republicans across the country are embracing election lies to win the very elections they deem fraudulent
(34:43) The Biden Administration’s vaccine goal miss, and the right’s Delta-denialism that is deepening the pandemic’s political divide
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Florida man Allen West wants to liberate Texas from Governor Greg Abbott // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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7/9/2021 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 4 seconds
“Democracy In Triage” — David Becker on Brnovich v. DNC, the Voting Rights Act, and how to fight back
“Our democracy is in triage right now.” David Becker, the Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, CBS News contributor and election law expert, joins Ron Steslow to break down the Supreme Court’s decision about Arizona voting laws in Brnovich v. DNC, the gutting of the Voting Rights Act, and what it portends for the fight to protect the franchise, and ultimately, our democracy.
(01:42) What Arizona’s votings laws actually do
(08:47) The Supreme Court’s pattern of voting rights activism
(17:31) Alito’s nod to voter fraud falsehoods, and the popular support for voter access
(21:06) What’s left of the Voting Rights Act?
(27:20) The uphill battle voting rights prosecutors now face to protect the franchise
(30:01) Kagan’s dissent, and Congress’s dysfunction
(32:57) “The filibuster is not particularly relevant”
(36:32) Stress, threats, blood, sweat and tears—fighting on the frontlines for American democracy
(41:48) The dangerous road we’re heading down, and the path forward for allies of democracy
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7/7/2021 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 51 seconds
“Strange Bedfellows” — The Weekly Roundup
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Lucy Caldwell and Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to break down the top stories of the week:
(02:09) New York City’s election confusion as officials try to determine the next Democratic candidate for mayor, and the national demographic trends illuminated in the preliminary results
(21:29) Why a judge tossed antitrust lawsuits against Facebook, and where the push to regulate “big tech” is headed
(36:25) The Supreme Court Justice allowing the CDC’s eviction moratorium to stay in place (for now)
[Politicology+ Exclusive] South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s decision to deploy the National Guard to the country’s southern border, and who is paying for it // Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at politicology.com/plus
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7/2/2021 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 1 second
“Constitution Bootcamp” — The Weekly Roundup
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Lucy Caldwell, Lanae Erickson and Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to break down the top stories of the week:
(02:04) Liz Cheney’s call for better civic education in Congress
(17:45) The struggle to pass voter protection laws in the Senate
(40:36) Florida’s new “viewpoint diversity” survey on college campuses
[Politicology+ Exclusive] Why is Steve Bannon talking about making Donald Trump Speaker of the House without ever getting elected to Congress? Unlock now and get your private podcast feed at https://politicology.com/plus
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6/25/2021 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 11 seconds
“Pipeline of A$$holes” — The Weekly Roundup
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Democratic political strategist Tharon Johnson and Russian warfare writer and researcher Molly McKew join Ron Steslow to break down the top stories of the week:
(02:15) Putin, Biden, and the Administration’s not-a-reset on Russia
(25:52) Insurrectionists emboldened to run for Congress and the bottomless depravity of the GOP
(53:53) The investigators investigating the Trump DOJ
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Rolling Stone - The Forever Trump Movement Has Won https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/trump-mccarthy-republican-party-critical-race-theory-1184610/
Politicology 4-21-01: BOЯDEЯ CЯISIS with Molly McKew https://politicology.com/episodes/border-crisis-ukraine/
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6/18/2021 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 34 seconds
The (Departed) Lincoln Project Founders: Part 1
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For the first time since the 2020 election, George Conway, Jennifer Horn, Mike Madrid, and Ron Steslow—four since-departed co-founders of The Lincoln Project—reunite to discuss the most important political fight of their lives...and what comes next.
In Part 1, the panel discusses their individual paths to The Lincoln Project, and how the fight to remove Donald Trump from office evolved and escalated throughout 2020.
