The David Pakman Show
David Pakman
The David Pakman Show is one of the most-watched independent progressive programs in the country. Hosted by David Pakman, the show offers a fresh perspective on the stories shaping our world through thoughtful commentary and compelling interviews with our nation's leaders.
With new episodes dropping every weekday, David delivers sharp, insightful, and fact-based analysis on politics, current events, and social issues. Whether you're looking for deep dives into major political events, in-depth conversations with experts and newsmakers, or sharp-witted breakdowns of the latest headlines, The David Pakman Show has you covered
With new episodes dropping every weekday, David delivers sharp, insightful, and fact-based analysis on politics, current events, and social issues. Whether you're looking for deep dives into major political events, in-depth conversations with experts and newsmakers, or sharp-witted breakdowns of the latest headlines, The David Pakman Show has you covered
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 17, 2026 • 1h 1min
Everything is suddenly going wrong
Coverage of how recent actions and foreign conflict reshaped Senate odds and gas prices. A messy public feud among right-wing media figures draws sharp personal attacks. Press struggles answering questions about the Iran situation and troop movements. Heated social media rants target the Supreme Court and journalists. Discussion of political consequences and what Democrats might need going forward.
Mar 16, 2026 • 1h 8min
Declaring victory when you’re losing is a bad idea
A rundown of how a sudden GDP slowdown and surging oil from Strait of Hormuz chaos could hurt households and political fortunes. Coverage of conflicting claims about a decisive victory over Iran amid ongoing attacks and shipping disruption. Accounts of White House turmoil and an aide's abrupt Situation Room summons. Clips of evasive media appearances, culture-war pivots, and an odd celebrity interview with product plugs.
Mar 13, 2026 • 1h 6min
It’s backfiring but it might be profitable
They probe whether the Iran conflict and control of Venezuelan oil are creating profiteering and hidden revenue streams. They cover political attacks around dyslexia and hypocrisy over cognitive fitness. They discuss surprising election results in a deep-red district and warnings that the war could be politically costly. They critique odd moments from a speech and debate the wider risks of escalating conflict.
Mar 12, 2026 • 1h 14min
Prices up, chaos up, tragedy up, logic down
Alex Wagner, MSNBC journalist and cultural commentator, offers sharp political analysis and Substack commentary. She discusses Trump’s muddled Iran strategy and how it clashes with his economic messaging. They examine chaotic rallies, media attacks on women reporters, and the political fallout reshaping the GOP ahead of the elections.
Mar 11, 2026 • 1h 7min
The war is suddenly much more dangerous as gas prices explode
Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Senator from Connecticut and member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, warns after a classified briefing that U.S. ground troops may be considered for the Iran conflict. The conversation touches on escalation risks from keeping military options open. It also covers a sharp 32% surge in gas prices and the political fallout of rising costs at the pump.
6 snips
Mar 10, 2026 • 1h 13min
Trump walked right into the trap, Gavin Newsom on the show
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California and author, discusses his memoir and political life. He talks about young men’s radicalization and solutions like mentorship and more male teachers. He critiques Trump’s Iran strategy, cabinet influences, and the dynamics shaping 2026 and potential 2028 considerations.
11 snips
Mar 9, 2026 • 1h 10min
Global financial panic unleashed by Trump’s Iran war
Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts and former state attorney general known for progressive policies, discusses state limits on ICE and protecting hospitals. She also talks about Massachusetts’ energy, housing, and healthcare initiatives. The conversation touches on the economic shock and market turmoil tied to escalating conflict with Iran.
Mar 6, 2026 • 1h 7min
The firings have started and the embarrassment is growing
A rundown of high-profile firings and public embarrassments tied to Trump’s inner circle. Investigations into alleged misuse of taxpayer funds and a federal officer’s violent actions take center stage. Rising oil prices after tensions with Iran spark White House panic. Political messaging, power dynamics between elites and ordinary Americans, and alarming remarks about leadership mortality are also discussed.
Mar 5, 2026 • 1h 2min
A truly bad day for people who care about reality
Senator Chris Murphy, Connecticut lawmaker on Foreign Relations and Judiciary committees, discusses U.S. military action in Iran and congressional options to limit presidential war powers. He frames the strikes as a war and warns about unclear goals and the risks of a ground invasion. He also explains how Senators might force debate and funding votes to check executive authority.
4 snips
Mar 4, 2026 • 1h 3min
MAGA’s Texas nightmare begins, prices spiking hard
Coverage of a surprising Democratic primary win in Texas and what it means for national politics. Analysis of Republican infighting and MAGA purity fights. Discussion of Trump’s erratic foreign policy comments about Iran and Spain. Reporting on conflicting accounts of evacuation planning and the potential for rising consumer prices after strikes.
