Political Gabfest Political Gabfest

Data Center Backlash

Aug 6, 2026 · 56m

Summary

Hosts David Plotz, John Dickerson, and Emily Bazelon analyze Abdul El-Sayed’s progressive victory in Michigan’s Senate primary and its implications for the Democratic Party. They discuss Todd Blanche’s confirmation as Attorney General, focusing on his concessions to Republicans regarding a "weaponization" fund. The episode also covers the dismissal of charges against David Hearn in the Reflecting Pool vandalism case and explores the growing bipartisan backlash against AI data centers due to environmental and corporate concerns.

Topics discussed

Intro and Ad Breaks Abdul El-Sayed's Michigan Primary Victory and Democratic Strategy Healthcare Costs and Ad Breaks Todd Blanche's AG Confirmation and the Reflecting Pool Case Trump's Monuments Obsession and Ad Breaks The Backlash Against AI Data Centers Cocktail Chatter: Movies, Archaeology, and Van Life Outro, Slate Plus Promo, and Final Ads
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