CNN Politics

On CNN’s State of the Union, Jake Tapper presses Democratic Sen. John Fetterman on Biden's slipping support in Pennsylvania. Then, 2024 potential Trump VP pick Dr. Ben Carson tells Jake that he would love to debate Vice President Kamala Harris.   Next, Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett tells Jake Tapper that Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s comment during a late-night committee hearing about her eyelashes was “buying into a racist trope.”   Also, Bakari Sellers, Ashley Allison, Brad Todd, and Alyssa Farah Griffin join Jake to discuss Joe Biden's push to appeal to Black voters, the state of the 2024 race and the latest scandal from a Supreme Court Justice.   Finally, Jake, Ashley and Alyssa reflect on the life and legacy of their friend and member of the CNN family, Alice Stewart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Courting controversy. Yesterday, President Biden took to the stage at an historically black college as he struggles with young and black voters. And debating the debates. Biden and Trump agree to go head-to-head. How the historic face-offs can shake up the race. Plus, final hours. Trump’s trial nears its end as Republicans flock to Manhattan and Democrats dodge when it comes to their own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: President Joe Biden spoke at African American history museum, commemorating the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education in an effort to bolster crucial support among Black voters. Plus: Israeli military recovers the bodies of three hostages in a tunnel in Gaza. Jeremy Diamond reports from Jerusalem. And: A New York Times report outside Justice Alito’s home displaying a “Stop The Sea;” flag after January 6. And a House committee hearing devolves into chaos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week a group of Donald Trump’s allies flocked to the Manhattan courthouse for the former president’s criminal hush money trial. It’s become a way for North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, and others to ‘audition’ for the role of vice president. Elaine Godfrey is covering this year’s ‘Veepstakes’ for the Atlantic. She joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to explain why she says Trump’s search is different this time around.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Joe Biden and Donald Trump don't agree on much, but they do agree it's time to debate. They both accepted an invitation from CNN to hold the first presidential debate on June 27.  Plus: It's round two of Todd Blanche versus Michael Cohen, as Trump's top defense attorney is trying to paint the prosecution's star witness as a sworn henchmen out for revenge.  And: Can Republicans pick up a US Senate seat in the reliably blue state of Maryland. Popular former governor Larry Hogan will test that after winning the GOP nomination for last night.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the beach. The testimony and the delays shaping the race as Biden criss-crosses the country, while RFK sends alarm bells ringing. Plus, isolated. Biden pleases no-one, new reporting as Democrats fret up and down the ballot, while the race for the Senate in Maryland gets vicious. The control of the chamber at stake. Finally, on trial. The other big court case kicking off today, that of Sen. Bob Menendez. We catch up with him just before his corruption trial is due to begin in New York, and as his colleagues call for him to step down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the beach. The testimony and the delays shaping the race as Biden criss-crosses the country, while RFK sends alarm bells ringing. Plus, isolated. Biden pleases no-one, new reporting as Democrats fret up and down the ballot, while the race for the Senate in Maryland gets vicious. The control of the chamber at stake. Finally, on trial. The other big court case kicking off today, that of Sen. Bob Menendez. We catch up with him just before his corruption trial is due to begin in New York, and as his colleagues call for him to step down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On CNN’s State of the Union, Dana Bash presses potential Trump VP pick Sen. JD Vance on Trump’s comment that Jewish Americans who voted for President Biden “should be ashamed of themselves.” Then, Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy joins Dana to discuss President Biden’s threat to withhold aid from Israel if it launches a Rafah offensive. Next, Scott Brown, Ashley Allison, Scott Jennings, and Karen Finney join Dana to discuss how both parties are responding to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s independent presidential bid. Dana also goes behind the scenes of disaster relief efforts with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell after tornadoes in Oklahoma, as part of her “Badass Women of Washington” series. Finally, Dana reflects on the life and legacy of her friend, former White House Counsel Jack Quinn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Johnson evaded another threat to his position as leader of the House this week. On Wednesday, Georgia GOP Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene made a motion to oust Speaker Johnson, after threatening to do so for several weeks. The House voted swiftly in favor of Johnson by a tally of 359 to 43, so Speaker Johnson will keep his job, for now. But how long will this last? And how might this impact the presidential election? On this special edition of CNN Political Briefing, CNN Anchor and Chief Congressional Correspondent Manu Raju and Capitol Hill Reporter Melanie Zanona discuss the latest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Joe Biden is doing what only incumbents can do, heading to a must-win swing state with the gift of jobs. Dana talks to a top Biden campaign official about the latest strategy for taking on Donald Trump.  Plus: Stormy Daniels is back on the stand tomorrow after dishing salacious details about her alleged sexual encounter with Donald Trump, right down to his set of pajamas. But does her testimony ultimately help or hurt the prosecution?  And: Kristi Noem's VP hopes may be tanking after she admitted to being a puppy killer.