For Part 2 of this special series, unlock Politicology+ now: https://politicology.com/plus
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6/15/2021 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 48 seconds
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Extended Weekly Roundup Episodes
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6/13/2021 • 3 minutes, 34 seconds
“Do not come” — The Weekly Roundup
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Lucy Caldwell and Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to break down the top stories of the week:
(01:36) What to make of the flashbang of bipartisanship on a massive tech-investment bill that just passed the Senate
(20:27) Joe Manchin, Kyrsten Sinema, and the fate of the filibuster
(43:11) Vice President Kamala Harris’s trip to Central America and the message she delivered on immigration
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6/11/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 38 seconds
Katie Hill on Revenge Porn, Cancel Culture, and Redemption
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What does it mean to be “canceled?”
Former Congresswoman Katie Hill joins Ron Steslow to discuss what is and isn’t “cancel culture,” how we should think about holding public figures accountable, why we have failed to find a mechanism for redemption, and her fight to close the legal loophole for “revenge porn.”
Exclusively for Politicology+ subscribers: Following this conversation, Ron asks Katie about the details of her surprising (albeit short-lived) friendship with Matt Gaetz.
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6/10/2021 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 18 seconds
“For God & Country” — Weekly Roundup
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What are Democrats prepared to do to save democracy? Former Lincoln Project Political Director Zack Czajkowski, 2020 DNC President Liz Gilbert, and Ron Steslow break down the urgent threats to our elections, our Republic, and our rights—and the steps Democrats must take to hold the line.
(02:43) Crescendoing calls for urgent action and filibuster reform in the Senate after Republicans killed the bill to establish a January 6 commission, and the 100+ “Scholars of Democracy” from Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Princeton, and other institutions sounding the alarm.
New America’s Statement of Concern - https://www.newamerica.org/political-reform/statements/statement-of-concern/
(22:20) Absolutely bonkers myth of Trump’s impending reinstatement and Fmr. National Security Advisor Mike Flynn’s jubilance for a junta
(35:38) What happened in Austin that temporarily held off the Texas GOP’s latest voter suppression efforts, and where the fight for democracy stands today
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6/4/2021 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 19 seconds
“No Trust, No Truth”—The Weekly Roundup
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How can we ever hold truth to power if those in power don’t believe in truth? Former Ambassador Al Cardenas makes his Politicology debut alongside Susan Del Percio and Ron Steslow to break down the week’s most important stories.
(01:42) Florida’s laughable new law limiting social media companies, and Governor Ron Desantis’ relationship with the fourth estate
(19:04) The obstructed path forward for Biden’s infrastructure bill
(29:33) “Big Lie” architects hoping to run the next election
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5/28/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 58 seconds
‘Normal Tourist Visit’ — The Weekly Roundup
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“Are we in a democracy?” Dr. Catherine Sanderson and Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to break down the week’s most important stories.
(01:46) The showdown in Congress over a January 6 commission, and the hateful defense from the QAnon Shaman’s attorney
(17:26) New developments in the ongoing investigations into the Trump Organization
(33:15) Confusion around the new CDC guidance, and our emergence from COVID rules and rituals
Politicology - March 10, 2021: Dr. Catherine Sanderson on Becoming Moral Rebels https://politicology.com/episodes/dr-catherine-sanderson-becoming-moral-rebels/
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5/21/2021 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 52 seconds
An Eye On Elise Stefanik—Enemies of Democracy
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What kinds of calculations, pivots and sacrifices of personal integrity does it take to become a Trump Republican? In the first installment of Enemies of Democracy, Lucy Caldwell joins Ron Steslow to introduce listeners to the route Elise Stefanik took from moderate marvel to Trumpist capitulator, and how she forged a pernicious path to the upper echelon of Republican Party leadership.
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5/19/2021 • 53 minutes, 40 seconds
“Crazy Times Carnival”—The Weekly Roundup
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Liz Cheney’s ouster and the Republican Party’s leadership vacuum, Arizona’s bogus election audit, and the special interests spending millions on spam comments —Jon Boughtin, Lucy Caldwell, Lanae Erickson, and Ron Steslow break down the week’s most important stories.
