Joe Trippi

Are we buying Putin's latest con job? Why Joe and Alex think the proposed "ceasefire" in Ukraine might be broken before it's even agreed to. And returning home, Joe and Alex finish their look at the state of our union. What's going on with the economy - and why has Trump seemingly already broken one of his signature promises? How much pain are Trump supporters willing to take? And Joe lays out what Democrats can fight for - rather than just rolling over.

If you skipped Trump's "State of the Union" record-setting ramble, this show's for you. Joe and Alex dive in - what actually is the state of our union? Part 1 of where we see the world, the economy, and the state of both parties... Starting with how Joe thinks Trump's second term has completely remade American foreign policy. It's Trump and Putin against the world. He answers maybe the scariest listener question to date. And what about here at home? Turns out, when you burn it all down... it takes a REALLY long time for things to grow back.

Trump and his minions have a strategy to dismantle democracy. The fierce opposition must strategically and effectively fight back. Join us on March 4 when writer and international affairs expert Tom Nichols join Rick Wilson, Stuart Stevens, and Joe Trippi to discuss the (in)stability of America's relationships with NATO members and our other allies in the region.

Will Trump and the House GOP end up becoming the dogs that caught the car? What happens with the impending shutdown - and should Democrats try to keep the government open? And why all those horrible polling numbers for Trump in House seats really don't matter to Trump and Elon. It's all a race - can Trump derail democracy before we win back the House? What can we do to stop it?

As Trump continues his war on the media, our guest, journalist and media expert Mark Jacob says this might actually be an opportunity for journalists and outlets to regain their independence from the tyranny of ACCESS. Could these attacks actually make journalism stronger? Catch up now as Mark, Rick, and Joe discuss what the media has to do - and what we all have to do when they don't do their job of holding power accountable.

Dave Troy, publisher of "America 2.0," joins Joe and Alex to look under the surface at what Elon and Trump are doing. What's Elon's endgame - and is there any way to stop it? How Project 2025 is just a small piece of the puzzle - what's "Project Russia" and why is it a MUCH bigger threat? And why do the crypto-bros keep attacking the dollar? And what should the pro-democracy movement do about all of this? Read Dave's work at America 2.0 at https://america2.news/.

NEW EPISODE! Special guest, author and Economic Sociologist Brooke Harrington joined the Strategy Session to draw back the curtain on the Broligarchy that has taken over Washington. And it’s unimaginably bad, not just for our economy or the widening wealth gap, but for our democracy. Brooke's new book, Offshore: Stealth Wealth and the New Colonialism, investigates how offshore financial systems enable the ultra-wealthy to evade taxes, bypass regulations, and consolidate power, all while undermining democracy, capitalism, and environmental protections. Sound familiar?

Another crazy week of the Trump administration is in the books. Why Joe thinks Trump's Ukraine "negotiations" are one of the most incompetent things he's ever seen... which is saying something. Why Alex thinks this is just another long-term problem the Republican Party faces post Trump. Plus - Joe's take on what Democrats can rally around, right now - and his unique idea to unite the Trump opposition sooner rather than later.

Rick, Joe, and Stuart are joined by election law attorney Mario Nicolais. Mario was one of the Colorado attorneys who took the battle to keep insurrectionist Donald Trump off the ballot to their Supreme Court. Mario, Joe, Rick, and Stuart talk about the legal battles attempting to hold Trump in check - how successful they are so far and if they can constrain the authoritarian Trump.

The question isn't just how we got here - it's what we do next. Joe and Alex are re-joined by Katherine Stewart for a special guest episode. Katherine has been researching the far right- from Christian nationalists to MAGA - for over 15 years, and her new book, "Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy" is a powerful look at how we got here - and what we have to do to defeat MAGA and restore American democracy long-term. What single lesson do pro-democracy advocates need to learn from the past decade? And what are the six reasons Katherine is hopeful for the future? Order "Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy" now: https://www.amazon.com/Money-Lies-God-Movement-Democracy/dp/163557854X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump and his minions have a strategy to dismantle democracy. Strategist and attorney David Pepper joins the Strategy Session to break down what Trump and Musk are doing and why it's essential we fight back NOW! Join the fierce opposition on Strategy Session with Rick Wilson, Stuart Stevens, and Joe Trippi.

Joe and Alex lead today's pod with some good news - but not for Trump! Why wins in Minnesota and Iowa are good signs as we gear up for Virginia and NJ this year - and for 2026. How can Democrats' message evolve? Why Joe views this as a long-term battle - and we can win it. What does Trump's freeze fiasco tell us about what's coming? Turns out, when you put the Project 2025 guys in charge... they try to implement Project 2025. And one radical idea Democrats might want to look to as a way to unify against Trump.

Week 1 of Trump 2.0 is in the books and, ya know, it wasn’t so bad. Maybe we all need to settle down and give the guy a chance. Kidding! He is as bad as we knew he would be and he’s only getting started. Not only are Trump’s actions predictable, they were published prior to the election in the Project 2025 manifesto. We sounded the alarms with help from all of you, so what now? Molly Jong-Fast joined the Strategy Session with Rick Wilson and Stuart Stevens to break it all down.

Joe and Alex discuss how everything you've probably read about this week was a distraction from Trump's endgame. We all have to pay very, very close attention to what's happening behind the curtain. Why Trump's crypto capture scheme could be the biggest story in our lifetimes. And how social media is quickly becoming an arm of the state. TikTok, X, and now even Facebook... and why in the face of all Trump's distractions this week and beyond, Joe explains why we have to be more vigilant than ever.