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Mike Johnson worked with Democrats to pass Ukraine war funding, he knew it would enrage the extreme right-wing and threaten his speakership. So far, Johnson has survived the challenge to his job, and as Doug Heye puts it, “survival is strength.” Heye has worked for Republicans in the House and Senate and is a former communications director for the Republican National Committee. He’ll describe the tightrope Mike Johnson must walk in order lead House Republicans back to a majority in November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On CNN’s State of the Union, potential Trump VP contender Gov. Doug Burgum brushes off Donald Trump comparing the Biden administration to the Gestapo but acknowledges that Joe Biden won the 2020 election despite Trump’s claims to the contrary. Then, Jake presses Biden campaign co-chair Mitch Landrieu over President Biden’s response to campus protests amid Democratic concern they could damage his campaign. Next, University of Florida President and former U.S. senator Ben Sasse joins Jake to explain how his university has handled protests on campus. After, Kate Bedingfield, Jonah Goldberg, Ashley Allison and Marc Lotter join Jake to discuss the race to be Trump’s running mate. Finally, Jake reflects on the life and legacy of someone very important to the Tapper family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Lashing out. Behind closed doors, Trump compares the Biden administration to the Gestapo as VP hopefuls descend on Mar-a-Lago just hours after that blockbuster testimony. Plus: Democrats on edge. Gaza protests split the party, leaving Biden in the middle. And: Republican rift. New reporting on the in-fighting plaguing the GOP. Finally: In the weeds. Amid historic movement on marijuana, the NFL legends urging Congress to ease up on pot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week’s Pro-Palestine protests at Columbia University led to more than 100 arrests after students barricaded themselves inside Hamilton Hall. This happened in the exact same building where anti-war student protestors demonstrated 56 years ago to the day, according to Columbia’s student newspaper. Mark Naison, a Fordham University professor of history, was part of the 1968 protests. He joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to explain why he says this week’s protests feel like ‘déjà vu,’ and why he supports today’s demonstrations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Measuring misfortune is no strategy for living,” writes journalist Frank Bruni in his new book, “The Age of Grievance.” Yet, he says, we live in a culture obsessed with feeling victimized, searching for every micro-aggression, and leaning in to personal grievance as a sort of social currency. Frank joined David to talk about his book, the civic challenges posed by grievance, why Ron DeSantis is the most emblematic politician of our era, the need for political reform, protests on college campuses, and how to approach others with more grace and less judgement.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Protests intensify on college campuses across the country. Police are being called in to quell the violence and multiple arrests have been made. Our reporters and special guests bring you up to speed on the latest developments.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Campus clashes are growing and getting uglier, with police stepping up arrests. And in some cases it's devolving from war protests to blatant displays of Jewish hate.  Plus: We bring you new reporting on Hunter Biden's strategy to fight back against his critics, particularly Fox News.  And: Who will testify next in Trump's hush money trial? We let you know what to expect when court resumes tomorrow.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On CNN’s State of the Union, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham tells Dana Bash that he will still support Donald Trump for president even if he’s convicted in his hush money trial. Then, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders tells Dana that antisemitic displays at college protests must be condemned but that they shouldn’t distract from criticism of Netanyahu’s handling in Gaza. Next, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joins Dana to discuss the protests at USC and UCLA as well as her efforts to combat homelessness. After, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin tells Dana that he will protect peaceful protests in Virginia but not “hate speech and intimidation.” Finally, Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Ana Navarro, SE Cupp, and David Urban join Dana to discuss the White House Correspondents Dinner and troubling new poll numbers for President Biden.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new CNN poll shows Trump leading Biden 40% to 43%. Trump's delay tactics appeared to pay off, as hush money allegations roil the race. And new reporting on how that GOP plans to target red-state Democrats.Plus, boiling point -- as college campuses reel, Republicans pounce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in former president Donald Trump’s historic immunity case. Trump’s attorneys say he should be granted sweeping immunity in a federal election subversion case because he was acting “officially” as president. Now all eyes turn to how the court decides -- and whether or not this is sent back to lower courts for further adjudication -- with this November’s election potentially hanging in the balance. University of Michigan Law professor Leah Litman and CNN Political Director David Chalian break down the foundations of the case and talk about what’s at stake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Rep. Ken Buck eludes simple classification. He grew up on the East Coast but says he felt more at home on his uncle’s Wyoming ranch as a kid. He is Princeton educated, but beelined for the Rocky Mountain West upon graduating. He is a former Freedom Caucus conservative who voted to certify the 2020 election and believes some of the charges against Donald Trump should be taken seriously. He resigned his seat in March 2024, citing the current dysfunction in Congress. Former Rep. Buck joined David to talk about his take on the Republican MAGA wing, Speaker Mike Johnson and how long he’ll hold his leadership role, attacks on the Department of Justice, his issues with the Affordable Care Act, and the importance of bipartisanship.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's show begins at the Supreme Court where the justices appear deeply divided over one of the biggest abortion cases since Roe vs. Wade was overturned. The issue is whether an Idaho abortion ban prevents doctors from performing abortions for women who are having a medical emergency that may not be life-threatening, but is a threat to her health. CNN's Paula Reid and Meg Tirrell join Dana to break everything down.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Trump on Trial. As Donald Trump makes history in the courtroom, Biden spends the week on the trail. How will Trumps case reshape the race? Plus: An exclusive interview with Vice President Harris And: Johnson in jeopardy. New behind the scenes details as Speaker Johnson takes on his right flank, but will it cost him his job? Plus: End of an era. Our exclusive sit down with two Senate dealmakers. Will they support Biden or Trump? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On CNN's State of the Union, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem tells Dana Bash she will support Donald Trump for president even if he's convicted in his New York hush money trial. Then, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker tells Dana that RFK Jr qualifying for the ballot in Michigan will have "little effect" on the race there. Finally, Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Kate Bedingfield, Jamal Simmons, and Scott Jennings join Dana to discuss Trump's legal woes and Speaker Johnson's future after the House passed Ukraine aid despite pressure from far-right Republicans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jury selection is nearly complete in the case the People of the State of New York versus Donald J. Trump. 12 jurors and one alternate have been sworn in, and the judge and lawyers from both sides are trying to fill up the panel with five more alternates. Trump is inside the room and we're told that he's been looking right at jurors as they answer questions and whispering with his attorney.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the first of four expected criminal trials involving former President Donald Trump began in Manhattan. And for the first time in United States history, a former president is now a defendant in a criminal trial. CNN legal analyst Norm Eisen was in the courtroom. He joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to share his analysis of not only this case, but also this week’s Supreme Court oral arguments on the January 6 obstruction charges, which could have potential legal implications for Trump as well.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: As of last night, seven jurors were seated in the Donald Trump hush money trial. Now, there are only six.  Plus: Will Mike Johnson's decision to push a Ukraine aid bill cost him his gavel?  And: A Kennedy family reunion with a notable no-show.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

According to Fareed Zakaria, we are living in an age of revolution, kindled by the converging factors of technological advancement, information proliferation, globalization, and cultural shifts. He joined David during a live taping of The Axe Files at the University Club of Chicago to talk about what he discovered in researching his new book, “Age of Revolutions: Progress and Backlash from 1600 to the Present,” how past revolutions inform today, how the US electoral system magnifies polarization, the ways in which the ideas of left and right politics have changed, and his mixed feelings on the upcoming trials of former President Donald Trump.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: For the first time in nearly 150 years, a cabinet member will be tried in the Senate for high crimes.  Plus: We're minutes away from the start of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas' impeachment trial, which could be over soon after it starts.  And: "Israel makes it own decisions." That's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's message to the world and his own political coalition.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Jury selection in the unprecedented criminal trial of former President Donald Trump continues. CNN is inside and outside the courtroom with all the breaking details on this critical moment in American history.  Plus: Joe Biden heads to his hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania to channel his working class roots and talk about taxes.  And: "I am not resigning." That was Mike Johnson's message to his caucus as another House Republican joins the push to kick him out as speaker.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Arizona’s Supreme Court upheld an 1864 law reinstating a near-total ban on abortion, it took most of the country by surprise. For plugged-in journalist Jim Small of AZ Mirror, this was the expected result of a deliberate effort by Republicans to arrive at precisely this outcome. Now that the great backpedal is underway, Small tells Audie how we got here and how Arizona politics will affect the elections in November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On a special extended edition of CNN’s State of the Union, top Biden adviser John Kirby tells Jake Tapper that the White House doesn’t believe the “unprecedented” attack on Israel by Iran is the start of a broader regional war. IDF spokesman Col. Peter Lerner tells Jake that Israel is considering what it’s response to Iran will look like. Democratic Sen. Chris Coons tells Jake that he thinks Israel should “pause for a moment” before responding to the attack. Former National Security Adviser John Bolton tells Jake that Israel should retaliate by striking Iranian territory. Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chairman Marco Rubio tells Jake that Iran’s goal is to “make Israel an unlivable place.” Democratic Sen. John Fetterman and Republican Sen. JD Vance spar over Vance’s opposition to sending more aid to Ukraine. Former CIA Director David Petraeus reacts to Iran’s attack and tells Jake “there's never been something like this.” Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett calls for a “decisive” response to Iran’s attack. Former Director of National Intelligence tells Jake that “a Rubicon has been crossed” but doesn’t think Iran wants a wider war. Iranian journalist and activist Masih Alinejad tells Jake that Iran’s attack should be a “tipping point” for democratic countries around the world. Plus, the New Yorker’s Robin Wright, Axios’ Barak Ravid, the New York Times’ David Sanger, former IDF spokesman Jonathan Conricus, and CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, Clarissa Ward, and Jeremy Diamond join Jake to share their insight on the attack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Both President Biden and former President Trump have recently raised mammoth amounts of money at two individual fundraising events. And while Biden is still the fundraising frontrunner, Trump’s team reports he raised a record-breaking $50 million at a single fundraiser in Palm Beach last weekend. Could Trump regain the lead in the race for campaign cash? And how much does money matter? CNN Politics national writer Fredreka Schouten joins CNN Political Director David Chalian for a breakdown of the latest numbers.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Vice President Harris is on her way to Arizona where she'll attack Republicans for the state's civil war abortion ban that could soon be back in effect. It's an issue the Biden campaign hopes will carry them to reelection.  Plus: The people of the state of New York versus Donald Trump kicks off on Monday. The former and perhaps future president will spend the next two months in court fighting criminal charges.  