(02:21) What House Republicans’ ouster of Liz Cheney means for truth tellers in the Republican Party, notions of bipartisanship and Congress’ ability to govern
(25:00) The bogus ballot audit in Maricopa County, Arizona, and what happens when partisan hacks get their hands on ballots
(42:33) Revelations about manipulation of the public commenting for FCC’s net neutrality policies, and what it means when legitimate regulating tools are usurped and corrupted
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5/14/2021 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 15 seconds
“I’ve Had It With Her”—The Weekly Roundup
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Liz Cheney’s last stand, Barr’s abuse of office, and clinging to COVID rules—Susan Del Percio, Jennifer Horn, and Ron Steslow break down the week’s most important stories.
(01:14) The reinvigorated effort to oust Liz Cheney from House GOP Leadership
(21:39) New information about Bill Barr’s handling of the Russia investigation, and declining trust in public institutions
(32:40) How revised CDC guidelines and new information about COVID safety are being heeded or ignored
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5/7/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 35 seconds
Out on the Field—Israel Gutierrez
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Across the country, Republican legislatures are pushing anti-trans bills to exclude trans women and girls from joining sports leagues and teams.
ESPN’s Israel “Izzy” Gutierrez has a different message: Let them play.
Israel and host Ron Steslow explain the inexorable links between political issues and the top narratives driving sports, and why the effort to exclude LGBT athletes is just the latest front of the culture wars driving a wedge through the country.
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5/5/2021 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 28 seconds
Knock Knock Knocking Down Rudy’s Door—The Weekly Roundup
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Biden raises hope, while the feds raze Rudy. In this week’s Weekly Roundup, political strategists Liz Gilbert and Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to break down the dynamics shaping the week’s top stories:
Scoring Biden’s first address to a joint session of Congress, his infrastructure plan sales pitch, and the history made behind the President
The FBI’s raid of Rudy Giuliani’s apartment, what it means, and what it doesn’t
Trumpist co-conspirators returning to public life and even political office
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4/30/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 2 seconds
Drawing Democracy: Part 3—Winners and Losers
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Note: The Census Bureau released their reapportionment figures after this episode was recorded. Throughout this conversation, we discuss potential and hypothetical changes, but the final numbers are now available. The reapportionment winners are: Texas (+2), Florida, Colorado, Montana, North Carolina, and Oregon (+1). The losers are: California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia (-1).
Dave Wasserman, House editor for Cook Political Report, NBC News contributor, and one of the nation’s top election forecasters, joins Ron Steslow for part three of Politicology’s Drawing Democracy series to discuss:
Which states stand to gain and lose House seats and Electoral College votes
How districting itself may preclude partisan proportionality and competitiveness
What voters most need to pay attention to and how to be active through the process
Democratization of district mapping technology
Cook Political Report: https://cookpolitical.com/
Dave’s Redistricting: https://davesredistricting.org/maps#home
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4/28/2021 • 40 minutes, 41 seconds
White Supremacy Caucus—The Weekly Roundup
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150 years after the Civil War—and four months after the Confederate Flag was paraded through the Capitol—white supremacists now want their own Congressional caucus.
Politicology strategists Susan Del Percio and Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to break down the most important stories of the week:
Chauvin verdict, debunking the right wing response, and the will for reform
Parler’s impending return and the First Amendment
House Republicans’ White Supremacy Caucus
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4/23/2021 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 57 seconds
BOЯDEЯ CЯISIS—Molly McKew
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The Kremlin is aggressively mobilizing weapons and ground troops along the border with Eastern Ukraine, and fears of a new Russian invasion are rising. Molly McKew, a leading expert on Russian influence and warfare, joins Ron Steslow to bring listeners to the Russian border with Ukraine, and why the future of the West may hang in the balance between a resolute Biden administration, and an American electorate increasingly weary of foreign entanglements.
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
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4/21/2021 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 12 seconds
Venmo-tional Baggage—The Weekly Roundup
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Politicology strategists Susan Del Percio and Mike Madrid join Ron Steslow to break down the most important stories of the week:
Killing of Daunte Wright miles from Derek Chauvin’s trial
Matt Gaetz, Venmo, and viability of the Trump playbook
Corporate heavies weigh in on voting rights
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
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Ron: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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4/16/2021 • 1 hour, 19 minutes, 19 seconds
Politicology Mailbag — Listener Q&A with Ron
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We’ve got mail! In this Politicology Mailbag, Ron Steslow quickly fields a wide range of listener questions: State-run media, racial gerrymandering, anti-democracy laws, Russians, breaking the filibuster—and more.
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Find your Elected Officials here: https://www.270towin.com/elected-officials/
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4/14/2021 • 31 minutes, 55 seconds
"Sit Down and Shut Up" — The Weekly Roundup
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Professor, author and journalist Marc Ambinder makes his Politicology debut alongside Weekly Roundup contributor Lucy Caldwell and host Ron Steslow to break down the most important stories of the week:
Corporations vs. Republican voter suppression laws
The causes and costs of White Evangelicals’ hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccinations
The latest massive leak of personal information for over half a billion Facebook users and the implications for Big Tech
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Marc Ambinder: https://twitter.com/marcambinder
Lucy Caldwell: https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell
Ron Steslow: https://twitter.com/RonSteslow
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4/9/2021 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 29 seconds
The Great Suppression—Tharon Johnson
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Tharon Johnson, a Democratic political strategist who has worked for Congressman John Lewis and President Barack Obama joins Ron Steslow to examine what’s in Georgia’s new anti-democracy law and understand the dastardly motives and false pretenses being used by Republicans across the country to push similar voter suppression legislation.
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Tharon Johnson: @TharonJohnson
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
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4/7/2021 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 18 seconds
Everything Is Infrastructure—The Weekly Roundup
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Former Democratic Senator from Alabama Doug Jones and Susan Del Percio join Ron Steslow to look at:
Former Police Officer Derek Chauvin’s trial for the murder of George Floyd, the burden of proof prosecutors must reach for conviction, and the prospects for police and criminal justice reform
Joe Biden’s ambitious infrastructure plan, who it will help the most, and the possibility for bipartisan support
The delegitimization and politicization of agencies and institutions during the Trump administration
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Senator Doug Jones: @DougJones
Susan Del Percio: @DelPercioS
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
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4/2/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 36 seconds
Drawing Democracy: Part 2—Racial Gerrymandering and Voting Power
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David Becker, the Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, CBS News contributor and election law expert joins host Ron Steslow for part two of Politicology’s Drawing Democracy, to dive deep into the Voting Rights Act and several landmark Supreme Court cases to understand:
Exactly how Republicans have used civil rights legislation to manufacture political power
The differences between racial and political gerrymandering, and the role of courts in this process
How the gutting of “preclearance” will enable the suppression and disenfranchisement of minority voters
How to get involved and make your voice heard through this process
Further reading and resources:
Center for Election Innovation & Research: https://electioninnovation.org/
Dave’s Redistricting: https://davesredistricting.org/maps#home
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Here’s where you can find Ron and David:
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
David Becker: @beckerdavidj
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3/31/2021 • 1 hour, 26 minutes, 12 seconds
Capitol Coup Coordination—The Weekly Roundup
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David Becker, the Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, CBS News contributor and election law expert, and Roundup analysts Lucy Caldwell and Mike Madrid join host Ron Steslow to review:
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger’s defense of his state’s election integrity
Kraken” leader Sidney Powell’s defense in the Dominion defamatory lawsuit
The fundraising windfall tied to the “Big Lie”
Revelations that militia groups coordinated well in advance of January 6
Our cyclical gun debate and the search for bipartisan compromise
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
David Becker: @beckerdavidj
Lucy Caldwell: @lucymcaldwell
Mike Madrid: @madrid_mike
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3/26/2021 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 9 seconds
John Sipher and Molly McKew on Russia’s Asymmetrical Attacks on America
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John Sipher, a member of the CIA's Senior Intelligence Service who lead Russia Operations and Molly McKew, a leading writer and researcher of Russian influence and information warfare join host Ron Steslow to dissect the U.S. intelligence community’s report on Russian interference in the 2020 election, analyze the U.S. response to Russia’s attacks and disinformation campaigns, and to break down how the Russian intelligence service uses Americans—willing and otherwise—as proxies and disseminators of Russian propaganda.
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
John Sipher: @john_sipher
Molly McKew: @MollyMcKew
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3/24/2021 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 47 seconds
Rewriting the Insurrection—The Weekly Roundup
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Fmr. Federal Prosecutor Michael Zeldin and Weekly Roundup regulars Susan Del Percio and Lucy Caldwell join Ron Steslow to examine:
New developments in the prosecution of the Capitol insurrectionists, and the racism and revisionism Republicans are using to white-wash the attack
The escalating humanitarian crisis at our Southern border and how it’s shaping the early days of the Biden administration
How the prosecution is coming together for the cases against Trump and his associates’ alleged financial and election-related crimes
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
Michael Zeldin: @MichaelZeldin
Susan Del Percio: @DelPercioS
Lucy Caldwell: @lucymcaldwell
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3/19/2021 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 50 seconds
Victoria Soto on the She-cession: Women and Working Families in the Era of COVID-19
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Victoria DeFrancesco Soto, assistant dean at the University of Texas at Austin’s LBJ School of Public Affairs, and a contributor to MSNBC and Telemundo joins host Ron Steslow to look at the disproportionately high unemployment rates for women of color through the pandemic, what this shows us about the underlying issues facing women in the workforce and working families, how supporting working families in our communities will generate a strong ROI, and how this all impacts our entire economy.
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Victoria Soto: @DrVMDS
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
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3/17/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 51 seconds
Trump Cons GOP—The Weekly Roundup
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Mike Madrid and Susan Del Percio join host Ron Steslow to discuss:
The COVID-19 Relief and Recovery bill, and the latest on the distribution of vaccines
Republicans’ legislative priorities, and the mechanics of making it harder for some people to vote
Former President Trump’s power play against the GOP’s official campaign committees
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
Mike Madrid: @madrid_mike
Susan Del Percio: @DelPercioS
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3/12/2021 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 36 seconds
Dr. Catherine Sanderson on Becoming Moral Rebels
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Dr. Catherine Sanderson, Poler Family Professor, Chair of Psychology at Amherst College and the author of Why We Act: Turning Bystanders Into Moral Rebels joins host Ron Steslow to analyze why Trump was able to exert control on the Republican party, how to recognize leaders who will stand up for what’s right—and what we can do to become moral rebels.
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Catherine Sanderson Twitter: @SandersonSpeaks
Ron Steslow Twitter: @RonSteslow
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3/10/2021 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 39 seconds
Domestic Terror Threat—The Weekly Roundup
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Fmr. CIA Officer Marc Polymeropoulos and Weekly Roundup regulars Mike Madrid and Lucy Caldwell join host Ron Steslow to discuss:
The recent confirmation of the Saudi Crown Prince’s involvement in Jamal Khashoggi’s assassination.
H.R. 1, aka the “For the People Act” and the continued fight to preserve democracy.
The ongoing domestic terror threats in the Capitol.
