Political Gabfest
Slate Podcasts
Voted “Favorite Political Podcast” by Apple Podcasts listeners. Stephen Colbert says "Everybody should listen to the Slate Political Gabfest." The Gabfest, featuring Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz, is the kind of informal and irreverent discussion Washington journalists have after hours over drinks.Want more Political Gabfest? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Political Gabfest show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/gabfestplus to get access wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 8, 2024 • 56min
Congress Can’t Aid, Can’t Arm, Can’t Legislate, Can’t Impeach
Guest Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas discusses the failed impeachment attempt against him. Other topics include the Republicans' struggles with border bills, the criminal conviction of a mother for a school shooting, and court cases involving presidential immunity and the presidential ballot in Colorado.
Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 4min
Will The Carroll Verdict Hurt Trump?
Adrienne LaFrance, writer for The Atlantic, joins the hosts to discuss E. Jean Carroll's $83.3 million win against Donald J. Trump, the history of Israel and Palestine, and the rise of techno-authoritarianism in Silicon Valley.
4 snips
Jan 25, 2024 • 58min
The Election No One Wants
This week's podcast explores the Trump v. Biden presidential rematch, the end of the 'vibecession,' and the political fights over immigration. They discuss the dynamics of the Republican primary race, Americans' perception of the economy, and immigration issues including vibemigration and humanitarian parole. The hosts also analyze the political impact of the Biden administration on Democratic mayors and governors.
5 snips
Jan 20, 2024 • 38min
Gabfest Reads: How to Thrive in a World of Change
Author Brad Stulberg discusses his book on thriving in a changing world. They explore the concept of change, being intentional despite distractions, and the unique perspective of athletes. The role of values in embracing change is also examined, with practical guidance on defining core values.
Jan 18, 2024 • 1h 6min
Why Trump Won Iowa
David Leonhardt of The New York Times joins the Political Gabfest to discuss Trump's victory in Iowa, the potential end of Chevron deference, and the SAT controversy. They explore the demographic makeup of Trump's base, the challenges of agency interpretations, and the impact of standardized tests on college admissions and diversity.
6 snips
Jan 11, 2024 • 1h 2min
Should Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin Be Fired?
Guests Jamelle Bouie and Alec MacGillis join to discuss the absence of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, school absenteeism, and Trump's claim of absolute immunity. They also touch on movies, unique uniforms, and a hypothetical second Mount Rushmore.
Jan 4, 2024 • 57min
Who Wants to Be President of Harvard?
This podcast episode discusses the potential rematch between Biden and Trump in the 2024 presidential election. It also covers the resignation of Harvard President Claudine Gay and the decrease in homicides in 2023. The episode explores the controversy surrounding Gay's resignation and the conservative campaign against elite universities. Additionally, it delves into the Israeli Supreme Court ruling, the power of weather forecasting, and shares a fascinating story about a World War II heroine.
Dec 28, 2023 • 59min
Live From New York! It’s Conundrums 2023!
Wesley Morris joins the hosts to tackle conundrums like using a neighbor's trash can, the longevity of M&Ms, disinviting someone from a birthday party, contemplating natural wonders, dealing with Alzheimer's, and lightning round questions.
Dec 23, 2023 • 42min
Gabfest Reads: A Woman’s Life in Museum Wall Labels
John Dickerson interviews author Christine Coulson about her book "One Woman Show" which explores the creative force of restraint in art. They discuss writing a book entirely in wall labels, the use of porcelain as a metaphor, and the significance of empty spaces in museum wall labels.
4 snips
Dec 21, 2023 • 1h 2min
Trump versus Colorado
Guest Amanda Ripley, author of survival guide for 2024, discusses suggestions to survive the future. Topics include blocking Trump from ballot, Texas law to arrest immigrants, and dangers of cognitive distortions.
