The Al Franken Podcast

Mark Leibovich and Molly Jong Fast discuss the RNC, Trump's lies, and the battle against him. They delve into Project 2025 and the plans to defeat Trump. Topics include electoral strategies, analysis of speeches, and concerns about the political landscape. The podcast also touches on political figures, cryptocurrency risks, climate change urgency, and sponsor ads.

Supreme Court expert Dahlia Lithwick joins to discuss the devastating consequences of recent SCOTUS decisions on Presidential Immunity and the Chevron Doctrine. They explore the implications on agency regulations, presidential immunity, and expanding executive power, highlighting the need for judicial reform and the significance of voting for the Supreme Court in elections.

Renowned historian Heather Cox Richardson discusses America's democracy on a knife's edge, manipulation of history, impact of Citizens United, challenges to democracy like gerrymandering and voter suppression, and the commitment needed to protect democratic values.

Thomas Jefferson reflects humorously on his errors in drafting the Declaration of Independence, discussing equality, slavery, women's rights, and the Louisiana Purchase. Special July 4th episode with insights on historical figures and a promotion for Wondery Plus and American Scandal podcast.

Political scientist Norm Ornstein discusses President Biden's debate performance, possible Democratic Party plans if Biden drops out, and the recent troubling Supreme Court decisions. Topics include Trump's lies, the direction of the country, and the implications of a Trump victory on the composition of the Supreme Court.

Sarah Longwell and Tim Miller discuss how Joe Biden can defeat Trump in the upcoming debate, focusing on key topics like climate change and healthcare policy. They share insights on debate preparation, targeting swing voters, and the impact of foreign policy on voter opinions. They also explore strategies for challenging Trump, appealing to swing voters, and highlighting Trump's vulnerabilities.

Op-Ed Columnist Catherine Rampell discusses Bidenomics and the potential economic impact of a second Trump term. Topics include tariffs, tax cuts, public perceptions, immigrant labor, and the consequences of mass deportation on the economy. Also, the podcast explores issues like misconceptions about the economy, bipartisan border negotiations, and the risks of trading democracy for financial gain.

Respected political reporter Howard Fineman's career is remembered in this podcast. They discuss Mitch McConnell's traits, coal miners' advocacy, and busing in Louisville. Dive into McConnell's political maneuvers, lack of empathy, and ties to the coal industry. Explore transparency in politics, contrasting McConnell with historical figures. Learn about McConnell's strategic decisions, polarization in American politics, and influence on judicial nominations.

Foreign policy experts from The Atlantic and The Daily Beast discuss the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, potential Biden administration ceasefire plans, Trump's legal implications, deep state theories, economic policies under Biden, and the need for effective political messaging.

Longtime political reporter Dan Balz and legal expert Harry Litman discuss the Trump trial verdict, potential legal repercussions, and the evolving political landscape. Topics include Trump's future, Biden's strengths and weaknesses, and the state of the Presidential race.