And: Where does a Republican go when fighting for political survival? Mar-a-Lago, of course. Speaker Mike Johnson is there to meet with Trump today.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi may have made history as the first woman elected Speaker of the US House of Representatives, but she made her reputation as an effective leader with a knack for building consensus and pushing landmark legislation across the finish line. She joined David live at Arizona State University to talk about the political skills she learned from her father, her work to pass the Affordable Care Act, her unfavorable opinion of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, why she wishes the Department of Justice would have moved faster on investigating January 6, 2021, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: An Arizona court ruling rolls abortion rights back to the civil war era, igniting a massive GOP problem in November that Donald Trump thought he had just tamped down.  Plus: New economic numbers show inflation on key items is, once again, headed in the wrong direction.  And: Behind the Republican fight to change the way Nebraska awards its electoral votes.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As today's show begins, James and Jennifer Crumbley, the parents of the teenager who killed four students in a 2021 school shooting in Oxford, Michigan, are about to be sentenced, weeks after they were convicted of manslaughter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last week, “No Labels,” the centrist group seeking to field a “unity ticket” for the presidential election, announced that despite raising $70 million and securing ballot access in key states, they had failed to secure a candidate and would drop their effort for the 2024 cycle. This news elicited sighs of relief all over Washington, including at Third Way, a center-left think tank. Kate deGruyter is communications director at Third Way, and she argues that any third-party candidate in this race disproportionately hurts Joe Biden by muddying the otherwise clear choice between Biden and former president Donald Trump.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Breaking point. Biden puts Israel on notice as pressure over Gaza ramps up, will it move the needle? Plus: Trench warfare. Exclusive new details of Democrats plan to take back the House. Where are they spending their millions? And: As Republicans try to pull off a stunner in Maryland, will it decide control of the Senate this Fall? Also: Total eclipse. How solar eclipses have captivated Washington over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On CNN’s State of the Union, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Turner tells CNN’s Jake Tapper that he agrees Russian propaganda has "infected” a portion of the Republican base. World Food Programme Executive Director Cindy McCain warns that “children are dying as we speak” in Gaza. And, six months after the Hamas attack, an Israeli-American hostage family speaks out on efforts to bring back their son and brother. Plus, CNN’s Fareed Zakaria previews his new book “Age of Revolutions." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Breaking point. Biden puts Israel on notice as pressure over Gaza ramps up, will it move the needle? Plus: Trench warfare. Exclusive new details of Democrats plan to take back the House. Where are they spending their millions? And: As Republicans try to pull off a stunner in Maryland, will it decide control of the Senate this Fall? Also: Total eclipse. How solar eclipses have captivated Washington over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Abortion remains one of the most contentious and polarizing 2024 election issues – and will likely play a critical role in the outcome in November. But can it be the silver bullet Democrats are hoping to make it? Mary Ziegler is one of the world's leading historians of the abortion debate, and has written several books, including ‘After Roe, The Lost History of the Abortion Debate.’ She joins CNN Political Director David Chalian for a deep dive into the history of abortion as an election issue and the future of abortion in the U.S.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: As today's show begins, President Biden is speaking with Benjamin Netanyahu. It may not be the friendliest of chats, given that Biden is said to be furious at how Netanyahu was prosecuting the war in Gaza. The question is, will there be any US policy change?  Plus: Donald Trump is demanding Nebraska change how it awards its electoral votes. Nothing short of the outcome of the entire presidential election could hang in the balance.  And: The DNC uses the "Golden Girls" theme song to troll RFK Jr. Seriously.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Both Donald Trump and Joe Biden are trying to win votes about what Americans are most worried about. Trump stokes fears about "carnage" at the hands of migrants. Biden warns of an American where abortion is unavailable and health care is at risk.  Plus: Biden puts out a blistering statement after the Israeli government apologizes for unintentionally killing eight aid workers. But some fellow Dems say words are no longer enough.  And: The special counsel does something remarkable, putting pen to paper blasting the judge presiding over the classified documents case.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Trump goes to swing states Michigan and Wisconsin where he stokes immigration politics thousands of miles from the southern border. Meanwhile, Democrats zero in on the not-so-swing state of Florida, thanks to big news there on abortion last night that the Biden campaign is scrambling to capitalize on.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When James Carville criticized the “preachy females” at the forefront of Democratic politics, he kicked off a firestorm of outrage and perhaps a little introspection. Did “The Ragin’ Cajun” have a point, however impolitely made? Do Democrats have a problem with men? Especially Black men and other men of color? Jamil Smith is an award-winning writer and the new editor-in-chief of The Emancipator, a nonprofit newsroom run by the Center for Antiracist Research at Boston University, co-founded by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: "Evil, sick, deranged, crooked, and corrupt." Donald Trump chose those words in his Easter message to describe the prosecutors and judges leading the criminal cases against him.  Plus: House Speaker Mike Johnson says he will allow a vote on desperately needed military aid for Ukraine. Could it cost him his gavel?  And President Biden may have a problem with the voting critical to his reelection: Black voters. We have new reporting on campaign plans to keep them in his corner in November.