You can't look at Trump's first 36 hours and legitimately deny that there is a fascist administration in the White House. That is our reality, so what is the strategy for fighting back against his abhorrent agenda, unacceptable nominees, and to win in '26 and beyond? To break it all down and start charting a go-forward strategy, Sen. Doug Jones joined the Strategy Session - and it's an smart as you'd expect it to be.

We're back with our last show of Joe Biden's presidency. Why Joe thinks the Gaza ceasefire is an American diplomatic triumph - not Trump's. And looking back at the last four years - why Joe Biden's grade is NOT an "incomplete." Trippi looks back and honestly grades the Biden presidency. And - looking back even farther - how do we make sure what happens next isn't just a flash in the pan? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simon Rosenberg joined Stuart Stevens for a fascinating, inspiring discussion of how we fight back and win against the MAGA Administration and its buffoons, grifters, disinformation spewers, sycophants, and all those who just generally want to dismantle America and separate us from our Western allies. Not so fast, Donald - we know you're the wannabe emperor with no clothes and we're pulling back the curtain.

This might be the scariest fact we've ever seen about social media. You know it's bad, but this bad? And it explains a lot about how crazy political discussions have gotten online. 0.1% of users? No really. The amount of disinformation is staggering. And what does it do to our brains? Plus: What people miss when Trump lies. When we roll our eyes, we miss the point. And - despite the challenges in front of us - why is Joe optimistic about how we can break out of the funhouse? Read "Inside the funhouse mirror factory" here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352250X24001313 Read the Atlantic article here: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/01/january-6-justification-machine/681215/?gift=bcL26f46jRxbKrUp1kTCRFgu6En8nVf7xwPsSYEqCiU&utm_source=copy-link&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share And visit getrealnews.org.

January 6th came and went without much fanfare...this time. Millions of people hold their breath, waiting for the next administration to take power. We are not waiting, and you shouldn't either. Tuesday, Stuart and Rick were joined by former Senator Doug Jones to talk about how democrats - and all of us - can fight back starting right now.

Joe starts the show by remembering Jimmy Carter with a story you've got to hear to believe. Of all the interactions with presidents Joe has had - why this one with President Carter has stuck with him. And our first look ahead to 2025 - what has Joe and Alex feeling optimistic going into the New Year? Hint: It's people like you listening to this... Subscribe to Dan Gilmor's newsletter, "Cornerstone of Democracy" here: https://cornerstone.ghost.io/ Read Dan Froomkin's post on Trump and the press here: https://presswatchers.org/2024/12/trump-coverage-needs-to-change-and-heres-how/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the last show of 2024, Joe and Alex discuss a possible war with... checks notes... Greenland? Panama? It's just another day in the world of Trump. Why Joe thinks it's all governing by rally - and why it shows that the Trump coalition is still more fragile than many understand. Is Joe Manchin right? Is the Democratic brand toxic? Finally: What are Joe and Alex's bold predictions for 2025 and 2026 (and beyond?) Happy New Year everyone - see you in 2025!

Trump's going off the rails. And there's nobody left to stop him. Why his lawsuits against ABC and Ann Selzer aren't only ridiculous - they're really dangerous. And those tax cuts? Why Joe and Alex aren't holding their breaths. And how about all those tariffs bringing down inflation and gas prices? Joe thinks this might be Trump's biggest lie of all time - and that's saying something. Finally - handing Elon the keys to the government - what could go wrong? Read Dan Gilmor's newsletter, Cornerstone of Democracy, here: https://cornerstone.ghost.io/essentials-december-17-2024/

Legal experts Jen Taub and David Pepper explain how we can all take the fight to protect our freedoms to Trump. We are far from powerless! Jen and David break down how to use that power in our communities, states, and the courts.

MAGA's mobilization continues. What can we do to fight back? Plus: Kari Lake at Voice of America? More yikes. And what's Joe's take on the latest from Syria? As we look ahead - what does Joe's ideal candidate for President look like for 2028? It's not a trick question. What do they need to be doing right now to build the strongest possible base? Joe has one piece of advice they can't ignore.

Did Assad's ouster from Syria reveal the weakness of Putin and Russia? How will Putin react to the humiliation - and are Russians growing weary of him yet? Is the Trump-Putin strategic bromance on the rocks? Julia Davis, creator of Russian Media Monitor, joined Rick, Joe, and Stuart for a fascinating discussion of all that and much more. Catch up now!

How can we hold Trump accountable? That work starts now. What can we do about some of these insane nominees? Plus - Joe explains why the Trump coalition is much more fragile than many people realize. Why the next two years are a huge opportunity for yet another realignment - and why Democrats have to take advantage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A live hour-long audience Q&A with Rick, Joe, and Stuart. Your burning questions answered!

Turns out, Joe called a lot of this... way back in 2008. Seriously. What does "the overthrow of everything" look like now? What can the pro-democracy movement learn from what MAGA has been able to build? Joe and Alex talk about the difference between "resistance" and "opposition" and why we have to start building the opposition yesterday. Happy Thanksgiving weekend, everyone.

With Trump headed back to the Oval Office, the MAGA Republican strategy to roll back civil, political, and privacy rights and subvert American democracy are well underway. David Noll, co-author of Vigilante Nation, joined Stuart Stevens and Lisa Senecal to discuss what comes next and the untapped power of the democracy's fierce defenders.

Yevgeny Simkin joins us today to discuss how social media shaped this election. Did the propaganda train win them this election? Does whoever control the information control the nation? He's also here to help promote the new social media platform that looks to overtake X, and it's called Sez.us. Simkin and Joe explain the importance of this app and the features that places Sez.us miles ahead of X.