To contribute to Politicology, visit https://politicology.com/donate
Here’s where you can find this week’s panel:
Ron Steslow: @RonSteslow
Marc Polymeropoulos: @Mpolymer
Lucy Caldwell: @lucymcaldwell
Mike Madrid: @madrid_mike
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3/5/2021 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 10 seconds
Celeste Headlee on Having Better Conversations
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Journalist, Public Speaker and Author Celeste Headlee (@CelesteHeadlee) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to reveal the science and history behind human communication, share keys to unlock deeper conversations, and explain how critical empathy is for our ability to listen and connect. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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3/3/2021 • 1 hour, 28 minutes, 52 seconds
Combatting Vaccine Skepticism—The Weekly Roundup
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Susan Del Percio (@DelPercioS) and Lucy Caldwell (@lucymcaldwell) return to the Roundup with host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss the new Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine and diminishing vaccine skepticism, the evolution of Republican disinformation regarding the 2020 election, and the questionable attempt to rebrand the GOP as the party of the working class. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/26/2021 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 31 seconds
Drawing Democracy: Part 1—Redistricting in America
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In the first part of a new Politicology series on America’s redistricting process, Mike Madrid (@madrid_mike) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to set the table with an overview of how redistricting and reapportionment happen, the importance of the Census, and why we’ll hear a lot about Gerrymandering as this process unfolds. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/25/2021 • 38 minutes, 19 seconds
A New Party is Needed—The Weekly Roundup
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Jennifer Horn (@NHJennifer), Tharon Johnson (@TharonJohnson), and Mike Madrid (@madrid_mike) join host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to recap the week, including the growing rift and infighting among the Republican Party's ranks, the defeated Senator looking to re-run, the continued voter suppression efforts in Georgia and statehouses across the country, and what people across the country can do now to protect their right to vote. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/19/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 41 seconds
How Smartmatic vs. Fox News Will Impact Cable News with Joyce Vance
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Former U.S. Attorney Joyce Vance (@JoyceWhiteVance) joins Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss the $2.7 billion lawsuit Smartmatic filed against Fox News, three Fox hosts, and two Trump attorneys and the impact it could have on the misinformation cable news channels produce. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/17/2021 • 53 minutes, 9 seconds
Perfect Phone Calls—The Weekly Roundup
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Mike Madrid (@madrid_mike) and Lucy Caldwell (@lucymcaldwell) join host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss the potential impact the second Trump impeachment trial will have in the future, the new investigation in Georgia probing Trump's calls to state officials, and the impact of the compounding COVID-induced crises. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/12/2021 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Impeachment and the Most Divided Deliberative Body with U.S. Sen. Doug Jones
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Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones (@DougJones) joins Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss the insurrection at the Capitol, the second Impeachment trial of Donald Trump, holding presidents accountable for their actions, and how we should expect a 50-50 Senate to function. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/9/2021 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 11 seconds
Republican Party Exodus—The Weekly Roundup
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Mike Madrid (@madrid_mike), Susan Del Percio (@DelPercioS) and Lucy Caldwell (@lucymcaldwell) return to the Roundup with host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow). They discuss the tens of thousands of Republican voters who have left the party since the insurrection at the Capitol, the latest attempts at voter suppression moving through state legislatures, and mounting legal trouble for the Trump family and businesses. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/5/2021 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 41 seconds
Reckoning with our Shared Trauma with Mary Trump
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Mary Trump (@MaryLTrump) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss how she felt after the 2020 election, how the pandemic and the insurrection at the Capitol have impacted our collective mental health, what could cause so many people to engage in insurrection, the compounding effect of a year laden with traumatic events, Donald Trump’s insidious technique for gaining followers, and how we can protect against it in the future. For more information, to contact us, or to contribute to Politicology, visit Politicology.com
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2/3/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 36 seconds
NEW: This is Politicology with Ron Steslow
Politics in America is transforming. We’re using the lessons learned working with The Lincoln Project and launching a new podcast—Politicology—to gain a deeper understanding of who we are, how we got here, and how we rebuild without repeating the mistakes of the past. Ron Steslow hosts experts from across disciplines and the political spectrum to learn more about the problems we face as a nation. Politicology launches February 3rd.
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