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First, how Georgia Senator Reverend Rafael Warnock balances his faith with public service. Then, Maryland Governor Wes Moore talks about how Baltimore is starting the recovery after last week’s catastrophic bridge collapse. House Speaker Mike Johnson faces growing urgency as the GOP is split over aid to Ukraine. NY Rep. Mike Lawler weighs in on the effort to oust Johnson. Plus, Dana and the panel discuss Trump’s “USA Bible” and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Trump keeps up his attacks in the NY judge in the New York hush money case and leans into violent language at upcoming events. Plus: The fight over the GOPs future spreads to contentious primaries. Biden responds to Gaza protesters and faces a protest votes in a key battleground state.  And: How Trump’s message is playing with Evangelical voters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This year’s presidential election may be a rematch, but President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump aren’t the only options. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is running as an independent, and just this week announced his pick for vice president. Kennedy has never held public office before, and yet, his message seems to appeal to an unexpectedly large audience. Lee Drutman, senior fellow in the political reform program at New American, joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to talk about Kennedy’s campaign and how he and other third-party candidates influence American politics.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: The Georgia election racketeering case against Donald Trump is back on. We'll bring you all the breaking details from the first hearing since a judge allowed Fulton County DA Fani Willis to continue spearheading the case, which the former president's legal team is trying to get dismissed.  Plus: Three presidents and a queen (Latifah) will attend an unprecedented fundraiser for President Biden tonight that's already brought in millions of dollars. But will those dollars translate into votes.  And: We pay tribute to Joe Lieberman with his former colleague and dear friend, Senator Susan Collins.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is a little different from the normal Axe Files. David sat down at Arizona State University with two legendary political strategists: Karl Rove, the architect of George W. Bush’s campaigns, and David Plouffe, David’s old partner and the brilliant manager behind the 2008 Barack Obama campaign. You can find their personal stories in past episodes of The Axe Files (Karl Rove episode #80, and David Plouffe episodes #43 and #418), but in this conversation, they talked about the Biden-Trump rematch, which they all agreed is the most unusual campaign of their lifetimes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Investigators are on the cargo ship that brought down the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, trying to figure out what went so tragically wrong.  Plus: Was the 2020 election stolen? Of course, there is zero evidence of that, but sources say it may be a litmus test for potential hires at the RNC.  And: Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Queen Latifah and Lizzo are all part of the Biden campaign's new push to get out the vote. What role will Joe's former boss play on the trail?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Continuing coverage of the catastrophic collapse of the Key Bridge in Baltimore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sarah Longwell always felt she could argue the big issues with her fellow Republicans and still have a place in the “big tent” party. That all changed with the emergence of Donald Trump, who espoused policies and politics Longwell could never accept. Instead of sulking over her lost party, Sarah got to work, trying to bridge the gap between the Republican party she knew and what it’s become. Longwell is publisher of the center-right publication, The Bulwark, and hosts podcasts, including “The Focus Group,” where she hears directly from Republican voters about their opinions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Moments before today's show began, we learned that a New York appeals court had reduced the bonds he must pay in a civil fraud case to $175 million and gave him more time to pay. That means he might have the cash to put up without having to sell any of his assets. Meanwhile, Trump was in a different courtroom today in the separate, criminal case involving porn star Stormy Daniels. Trump's legal team was chastised by the judge for accusing the Manhattan district attorney's office of prosecutorial misconduct without any evidence.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Upheaval in the GOP – House Speaker Mike Johnson is in danger of losing his position. Sources say Democrats are willing to save him if he outlines a pathway to providing aid for Ukraine, which has been stalled for months and badly divides the GOP.   While Congress just ended a saga over funding the US government, one that cost the previous Speaker his job in an unprecedented uprising last fall, the new Speaker is facing a similar revolt over the major deal he just cut with the White House to avoid a shutdown.   This opens up a new front in the internal GOP war that has defined the 118th Congress and could put Republicans razor thin majority in jeopardy in November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First, Jake speaks with New York’s Democrat Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez about Donald Trump and his deadline to post a $464M bond in a NY civil fraud case, Speaker Mike Johnson who is facing a new revolt from House Republicans after passing the Government Funding Bill and her calling on Joe Biden to cut off military aid to Israel.   Then, a one-on-one with Republican Congressman Chip Roy, who voted against the Government Funding Bill, to discuss his thoughts on what better deal Mike Johnson could have negotiated and whether he supports Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s motion to oust Mike Johnson as speaker.   Plus, Jake and the panel discuss the rift within the GOP House Republicans and the effects it is having on the House of Representatives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As today's show begins, Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has just filed a motion to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson just after the House passed a critical spending bill.