Strategist Simon Rosenberg joined Rick Wilson, Stuart Stevens, and Joe Trippi for a strategy session on how to be the ferocious opposition every day - and demand the same from our elected officials.

Alex is out, so Trygve Olsen is back like he never left. It's a week after the election, but we're focused on the future. In the coming years, we have much to learn, but what do we need to make the change? What can we learn from Tammy Baldwin winning? Making the change starts with us, so please go check out Sez.us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The fight continues. Catch up with Rick Wilson, Stuart Stevens, and Joe Trippi discussing what comes next.

Legendary strategist James Carville joins Joe and Alex to preview Election Day and discuss his new documentary, "Carville: Winning is everything, stupid!" Why does over 100 years of combined experience think this election is only pointing one way? Where should you be watching for election night data? And one key question James asks Joe and Alex - you won't want to miss this one. It's our last pre-Election Day episode! See you on the other side...

Our friend and data guru Tom Bonier joins the show to figure out what's real and what isn't with just days to go. Is early voting good for Democrats? Or just different? And what is going on with all these yo-yoing polls? Where are Tom and Joe most confident headed into the final weekend before Election Day - and what's everyone's bold prediction for the election? This is it, everybody. Go vote! Check vote.org to confirm your registration and make a plan to vote. You can see more of Tom's work at https://targetearly.targetsmart.com/.

Well now, that was fun! Frank Rich, award-winning journalist, and Emmy and Golden Globe winning Executive Producer for shows including VEEP and Succession, joined Rick, Joe, and Stuart last night for a super-smart, riveting, and fun conversation. Catch up now!

When 2/3 of the polls being released are red waving... and the media's lapping it up... we get it. But take it from Trippi - why 40 years of experience says everyone needs to chill out. The panic isn't just premature, it's ridiculous. And Alex dives into the data showing the race is the same as it's been for weeks - and it's moving in one direction. And what's Joe looking at that others might have missed?

It was a strategist-palooza tonight with Rick, Stuart, Joe, and very special guest Matthew Dowd. We're two weeks out from election day and the bogus red-wave polls are back and attempting to drown us in bad data - but these guys weren't having it! Catch up on what the early voting is telling us, Matthew's electoral and Texas predictions, and why Kentucky might tell us everything we need to know on election night.

Old friend Reed Galen joins Joe and Alex with a report from on the ground... pretty much everywhere! Reed's traveling the battlegrounds with The Union - what's he seeing in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Michigan? What are voters actually talking about? Plus, Joe and Reed talk about how organizing can make the difference in a close race. What is Reed seeing that may surprise you? And with just 19 days left, it's time to leave it all on the field. Check out Reed's podcast "The Home Front" wherever you get your podcasts. There's still time to volunteer - go to jointheunion.us and find out how you can help!

We have great conversations on this show, but this one really knocked it out of the park. Catch up now to see what our chat was going crazy about last night!

With all the disinformation out there - what can we do? What's going on under the hood that has us optimistic about Pennsylvania? And Joe and Alex explain the swing voters that may cost Trump this fall. And Joe shares his latest on the Senate - including one race that might take many by surprise. And what's going on with the House? Plus, we get to your questions with less than 4 weeks to go.

We're four weeks out from election day but early voting is well underway in many states. Simon Rosenberg shed light on how the early vote is looking - learn why it's encouraging - and set the stakes for continuing to work more and worry less over the next month. Catch up now!

With less than 5 weeks to go, Joe and Alex breakdown where the race stands. How things like field strategy, early voting, and new voter registration numbers can make a huge difference in a campaign that will be won on the margins. What does Jack Smith's bombshell evidence do to change the race? What about Tim Walz calling out JD Vance about 2020? All of it matters.

Simon Rosenberg joins the show to explain why he's as optimistic as he's ever been. No, it's not hopium - there are clear signs everywhere. From Nebraska to North Carolina to a massive shift in the youth vote. And how does Simon think we can win this election in October?

Stuart Stevens was joined by political scientist, strategist, and author Rachel Bitecofer for a no-holds-barred conversation about GOP and Dem campaign strategy from Bush v Gore to Harris v Trump. Rachel's the author of "Hit 'Em Where It Hurts." Is that was Kamala Harris and the Dems are finally doing? Catch up now.

Joe and Alex explain why we can all calm down about the totally bonkers New York Times poll that came out this week. Why is the world so focused on Pennsylvania this week? Joe breaks down each campaign's path to victory. And yes, we talk the latest Mark Robinson scandal that somehow doesn't feel as crazy as everything else he's ever said.

Rick, Stuart, Joe, and special guest David Pepper take an up close and personal look at Trump's Project 2025 through stories of its impact on everyday Americans. All twelve chapters of David's brilliant serialized book, "2025: Non-Fiction" have been turned into a riveting podcast series with many pro-democracy celebrities whose voices you'll recognize. The podcast launches today, Sept. 18! The discussion also got into the post-debate polling and what the Harris campaign needs to do to build on momentum through election day.

Today, a friend of the show, Trygve Olson, joins us. A few days after the debate, it's safe to say Vice President Kamala Harris shut out Donald Trump in front of over 67 million people on every question answered, so much so that VP Harris received an endorsement from one of the world's most famous people, Taylor Swift. Joe explains how Harris was more prepared than Trump and shows an apparent contrast between the two.

Just how dead on were our strategists about what Kamala Harris needed to do and how the debate would play out? You have to see it to believe it!

