The Al Franken Podcast

Adam Serwer of The Atlantic and The Federalist Society discuss the potential impact of a second term under President Trump on the courts, the influence of conservative legal movement on judicial appointments, Trump's potential use of the Insurrection Act, his actions on immigration and views on racial diversity, Christian nationalism, and his relationship with the press.

Heather says that Trumpers have bought into an alternative reality and that we are, at this moment, on a knife’s edge. She’s an historian and not a clairvoyant. But she’s also an activist, doing all she can to spread the word through historical analysis. Beat that, Trump!

Really great!

Jim Gaffigan, comedian and actor, talks about comedy, his decision to come out against Trump, the impact on his fans, pandemic's effect on podcast listening habits, exploring nonsensical elements in comedy, observations about comedy clubs and news, reflection on speaking up and connecting with the Midwest, frustration with false claims and hypocrisy, the history of margarine and acting, and promoting upcoming comedy show 'Comedy Monster' on Netflix.

Political commentator Molly Jong-Fast and journalist Mark Leibovich analyze the political events of the past year, including the impeachment of Trump, the Hunter Biden controversy, McCarthy's desperation for Speaker, the strong economy, potential vice presidential candidates, and the surprising performance of Democrats in recent elections.

Foreign affairs experts Anne Applebaum & Frank Foer discuss the House Oversight Committee's investigation into Hunter Biden, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Israel's politics under Netanyahu, sacrificing national interest in the Gaza war, and the battle between democracy and autocracy.

This podcast pays tribute to Norman Lear, discussing his TV sitcoms and founding People for the American Way. They also reflect on the impact of a father's choices, the formation of the organization, and the power of laughter. They share humorous anecdotes and promotions for other podcasts.

Legal expert Joyce Vance and former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade review all the cases against Trump, including the Georgia trial and charges of unlawfully conspiring to change the election outcome. They discuss Giuliani's disbarment, imposing gag orders on Trump, and the optimism for the future in the January 6th case and trust in voters to prevent his reelection.

The podcast discusses the threats posed by Trump to democracy and the actions he might take if re-elected. It explores the formation and mission of Protect Democracy, the impact of Trump on the Republican Party, and the dangers of his presidency. The episode delves into the potential use of the Insurrection Act during civil unrest, the implications of Trump's return to power on foreign policy, the challenges of the broken immigration system, and the failure of immigration reform. It emphasizes the importance of preserving democracy and unity in defense of the American experiment.

Discussion on the ongoing fraud trial of the Trump Organization and the misuse of the Trump charitable foundation. Insights into Donald Trump's character, controversial Veterans Day speech, and treatment of gold star families and veterans. Evidence of Trump inflating property values for better loan terms and insurance policies. The pursuit of a settlement by an attorney general and its implications for the family. Trump family's involvement in fraudulent activities and potential impact on Trump's political future. Legal process of transferring Trump Organization properties and its impact on Trump's business empire.