The Playbook Podcast

A deep dive into a MAGA-funded campaign pouring millions into Indiana primaries to oust Republicans who opposed redistricting. A look at the organizers and tactics behind the political purge. Discussion of how May primaries will test MAGA strength and what high-profile backers are doing. Brief coverage of DHS shutdown fallout and TSA pay disruptions.

A heated split over immigration strategy within the GOP drives the conversation. Hard-line activists push for mass deportations while others favor targeted removals. Polling and political messaging are used to pressure the White House. Leadership changes at DHS and key personalities fuel internal tension. The hosts also touch on the political and financial costs of conflict with Iran.

Discussion of how a brief window of oil-price pain could shape policy and politics. Analysis of presidential messaging that calmed markets after Iran-related jitters. Debate over strategic focus on the Strait and shipping security. Coverage of travel stops used to sell affordability and influence primaries amid rising gas costs.

A lively look at why the White House may be signaling a U.S. exit strategy from Iran and how markets and media may be shaping that messaging. A discussion of how politicians reveal themselves through regional food and travel reporting. A take on the Georgia 14th district contest, Marjorie Taylor Greene's waning influence, and Trump’s pick for the race.

Soaring oil prices topping $100 and forecasts of even higher spikes. White House messaging and calls for firm Iranian concessions. Strains on allies over strategy, base access and military limits. Global economic ripple effects, from consumer pain to markets and winners like Russia. Geopolitical consequences for China, Ukraine and U.S. political messaging.

Katie Britt, U.S. Senator from Alabama and rising Republican leader, talks Iran, homeland security, energy impacts, and bipartisan child protection bills. Gabby Birenbaum, reporter at The Texas Tribune, provides on-the-ground analysis of the Texas primary, turnout dynamics, and what close races mean for November. Multiple short conversations cover leadership, endorsements, and political implications.

A lively breakdown of a rare presidential phone interview and what it signals about U.S. influence on Iran's leadership. Conversations link U.S. policy moves to situations in Venezuela and Cuba. A surprising White House personnel shakeup and its political fallout get unpacked. Strategies and lessons from U.S. progressives going global are also explored.

Rising gas prices tied to the Iran conflict create panic inside the White House. The pair debate labeling the campaign a war and the political fallout from shifting explanations. They dig into how energy messaging and a Texas GOP runoff could reshape Republican strategy and resource priorities.

A fast-paced breakdown of dramatic Texas primary results and the scramble over a competitive Democratic Senate pick. Analysis of a bruising Republican runoff and how an intervention from national figures could tilt the contest. A pivot to how the Middle East war reshapes Republican messaging and campaign calculations ahead of November.

A look at the White House's sudden shift to aggressive messaging about the Iran operation. Discussion of coordinated daily briefings and the difficulties of maintaining a unified narrative. Debate over murky objectives and GOP frustration about strategy. Coverage of how evolving battlefield details and European leaders' concerns complicate communication. Also: key Texas primary races and a surprise White House Correspondents' Dinner twist.