PoliticsGirl Leigh McGowan was in the house fresh off the DNC and about to release her first book! Why is it Leigh thinks the Dems finally understand the assignment and are staying on message? Catch up now!

Why does it seem like Democratic attacks on Trump are breaking through now? Joe explains why it was always the contrast - and how Kamala Harris opens up new ways for Democrats to make the case. Why getting into Trump's head (and staying there) matters so much. And how should Kamala Harris prepare to debate Trump? Joe has some pointers. And don't forget to check out Sez.Us - it's time to stop being held hostage to algorithms and rebuild the town square.

It was a wildly successful DNC, and the big mo is behind the Harris-Walz ticket, but don't put on your victory slippers and get comfy yet. We're leaving it all on the field this time and taking nothing for granted! David Pepper, Joe Trippi, and Stuart Stevens talked dirty tricks, weird Trump and the upcoming debate(s), and how we keep fighting for the next 70 days. Because when we fight, we win!

Joe and Alex report live from the DNC in Chicago. Who made the biggest impact speaking in prime time? Will the momentum continue? And talk about mad. Trump's raging and that's only good news for Team Democracy. And why RFK isn't going to have the effect he wants...

We're at the point where the avalanche of good polls for Kamala Harris are just impossible to ignore. What should we really be paying attention to? Joe has his eye on a few of the more eye-popping numbers out there - and why they're real. Plus - Trump's back on Twitter. Why we aren't exactly shaking in our boots after another "perfect" conversation. And what should we be looking for at the Democratic convention next week? Plus - if you're sick of all the BS on Twitter... Sez.us is coming. Check it out and sign up now.

Rick, Stuart, Joe, and special guest Simon Rosenberg are handing out the hopium! The Harris-Walz ticket is blazing hot, but what does that mean for down-ballot races? And are we actually talking about Texas and Florida? Oh my, yes we are!

Prepare to have your socks blown off - Jen Taub is a brilliant force of nature. Jen, Rick, Stuart, and Joe - fresh off Kamala Harris and Tim Walz's rally in PA - covered Harris' outstanding VP pick, the energy shift of the race, big money in politics, corruption (we see you Clarence Thomas), and so much more. Catch up now. It was spicy!!

Momentum is everything on campaigns. Joe and Alex explain why Kamalamentum is real - and it is spectacular. It's not going away anytime soon. And on the other side - could it be possible for Trump to have a worse week? We'll see what happens the next time he opens his mouth. Why his campaign managers have to be very worried. And on a personal note for Joe - why the release of detained Americans in Russia is so meaningful.

Gen Z is all in for Kamala! That was the message from Santiago Mayer, founder of Voters of Tomorrow. With VP Harris at the top of the ticket, Gen Z voters are tuned-in and flooding to volunteer to get her elected. Has the mood of young voters changed? For sure. Does that guarantee a win? It increases the chances, but there are no guarantees. And, as Santiago points out, the right is decades and billions of dollars ahead of Democrats and sane centrists in building the political infrastructure to create a strong, educated, active, voting base. We've all got our work to do!

It's official - Joe Biden is not running for re-election. Joe weighs in on his historic Oval Office address - and why it should remind all of us why we elected him in the first place. And now that the torch has been passed - what does Joe make of the enthusiasm so far? How can the Harris campaign capitalize on their momentum - and what do they need in a VP pick? Plus - what Joe's seeing in the data that should have Trump and MAGA very worried about Project 2025. And speaking of VP picks, is JD Vance ok?

Pulitzer Prize winning historian and author Anne Applebaum joined Rick, Stuart, and Joe to discuss how autocracies around the globe are working together to undermine the democratic world. Her new book released today, "Autocracy, Inc." is an immediate best-seller. Anne explains why she's calling on America and democracies around the world to fundamentally reorient their policies to fight a new kind of threat - while there is still time.

Donald Trump doesn't appeal to the majority of Americans. Author and columnist Jill Lawrence explains that the looming question is, "Can Democrats get their acts together?" Jill, Joe, Rick, and Stuart cover this and much more - time to catch up!

The GOP convention next week will not be and cannot be treated as though it's a normal political convention. Mark Jacob explains.

When did journalist lose interest in calling out members of Congress for lying to their constituents?

Author and media expert Mark Jacob joined The Strategy Session to break down the media’s complicity in normalizing fascism. Democracy is falling off a cliff, and we need to demand the media call out the lies and the liars.

Joe and Alex discuss the fallout from last week's debate performance - and the fallout from one of the scariest Supreme Court rulings in recent memory. SCOTUS just sent a clear signal: this election matters even MORE now - so what does that mean for Democrats moving forward? Why Joe thinks that even though there are no easy answers - why Democrats can find optimism for the race in the fall and why yes, he'd still rather be us than them...

The Right sees a small window remaining to permanently empower a white minority.

“With fear for our democracy, I dissent,” wrote Justice Sonia Sotomayor in her dissenting opinion in yesterday's terrible, horrible, no-good SCOTUS ruling on presidential immunity. So, we're wondering where the asterisks were in Chief Justice Robert's 2005 statement and Justice Alito's in 2006 below? It must be there somewhere because they have a big whopping exception for Donald Trump's lawlessness. Stuart, Joe, and special guest, former Biden-Harris Admin member, Gevin Reynolds done in.

Yes, we do talk about the debate. Yes, Alex watched steeplechase too. But where do both candidates go from here? Joe explains why - yes, President Biden struggled Thursday night - but why Trump didn't run away with the debate either. What's the biggest problem Joe Biden has to overcome? (Hint: it wasn't his performance.) And why does Joe think that regardless of tonight's results - Trump still won't be president? How Democrats should take heart in Joe Biden doing what's needed to beat Trump.

