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
182 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 40min
Department of War (Crimes)
Rob Sand, Iowa State Auditor and Democratic candidate for governor in 2026, addresses crucial issues in Iowa politics. He talks about the impact of the Trump trade war on farmers, detailing how tariffs complicate their planting decisions. Sand also highlights rising cancer rates in Iowa, advocating for increased research funding. His campaign emphasizes a bipartisan approach, promoting dialogue across party lines through grassroots town-hall meetings. Sand believes engaging with rural voters and addressing their concerns is key to restoring Democratic competitiveness in the state.
103 snips
Nov 30, 2025 • 1h 22min
Will There Be a Blue Wave in 2026?
In this insightful conversation, Amy Walter, Publisher and editor-in-chief of The Cook Political Report, dissects the upcoming electoral landscape. She analyzes whether Democrats can replicate their 2025 victories and regain key demographics like white working-class and Latino voters. Walter discusses the impact of Trump's rising prices on voter sentiment and the GOP's struggles with internal politics on affordability. They also explore the ramifications of redistricting and polarization on future House and Senate elections, highlighting how these factors shape the path for Democrats in 2026.
59 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 27min
Terminally Online: Live from Crooked Con (Subscription Preview)
Live from Crooked Con, the hosts blind-rank the most online politicians of 2025. They discuss Donald Trump's unique posting style and analyze Zoran Mamdani's digital campaign savvy. Controversies ensue over Nancy Mace's airport incident and her internet persona. Gavin Newsom and JD Vance's placements spark debate, while honorable mentions highlight the impact of Reddit on political discourse. A straw poll reveals wild preferences for 2028 candidates, leading to a comedic twist as Dan Pfeiffer emerges as the final winner.
78 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 1h 41min
How Many Republicans Will Follow MTG?
Rep. Summer Lee, a U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania and member of the House Oversight Committee, joins to discuss the fallout from Marjorie Taylor Greene's surprise resignation. They delve into the implications for GOP unity and potential resignations. Summer also addresses critical issues like ICE’s immigration raid oversights, and the Hunter Biden scandals, highlighting the need for accountability. Additionally, she shares insights on persuading disaffected voters and urges the Democratic party to focus on authenticity and courageous messaging.
72 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 1h 38min
What Will Democratic Governance Look Like? + Lina Khan (Crooked Con)
Sen. Brian Schatz, a Hawaii representative, discusses Senate strategies to prioritize healthcare affordability. Sen. Ruben Gallego from Arizona pushes for a $20 minimum wage while addressing key policy challenges. Rep. Pramila Jayapal shares House goals focusing on accountability and structural reforms. Lina Khan, the former FTC Chair, dives into antitrust enforcement against big tech and consumer protections, highlighting risks from corporate monopolies and advocating for renewed oversight amid rising AI concerns.
157 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 45min
Trump Calls for Democrats' Executions
Yasmin Raji, the Executive Director of Swing Left, discusses their innovative voter-engagement initiative, Ground Truth, which emphasizes deep listening and building trust with voters. She highlights the importance of early and sustained outreach to strengthen democracy. The podcast also addresses Trump's alarming remarks about executing congressional Democrats and the chaotic fallout from his week, touching on Republican missteps and the implications of legal challenges they face. Raji's insights offer a refreshing perspective on grassroots organizing amidst rising tensions.
48 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 37min
What’s the Story We’re Telling? + Sen. Ruben Gallego (Crooked Con)
Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary, teams up with political strategists Faiz Shakir, Liz Smith, Rebecca Katz, and Adam Jentleson to discuss the need for a cohesive narrative for Democrats. They emphasize bold messaging on affordability and governing accountability. Senator Ruben Gallego shares insights on winning Latino voters and the importance of ambitious policies that promise a better quality of life. He urges the party to take risks to maintain momentum and avoid alienating working-class support while reflecting on the dangers of militarization in politics.
167 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 1h 31min
Did Trump Blow It on the Epstein Files?
Ro Khanna, U.S. Representative and progressive lawmaker, dives into the ramifications of Trump's astonishing reversal on releasing the Epstein files, exploring what this means for GOP dynamics. The discussion shifts to Marjorie Taylor Greene’s makeover and her new stance on Trump, reflecting the shifting power within the party. Khanna also sheds light on U.S. pressure on Venezuela and critiques the administration's military actions and potential legal implications. His insights highlight a turbulent political landscape with far-reaching consequences.
64 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 1h 36min
What Is the Polling Telling Us About 2026? + Gov. Andy Beshear (Crooked Con)
Join political consultant Sarah Longwell, data analyst David Shor, strategist Terrence Woodbury, and researcher Carlos Odio as they dive into voter dynamics ahead of 2026. They discuss shifting Latino and young voter trends, explore vital issues impacting voter sentiment, and debate strategies for re-engaging disillusioned Democrats. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear shares his insights on governing in a red state, focusing on jobs and healthcare, and emphasizes how local issues can energize campaigns and foster community trust.
126 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 1h 33min
Trump's Ballroom Reno Derailed by Epstein
Texas State Representative James Talarico, a rising Democratic Senate candidate, joins the conversation to share his vision for a new Texas. He discusses his decision to challenge Senator John Cornyn, focusing on affordability in housing, healthcare, and childcare. Talarico also presents a balanced view on immigration, portraying Democrats as the anti-chaos party. The hosts dive into the troubling implications of newly released Epstein emails linked to Trump, dissect his questionable economy claims, and tackle the political fallout of these revelations.
