2020 Politics War Room

James and Al celebrate Talarico’s win in Texas and share their excitement about the 2026 midterm elections, given the Democratic field's growing strength and Trump’s weakening support among Republicans.  Then, they welcome Senior Fellow for National Security Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, Max Boot, to discuss the war in Iran.  Together, they investigate the true reasons for the attack, the dangers posed by military intervention, the stability of the wider Middle East, and the effect on the MAGA movement and public opinion.  Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Max Boot: Twitter | Threads | Website | WaPo | CFR | Author  Please Support Our Sponsors: Quince: Upgrade your spring fashion and get 365-day returns and free shipping on high-quality, stylish, and affordable clothing you’ll wear for years to come when you go to quince.com/warroom.  Now available in Canada.

James and Al rip Trump’s State of the Union and analyze its impact and the effectiveness of the democratic response in the context of the approaching midterms.  Then, they welcome Oscar-nominated filmmaker Andrew Jarecki to explore his findings on corruption in the Alabama prison system and how to hold the government to account for its chronic mismanagement of our jails.  From there, they are joined by author Andrew Lownie to discuss Prince Andrew’s relationship with Epstein, its effect on the British Monarchy, and whether it will lead to increased transparency and reform to ensure its continued relevance going forward. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guests:  Andrew Jarecki: IMDB | The Alabama Solution Andrew Lownie: Twitter | Substack | Author of “Entitled: The Rise & Fall Of The House Of York” & more Please Support Our Sponsors: Miracle Made: Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to TryMiracle.com/warroom and use the code WARROOM to claim your FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF. Mint Mobile: Get unlimited premium wireless for just $15 per month at mintmobile.com/warroom Trust & Will: Get 20% off when you go to trustandwill.com/WARROOM DeleteMe: Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/warroom and use promo code WARROOM at checkout.

James and Al expose the latest developments from the Epstein Files and game out their political ramifications before welcoming Catherine Rampell, The Bulwark’s economics editor, and MS NOW Anchor, to review the state of the economy,  looking at why the effects of tariffs have been muted, financial strategies the Republicans might pursue, the danger posed by the national debt, and the perils of AI. Then SC Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews joins to plan her victory over Lindsey Graham.  They discuss her career in medicine, why she’s running, her policy positions, how to fix our healthcare system, and possible attack lines against her opponent.  Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from!  More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guests:  Catherine Rampell: Twitter | The Bulwark | Substack | Website Dr. Annie Andrews: Twitter | Act Blue | Campaign Website Please Support Our Sponsors: Superpower: Head to Superpower.com and use code WARROOM at checkout for $20 off your membership. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpod Smalls: For a limited time, get 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to Smalls.com/warroom Green Chef: Get 50% off delicious, quick, and nutritious meal kits during your 1st month, then 20% off for 2 months, all with free shipping when you go to greenchef.com/50warroom and use code 50WARROOM Ultra Pouches: Don’t sleep on @ultrapouches. New customers get 15% Off with code WARROOM at takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

James & Al are joined on the sofa by James Talarico as they discuss his campaign for the U.S. Senate from Texas, emphasizing the importance of grassroots support and addressing issues like healthcare and housing. He reflects on his political journey, the role of faith in his life, and the need for a Democratic Party that truly represents the people. Talarico also critiques the politicization of Christianity and advocates for a return to the core values of compassion and service. Chapters 00:00 James Talarico: The Rising Star of Texas Politics 00:10 Challenging the Status Quo in Texas 03:30 The Role of Faith in Politics 06:25 Legislative Achievements and Bipartisanship 10:52 The Teachings of Jesus and Political Responsibility 14:09 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Democratic Party

In this election-focused episode, James and Al welcome the President of the Brennan Center For Justice, Michael Waldman, to discuss the administration's attempts at voter suppression and its historical parallels.  They expose the myth of widespread voter fraud, explain the laws and constitutional framework that set up and protect our elections, and dissect the problems with the SAVE Act.  Then they lay out a plan to stop the steal in 2026, focusing on the media's role, voter mobilization, public awareness, and increasing civic engagement, before taking your questions. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Michael Waldman: Twitter | Brennan Center For Justice | Author Please Support Our Sponsors: Trust & Will: Get 20% off when you go to trustandwill.com/WARROOM 3 Day Blinds: For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to 3DayBlinds.com/WARROOM DeleteMe: Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/warroom and use promo code WARROOM at checkout. Miracle Made: Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to TryMiracle.com/warroom and use the code WARROOM to claim your FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF.