A demented, fascist, malignant narcissist and a normal old guy walk onto a debate stage...no, it's not the beginning of a joke, it's this Thursday night's debate. Dr. John Gartner and Stuart Stevens talk with Resolute Square's Lisa Senecal about what to expect when Dementia Don and Good Ole Joe meet on the debate stage. It's a preview not to be missed!

Joe and Alex discuss the latest from the Sunshine State... why Florida might be closer than people realize. And what does that mean nationally? We zoom out and look at that new Fox News poll that has some VERY encouraging numbers under the hood. Turns out 34 felony convictions isn't actually a good thing... And what does Joe think President Biden has to do to win the debate next week? It all comes down to one word...

The first debate is a little over a week away, and it’s got everyone on all sides a bit…nervous. Simon Rosenberg joins Rick, Stuart, and Joe to do a little debate prep. Plus, prison is about to get a lot…sweatier. Will Stevie "Two Shirts" Bannon be allowed to wear two jumpsuits? What really matters is that he and others are starting to face accountability for their crimes. Will that move the dial for democrats? Simon is full of hope - and so is...Rick?? It's true! Catch up now.

Another big warning sign for Trump and MAGA after a massive underperformance in Ohio. Why Sherrod Brown has to be optimistic after a 20 point decline for Republicans... in Trump country, no less. How should Democrats message the Hunter Biden verdict? Joe thinks it's simpler than everyone is making it. And with more good news on the economy - will President Biden's performance start catching up to battleground Senate candidates? And Joe gets his crystal ball back out to answer a few listener questions.

Joe breaks it down: Why we're here, why it matters, and why the time is now.

Special guest Leigh McGowan explains why Trump's conviction was a shocker for her and faith-restorer for the nation.

PoliticsGirl joined the Strategy Session for some real talk. Convictions, elections, VP pick predictions, and the full-on BS GOP war on women. Leigh asks, "If we start talking about taking men's rights, you think they'll be discussing who to vote for based on the economy?" Ummm, nah. And somehow, this episode is a whole heap of hope, so catch up now!

Thursday marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day -- hear why Joe thinks the contrast between Trump and President Biden has never been clearer. And do not believe the media both-sidesing - being convicted of 34 felonies is very, very bad for Trump. Joe shoots down the fantasy that it actually *helps* him... and how should we all be campaigning about the verdict? And we check in on the rest of the campaign -- what new data is Joe looking at that shows Trump is toast?

Steven Beschloss, one of the essential voices in the pro-democracy fight, sat down with Rick, Joe, and Stuart to talk about the GOP strategy of denial - from the 2020 election results to the jury's verdict. In case you hadn't heard, it was GUILTY on all 34 felony counts. Just thought we'd mention that. The four discussed the GOP war on elections, the rule of law, decency, and democracy - and the work we'll have to do post-2024 even after Biden wins. We're glass half full here at Resolute Square!

Has the damage already been done with Trump's criminal trial? Joe and Alex discuss just how bad a guilty verdict could be for Trump. What two matters signal big trouble if Trump is convicted (and even if he isn't)? Why the Biden campaign's guerilla tactics matter. And no, Joe isn't freaking out - and neither should Democrats about Joe Biden's chances. Yes, we have work to do. But Joe explains why he'd rather be us than them. Finally - can anything be done about the Supreme Court?

Think you know what Trump 2.0 means for your life? You might want to sit down for this one because, as author Andra Watkins writes, "Project 2025 Will Ruin Your Life."

Two candidates, two speeches -- why President Biden's Morehouse speech and Trump's NRA debacle sum up the contrast between the two. It's not just about what they're saying. Joe thinks there's a clear tactical difference that's going to hurt Trump in the long term. And that's not even getting into Trump putting out more Hitlerian video content or going after birth control. Plus - Joe explains how President Biden suckered Trump into agreeing to a debate - and why it plays right into Joe Biden's hands.

Stuart and David discuss the dramatic betrayal by Rob Portman of all he purported to care about - including Ukraine - and his legacy of supporting J.D. Vance and Donald Trump.

Joe Trippi explains how for decades Democrats chose to fight in limited states and abandoned many that have become extremists now. But - the fight is on everywhere now and Dems are winning.

Real progress is being make in blue, red, and purple states across the country and more and more Democrats are standing up to challenge extremist candidates who've previous run unopposed.

An intense, important, eye-opening episode with David Pepper in the house. What are the tactics of those destroying democracy from the state level on up? Join David, Stuart, and Joe for the strategy that gets us to the future we want and deserve.

We spend a lot of time talking about the odds - and not enough time talking about the stakes for 2024. Mike Podhorzer joins Joe and Alex to discuss the long-term implications of the 2024 presidential race -- and how pervasive the Federalist Society's influence on our judiciary has been. What might the Supreme Court look like after another term of Trump in 2028? Bottom line: It's all on the line in 2024. Mike and Joe explain why we have to look at what's already happening in red states or in places where MAGA already controls the judiciary. So what do we do about it? How do we make our democracy better for more people?

Every American needs to understand what's happening to Trump's deteriorating brain. We see the signs, but the media dangerously brushes them off. Duty To Warn’s founder Dr. John Gartner joined Rick and Stuart tonight for a no-holds-barred conversation about the increasing rate and danger of Trump's slide into dementia. Catch up now.

