To The Contrary with Charlie Sykes Of Ballrooms, Blasphemy, and the Return of Abortion Politics
May 7, 2026
Molly Jong-Fast, writer and New York Times contributor known for sharp political commentary, joins to unpack the Senate GOP’s proposed ballroom funding and the political risks it creates. They trace cracks in the Trump coalition, react to the Trump-as-Jesus polling, and explain why the abortion-pill ruling has reignited national political drama.
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Billion Dollar Ballroom Is A Political Liability
- The Senate GOP's proposal to spend a billion taxpayer dollars on Trump's White House ballroom is politically tone-deaf and exposes Republican vulnerability.
- Charlie and Molly connect the ballroom to elite out-of-touch symbolism—useful ammo for Democrats in swing races.
Molly's Devil Wears Prada Cameo
- Molly Jong Fast describes her brief cameo in The Devil Wears Prada sequel and hanging out with stars like Meryl Streep and Kenneth Branagh.
- She jokes about wearing Prada, stealing a skirt and enjoying short conversations on set.
Trump's Grip Forces Republicans To Conform
- Trump's dominance of the GOP deters intra-party challenges, pushing dissenting Republicans into political oblivion.
- Molly notes primary defeats in Indiana show Republicans must run MAGA or be crushed, reinforcing Trump control.