James Carville & Al Hunt are joined by super-lawyer Abbe Lowell, they discuss the current political climate, the differences in the Justice Department under the current administration, and the implications of prosecutorial overreach. He highlights the importance of due process, the role of subpoenas, and the unique challenges faced by lawyers today. They also delves into specific cases, such as that of John Bolton, to illustrate the political motivations behind certain prosecutions. The conversation emphasizes the need for legal representation and the historical context of prosecutorial power in the United States. Chapters 00:00 False Equivalency in Political Discourse 02:19 The Unprecedented Nature of the Current Justice Department 05:35 Subpoenas and Due Process: A Legal Perspective 08:21 Prosecutorial Overreach: Historical Context and Examples 11:10 The Case of John Bolton: Political Motivations in Prosecution 14:33 The Role of Lawyers in Protecting Rights 21:36 The Future of Legal Advocacy and Accountability

James Carville & Al Hunt are joined by Rep. Jason Crow to discuss the upcoming November Midterm elections, emphasizing the need for House Democrats to remain vigilant and proactive in their campaigns. They highlight the importance of recruiting candidates with diverse backgrounds, particularly veterans, who can bring real-world experience to politics. The conversation also touches on the critical role of accountability and oversight in Congress, especially in light of the current political climate. Chapters 00:00 The Political Landscape Ahead of November 02:53 Recruiting New Candidates for Change 06:00 The Role of Veterans in Politics 08:54 Accountability and Oversight in Congress

James Carville and Al hunt are joined on the sofa by Ruth Ben-Ghiat discussing the current landscape of education and authoritarianism, the characteristics of strongmen leaders, and the implications of fascism in modern politics. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the rule of law, the reactionary nature of fascism, and the global authoritarian landscape. The discussion also touches on the future of democracy, leadership, and the challenges of restoring trust and diplomacy in America. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Authoritarianism and Strong Men 02:54 The Nature of Strong Men and the Rule of Law 05:50 Fascism and Its Characteristics 09:16 The Reactionary Nature of Fascism 12:07 The Global Landscape of Authoritarianism 15:00 The Future of Democracy and Leadership 17:55 Restoring Trust in America and Its Institutions

James and Al unload on the Epstein scandal and the Republican response, emphasizing accountability and the role journalism plays in upholding our democracy.  Then, they are joined by Minnesota’s Attorney General, Keith Ellison, to demand the removal of ICE after the shooting of protesting citizens and multiple breaches of judicial rulings, discussing why he is leading a state investigation, his interactions with Tom Homan, and how the situation is affecting local politics. Afterwards, they welcome NFL expert Greg Cosell to analyze the upcoming Super Bowl and lay out the state of the game.  Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guests:  Greg Cosell: Twitter | NFL Films | The Install Podcast | YouTube | Co-Author of “The Game That Changed The Game” Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison: Twitter | Office Of The Minnesota Attorney General | Congress.gov | Website Please Support Our Sponsor: Quince: Upgrade your winter fashion and get 365-day returns and free shipping on high-quality, stylish, and affordable clothing you’ll wear for years to come when you go to quince.com/warroom.  Now available in Canada.

James & Al are joined by Mitch Landrieu and discuss the current state of American politics, emphasizing the importance of electability and the need for Democrats to reconnect with working-class voters. They explore the concept of sanctuary cities, the challenges facing law enforcement, and the impact of racism and immigration on society. Landrieu expresses optimism about local governance and the necessity of unity in politics to overcome division and foster a better future for all Americans. Chapters 00:00 The Political Landscape and Electability 02:55 Understanding the Working Class Voter 05:42 Sanctuary Cities and Law Enforcement 09:53 Racism and Immigration in America 13:47 Optimism in Local Governance 16:42 Divisiveness in American Politics

James & Al along with John Della Volpe discuss the shifting attitudes of young people towards political issues, particularly in light of recent events. They explore how younger generations perceive these issues on a personal level, the importance of listening to their voices, and the innovative use of AI in polling to gather real-time insights. The discussion highlights the need for political engagement that resonates with the personal experiences of young voters and the potential of new research methods to enhance understanding of public opinion. Chapters 00:00 Shifting Attitudes Among Young Voters 02:38 Understanding Young Independents' Perspectives 06:03 Innovative Research with Crowdvox 08:56 The Role of AI in Political Engagement 11:48 Lessons from Political Campaigns

James & Al explore the current political landscape as it pertains to the 2026 elections, focusing on the Democratic Party's strategies, key races, and the importance of effective messaging. The discussion highlights the differences between the political environment of 2018 and the present, emphasizing the need for inspirational candidates and a more inclusive approach to voter engagement. The speakers also analyze specific races in Pennsylvania and caution against common pitfalls in Democratic messaging. More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville

James and Al discuss the tragic killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis and the wider battle for the soul of the city and the nation, looking at the effect of the escalating situation on the midterms, the solidarity of the administration, and the likelihood of impeachment after a predicted Democratic sweep.  Then, they welcome POV International co-founder Annegrethe Rasmussen to break down the struggle for Greenland’s sovereignty, the role NATO has played in mediating the dispute, and the future of Danish-American relations.  They also dive into Danish culture and the historic ties between our nations. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Annegrethe Rasmussen: Twitter | POV International | LinkedIn | Author of “The Challenges Of The United States”  Please Support Our Sponsors: DeleteMe: Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/warroom and use promo code WARROOM at checkout. Miracle Made: Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to TryMiracle.com/warroom and use the code WARROOM to claim your FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF.

James and Al blast Trump for his increasingly crazy governance and game out the implications for the country, before taking a detour into the exciting turnaround of the championship-winning Hoosiers.  Then, they welcome Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi to discuss the administration's provocative and flailing attempt to control Greenland and the situation in Venezuela after the arrest of Maduro.  From there, they pivot to the chaotic operations of ICE, the dire need to reform our immigration system so that things don’t escalate further, and review what Congress is doing in the lead-up to midterms. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Rep. Raja Krisnamoorthi: Twitter | House.gov | Website  Please Support Our Sponsors: Mint Mobile: Quit overspending on wireless with 50% off Unlimited premium wireless.  Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/WARROOM Trust & Will: Get 20% off when you go to trustandwill.com /WARROOM Smalls: Smalls New Year’s Special -  get 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to Smalls.com/WARROOM Superpower: Head to Superpower.com and use code WARROOM at checkout for $20 off your membership. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpod

James and Al sound the alarm over Trump’s authoritarian tendencies, explore the repercussions of his war on the Federal Reserve and the DOJ, and break down the political dynamics in the Senate and at the state level while investigating whether Democratic candidates are ready to meet the moment.  Then, they welcome The Atlantic’s Franklin Foer to discuss the massive reductions in the federal workforce under Trump, the effects of losing their experience and expertise, the need for a functioning bureaucracy, and whether we are on the cusp of a resurgence of true patriotism. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Frank Foer: Twitter | The Atlantic | NewAmerica.org | The Purged | Author Please Support Our Sponsors: Green Chef: Get 50% off delicious, quick, and nutritious meal kits + FREE Graza Olive Oil Sets in your 2nd and 3rd boxes at greenchef.com/warroomgraza when you use code WARROOMGRAZA DeleteMe: Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/warroom and use promo code WARROOM at checkout. 3 Day Blinds: For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to 3DayBlinds.com/warroom Miracle Made: Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to TryMiracle.com/warroom and use the code WARROOM to claim your FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF.

Following the kidnapping of Maduro by our military, James and Al examine the role that oil and the court-ordered release of the Epstein Files played in Trump’s decision to intervene in Venezuela, how it will affect our politics, and if it’s the start of more aggressive behavior by the administration.  Then, they welcome the author of “Storm At The Capitol”, Mary Clare Jalonick, to discuss the lead-up to J6, Trump’s effect on the crowd and the power of a mob mentality, what actually happened that day, and its ongoing impact on our politics and democracy. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from!  More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube. James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Mary Clare Jalonick: Twitter | AP | Author of “Storm At The Capitol”   Please Support Our Sponsor: Quince: Upgrade your winter fashion and get 365-day returns and free shipping on high-quality, stylish, and affordable clothing you’ll wear for years to come when you go to quince.com/warroom

James and Al kick off the year by welcoming entertainment maven George Stevens Jr., financial wizard Roger Altman, and esteemed journalist Jill Abramson to reflect on the 1st year of Trump’s 2nd term and game out the year ahead.  They share their thoughts on the transformative impact of A.I., Trump’s declining popularity, the evolution of the entertainment industry in the streaming era, the power of the free press to hold the powerful accountable, the state of the economy, and what to expect in 2026, before taking your questions. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube @PoliticsWarRoomOfficial James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guests:  Professor Jill Abramson: Twitter | NYT | Northeastern University | Author   Roger Altman: Evercore | The Hamilton Project  George Stevens Jr.: Oscars.org | IMDB | George Stevens Academy  Please Support Our Recent Sponsors In Our Past Episode Show Notes

James and Al hype the growing exodus from Trump, tear into the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files, and lament the decline of journalism as represented by Bari Weiss at CBS.  Then, they welcome their wives, PBS superstar Judy Woodruff and famed political consultant Mary Matalin, to discuss the upcoming 250th anniversary of the USA, the need to live up to our founding principles, and the mood of people across the country.  Together, they answer your questions, celebrate the importance of family, and wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube @PoliticsWarRoomOfficial James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guests:  Mary Matalin: Website | Author   Judy Woodruff: Twitter | | America At A Crossroads | PBS | Instagram Please Support Our Recent Sponsors In Our Past Episode Show Notes

James and Al discuss Susie Wiles’ exposé of Trump’s administration in Vanity Fair, share their takes on her description of the people in it, MAGA’s growing schism, Rob Reiner’s legacy, and Trump’s reaction to his murder.  Then, they welcome Dr. James Densley of the Violence Prevention Project in the aftermath of mass shootings at Brown University and Bondi Beach to explain the growing gun violence epidemic, what motivates the people who carry out these heinous acts, the danger of rising anti-semitism, and the policies and leadership we need to put a stop to the killing. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube @PoliticsWarRoomOfficial James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  Dr. James Densley: Website | Metro State University | Hamline University | The Violence Prevention Project | Author Please Support Our Sponsors: Webroot: Protect yourself and your family from cybercrime this holiday season with 60% off Webroot Total Protection at webroot.com/WARROOM Quince: Upgrade your holiday fashion and get 365-day returns and free shipping on high-quality, stylish, and affordable clothing you’ll wear for years to come when you go to quince.com/warroom

James and Al celebrate the generational win in the Miami mayoral race, explain Trump’s rapid decline in popularity, and sound the alarm over corporate and foreign influence in entertainment and the broader economy.  Then they welcome polling legend John Della Volpe to discuss his findings from the Harvard Youth Poll, which shows that young people are increasingly disillusioned with politics, losing faith in capitalism, and fear for their futures in the age of AI.  Critically, they emphasize the need to re-engage these voters, give them hope, and get them to the polls. Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon.  Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you’re from! More from James and Al: Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon. Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube @PoliticsWarRoomOfficial James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room Substack Get updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarville Get More From This Week’s Guest:  John Della Volpe: Twitter | Harvard Institute of Politics | Website | Social Sphere | Substack | Author of “Fight” Please Support Our Sponsors: Miracle Made: Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to TryMiracle.com/warroom and use the code WARROOM to claim your FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF. Superpower: This holiday, give your loved ones the only gift that keeps on giving — health. Go to Superpower.com/gift to get a free $49 gift box with your gifted membership. Zbiotics: Go to https://zbiotics.com/PWR and use PWR at checkout for 15% off any first-time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Webroot: Protect yourself and your family from cybercrime this holiday season with 75% off Webroot Total Protection at webroot.com/WARROOM