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who would have thought that TikTok could quickly become an election issue? Last week, the U.S. House voted with bipartisan support in favor of a bill that could ban the popular app. The White House says President Joe Biden is prepared to sign it, but some strategists worry the move could alienate young voters. “This is one of the most scrambled, political situations that I think we have seen this cycle. It's truly bizarre,” says Forbes technology reporter Emily Baker-White. She joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to explain why lawmakers want to crack down on TikTok, and how the app is shaping this election cycle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: New fundraising numbers are out and Joe Biden is dominating the race for campaign cash. Meanwhile, former President Trump is asking his supporters to cough up donations for the half a billion dollars he needs by Monday. His pitch? "Keep your filthy hands off Trump Tower."  Plus: New reporting this hour about how more than a dozen people pardoned by Donald Trump are now helping the push to get him back to the White House.  And: Benjamin Netanyahu may be heading to Washington. Speaker Mike Johnson says he'll make the invitation official just hours after the Israeli prime minister spoke privately with House Republicans.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eight years ago, then-New Jersey Governor Chris Christie shook up the political world by dropping out of the race for president to endorse Donald Trump. Since the election of 2020 and the events that followed, including a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021, Christie has become one of Trump’s fiercest critics and unsuccessfully challenged him in this year’s primary elections. He talked with David about the arc of his journey from ally and advisor to outspoken foe. He discusses their ruptured relationship and offers fascinating insights into the now-thrice-nominated Trump and his capture of the Republican Party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: President Biden is in battleground Arizona today where he'll announce $20 billion in loans and grants for Intel to produce advanced computer chips, which could create thousands of new jobs.  Plus: CNN's Kaitlan Collins reports Trump world is in "panic mode" as he scrambles to find a half a billion dollars to cover the judgment against him in the New York fraud case.  And: A new survey shows Americans are much less happy than a year ago. What can we do about it? The author of "The Amen Effect" joins the show to help.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Joe Biden is heading west, kicking off a three-day campaign swing in Nevada and Arizona, battleground states that are critical to his path to reelection.  Plus: The power of a Donald Trump endorsement is being put to the test today in a high-stakes Republican primary in Ohio that could ultimately determine which party controls the US Senate.  And: Donald Trump is pushing a dangerous anti-semitic trope, claiming Jews who vote for Democrats "hate Israel."  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Former President Donald Trump must post nearly half a billion-dollar bond to cover the fraud judgment against him while he appeals it. But his lawyers say he can't find an insurance company to underwrite it for him.  Plus: President Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu talk for the first time in weeks. The conversation comes after the Israeli PM told Dana Bash that he doesn't need American politicians telling him what to do.  And: James Carville, the strategist behind some of the biggest political victories of the late 20th century, joins the show live.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Audie talks with journalists Amy Chozick and Abby Phillip about being a reporter on a presidential campaign bus. Amy is the creator and executive producer of the new Max dramedy “The Girls On The Bus,” which follows a group of four women on a fictional campaign trail. Amy covered Hillary Clinton’s campaigns for the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. CNN’s Abby Phillip was a consultant on the show, she is the host of NewsNight with Abby Phillip.  “The Girls On The Bus” is streaming on Max (which, like CNN, is part of Warner Brothers Discovery).   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Split screen, Trumps legal delays pay off while Joe Biden storms the battleground states. Plus: Primary fights, new reporting on the speakers attempts to reign in Republicans while Trump wades into key Senate races. And: Long shot, will Joe Manchin actually run again? A new reaction after Katie Britt’s widely panned response to the State of the Union address. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First, Dana interviews Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the negotiations for Israeli hostages held by Hamas and his response to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s call for “a new election” in Israel. Then, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joins Dana to respond to Netanyahu. They also discuss House Speaker Mike Johnson suggestion that he may allow a vote on a standalone bill for aid to Ukraine.   Next, Dana speaks with GOP Senator Mike Rounds about whether he will endorse Trump for President, as well as the House overwhelmingly passing a bill that could ban TikTok.   Plus, after a New York judge delayed Trump’s hush money trial until at least mid-April, Dana asks Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff about the possibility that none Trump's cases may go to trial before the election.   Finally, ahead of Ohio’s Senate Primary, Dana talks with Ohio’s Republican Governor Mike DeWine on his support for a different candidate than Donald Trump. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Disinformation is one the biggest challenges of modern politics – especially in campaigning. How can candidates spread their message if almost anyone can distort it? Journalist Sasha Issenberg’s new book “The Lie Detectives: In Search of a Playbook for Winning Elections in the Disinformation Age” dives deep into this topic. He joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to discuss what he's learned about the people fighting fake news, and whether there are ways of preventing it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: One nominee is talking to voters in a must-win swing state, while the other is inside a courtroom in a must-win criminal case.  Plus: "An obstacle to peace." That's how Chuck Schumer describes Benjamin Netanyahu, calling for new elections in Israel  And: Former Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin says if Congress forces TikTok's Chinese owner to sell, he wants in.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: A judge dismisses some of the charges against Donald Trump in the Georgia election case, including one related to that infamous call where Trump asked Georgia's secretary of state to find thousands of votes.  