Our friend Trygve Olson rejoins the show to talk about the latest in the race -- and some things under the hood that may surprise you. Where are President Biden and Trump weak right now? And what can they do about it? (Hint: Look at Joe Biden bringing jobs to Wisconsin where Trump failed bigly!) What to make of some really encouraging numbers coming out of Wisconsin - and why some of the under the hood data means Trump's got an even bigger hill to climb there. Where are the key voters President Biden needs to reach to win? Trygve breaks it all down in an episode you don't want to miss.

Donald’s been complaining about the chilly temps in the courtroom, but yesterday he faced conditions that were Stormy with a chance of jail. And that’s not just rough for Sir SleepsALot. Are we starting to see the outermost ring of Trump’s hell circle support peeling off? Tonight we’ll talk about former Georgia GOP Lt.-Gov Geoff Duncan announcing his support for Joe Biden. What’s the strategy for getting others to follow him? Catch up on Rick's and Stuart's strategy discussion now.

Our friend Rick Wilson joins the show for his unique take on the keys to sending Trump back to his golden toilet in November. What are the 3 reasons why Rick is much more optimistic - and why we all should feel that way? And what is it about Trump Derangement Syndrome that just won't go away? When they tell you who they are, believe them -- and how Kristi Noem bragging about killing her dog is a symbol of a much grosser rot in MAGAworld. How do we make sure RFK Jr. doesn't spoil the election? And what will Rick and The Lincoln Project be doing to take the fight to Trump? Listen to Rick's pod, The Enemies List, wherever you get your podcasts. And check out Rick's Substack at https://therickwilson.substack.com/.

What will secure "FOUR MORE YEARS!" for Biden and why is Simon Rosenberg feeling bullish about his chances? Catch up with Rick, Stuart, Joe, and Simon as they talk about the road to a second Biden-Harris term and big wins up and down the ballot for Democrats in November.

More than a week into the Sleepy Don election interference trial, are Trump's legal troubles finally catching up to him? Joe explains just how damaging they've been to Trump. And why you shouldn't be fooled by the new polls suggesting RFK Jr. hurts Trump more than President Biden. Joe explains why it's all a huge head fake -- why the money doesn't lie. Plus: What numbers from a key Pennsylvania district should have Team Trump very worried?

Rick Wilson and Joe Trippi were joined by special guest Gevin Reynolds to talk gag orders, criminal trials, Ukraine aid, RFK Jr's current spoiler effect, and a diminishing GOP. The calculus of the most consequential election of our lifetimes is changing. Catch up now on this fascinating episode!

There's a Democratic fundraising avalanche burying MAGA. Joe and Alex zoom out to answer the most common listener question from 2024.The massive momentum shift towards President Biden in almost every recent poll is no fluke -- why? And why MAGA's huge fundraising hole matters even more than people realize -- and why the Senate is back in play. What about the House? Has "MAGA Mike" really changed his tune -- and will it matter? And should President Biden debate Trump? Finally, Joe and Alex highlight a new leaked Kremlin document showing the depths of Russian election interference.

Joe Trippi explains why Democrats in the House shouldn't rush to Mike Johnson's rescue

Yes, Rick, Stuart, and Joe covered a lot in 30 minutes and you don't want to have missed a second of it. Donald is having a truly singular moment for a former American president: the only one to ever be the defendant in a criminal trial. Donald might nap through it, but the rest of America needs to wake up and smell the fascism. Catch up now!

What's behind the MAGA movement? On a special guest episode, Isaac Arnsdorf joins Joe and Alex to discuss his new book "Finish What We Started - The MAGA Movement's Ground War to End Democracy." Why Steve Bannon's rhetoric isn't just bluster. The depth of the psychological underpinnings of MAGA go way beyond any one issue. And how do we fight back? Hear why Isaac thinks turning Bannon's model around on MAGA may be our way out of this mess. Read the book now: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/isaac-arnsdorf/finish-what-we-started/9780316497510/

One spoiler down, another to go. No Labels is out of the Presidential fight - but Joe gets into why Trumpland is feeling good about RFK Jr. - including funneling $20m from a top donor his way. How is the media still missing the point about all these spoilers? Plus - can Trump actually talk his way out of his big abortion problem? Joe explains why the problem runs much, much deeper than most realize. And why the GOP is all in, sledgehammer or not.

There is no new normal in politics. Rick, Stuart, and Joe explain why it's essential that we push back on media narratives that give equal weight to lies, conspiracies, and autocracy (MAGA GOP) and truth, facts, and democracy (The Dems). Also - What it means that the GOP has managed to put two swing states in play in two weeks by ensuring abortion rights will be on the ballot in Florida and now Arizona? The guys go all-in on strategies to capitalize on Republicans' November nightmare scenario.

Joe and Alex discuss a bombshell New York Times piece from our friend Tom Edsall on just how deep the Trump dark money apparatus goes -- over 100 groups, $2 billion in funding... and very little of it out in the open. Why Project 2025 is a blueprint for turning America into a pro-Trump authoritarian state. What are we supposed to do about it? Then, Joe and Alex explain why right-wing pollsters have the media trapped in a false polling narrative -- why is the mainstream media so obsessed with pro-Trump polling?

If you missed this show, do yourself a favor and catch up! Gevin Reynolds, writer, political commentator, Biden-Harris Admin alum, joined Rick, Stuart, and Joe for a conversation on the black vote in America, the racism at the core of Trump's popularity, the themes of rights and freedom that will inspire voters in November, and how Biden needs to do to show up and talk about his policies that are and will continue to advance progress for Americans of color - which is good for ALL Americans.

