CNN Political Briefing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. Find our new CNN Politics super-feed, here. 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

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

Former Virginia governor Terry McAuliffe is a major democratic fundraiser and a top cheerleader for President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign. He says support will coalesce around Biden once Trump is officially the nominee. He joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to talk about selling voters on Biden and what it’s like inside the Democratic party right now.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s been a huge week for immigration politics with the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Tom Suozzi’s special election win, and the failure of a big border bill. What does it all mean, both for voters and for the presidential candidates? CNN White House reporter Priscilla Alvarez and CNN Political Director David Chalian untangle the meaning and impact of recent events on today’s episode of the podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week the Supreme Court heard a landmark case about whether former president and current Republican front-runner Donald Trump should be allowed on the ballot this year. The state of Colorado argued that his role in the January 6, 2021 insurrection makes him ineligible, but Trump’s lawyers attempted to convince the court that one state cannot disqualify a presidential candidate under the 14th amendment to the Constitution. CNN Senior Supreme Court analyst Joan Biskupic untangles this complicated legal issue with CNN Political Director David Chalian.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's hard to know who to trust in politics these days. Can we even trust ourselves? Artificial intelligence has already made its presence felt in this year’s election, from AI-generated ads to fake Biden robocalls, and it can be very hard to tell what’s real. Nicole Gill founded Accountable Tech four years ago to monitor AI’s increasing impact on politics. She talks to CNN Political Director David Chalian about the biggest threats it presents, and how lawmakers are responding in real time.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden has been the likely Democratic presidential nominee since he announced his decision to run for reelection. So why are Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips and spiritual leader Marianne Williamson running against him? Has a challenger ever beaten an incumbent? Writer and political scientist Walter Shapiro joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to talk about historical similarities, and how quickly this election became a Trump vs. Biden rematch.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley is hoping for a big momentum boost in New Hampshire after placing third in Iowa. Former President Donald Trump is turning up the intensity of his attacks on Haley in hopes of countering the momentum she seeks. Can Haley slow Trump’s roll to the nomination? Post and Courier senior politics reporter Caitlin Byrd talks to CNN Political Director David Chalian about how Haley’s background influenced the candidate she is today, and what might be next for her campaign.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it take to organize the Iowa caucuses? Could former president Donald Trump achieve a record-breaking win? Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann has been doing this for over a decade and knows to prepare for every possibility. He talks to CNN Political Director David Chalian about training thousands of volunteers for Monday’s big event and how there can be “no questioning of these results.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If election workers find their system has been hacked, what happens next? What does it mean to cure a ballot? And how will a crop of newcomers to the administration of elections handle this contentious election season? Jessica Huseman is editorial director of Votebeat and she’s here to discuss the efforts underway to protect the 2024 election and some of the new tools that will help this cycle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What will it take to win the youth vote in 2024? John Della Volpe, director of polling at the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics, recently led a survey of voters between the ages of 18 and 29. He discovered that fewer of them are planning on voting this time than in the last election cycle. CNN Political Director David Chalian talks to him about other surprising finds, and how this year’s candidates might persuade young people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie isn’t sure if he’d be running for president if it weren’t for Donald Trump’s attempt to win back the White House. He says he is the only candidate who can beat Trump because he is the only candidate trying to do so. Christie joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to analyze the 2024 state of play and lay out his strategy for victory. Is there a guest you really want to hear from? Give us a call at (301) 842-8338 or send us an email at cnnpoliticalbriefing@gmail.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A recent New York Times focus group of 12 Democrats found voters were split on what the party stands for, and who their next leader should be. What is the value of this kind of data? And what do these results tell us about President Biden’s efforts to unify his party behind his reelection campaign? CNN Political Director David Chalian asks Margie Omero, a veteran pollster who moderated the focus group, for her take. Plus, she pulls back the curtain behind how focus groups work.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN Political Briefing is off for Thanksgiving this week, so we are sharing an episode of The Assignment with Audie Cornish. In this episode, David Chalian and Audie Cornish talk about covering this tumultuous political moment, the role of the media as truth tellers, and David’s surprising college major. We’ll be back next week with a new episode. In the meantime, you can find The Assignment wherever you get your podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The date of the New Hampshire primary has been set for January 23, 2024. Former President Donald Trump is still leading by a wide margin among likely Republican primary voters in the Granite State and Nikki Haley has risen into second place. In the Democratic contest, President Biden is not on the ballot, but his allies are mounting a write-in campaign to avoid embarrassment at the polls. CNN Political Director David Chalian talks with former New Hampshire attorney general Republican Tom Rath about how seriously his state takes its role in the primary process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a big week in US politics as voters in some states took to the polls. What do the results mean for Democrats and Republicans? Meanwhile in Miami, five Republican presidential candidates took to the debate stage while the frontrunner held a rally nearby. Do any of them have a shot at beating former president Donald Trump? Washington Post Chief Correspondent Dan Balz joins CNN Political Director David Chalian to talk about the week’s big events, plus some renewed Democratic concerns about President Joe Biden seeking a second term. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Voters are supposed to pick their politicians, but thanks to redistricting, some politicians are picking their voters. There are currently almost a dozen states embroiled in legislative fights over what can be a powerful political tool. With up to 18 seats in contention, the results could affect which party controls the House of Representatives next year. Nick Seabrook, author and professor of political science and public administration at the University of North Florida, talks to CNN Political Director David Chalian about who might benefit from which outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The number of third-party candidates in the 2024 presidential election is growing. And while independent candidates traditionally haven’t gained enough votes to win, this year, strategists say they could have significant impact, including siphoning votes in an already tight race. CNN’s Political Director David Chalian talks with Matt Bennett, the executive vice president for public affairs at Third Way, and a vocal opponent of third-party efforts in the 2024 race. Bennet explains why he’s been so outspoken against a nonprofit group called No Labels, which is actively seeking ballot access to potentially run a bipartisan and centrist ticket opposed to both Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After ousting their own majority leader, Republicans in the House of Representatives have been unable to elect a new speaker. This week it was Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan’s turn to try unsuccessfully to rally his party behind him. Meanwhile on the other side of the aisle, Democrats are waiting to see if they’ll be approached for a bipartisan deal. House Democratic campaign chief Congresswoman Suzan DelBene tells CNN Political Director David Chalian that her party plans to make the current House chaos a part of its campaign to win back the majority next year. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re less than 100 days away from one of the first big voting events of the 2024 election: the Iowa caucuses. Election season is in full swing in a state that’s once again set up to be a focal point in the next presidential race. CNN Political Director David Chalian takes us inside what’s happening on the ground in the Hawkeye state with O. Kay Henderson, News Director of Radio Iowa. Henderson explains why seasoned experts and operatives say, this year, the stakes for the caucuses are even higher than normal.  To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The outcome of a race is ultimately up to voters to decide. And while polls aren’t always perfect, they can be helpful to gauge support for a candidate and inform decisions for a campaign. CNN Political Director David Chalian sits down with prominent Republican pollster Neil Newhouse to discuss the state of the GOP presidential primary, what it’s like to be a lead pollster for a presidential campaign, and how he’s adjusted for challenges the polling industry is facing. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There were fewer Republican presidential candidates on the debate stage this week. The front runner, former President Donald Trump, was noticeably absent, while Governor Asa Hutchinson failed to qualify. CNN Political Director David Chalian asks Hutchinson how he plans to regain ground in the race, what made him run for president, and how his former losses inform his current campaign. Plus, Hutchinson shares what life is like on the campaign trail and when he first met former President (and fellow Arkansan) Bill Clinton. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Starting this week our show will be moving from daily to weekly, with new episodes dropping every Friday. As we gear up for yet another pivotal election cycle, we want to take you beyond the daily headlines to bring you insight, analysis, and expertise from the key players in politics. Join CNN Political Director David Chalian each week as he guides you through our ever-changing political landscape. From conversations with campaign managers, to pollsters, to party leaders, and political reporters on the ground in the key states – we’ll be pulling back the curtain and taking you inside the political arena, as you hear from the people actually living it.  And we want to hear from you! Is there a question about this election cycle that you want answered? Is there a guest you’d want to hear from? Give us a call at 301-842-8338 or send us an email at cnnpoliticalbriefing@gmail.com and you might just be featured in a future episode of the podcast.  To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The House and Senate are out until next Tuesday, as the likelihood of a government shutdown grows by the day. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down where each chamber stands on a bill that would fund the government before it runs out of money on September 30th. Plus, quick reminder: starting next Friday, September 29, our show will be moving from daily to weekly. Join David every Friday as he takes you inside the latest election developments from the people actually living it, from campaign managers to pollsters to local political reporters. Thanks for listening! To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump still has a strong lead in the Republican presidential primary contest, but a new CNN poll shows the race for second place in New Hampshire is tight. CNN Political Director David Chalian checks in on how candidates are faring in early states, and how some view the frontrunner’s first term and his comments on abortion. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

House Republicans put Attorney General Merrick Garland in the hot seat for how the Justice Department has handled probes into Hunter Biden and former President Donald Trump. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how Garland responded to Republicans’ repeated accusations of political bias. Plus, some lawmakers are working on a potential plan B to fund the government and avoid a shutdown before the end of next week. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden previewed his reelection stump speech while in New York this week, while former President Donald Trump is straddling the primary and the general. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how Biden is approaching key challenges in a new way, and what Trump’s plan to skip the next GOP debate says about his 2024 calculus. Plus, evangelical voters in Iowa have mixed feelings towards Trump that could complicate his path to the nomination. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Despite many conservatives speaking out against it, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is not ready to give up on a GOP deal that would fund the government before it runs out of money by the end of the month. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the tricky situation McCarthy is in. Even if this short-term spending bill did pass through the House, it doesn’t include key aspects the White House and Senate want. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week has been a tricky one for President Joe Biden. He’s dealing with a labor crisis, his son’s legal issues, an impeachment inquiry, and the threat of a potential government shutdown. CNN Congressional Correspondent Jessica Dean breaks down each challenge, including one issue voters have with him that he can’t fix. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Criminal charges, an impeachment inquiry, competing visions for America’s future – today’s political headlines give us a taste of what a rematch between President Joe Biden and Donald Trump could look like. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down charges against the President’s son, the latest on the impeachment inquiry into Biden, and where the former president’s legal troubles stand. Both 2024 candidates believe their economic policies are best for the country, despite how different they are. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The White House goes on offense after House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the administration’s response so far, and how McCarthy’s justifying the inquiry without a floor vote. Some Republican leaders thought the inquiry would appease House conservatives enough to pass a spending bill, but that doesn’t appear to be the case. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he’s directing House committees to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden without uncovering any direct evidence yet of wrongdoing. CNN Political Director breaks down what this move means, how McCarthy arrived here, and why he’s under political pressure to do so. This is happening as lawmakers are trying to pass a spending bill to avoid a government shutdown by the end of the month. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden marked 22 years since the September 11th terror attacks with remarks at a military base in Alaska after his multi-day trip across Asia. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how US leaders are paying their respects, and how President Biden’s trip to India and Vietnam went. Biden’s team believes these types of foreign trips show the president has the stamina for a second term in the face of poor poll numbers. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We now have the Georgia special grand jury’s report on its investigation into former President Donald Trump and his allies’ efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The report helped inform District Attorney Fani Willis’ charging decisions. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the main takeaways from the report, such as key people Willis decided not to charge. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new CNN poll shows persistent problems for President Joe Biden and his reelection bid. CNN Congressional Correspondent Jessica Dean breaks down how Biden’s numbers are down essentially across the board, and how his son’s legal issues are complicating things. We'll also tell you what polling suggests a Biden-Trump rematch would look like. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, cameras captured the first hearing inside a Georgia courtroom for the state’s election subversion case against former President Donald Trump and 18 other defendants. CNN Congressional Correspondent Jessica Dean breaks down highlights from the hearing, and how long prosecutors think the trial will last. Judges are expected to rule on key questions raised by some co-defendants soon, which could impact the trajectory of the case. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new CNN/SSRS poll shows former President Donald Trump is in a league of his own for the Republican presidential nomination, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis falling even farther behind him. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how Republicans view Trump’s candidacy and legal troubles. Several of Trump’s competitors who are seeking to gain traction in this race hit the campaign trail in New Hampshire this Labor Day week as the contest becomes more engaged. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty in his latest legal case out of Georgia. Meanwhile, Trump is trying to distance himself legally and financially from his 18 co-defendants, some of whom are turning to crowdfunding to pay steep legal bills. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the latest out of Georgia, and what Trump’s fellow Republicans are saying. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The attending physician at the US Capitol said McConnell is “medically clear,” after apparently freezing yesterday in Kentucky. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why this incident may be reinforcing what Americans are already thinking about when it comes to powerful leaders in Washington. President Joe Biden faces similar questions about his age from voters that prompts the White House to push back on the notion he can’t serve a second term. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and President Joe Biden have put their political differences and 2024 rivalry aside to address the impact of Hurricane Idalia. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the state and federal responses so far, and explains the twofold mission leaders have in moments like this. Biden also addressed the continued federal response to the Maui wildfires today, after being criticized for it. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, the Biden administration announced the 10 drugs that Medicare will be able to negotiate prices for – a key provision in the Inflation Reduction Act President Joe Biden signed into law last year. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down what this process will look like, and why you’ll hear a lot about it on the campaign trail. Plus, a new poll out shows what vulnerabilities both Biden and Donald Trump have. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There were two key hearings today in Washington DC and Atlanta that’ll chart the next phase of the federal and state criminal cases against former President Donald Trump. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how Trump’s political and legal calendar is getting more complicated. A federal judge set a trial date for the federal 2020 election subversion case, while Trump’s former chief of staff took the stand today in a hearing related to the Georgia case. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

All of the 19 defendants have surrendered to the Fulton County jail in Georgia after being booked and charged in the state's 2020 election subversion case, including former President Donald Trump. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how Trump's 20 minute booking process will go down in history. Plus, a new poll of GOP debate watchers shows which candidates made impressions on them with their performances. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump is turning himself in at the Fulton County jail in Georgia today after being criminally charged in the state’s 2020 election subversion case. CNN Correspondent Kristen Holmes breaks down what to expect, and how he’s reacting to all the charges he faces in four cases. Plus, CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down key highlights from the first Republican presidential primary debate that Trump skipped out on. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eight Republican presidential candidates can take the stage in Milwaukee for the first 2024 primary debate. But frontrunner Donald Trump won’t be there, and an injury almost made Governor Doug Burgum miss it too. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down what to look out for tonight, and explains why it’ll be difficult for the candidates to break out in this race. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some of the 19 defendants in the election subversion case in Georgia started to turn themselves in at the Fulton County jail. CNN Correspondent Kristen Holmes breaks down who the first two were, and other developments in this case, including when former President Trump says he plans to surrender. This is happening on the eve of the first Republican presidential primary debate that Trump said he’s skipping. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sources tell CNN former President Donald Trump has already taped the interview with Tucker Carlson that’s expected to be used as counterprogramming for the first Republican primary debate on Wednesday. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why Trump decided to skip the debate, and how the other candidates are reacting to his absence. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump is planning to sit down for an interview instead of showing up to the first Republican presidential primary debate next week. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how the other candidates have been preparing for a debate with – and without – Trump. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump’s legal troubles dominate the 2024 presidential race. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down what recent polling says about the American political landscape, as a former president’s been indicted four times and a 2020 rematch is very possible. Plus, he explains the threats a federal judge in DC and Georgia jurors are facing in cases involving Trump, and where Trump and his team stand on his primary debate attendance next week. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, President Joe Biden celebrated the one-year anniversary of signing the Inflation Reduction Act into law and touting it as a key piece to ‘Bidenomics.’ CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the challenges the president has to convince Americans to reelect him for his handling of the economy. President Biden is trying to sell his economic policy agenda, while duty calls in Hawaii and his predecessor’s legal woes take up a lot of oxygen in the 2024 race. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump now faces 91 charges from four separate indictments. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the latest indictment against Trump and others from Fulton County, Georgia for their alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election in the state. Plus, listen to hear how Trump’s current – and former – presidential rivals think of the latest charges. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Republican presidential candidates descended on the Iowa State Fair this weekend for stump speeches and fair food. Former Vice President Donald Trump flew over in his private plane while rival Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was flipping pork chops, and Vivek Ramaswamy rapped a few bars of Eminem. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the highlights from the Iowa State Fair. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Iowa State Fair has kicked off, and Republican candidates are vying for face time with voters in a presidential race dominated by Donald Trump. Former Vice President Mike Pence and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum both played up their Midwestern credentials, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is aiming to stump across all of Iowa’s 99 counties. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down what to expect this weekend. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Federal prosecutors have asked for an early January trial date in one of former President Donald Trump’s legal cases, as a co-defendant pleads not guilty in another. Trump now faces so many current and potential charges, it could make trouble for arranging court dates. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down today’s developments, and what we could see in a potential fourth indictment next week. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden visits Arizona, Utah and New Mexico this week, as the West - and the world - reels from extreme heat. But are voters buying Biden’s climate message? A new poll says otherwise, as the president catches flak for not declaring climate change a national emergency. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down Biden’s latest campaign push, and how younger, climate-minded voters are reacting. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ohioans are headed to the polls today in a special election that has major implications for the state’s abortion rights. And out today, a new national CNN poll shows voters’ feelings haven’t cooled since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade more than a year ago. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the latest numbers. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump and his legal team are trying to stall and discredit his latest legal case, as his rivals for the Republican presidential nomination show they’re more willing to use it to their advantage. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the latest from former Vice President Mike Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Trump’s own lawyer. Plus, a surprising acknowledgment from DeSantis. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump is complaining about the time and cost of his legal issues, a day after pleading not guilty to charges related to his alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how Republicans are reacting to Trump’s arraignment this week. Plus, a new poll provides some insight on how Americans view the latest charges against the former president. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty to four federal charges related to his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election today. He was arrested in the same courthouse that has hosted court proceedings for more than 1,000 Capitol rioters who have been charged for breaching the Capitol. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the charges against Trump, and how other Republicans are reacting to the arraignment. The judge scheduled the next hearing in the case for August 28th.   To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow, after being indicted by a grand jury in the special counsel’s investigation into attempts to overturn the 2020 election. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the charges against Trump, and how his legal team is expected to respond. Plus, today former Vice President Mike Pence defended his actions on January 6th after the indictment revealed new details about Trump’s alleged efforts to convince him to reject the election results. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is trailing behind Donald Trump in the polls. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down DeSantis’ latest strategy for dealing with Trump and other obstacles his campaign is facing. On the campaign trail this week, DeSantis unveiled his economic plan for the country and doubled down on Florida's new controversial education standards. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Special Counsel Jack Smith has expanded his classified documents case against former President Donald Trump. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down new developments in the case, as well as where the investigation into Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia stands. Plus, new reporting indicates that all of this legal trouble has been pretty pricey for the Trump campaign, but doesn’t seem to be hurting his poll numbers. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump is in Iowa today with other Republican presidential hopefuls, as he faces new charges in special counsel Jack Smith’s classified documents probe. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the superseding indictment, and why his legal troubles don’t stop there. CNN Political Correspondent Sara Murray joins us to discuss what the Fulton County District Attorney could be focused on in her probe into Trump and his allies’ post-election conduct. For more of her reporting, tune in to her episode of “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper” airing this Sunday, July 30 at 8pm eastern on CNN. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Trump’s legal team met with special counsel Jack Smith today, as the possibility of a third indictment against the former president looms. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down two key meetings that took place today in the special counsel’s election interference probe. Plus, some Republicans weigh in on what a possible third indictment against Trump would mean for him politically. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hunter Biden’s plea deal is on hold after a dramatic court hearing today, while House Republicans ramp up impeachment talk against President Joe Biden. CNN Capitol Hill Reporter Melanie Zanona explains the judge’s reasoning for questioning the plea deal, and how some Republicans feel this gives the probes into Biden and his family some legs. Meanwhile, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is warming up to the idea of launching an impeachment inquiry into the president, but Republicans have failed to provide evidence linked him to any alleged wrongdoing. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden is drawing a contrast with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over race and education. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the new national monument Biden created today, as Florida is the latest state to issue new guidelines that restrict how race and Black history are taught. DeSantis stands by the state’s initiative, while some in his party criticize the move. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Justice Department is suing Texas to force the state to remove floating barriers in the Rio Grande meant to deter migrants, after Governor Greg Abbott said today he wouldn't. CNN White House Reporter Priscilla Alvarez explains the legal arguments being made by both sides. Plus, the Biden administration believes its new immigration policies are effective in the wake of Title 42 ending. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump is going to have to juggle being on the campaign trail with being in the courtroom in the coming months. CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent Jeff Zeleny compares Trump’s upcoming trials with the GOP presidential primary calendar. Plus, he breaks down the latest on the investigations into the former president, including a possible trial date for the classified documents case.  To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The federal grand jury looking at the special counsel’s investigation into what led up to January 6th is meeting today, as the potential for a third indictment against Donald Trump looms. CNN Correspondent Kristen Holmes breaks down what the grand jury could be up to, and what charges Trump could be facing. Plus, House Republican leadership is throwing cold water on the idea of expunging Trump’s two impeachments. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Trump’s team is trying to figure out what evidence the special counsel has against the former president in the 2020 election aftermath probe, as he expects to be indicted for a third time. CNN Correspondent Kristen Holmes breaks down Trump’s response and strategy, while most House Republicans stand with him so far. Plus, two IRS whistleblowers are testifying before the House Oversight Committee with allegations against the Justice Department for how it handled the Hunter Biden case. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President Donald Trump says he’s been informed by special counsel Jack Smith that he’s a target in the investigation into the aftermath of the 2020 election. CNN Congressional Correspondent Jessica Dean explains what this could mean for Trump, while a key hearing took place in the separate classified documents probe. Plus, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis responds to his 2024 opponent’s legal trouble in an exclusive interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other Republican presidential candidates are at an evangelical event in Virginia today. CNN National Correspondent Kristen Holmes breaks down DeSantis’ speech and how he’s been responding to recent criticism about his campaign. Plus, Democrats are worried Senator Joe Manchin may be considering a third-party presidential run. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many Republican presidential candidates are in Iowa today for a summit thrown by an influential evangelical leader. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the significance of this event, which is happening on the same day the Republican governor signed a 6-week abortion ban into law. Plus, President Joe Biden’s latest fundraising numbers don't seem to be helping some Democrats’ anxiety over the slow start of his campaign thus far. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama and Defense Secretary Llyod Austin spoke today about Tuberville’s hold on military nominations over the department’s reproductive health policies. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the senator’s position – one President Joe Biden called “ridiculous.” Plus, House Republicans are addressing the same matter in a critical defense policy bill. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The House Judiciary Committee heard testimony from FBI Director Christopher Wray. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down key moments from the hearing, and what it may (or may not) accomplish. Republicans attacked the agency for playing politics on a number of issues, while Democrats labeled the hearing itself as political. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues, President Joe Biden attends a high stakes NATO summit in Lithuania. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains NATO’s efforts to help Ukraine join the alliance, but the White House says it won’t happen until after the war is over. Plus, Turkey has agreed to back Sweden’s bid to join NATO in a major win for the alliance. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The House Freedom Caucus is still finding its way in a McCarthy-led House in a post-Trump Washington. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how the group of conservative Republicans struggles at times to stay on the same page when it comes to policy, strategy, and presidential endorsements. The caucus even voted to oust one of its members with high name recognition: Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.  To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New CNN reporting indicates special counsel Jack Smith may be close to deciding charges in another probe involving former President Donald Trump. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down what prosecutors are focusing on as they investigate Trump and his allies’ efforts to overturn the 2020 election. This, as Trump campaigned in Iowa today and attacked his top GOP rival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The holiday week has been stacked with 2024 candidate events, new political ads, and fresh fundraising numbers. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the drama over loyalty pledges, which require GOP candidates to support the eventual nominee if they want to be on the ballot in Florida or participate in the RNC’s first primary debate. Plus, will former President Donald Trump even show up to the debate? To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some Republicans running for the presidential nomination hit the campaign trail hard over the holiday, except for the frontrunner. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how former President Donald Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and former Vice President Mike Pence spent the last few days, and what that says about the primary race so far. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the final day of its term, the Supreme Court issued two, monumental 6-3 decisions that strikes down student debt relief and limits LGBTQ protections. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down each opinion, and what President Joe Biden plans to do in response. Republicans are celebrating the rulings today, as the high court leans even more to the right. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a landmark 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court ruled that race can no longer be a consideration for colleges and universities, upending decades of precedent that benefitted Black and Latino students. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains the nuances of the majority opinion, the fiery dissent, and what the Biden administration plans to do next. Plus, will this ruling have the same impact on the 2024 race as the Dobbs decision did last time around? To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The White House is embracing the term ‘Bidenomics’ to try to rebrand President Joe Biden’s economic record and policy vision under one term. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down Biden’s big speech in Chicago — and the latest poll numbers and political headwinds on the economy — as the president seeks a second term. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN was the first to obtain a 2021 audio recording where former President Donald Trump seemed to admit he had a secret Pentagon document, and appeared to show it off to people in the room. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the legal and political implications for Trump, as he hits the 2024 campaign trail in New Hampshire. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Biden said today the US and its closest allies had nothing to do with a mercenary group’s insurrection attempt in Russia on Saturday. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains more on how the West, Russia, and Ukraine are responding to the Wagner Group’s rebellion in Russia. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tomorrow is the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court decision to overturn the constitutional right to abortion. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how both Democrats and Republicans in the 2024 presidential race are marking the occasion. The Biden-Harris campaign believes abortion rights will be a motivating issue for voters, while some Republicans struggle to navigate. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden rolled out the red carpet for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the trade-offs the president had to make in order to strengthen ties with India in the face of growing US-China tension. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Joe Biden prompted fierce backlash from Beijing when he referred to his Chinese counterpart as a “dictator.” CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why the comments caught some US officials off guard at a time when US-China relations are tense. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hunter Biden will plead guilty to two federal tax charges and struck a deal with prosecutors to resolve a gun charge. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains why the ongoing investigation into Hunter Biden and the federal charges Donald Trump’s facing will be front and center for Republicans on Capitol Hill and in the 2024 race. Plus, a new CNN poll shows the former president’s support among Republicans appears to have softened a bit since he pleaded not guilty to 37 felony charges related to his handling of classified documents. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Supreme Court has a few weeks left of yet another consequential term. CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent Jeff Zeleny and CNN Senior Supreme Court Analyst Joan Biskupic break down the cases before the high court that could have far-reaching implications for Americans, from affirmative action to student debt relief. What do recent decisions say about where the conservative majority court is at? To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There are now 11 Republicans running for president, after Miami Mayor Francis Suarez made his bid official today. CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent Jeff Zeleny explains the challenges candidates face ahead of the first primary debates, and why President Joe Biden is kicking his reelection campaign into a higher gear. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Expect to see former President Donald Trump try to spin what goes on in courtrooms on the 2024 campaign trail. CNN Chief National Affair Correspondent Jeff Zeleny explains what the Trump campaign playbook will likely be, after pleading not guilty to state and federal charges. Plus, we fact check many of the false and misleading claims Trump has made about the charges he faces in the classified documents case. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices