Pretend I'm on the Ballot
Summary
The hosts analyze Trump’s midterm convention, arguing it fails to energize voters amid low approval ratings and economic concerns. They discuss election integrity issues, including mail-in ballot restrictions and Missouri redistricting chaos. Guest Jacob Weisberg joins to discuss his new book, "Profiles in Cowardice," examining why figures like Jeff Bezos and Brad Karp capitulated to Trump’s pressure. The conversation explores the psychology of institutional cowardice versus courage, contrasting those who caved to bullying with those who stood firm.
Topics discussed
Introduction and episode overview
Sponsors: Slate Plus, Perk, and NRDC
Analysis of the Republican National Convention
Trump's social media posts and 9/11 claims
Midterm election strategies and Senate races
Supreme Court ruling on election maps and voting
Voting irregularities and Democratic campaign advice
Sponsors: Vanguard, Bombas, and Citizens Bank
Interview: Jeff Bezos and corporate cowardice
Interview: Law firms and Yale University capitulation
Interview: Pressures of conformity and fear
Interview: George W. Bush and political courage
Interview: Institutionalism vs. standing up to power
Interview: Internal resistance and financial principles
Interview: Psychology of bullying and Megyn Kelly
Sponsor: CarGurus
25th Anniversary of 9/11: Impact on US identity
Cocktail Chatter: Census and privacy concerns
Cocktail Chatter: Books, news, and tennis
Cocktail Chatter: Marine biology and bonus episode
Closing and Slate Plus promotion
Sponsor: Perk
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