

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

Feb 8, 2024 • 1h 10min
Trump Loses Immunity, Johnson Loses Control
Daniella Diaz, a Congressional reporter at Politico, joins Jon Ralston, CEO of the Nevada Independent, and Kate Shaw, a legal analyst, to discuss crucial political dynamics. They dive into the chaos of the Nevada primary, where Nikki Haley faced unexpected defeat. The conversation shifts to a significant court ruling against Trump, challenging his claims of presidential immunity. They also examine the growing rifts within the Republican Party and the implications these tensions hold for upcoming elections and governance.

Feb 6, 2024 • 1h 6min
Trump Stokes Border Chaos
Chris Murphy, the United States Senator from Connecticut and lead Democratic negotiator on a bipartisan border security bill, dives into complex immigration policies and the political tensions surrounding them. He discusses the challenge of balancing aid to Israel with conditional support, as well as the GOP's reaction to recent legislative efforts. The conversation touches on Trump's controversial praise for Xi Jinping and his silence on U.S. military actions in the Middle East, revealing the internal conflicts within the Republican Party.

Feb 2, 2024 • 53min
The Biden-Trump Polls are All Over the Place
Nikki Haley may have a unique path to the Republican nomination without winning over traditional voters. Polls show chaotic dynamics between Biden and Trump as third-party candidates like Joe Manchin and RFK Jr. could sway the election. Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown discusses his high-stakes race and the fight for reproductive rights, alongside the ongoing recovery efforts from the East Palestine train derailment. The conversation also touches on the importance of civic engagement and the challenges faced by workers in today's political landscape.

24 snips
Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 15min
Trumpworld Takes on Taylor Swift
Leah Litman, a law professor and co-host of Crooked's Strict Scrutiny podcast, joins the conversation to explore the bizarre intersection of politics and pop culture, particularly focusing on the right's fascination with Taylor Swift. She analyzes Donald Trump's increasing legal troubles, including significant financial ramifications and upcoming trials. The discussion also touches on state versus federal conflicts, as well as the ambitious strategies of the Biden-Harris campaign to navigate voter engagement amidst misinformation.

Jan 30, 2024 • 48min
Biden and Haley Tag Team Trump
Trump's influence looms large as Republicans tighten their grip on immigration discussions. Both Biden and Haley take playful jabs at Trump's memory slips during campaign stops in South Carolina. The Biden campaign teases a 2024 strategy that might even feature a Taylor Swift endorsement. As the South Carolina primary draws near, candidates ramp up their harsh messaging amid legal struggles. The political landscape is a whirlwind of rally critiques, celebrity influence, and the complexities of voter engagement.

8 snips
Jan 26, 2024 • 1h 8min
Liz Cheney on the Cult of Trump
Former Congresswoman Liz Cheney, a key figure on the January 6th select committee, dives deep into the threats posed by a potential second Trump term. She discusses his grip on the Republican party and argues for Nikki Haley's candidacy amidst intense pressures. The conversation reveals tensions within GOP ranks, particularly around immigration deals shaped by Trump’s legacy. Cheney stresses the urgent need for credible voices in the party and the importance of effectively framing Biden's accomplishments against Trump's record.

Jan 24, 2024 • 39min
Trump Wins New Hampshire, Rages at Haley
Donald Trump narrowly wins the New Hampshire primary, sparking a fiery victory speech. Despite her loss, Nikki Haley remains determined, setting her sights on South Carolina. The podcast dives into candidate strategies, fundraising hurdles, and the intense rivalries shaping the Republican race. They discuss Biden's campaigning on abortion rights, voter dynamics ahead of the general election, and the emotional pressures candidates face. All this culminates in a fascinating look at the ever-changing political landscape.

Jan 23, 2024 • 1h 17min
More Like GONE DeSantis (w/Gavin Newsom!)
Gavin Newsom, the charismatic Governor of California, joins Tommy Vietor for an engaging discussion about the tumultuous Republican primary. They dissect Ron DeSantis's campaign collapse and surprise endorsement of Trump, along with Nikki Haley's pointed criticism of the former president's mental fitness. Newsom shares insights on Democratic messaging and the challenges posed by the housing crisis in California. The conversation blends serious political analysis with lighthearted banter about the ideal Coachella lineup, showcasing their humorous chemistry.

Jan 19, 2024 • 55min
Trump Goes Birther on Haley
Nikki Haley, a Republican presidential candidate and former governor of South Carolina, joins the discussion as she faces challenges from Donald Trump just days before the New Hampshire primary. The conversation highlights her struggles to gain traction in the polls and navigate accusations against her campaign. As media scrutiny intensifies, Haley's cautious strategies come under the microscope. Insights from political reporter Josh Rogers reveal the evolving race dynamics and the importance of connecting with diverse voters in this critical electoral landscape.

Jan 17, 2024 • 49min
Did Trump's Iowa win change anything?
Tim Miller, host of The Bulwark and Level Next, joins the conversation to dissect Trump’s stunning Iowa victory and its implications for the Republican primary. He examines the curious persistence of Ron DeSantis in the race and Nikki Haley’s insistence on it being a two-person contest. The duo explores shifting voter dynamics, especially among different age groups, and the pressures faced by candidates. They further speculate on a potential Trump-Biden rematch, highlighting the evolving political landscape and Trump's unique appeal despite legal troubles.


