209. Netanyahu Vs Zelensky: Who Has Trump’s Ear?
Jul 29, 2026 · 35m
Summary
Katty Kay and Sam Stein analyze the shifting diplomatic dynamics in Washington, highlighting President Zelensky’s renewed favor compared to Benjamin Netanyahu’s declining standing amid the Iran conflict. They discuss J.D. Vance’s political struggles following a failed diplomatic agreement and the resurgence of pro-Ukraine sentiment among MAGA influencers. The episode concludes with an assessment of Gavin Newsom’s presidential prospects, weighing the impact of a decades-old affair against his establishment image and polling trends.
Topics discussed
Intro: Washington power shifts and host banter
Netanyahu vs. Zelensky: Shifting favor in the White House
Trump's frustration with Iran war and Vance's criticism
Vance's political dilemma and pro-Israel donor dynamics
Laura Loomer's Ukraine visit and MAGA right's shift
Zelensky's Washington strategy and sanctions bill passage
Outlook: Ukraine war status and Iran oil market pressures
J.D. Vance's 2028 prospects and the failed Iran MOU
Sponsor break and live tour promotion
Gavin Newsom's past affair and the Lewinsky comparison
Moral standards in politics: Trump vs. Newsom vs. Platner
Newsom's polling decline and 2028 Democratic primary lanes
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