Pod Save America
Pod Save America
Pod Save America is a no-b******t conversation about politics hosted by former Obama aides Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor. It cuts through the noise to break down the week’s news and helps people figure out what matters and how they can help. They’re regularly joined by journalists, activists, politicians, entertainers, and world leaders. You can watch on YouTube or listen to new episodes every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.
Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.
For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.
Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.
For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
17 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 1h 5min
The Race to Define Kamala Harris
In this discussion, Susan Rice, former UN Ambassador and National Security Advisor under Obama, shares her insights on the complexities of Kamala Harris's candidacy. She elaborates on the VP selection process and the challenges of defining Harris against a backdrop of political attacks. The conversation touches on the implications of Biden's endorsement and the need for a compelling narrative to counteract perceptions of Harris as merely a 'DEI candidate.' Rice emphasizes the importance of addressing issues of racism and misogyny while showcasing Harris's experience and potential.
67 snips
Jul 25, 2024 • 1h 32min
Kamala Harris Starts Hot (feat. Pete Buttigieg)
Pete Buttigieg, a possible VP pick, discusses Kamala Harris's campaign, debates with Trump, police violence, and volunteer success on the campaign trail. They also touch on challenges, parenting preferences, and critiques of Netanyahu's speech to Congress.
69 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 56min
Biden Passes the Torch to Kamala
In a historic move, Joe Biden endorses Kamala Harris as he withdraws from the presidential race. The hosts discuss Harris's strengths against Donald Trump and the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party. Excitement and fundraising for Harris surge as polling suggests her appeal to young and diverse voters. They also explore the contrasting qualities of Harris and Trump, hinting at the GOP's strategies to undermine her candidacy. Finally, grassroots mobilization efforts gain momentum, emphasizing the importance of political engagement ahead of the election.
26 snips
Jul 20, 2024 • 1h 24min
Bidin' His Time
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin from Wisconsin joins the discussion, bringing her insights on winning crucial races. They dive into the uncertainties surrounding Biden's potential re-election bid and what that means for Democrats. Baldwin emphasizes the importance of connecting with voters and highlights the impact of recent Supreme Court decisions on rights and healthcare. The conversation balances serious political strategy with lighthearted moments, showing the tie between Wisconsin culture and political engagement, all while critiquing the current state of the Republican Party.
31 snips
Jul 19, 2024 • 51min
Trump Is So Beatable
The discussion dives into Donald Trump's recent speech, blending humor and critique while underscoring his disconnection from voters. There's a thorough examination of the internal struggles within the Democratic Party, particularly the rumbling calls for change from Biden to Harris as a prospective nominee. The hosts debate the power of celebrity endorsements at political conventions and explore the absence of abortion discourse in the Republican camp. Overall, the conversation highlights urgent needs for a compelling narrative as the 2024 election approaches.
17 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 40min
Vance Vance Revolution
JD Vance's debut as Trump's running mate raises eyebrows with a lackluster speech that fuses personal stories with economic populism. The discussion roams through American gun culture's contradictions and the impacts of social media on mental health. A deep dive into Biden's political crossroads reveals growing skepticism and potential challengers within the Democratic Party. Personal anecdotes about Trump contrast sharply with critiques of political rhetoric, highlighting the urgent dynamics shaping the upcoming election.
25 snips
Jul 17, 2024 • 46min
Fear and Unity in Milwaukee
The political landscape is twisting as former rivals of Trump shift loyalties, cheering him on from the convention stage. Amidst this, Trump’s nonsense on vaccines adds to the chaos. The struggle for unity within the Democratic Party emerges, highlighted by internal doubts over Biden’s candidacy and the prospect of a virtual roll call vote. Both parties grapple with political messaging, fear, and the challenge of addressing public concerns while staying relevant in a polarized environment.
26 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 1h 7min
Trump's Shooting Upends 2024
The horrifying assassination attempt on Donald Trump sparks urgent discussions about political violence and its implications for democracy. The hosts critique Biden's tense interview and explore the potential impact of Trump's new VP pick, J.D. Vance. They address the emotional toll of social media and the necessity of genuine political engagement to connect with undecided voters. Additionally, the conversation highlights the risks of political disconnection while navigating the complex landscape leading into the 2024 election.
42 snips
Jul 12, 2024 • 53min
Was Biden's "Big Boy Presser" Enough?
Jon and Dan tackle the aftermath of Joe Biden's press conference, dissecting whether it was enough to soothe anxious Democrats. They explore Biden's strategy against Trump and the implications of his age and public support on his campaign. The dynamic within the Democratic party surfaces, with concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris and polling impacts. Additionally, they delve into Republican nomination strategies and the urgency for Biden's team to rejuvenate voter engagement as the 2024 election looms.
32 snips
Jul 11, 2024 • 48min
Is the Biden Dam Breaking?
Jen Psaki, MSNBC host and former White House Press Secretary, provides insight into the growing calls within the Democratic party to reconsider Biden's re-election bid. She discusses Nancy Pelosi's urgent comments on decision-making timelines and the mixed feelings among Democrats. Psaki elaborates on the need for Biden to enhance public engagement and manage voter anxieties as external pressures mount. The conversation also touches on Biden's leadership challenges and the emotional landscape faced by supporters in these turbulent times.