Joe and Alex are joined by former Congressman Scott Klug, host of the "Lost in the Middle" podcast. Scott's exploring the stories of Americans who are "lost" in the polarization today -- how does he see the fever breaking? What are the solutions he's found from Americans' stories? And we can't let him go without a Wisconsin preview - how does Scott see the state playing out in 2024?

More positive momentum for Joe Biden this week in battleground states - Joe and Alex get into the numbers that really matter. And why the Alabama special election victory this week is a sign of things to come for Democrats. Does Trump's wild week really matter long-term? Joe thinks it does. And why making fun of Trump is so effective beyond just clicks on social media. What happened with NBC and Ronna McDaniel? And yes, Democrats can win the Senate.

Grab a cold one, folks. This episode is HOT! Rick, Stuart, and Joe are joined by powerhouse Tara McGowan, founder of Courier Newsroom. Sick of traditional media not doing their jobs to push back on lies and stand up for democracy? So was Tara - and she and her amazing team of digital journalists are getting real news to the people in swing state across America!

Joe and Alex answer Trump's insane question - and the answer is yes, we sure are. Joe takes a look at North Carolina again - and why another statewide MAGA candidate is putting the state even more in play for President Biden. What's the mystery state Joe thinks Trump should worry about? And why Ohio Republicans just gave Senate Democrats a huge gift. And what about places like Texas? Where can Democrats go on offense?

Special guest historian of gender, faith, & politics, and author of NY Times best-selling book, JESUS AND JOHN WAYNE, Kristin Du Mez joined our strategists to discuss the web of Christian Nationalist groups behind Project 2025 - the detailed plan for a Trump second term. America under a theocracy? Don't dismiss it. Kristin provides startling explanations.

Joe and Alex discuss yet another fiasco for the MAGA House GOP. How Democrats were able to turn the Hur hearing against the Republicans in their own hearing - and what it means long term. No wonder another GOP congressman is retiring. What's 50-60% of 2.9 million anti-Trump Republican votes? No wonder Joe thinks Trump's screwed. By the time you read this paragraph, Trump will have owed at least another thirty bucks of interest... And of course, the veepstakes we can't even believe we're discussing.

Joe Trippi explains Buck's less than enthusiastic reaction to the possibility of be the No Labels "nominee."

The Hur debacle, Britt's bad night, Ken Buck's ducking out, the RNC as Trump piggy bank - What does it mean for GOP congressional races that Trump is going to gobble up all the cash? Rick, Joe, and special guest David Pepper covered all that and much more!

With Super Tuesday in the books, why Joe and Alex agree... with Karl Rove? It turns out that calling your primary opponent's voters "communists" might not be a winning strategy. Why haven't the polls matched anywhere near the election results so far? Joe digs into it. And, yeah, you're going to see plenty of negative ads for the next eight months. "Those who have voted uncommitted will come out loud and strong to stop Trump"

Concerned about where Gen Z voters are in 2024? We all should be and that's what Joe Trippi and special guest John Della Volpe got into last night. John is the head of polling at Harvard's Institute of Politics and wrote "Fight: How Gen Z Is Channeling Their Fear and Passion to Save America" and breaks down what he's seeing in focus groups and polls. Essential watching.

Another primary in the books -- why does Joe think the math in Michigan heavily favors Joe Biden? And why Trump nuking GOP early voting might turn out disastrously for him this year. Turns out that No Labels "isn't in it to win it" (their words) after all. Shocker! And what does a Republican Senate look like without Mitch McConnell? Hint: Trumpier and Trumpier.

Turns out when most of your money is going to pay legal fees, people don't like to donate to your campaign. Joe gets into why Republicans have a huge hard money problem right now. Plus who's his pick in the Trump veepstakes? And why Alexei Navalny's final words are a lesson to everyone in the pro-democracy movement.

What does the Suozzi win mean for Dems in November? Simon Rosenberg stopped by to inject some hope into the discussion. Catch up now!

In a special guest episode, author and screenwriter Bill Carter joins Joe and Alex to discuss his new movie "Kiss the Future" - a powerful story about the siege of Sarajevo and the role art (including U2) can play in a violent conflict. Joe and Bill discuss their mutual connection to Bosnia - including Joe's powerful experience there. Bill shares the inside story behind the film and what we can all learn from it. Watch at AMC: https://www.amctheatres.com/movies/kiss-the-future-76053 Pre-order Bill's book, "Fools Rush In": https://amzn.to/3UGUm95

Another huge win for Democrats this week in NY-03... so why is the media saying, and this is an actual headline, "Democrats' Joe Biden Problem Got Worse With Special Election Win?" Joe and Alex get into why Democrats should feel very good after Tuesday's results... and why MAGA's digging themselves even deeper. Why does history suggest Joe Biden is in the driver's seat this fall? And yes, more of your neighbors than you realize probably believe in the Taylor Swift psyop. No, really.

Joe explains why walking away from Ukraine is an invitation to Putin to continue with criminal invasions of other nations.

Special guest Tom Nichols, Atlantic staff writer, author, and self-described "Curmudgeon. Cat guy. Democracy enthusiast, defender of experts," joined the Strategy Session for an essential conversation on the GOP, Trump, and Putin - and what that toxic brew means for the future of Ukraine, liberal democracies, and the risk of WWIII.

Despite the special counsel report last week, Simon Rosenberg still believes in a bigger win for Joe Biden in 2024 than in 2020, and he has four ideas to support his viewpoint. Discover why nothing Trump does should surprise us anymore, especially after attempting to overturn an election with foreign help. Also, hear Joe's take on the RFK Super Bowl ad and how it reveals cracks in the foundation of the Republican Party.

