The Powers That Be: Daily The Powers That Be: Daily

Panic! At the G.O.P. Disco

Sep 25, 2026 · 19m

Summary

Leanne Caldwell discusses the palpable shift in confidence among Democrats as polls suggest a potential wave election against Republicans, who are panicking over Trump's low approval ratings and rising costs. The episode also examines the "scam pack" controversy surrounding the Democratic super PAC End Citizens United, which has raised over $22 million but spent less than 4% directly on candidates, raising questions about the efficiency and integrity of outside political spending.

Topics discussed

Intro: Palpable shift in Democratic confidence Show introduction and episode overview Sponsor: Intersectors legal perspectives Discussion start: Republican panic and polling Democratic confidence and internal polling data Historical comparisons and wave election potential Polling accuracy and late-breaking Republican spending MAGA Inc. funds and ad market saturation Trump approval ratings and Republican identity shift Specific competitive districts and Republican vulnerabilities Economic headwinds: Gas, groceries, and heating costs Sponsor: Intersectors legal perspectives Sponsor: 48 Hours podcast Sponsor: Bombas fall collection End Citizens United: The 'scam pack' controversy Defining scam packs and FEC spending thresholds End Citizens United financials and salary increases Impact on small-dollar donations and voter trust Ad reservations and the Maine campaign example Conclusion: Frustration with political grift Credits and production team acknowledgments Sponsor: Indeed sponsored jobs
Listen ad-free on Castria