Trump’s Midterm Pitch? Bomb LA.
Summary
Hosted by Jonathan Alter, this episode of Talking Feds features David Graham and Molly Jong-Fast analyzing the 2024 midterms. The guests debate whether a "blue wave" is imminent, citing inflation and Trump’s unpopularity, while cautioning against over-reliance on polling data. They discuss key Senate races in Kansas and Ohio, the impact of massive Republican spending, and potential constitutional crises if the Senate remains narrowly divided. The conversation also touches on Trump’s erratic rhetoric, including his controversial comments about bombing Los Angeles, and the declining enthusias…
Topics discussed
Sponsors: We Feed Raw and Garden
Introduction and host change
Midterm outlook: Blue wave vs. Red undertow
Impact of inflation and gas prices on voters
Key Senate races: Kansas, Maine, and Iowa
Reliability of polling and the 2024 Iowa error
MAGA disaffection and lack of enthusiasm
Lessons from the 2022 midterms and gerrymandering
Texas redistricting and local issues
Narrative shifts and October surprises
Sponsor: Total Wine and More (Tequila vs. Mezcal)
Campaign spending and the North Carolina race
Effectiveness of crypto and tech money in politics
Local vs. national money and down-ballot races
DNC leadership and fundraising challenges
Democratic vulnerabilities in blue states
Ohio race and the resurgence of public health issues
Trump's potential late-cycle surprises and checks
Constitutional crisis risks and Senate certification
Supreme Court seats and Alito's book
Trump's comments on bombing LA and Iran war
Trump's declining influence and incoherence
Closing thoughts and show credits
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