Plus: Joe Biden and Donald Trump officially clinch their party nominations, setting up the longest general election campaign in American history.  And: The House passes a bill that could effectively shut down TikTok. What will the Senate do?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that fertilized embryos should be treated as “extrauterine children,” they threw IVF procedures into the abortion rights fight. In his State of the Union speech, President Biden warned Republicans that they “have no clue about the power of women.” And Senator Katie Britt — from the state that has put IVF in peril — was chosen to give the Republican response. Audie talks with writer Ana Marie Cox about how this fight is guiding both parties in their attempt to draw women voters in this year’s presidential election.   Ana Marie Cox is the host of the podcast Getting Better with Ana Marie Cox.   Mentioned in our conversation: Voter Suppression Is the Anti-Abortion Movement’s Secret Sauce  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Both Joe Biden and Donald take their campaign pitches on the road, lobbing personal shots at each other in the same critical swing state.  Plus: New reporting on what Trump says about dictators like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un own behind closed doors.  And: Senator Bob Menendez was just arraigned again on new charges of bribery and extortion. So why is still sitting on a key senate committee?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Fired up, President Joe Biden hits the trail as he and former President Donald Trump speak in Georgia on Saturday.  Plus: Razor thin, we go one-on-one with the party leaders in charge of winning the House. Plus, with control of the Senate in the balance, we sit down with Kari Lake.  And: Spring forward, will Congress make Daylight Saving Time permanent?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First, Jake talks with Dem. Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock of Georgia about President Joe Biden and Donald Trump’s rallies in Georgia on Saturday. Georgia is a key battleground state for both men.   Then, Jake talks with Rep. Senator James Lankford on Biden’s State of the Union address and in particular the factual assertions he made about the failed bipartisan border deal. Lankford was one of the authors of that deal.   And, Jake has a one-on-one interview with the Democratic nominee for Governor of North Carolina, Attorney General Josh Stein, and gets his views on whether Democrats can win in “Purple State” North Carolina.   Plus, Jake and the panel discuss Senator Katie Britt’s State of the Union response and her use of a graphic sex trafficking story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: President Biden is headed to a crucial swing state as he looks to amplify his State of the Union message. We have new reporting on his campaign plans.  Plus: Donald Trump just posted a nearly $92 million bond in the E. Jean Carroll defamation case. Does he have enough left to pay that $454 million judgment in the New York fraud case?  And: Outraged TikTok users are bombarding lawmakers with calls after the House advanced a bill that could ban the app across the country.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Super Tuesday brought some excitement to this year’s election cycle, with a lot of consequential downballot races. House Republicans are hoping to keep their slight margin, where Democrats only need a net gain of four seats to regain control of the chamber. Senate Democrats, however, are facing an extremely tough map, with Republicans well positioned to win the majority.    Cook Political Report’s Erin Covey and Jess Taylor cover House and Senate campaigns, respectively, and join CNN Political Director David Chalian to talk about what’s heating up in this year’s Congressional races. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There are people in communities big and small around the country who dedicate their working lives to making sure that if you’re an eligible voter, you get to cast a ballot.   And their vital role in American democracy has gotten much harder in the last few years.  Audie talks with Defiance County, Ohio Board of Elections director Tonya Wichman and Pennsylvania’s Secretary of the Commonwealth, Al Schmidt, about how they have experienced increased scrutiny, how they built dealing with harassment into their day-to-day work, and why they still do the job as many others in the field – fed up with fear – have walked away.  Share your thoughts or questions with us – we'd love to hear from you! Text or leave a voicemail at 202-854-8802. We may use your note in a future episode of the show.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last week, David sat down with Arizona State University’s celebrated president, Michael Crow. During their discussion, the two talked about Crow's remarkable personal journey, ASU's pioneering model for the new American public university, which emphasizes inclusivity in admissions and academic excellence, as well as innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the 21st century. They also delved into ASU's deep commitment to addressing local and global challenges, highlighting the university's significant impact on Arizona and beyond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The two parties' choices, whether you like it or not, are Joe Biden and Donald Trump. The 2020 rematch is now effectively a done deal after Nikki Haley suspended her campaign. The question now is: where will Haley voters go? Both Biden and Trump are making a play for their support ... with very different strategies.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Americans in more than a dozen states across the country are casting their ballots. Their decisions could effectively end the primaries and all but hand the Republican nomination to Donald Trump for the third straight election.  Plus: Is this Nikki Haley's last stand? She's on the verge of mathematical elimination. So, what's her next move and where will her supporters land?  And: Four years ago, Joe Biden pulled off a staggering political comeback. This time, he's an incumbent president preparing for a rematch with monumental consequences.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a massive week in politics: The Supreme Court ruling on whether Trump can be on the Colorado ballot, Super Tuesday, and the State of the Union address. And swirling around these events are issues like IVF, immigration, and Israel – all roiling the national political debate. Audie talks with Kasie Hunt, host of CNN This Morning, about the state of the race in this crucial moment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just as the show began, we learned that the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that Donald Trump cannot be removed from any state's ballot because of his actions on January 6. The former president called the decision a "big win for America." CNN's Paula Reid begins our extensive coverage from Mar-A-Lago.