Joe Trippi discusses the consequences of "MAGA Mike's" vote-counting mishap and its potential impact on Trump's chances in November. Find out what are the implications of the failed impeachment and how it might affect the MAGA movement in the House?

Rick and Stuart were in rare form! From Trump losing in court AGAIN (turns out the appellate court doesn't think he can shoot someone of 5th Ave) to his ever-worsening foot-in-mouth disease, it's obvious that Biden's best weapon against Trump is...well...Trump.

Authors of "Find Me the Votes: A Hard-Charging Georgia Prosecutor, a Rogue President, and the Plot to Steal an American Election" Michael Isikoff and Daniel Klaidman join Joe and Alex to discuss the inside story of what happened in Georgia in 2020.

Strategist Joe Trippi weighs in on the best strategy for the Biden campaign moving forward.

This episode is a banger! Jen Mercieca, Rick, Stuart, and Joe cover everything from Trump as the "Second Coming" to MAGA's VERY BAD IDEA of declaring war on Taylor Swift and the Swifties. Jen unpacked the rhetorical tricks that fuel MAGA and hijack their brains. Catch up now!

Author and journalist Tim Alberta joins host Joe Trippi for a special guest episode - talking everything from his new book, "The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism" to the rise of the MAGA GOP and how the modern evangelical movement has evolved to grow hand in hand with it.

Joe reveals another pathetic milestone reached in GOP politics: the dumbest campaign in modern history. That's no small accomplishment, so DeSantis can say his campaign succeeded at something. Congrats. Joe and Alex also get into the numbers out of NH and explain why there is a lot of good news in there for Joe Biden and some news that should keep the Trump campaign up at night.

The anchors that have been weighing Biden's approval down are lifting while Trump and the chains around him continue to get heavier.

Democratic strategist and author of Hopium Chronicles, Simon Rosenberg joined Rick and Joe to whack their way through the data weeds and it was marvelous! Want to get smarter? Watch this episode.

Legendary Democratic strategist Joe Trippi says Donald Trump should see a huge, red flag waving coming out of Iowa. He breaks down why Trump should be worried and Democrats should keep abortion rights front and center in 2024.

This week, author and strategist David Pepper joined Rick and Stuart to discuss threats to voting rights, state battles to preserve, protect, and defend democracy, the Iowa caucuses, and much more!

With just days to the Iowa caucus and NH less than two weeks away, what is the biggest problem every candidate faces right now? Joe Trippi goes into why the race between Haley and DeSantis for 2nd place might not be as simple as the polls make it out to be.

Rick opens the show talking about his home being SWATTED last night and how it is but one demonstration of the hate and toxicity of Trump and MAGA. He and Stuart contrast that with Biden's launch message of patriotism, unity, democracy, and public service. Throw in some Trump VP speculation and a well-deserved takedown of Tom Cotton and you have yourselves quite a show. Catch up now!

Happy New Year! Joe and Alex are back to talk about a very eventful holiday break. More good news on the economy - why is it so important to repeat it? With Iowa less than two weeks away, Joe busts out his campaign manager hat and looks at reality - how many tickets out of Iowa are there for the GOP field?

Apologies for the gremlins that got us technically this week - it's a short show because of tech difficulties, but we'll be back with our full length next week. 11 Months out. Biden’s Perfect Campaign™ doesn’t exist, but if it did, what would it look like? And can we at least get close? Stuart Stevens, Joe Trippi, and Rick Wilson discuss the landmines, knowns, unknowns, and everything in between that lie ahead for our Democracy.

Our friend Trygve Olson joins us to dig into the 2024 race. Why Joe thinks Trump is weaker than pundits believe -- and what all the polls are getting wrong. Trippi finds some encouraging numbers "under the hood" on the economy that Democrats should be very optimistic about. What two demographic groups does Trygve identify as critical in 2024? And the four states right now we believe are the key battlegrounds.

Joe and Alex dive into some more good news for Joe Biden - have we turned the corner on how voters see the economy? Joe's 3 reasons why we should all be optimistic going into 2024.

Trump talks Nazi. DeSantis falls to pieces (again). And ’23 starts to wrap up. What comes next? Rick, Stuart, and Joe give you a glimpse into the strategy crystal ball.

Joe and Alex check in on a TON of really good economic numbers -- and why it's all good news for President Biden. When will voters come around on the economy? What's the Biden campaign doing to make sure they know? And why Joe thinks now is Trump's ceiling and Biden's floor.

As Stuart Stevens often says, “Donald Trump didn’t change the Republican party; he revealed it.” Join the guys looked back at '23 and discussed how the good, bad, and ugly will impact '24 and the election that will decide the future of American democracy.

ABC Chief Political Correspondent and author Jonathan Karl joins the show to discuss his new book, "Tired of Winning: Donald Trump and the end of the Grand Old Party." Do not miss the alarm Jon sounds about the state of our democracy and how the guardrails are fully off the Trump train. What revelations did he have straight from Steve Bannon and other Republicans close to Trump? Why Trump's campaign launch in Waco was no accident. And why when Trump spouts fascist rhetoric, we have to take him at his word. And why Trump is so different now than in 2016 or 2020.

Joe's watching Biden's continued smart, skilled and steady leadership on the world stage versus the escalation of chaos that we would see under Trump.

Can you have a conversation about Trump, the authoritarian GOP, Tommy Tuberville, Nikki Haley, with a little football and inside baseball mixed in and be constructive, impactful and even fun? Joe, Stuart, and special guest Sen. Doug Jones proved Yes We Can!

Joe Biden is facing a challenge in 2024, but is it Trump? The short answer is "no."