We're Not Kidding with Mehdi & Friends Who'll Win the 'MAGA Podcast Wars'? Krystal Ball and Mehdi on Ben Shapiro vs. Tucker Carlson, AIPAC, and Iran
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Mar 20, 2026 
Krystal Ball, populist-left political commentator and Breaking Points co-host, joins to unpack the MAGA pod feuds and right-wing infighting. They discuss the role of Israel and Trump in the Iran war, how AIPAC's brand is shifting among Democrats, and why podcasts matter for 2028 presidential hopefuls.
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Breaking Points' Populist Twin Lens
- Breaking Points presents news from both a populist left and populist right perspective to break through mainstream media framing.
- Krystal Ball emphasizes mixed-host viewpoints (e.g., Sagar, Emily) and a commitment to truth over corporate constraints.
Hard Grilling Of Senator Slotkin
- Krystal Ball confronted Senator Elissa Slotkin about voting for aid used to kill civilians and asked if she regretted her votes.
- Slotkin came to the show after staff recommended podcast appearances, leading to a tense, unsoftened interview.
Use Tough Podcasts To Build Debate Reps
- Candidates should audition themselves in challenging media by doing tough podcasts to gain reps for debates.
- Krystal says Kamala lacked reps from diverse interview settings, which hurt her performance.