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: A raft of new polling gives a snapshot of where the race for the White House stands, eight months before election day.  Plus: House Speaker Johnson is under pressure from all sides about what to do in Ukraine and the race to replace Mitch McConnell is taking place behind the scenes. Biden is at Camp David, planning his State of the Union address and ‘SNL’ had some fun with Inside Politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First, President Biden tried take on his vulnerabilities this week and flipped the script on immigration. Dana presses Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on executive border action.  Then, the Supreme Court announced it will arguments in April, over former president Trump’s claim of presidential immunity. Chair of the Judiciary Committee, Sen. Dick Durbin weighs in. Nikki Haley claims that Trump can’t beat Biden without the voters who are backing her. Sen. Markwayne Mullin offers his take. Plus, Dana and the panel discuss countdown to Super Tuesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: We focus on two critical hearings that could determine Donald Trump's future. Will the former president be on trial smack dab in the middle of the Republican convention?  Plus: Super Tuesday is just four days away. Dana talks to Nikki Haley about how she'll move forward if Donald Trump runs the table next week.  And: Voters in a pivotal swing state weigh in on whether Biden and Trump are both too old for the presidency.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former president Donald Trump and President Joe Biden won big at their respective Michigan primaries, as predicted. But the key swing state had some surprises in store, with about 100,000 people casting protest votes over Biden’s policies on the Israel/Gaza war. Michigan is a hub of Arab and Muslim Americans and could be crucial to winning the presidency. Ashely Allison, CEO of the Turner Conoly Group and former White House senior policy adviser, joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to talk about what the Biden campaign can do to keep these voters on his side. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: Joe Biden and Donald Trump both head to the southern border -- separately -- trying to go all in on immigration. But who has the best hand on what so many voters say is the most important problem facing this country?  Plus: Team Trump's delay tactic is getting a huge assist from the highest court in the land. Could their decision to hear the former president's immunity claim ultimately lead to a get out of jail free card?  And: Dozens are dead in Gaza after Israeli forces opened fire near a food aid truck.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last week, David sat down with Congressman Pete Aguilar of California, who serves as the chairman of the Democratic House Caucus and holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking Hispanic member in the U.S. House. They delved into Aguilar's remarkable personal journey, emblematic of the American dream, and addressed the gridlock gripping Congress, exacerbated by mounting crises concerning the budget, the border, and funding for Ukraine and Israel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: President Biden's son meets face-to-face with the Republicans trying to impeach his father. We bring you the latest from his crucial testimony, which could deliver a final blow to the GOP's fizzling investigation.  Plus: Republicans are rushing to publicly sayt hey support IVF. So why are they planning to block a Senate bill that would protect the procedure?  And: Dana talks to a top Biden campaign official about their plans to address the president's problems in the pivotal swing state of Michigan.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: The top four congressional leaders meet behind closed doors with President Biden, trying to hammer out a deal to avoid parts of the government shutting down this Friday. One Republican senator summed up negotiations as a "misery march."  Plus: It's primary day in Michigan and some Democrats are refusing to back President Biden for his support for Israel in its retaliatory war in Gaza.  And: Dana goes one-on-one with presidential candidate Cornel West.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, both President Biden and former president Trump will head to the US-Mexico border, underscoring just how central immigration policy has become to this year’s election. CNN’s Priscilla Alvarez covered immigration during the Trump administration and now covers the Biden White House. She and Audie talk about Biden and Trump at the border this week, and how Texas Governor Greg Abbott has successfully elevated the border issue by bussing over 100,000 undocumented migrants to northern cities as part of his “Operation Lone Star.” Read more from Priscilla and National Political Reporter Eric Bradner: Gov. Greg Abbott’s border tactics force Democrats to confront migrant crisis in their own backyards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First: A source tells CNN that President Biden will make a rare visit to the US-Mexico border on Thursday, the same day Donald Trump is heading to another Texas border town.  Plus: Four states, four Trump wins, but it's not all good news for the all-but-certain Republican nominee as the former president's double-digit win in Nikki Haley's home state also reveals some potential weaknesses in November.  And: In a CNN exclusive, my colleagues uncovered a secret Twitter account from the right-wing attorney behind the Trump fake electors plot. Hear for the first time what he tried to hide from investors.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First, Dana speaks with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to discuss congress blocking aid to Ukraine, Putin’s treatment of Navalny and the news that negotiators have agreed an outline of Israel-Hamas hostage deal. Then, Governor of Texas Greg Abbott dismisses speculation about Trump VP pick, weighs in on Alabama IVF ruling and is pressed on the border crisis. And, Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer talks about the potential Biden protest in Michigan, says that the Michigan primary is a ‘very high stakes moment’ and the IVF ruling shows that reproductive rights ‘still very much at risk’ if Trump wins. Plus, Dana and the panel discuss Trumps decisive win in North Carolina, home state of rival Nikki Haley. Is she still in the running? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices