Letters from an American

Letters from an American

Heather Cox Richardson

26 episodes

Episodes

Bad News Plagues the Administration
Sep 27, 2026 · 12m
This episode of Letters from an American, read by Michael Moss, covers Trump's escalating war on the free press, including banning CNN from Air Force One and attacking media outlets.
Trump Isn’t Taking the News Well
Sep 17, 2026 · 13m
This episode covers the legal battle over the Kennedy Center's name, Trump's feud with Rep.
In a Nutshell
Sep 6, 2026 · 12m
This episode covers Judge Talwani blocking Trump's USPS mail-screening plan and the administration's push for a D.
Labor Day
Sep 5, 2026 · 7m
This episode recounts the 1882 New York City Labor Day parade, highlighting how workers organized to demand an eight-hour day and political recognition amid rising industrial inequality.
What Will the Midterms Bring?
Sep 4, 2026 · 9m
Heather Cox Richardson analyzes the Trump administration's push to use the USPS to gatekeep mail-in ballots, a move blocked by a federal judge and challenged at the Supreme Court.
Nothing You Can Do Can Stop Us
Sep 3, 2026 · 11m
Michael Moss reads a letter from Heather Cox Richardson analyzing the 2026 midterm election shifts.
A Betrayal of Our Constitution
Sep 2, 2026 · 10m
This episode covers the Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling allowing Trump's White House ballroom construction to proceed, noting Chief Justice Roberts' dissent that the project is likely unlawful.
Military Leadership is Concerned
Sep 1, 2026 · 10m
Military leaders warn Defense Secretary Hegseth that sustained Iran operations are weakening U.
Truth Telling
Aug 31, 2026 · 12m
Heather Cox Richardson opens by debunking the George Washington cherry tree myth to frame a discussion on political truthfulness.
The Right to Run for Office
Aug 30, 2026 · 10m
This episode examines Republican efforts to bar naturalized and dual citizens from holding office, framing the move as a modern echo of 19th-century anti-immigrant sentiment.
The Need to Defend the Vote
Aug 29, 2026 · 12m
This episode contrasts the 1963 March on Washington’s focus on economic justice with the 2026 "Defend the Vote" rally, highlighting the erosion of civil rights protections.
The Stench of Corruption
Aug 28, 2026 · 16m
This episode covers RFK Jr.
Dolly
Aug 27, 2026 · 15m
This episode of "Letters from an American" commemorates the life of Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25, 2026, at age 80.
Performative Nonsense
Aug 27, 2026 · 11m
This episode covers the escalating U.
Untrustworthy
Aug 25, 2026 · 16m
Heather Cox Richardson analyzes Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to walk away from U.
You Are Not Alone
Aug 23, 2026 · 12m
This episode critiques Senator Darlene Graham’s lack of foreign policy knowledge and the Republican Party’s reliance on Trump’s personal brand over substantive platforms.
Do We Value an Educated Community?
Aug 22, 2026 · 14m
This episode traces the history of educational exclusion in America, beginning with post-Nat Turner laws banning Black literacy and linking them to modern school voucher programs.
Hidden Cuts to Health Care
Aug 21, 2026 · 12m
Heather Cox Richardson analyzes how Republican efforts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid have left millions uninsured and threaten rural hospitals.
Trying to Change the Narrative
Aug 20, 2026 · 14m
This episode analyzes the Republican backlash against Senator John Ossoff’s comments regarding Trump’s aide Natalie Harp, noting how the manufactured…
Fighting for the Right to Vote
Aug 19, 2026 · 11m
This episode recounts the ratification of the 19th Amendment on August 18, 1920, highlighting the pivotal vote by Tennessee legislator Harry T.
This is What the Commander in Chief is Doing
Aug 18, 2026 · 12m
This episode critiques President Trump's weekend social media posts, which falsely claim credit for prescription drug price drops and depict a "steel wall" blockade of Iran.
The Yukon Gold Rush
Aug 17, 2026 · 12m
This episode explores the 1896 Klondike Gold Rush, sparked by a discovery on Bonanza Creek that drew thousands of "Stampeders" to the Yukon.
In Shambles
Aug 16, 2026 · 12m
Heather Cox Richardson discusses Todd Blanche’s confirmation as Attorney General and his immediate expansion of executive privilege to shield Trump from congressional subpoenas.
The Social Security Act
Aug 15, 2026 · 11m
This episode contrasts the Trump administration’s Supreme Court bid to continue an unauthorized White House ballroom with the 1935 signing of the Social Security Act.
Moving as Quickly as Possible
Aug 15, 2026 · 13m
This episode details the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration crackdown, including ICE-TSA collaborations, rapid deportations, and…
Out of Control
Aug 14, 2026 · 11m
This episode details President Trump’s declining political standing, marked by primary losses for allies like Mike Lindell and Andy Ogles, alongside plummeting approval ratings.
Listen ad-free on Castria