The Democrats Picked Their 2028 Primary Calendar. Which Contender Benefits? Plus: Our July Issue Grapples With Hulk Hogan.
Summary
Hosts Brian Curtis and David Shoemaker preview Shoemaker’s new book, *Why Hulk Hogan Matters*, before analyzing the DNC’s controversial 2028 Democratic primary schedule. They discuss the new primary order, which places South Carolina first and excludes Iowa, and the internal party drama surrounding the Minnesota Senate race. The episode also critiques the White House Correspondents Dinner and speculates on potential presidential contenders like Kamala Harris and Andy Beshear.
Topics discussed
Sponsorships and show introduction
Book release and casual banter
2028 Democratic primary calendar and order
Analysis of early primary states and candidates
Haley Stevens and the role of South Carolina
New Mexico, anti-establishment candidates, and strategy
Super Tuesday, campaign reporting, and media dynamics
Trump's White House event and media criticism
Deion Sanders, sports headlines, and sponsor segments
Introduction to the Hulk Hogan book and research process
Personal memories of watching Hulk Hogan in the 80s
Hulkamania, the 80s culture, and WWF's rise
Vince McMahon's strategy and Hogan's mainstream appeal
The 90s transition, WCW, and Hogan's heel turn
Hogan's later career, style, and cultural impact
The Gawker lawsuit and Hogan's fall from grace
Hogan's political alignment with Trump and legacy
Reflections on wrestling fandom and the book's structure
Closing remarks and final sponsorships
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