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Is a Blue Wave Really Coming?

Sep 12, 2026 · 47m

Summary

Hosts Susan Glasser, Evan Osnos, and Jane Mayer open with personal 9/11 memories before analyzing the 2024 midterms with guest Amy Walter. They discuss structural barriers to a "blue wave," noting that Democrats need to win key Senate races in states Trump carried by double digits. The conversation explores the "Trump factor," the collapse of Republican support among non-MAGA voters, and the rising importance of rural health and economic issues. Walter highlights specific battlegrounds like Iowa, Alaska, and Texas, emphasizing that while Democrats have a numerical advantage in the House, th…

Topics discussed

Ford Super Duty and Mustang advertisement Mint Mobile summer promotion Personal reflections on 9/11 and the war on terror Introduction to midterm election numbers and guest Campaign season outlook and the potential blue wave Political polarization and structural realities of voting House gerrymandering and Senate seat requirements Voter turnout, Trump's base, and the 'Mega' Republican Defining the Republican identity and Trump's campaign strategy Democratic primary dynamics and anti-establishment sentiment Show break and Saint Petersburg travel ad Analyzing key House races and battleground states Rural voter identity and the Josh Turek case study House map analysis and gerrymandering court rulings Segment break and Simply Safe home security ad Debate on affordability, rural issues, and structural advantages Closing thoughts on the importance of the election Mint Mobile advertisement AddIn fintech insurance platform advertisement
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