

The Playbook Podcast
POLITICO
POLITICO’s Jack Blanchard and Dasha Burns bring their fresh insight, analysis and reporting to the biggest story driving the day in the nation’s capital.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 1, 2024 • 9min
August 1, 2024: Trump attacks Harris’s racial identity
Vice President Kamala Harris, who boasts both Black and Indian-American heritage, faces a barrage of racially charged attacks from former President Trump. Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels analyze the implications of Trump's remarks on race and identity in politics. They also reveal insights into Harris's search for a running mate, emphasizing the importance of shared values and leadership readiness. The conversation highlights the evolving political landscape and Harris's strategies for navigating challenges with key political allies.

Jul 31, 2024 • 10min
July 31, 2024: The head of Project 2025 is stepping down. What now?
Paul Dans, the director of the 2025 Presidential Transition Project, is stepping down, sparking discussions on the future of Project 2025. Meridith McGraw and Ryan Lizza delve into the implications of his departure, including rising tensions between Project 2025 and Trump’s campaign. They explore how this shakeup will affect political strategies as the election approaches, while also speculating about Kamala Harris’ upcoming VP announcement and the broader impact on campaign dynamics. Tune in for the latest political insights!

Jul 30, 2024 • 9min
July 30, 2024: Republicans sharpen their Harris attack strategy
Democrats are celebrating after Biden's exit from the race, but Republicans are gearing up for a heated battle against Kamala Harris. The Trump campaign launches its first TV ad targeting her, blaming the ongoing border crisis on her role. As tensions rise, the fate of a bipartisan child tax credit hangs in the balance, with Republicans likely to shoot it down. The podcast delves into how these moves may shift the political landscape and challenge the GOP's family values narrative.

Jul 29, 2024 • 9min
July 29, 2024: Biden’s SCOTUS about-face
Adam Cancryn, a White House Correspondent, dives into President Biden's surprising proposal to reform the Supreme Court despite his recent decision not to seek reelection. They discuss Biden's new stance on term limits for justices and enforced codes of conduct, highlighting the potential impact on his legacy. The conversation also touches on the political dynamics post-Biden's withdrawal from the race and how global events, like tensions in the Middle East and challenges in Venezuela, could shape U.S. politics.

Jul 26, 2024 • 8min
July 26, 2024: Trump aims ‘nasty’ talk at Harris
Breaking news reporter Irie Sentner discusses the struggle of Trump's allies to attack Kamala Harris, focusing on insults towards her identity. The podcast explores the racist and sexist attacks faced by Harris, including conspiracy theories linking her to a political leader's decline.

Jul 25, 2024 • 8min
July 25, 2024: Joe Biden’s long goodbye
Former President Joe Biden's recent Oval Office speech, choosing not to seek re-election, focuses on legacy building and defending democracy. White House correspondent Eli Stokols and Ryan Lizza dissect Biden's decision and what comes next.

Jul 24, 2024 • 10min
July 24, 2024: Netanyahu's visit to DC lands with a thud
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial visit to Washington, with some lawmakers and Kamala Harris skipping his address. Insights into Netanyahu's meetings with President Biden and Trump. Analysis of Biden's upcoming Oval Office address and the latest news updates.

Jul 23, 2024 • 11min
July 23, 2024: How ‘Kamala the cop’ plays in 2024
Ankush Khardori, former prosecutor, discusses how Kamala Harris's past record as a prosecutor could now benefit her in the presidential race. They analyze the changing views on criminal justice policies and the impact of rising crime rates on political landscapes.

Jul 22, 2024 • 14min
July 22, 2024: Biden withdrew from the 2024 race. What now?
Vice President Kamala Harris receives President Biden's endorsement after his surprising withdrawal from the 2024 race, causing shock among Democratic politicians and staff. Speculation arises about Harris locking up the Democratic nomination and potential running mates. GOP strategizes criticism of Harris as a political opponent.

Jul 19, 2024 • 14min
July 19, 2024: And that's a wrap on the RNC
Playbook co-authors Ryan Lizza, Eugene Daniels, and Rachael Bade discuss Trump's lengthy speech at RNC, audience reactions, speculation about Biden stepping down, and the internal tensions within the Democratic Party. They humorously mention trying to find steak amidst the political chaos.


