American Fever Dream

This week Sami & V are talking about everything from that viral photo of Musk, Trump Jr., and RFK eating McDonald's on Trump's private plane to the lady drinking raw milk that's been sitting in her fridge for six weeks. We also look back on the tension between Jill Biden and Kamala Harris over the years, including after a 2020 Democratic debate where Kamala pressed Biden on issues of race. Afterward, on a call with supporters, the now-first lady reportedly said, “With what he cares about, what he fights for, what he’s committed to, you get up there and call him a racist without basis? Go f*** yourself.” Are there things you don’t know that you feel like you should? In this week’s first installment of “Dumb Questions,” V asks Sami to explain what populism is and how the idea has been corrupted over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking at Trump's latest staff and cabinet picks, Matt Gaetz, Kristi Noem, and Marco Rubio are making headlines (again.) We’re breaking down what their roles could mean for Trump’s agenda and for the country, and we're asking the tough questions like -- Why pick these people? What message is he sending with each choice? And who is going to shake Pete Hegseth's hand now? Subscribe to Akilah Hughes' Substack Have questions, thoughts, or feelings around the 2024 election? Email us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We thought we'd be ok this week... but we're not. Sami & V discuss what it means to rebuild the Democratic party from the bottom up, and why it's time for people like Nancy Pelosi (and Bernie Sanders) to step down. V also fills us in on Trump's Chief of Staff, Susie Wiles, and why this pick might actually be a good thing for his administration, as well as how Trump's deportation plans could affect restaurants and the food industry (and why nonprofits like the James Beard Foundation should be taking action). Have questions, thoughts, or feelings around the 2024 election? Email us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been over 24 hours since the results of the election have been announced, and Sami & V are trying to digest it. Of course we're upset, but we're also mad (and feeling a little petty.) Join us today as we vent about the things we feel like the Democratic Party did wrong, the role of influencers (and celebrities) in the campaigns, and the impact of immigration issues on voter sentiment, particularly within the Latino community. Where do we go from here? We're not quite sure yet. Next week we'll celebrate some of the wins from last Tuesday. But for now, maybe eat a donut. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Election Day! Whether you listen to this episode before you hit the polls, or at the end of the day, Sami & V are here to keep you informed, and calm. First Sami breaks down the latest from J Ann Selzer's Iowa polls, and talks about why the results on election night could be a huge (and unexpected) win for Harris. Then we ask: Can Kamala pull an "Obama map" and win Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Michigan, Wisconsin, AND Florida?We end the episode by talking about the The Runbeck Election Services facility, which is set to print around 35 million ballots for eight states, and what they're doing to make sure these ballots stay safe and secure. Don't forget to tune in to @underthedesknews on TikTok/Instagram/YouTube to watch the election night pizza party and celebrate democracy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With less than 24 hours left before election day, emotions and anxiety are high, but former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki reminds us it’s no time to cry. Instead, Sami, V, and Jen reflect on how people’s opinions and perspectives can evolve, as well as a generation that grew up knowing Donald Trump only as a presidential candidate. Jen also discusses how many of us have become addicted to the adrenaline Trump brings to the news cycle, and they debate whether we could ever return to "boring" news. Follow MSNBC & Jen Psaki: Instagram: MSNBC: @MSNBC Jen Psaki: @jenpsaki / @insidewithpsaki TikTok: MSNBC: @MSNBC Jen Psaki: @jenpsaki Twitter: MSNBC: @MSNBC Jen Psaki: @jrpsaki / @insidewithpsaki Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling anxious about the upcoming election, the best thing you can do is VOTE. That's the advice Symone Sanders Townsend gives V on this special pre-election episode. Just a few days before the 2024 election, V and Symone go over what we should expect this week -- from when they think the race will be called, to how to handle the various outcomes. We also take a look at what Kamala's first 100 days could look like. Symone Sanders Townsend, Charles Coleman Jr., Trymaine Lee, and Melissa Murray will host the MSNBC special, “Black Voters: The Road to the 2024 Election,” Sunday at 4pm ET on MSNBC where they’ll speak with Black voters about the issues that are most important to them in the lead up to the election. Follow MSNBC & Symone Sanders Townsend: Instagram: MSNBC: @MSNBC Symone Sanders Townsend: @symonedsanders / @theweekendmsnbc TikTok: MSNBC: @MSNBC Symone Sanders Townsend: @symonedsanders / @theweekendmsnbc Twitter: MSNBC: @MSNBC Symone Sanders Townsend: @symonedsanders / @theweekendmsnbc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a special episode with MSNBC's Katy Tur and Alex Wagner, Sami and Katy talk about election day safety precautions, and why rally attendance does not always reflect voter enthusiasm. Then, Alex Wagner shares her experience reporting on the ground, and why she expects the results of the 2024 election to be a "marathon not a sprint." Sami & Alex reflect on the psychological factors influencing voters, particularly the emotional resonance of Trumpism and the alienation felt by many Americans. MSNBC’s Katy Tur, Alex Wagner and Stephanie Ruhle will be a part of MSNBC’s “Decision 2024” special programming on Election Day, Nov. 5, 2024 Instagram: MSNBC: @MSNBC Katy Tur: @katyturnbc Alex Wagner: @itsalexwags / @wagnertonight TikTok: MSNBC: @MSNBC Katy Tur: @katy_tur Alex Wagner: @wagnertonight Twitter: MSNBC: @MSNBC Katy Tur: @katyturnbc / @katyonmsnbc Alex Wagner: @alexwagner / @wagnertonight Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sami dives into America's economy with Stephanie Ruhle, MSNBC’s senior business analyst and host of The 11th Hour. Together, they unpack the many layers of the economy and the upcoming election, exploring everything from billionaire influence to the complex position Kamala Harris faces in explaining her economic stance. MSNBC’s Katy Tur, Alex Wagner and Stephanie Ruhle will be a part of MSNBC’s “Decision 2024” special programming on Election Day, Nov. 5, 2024 Follow MSNBC & Stephanie Ruhle: Instagram: MSNBC: @MSNBC Stephanie Ruhle: @stephruhle TikTok: MSNBC: @MSNBC Stephanie Ruhle: @stephruhletv / @11thhourmsnbc Twitter: MSNBC: @MSNBC Stephanie Ruhle: @sruhle / @11thhour Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary journalist Bob Woodward dives into his latest book War, which pulls back the curtain on U.S. foreign policy and reveals what’s really going on behind the scenes. The book also gives us a closer look at President Biden's leadership and the relationship between VP Harris and the president. Woodward shares his thoughts on the state of journalism today, why context matters in reporting, how Biden’s foreign policy stacks up against past presidents, and who falls short. He also talks about Biden’s complex relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, the role of Kamala Harris in shaping U.S. foreign policy, and the lasting impact of Trump’s ties with Putin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

T-1 week to go until the 2024 election, Sami & V are here trying to keep you informed and sane(ish.) TEMP CHECK 5:00 - The lowlights of Trump's rally at Madison Square Garden, including the repercussions of Tony Hinchcliffe's "jokes," and Hulk Hogan comparing Harris to the hawk-tuah girl. VIBE CHECK & MAIN NEWS 24:45 - Election updates! From updates on what's happening on Polymarket (where those outside the US can bet on the outcome of the US election) to voters being illegally purged in Virginia, there's a lot to cover this week. But maybe there's some hope too? AMERICAN'T 46:45 - The brologarch is here. Both the Washington Post & the LA Times refuse to officially endorse Kamala for president. What does this mean -- and more importantly, why won't they? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are joined by former astronaut, Senator Mark Kelly to talk about all things Kamala Harris, and his family's personal experience with gun violence and IVF. Kelly also reflects on how new laws are effecting OBGYNs in Arizona, and the danger of qualified doctors closing their practices and moving out of state. We end the the interview by asking Kelly our most burning question about space. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's 2 weeks till the election and things are ramping up. With early voting in full swing, Sami & V break down the latest data and see what the results are showing in NC, GA, VA. Trump shuts down a McDonalds and pretends to work the fryer, and why they will never be able to drink an Arnold Palmer again. (Though we could go for a burger right now.) Elon Musk also runs a questionable $1 million giveaway in Pennsylvania, which may put him in legal trouble (if Trump doesn't win.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the screenwriter of the film 'The Apprentice,' Gabriel Sherman, joins Sami to talk about the movie, and why it took 7 years to produce. 'The Apprentice' follows Trump's evolution and the impact of the TV show 'The Apprentice,' and aims to humanize him while addressing his darker traits. The movie also highlights Trump's role as an apprentice to Roy Cohn, and the broader implications of Trump's influence on American politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite his Sept 2024 release date, Brandon Parks-Burns is still in prison, waiting to be released. Joined by his sister, A.B. Burns-Tucker (@iamlegallyhype), Sami & V learn about Brandon's legal battles after unreliable testimony by an informant landed him in prison when he was 18 years old. Then, Sami & V go over "Trump-chella," early voting, and what the polls are saying. V shares some insights from Bob Woodward's newest book, "War," including how much Biden loves to drop an f-bomb, and highlights Trumps insecurities. Reach out to Governor Newsom's office about Parks-Burns release: https://www.gov.ca.gov/contact/ (916) 445-2841 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With hurricane Milton hitting Florida Wednesday night, V talks to Caitlin Durkovich, Deputy Homeland Security Advisor for Resilience and Response, about the dangerous storm, and the challenges Florida faces over the next few weeks. Durkovich explains why the storm surge is so dangerous, and what you should do if you have not evacuated Tampa yet. Fact check rumors about hurricane Helene & hurricane Milton: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/current/hurricane-helene/rumor-response Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

00:00 - Sami reflects on celebrating the Jewish New Year, and the anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel.MAIN NEWS 14:30 - Let's talk schadenfreude -- 68 American Nazi's were charged in an indictment last week in California's San Fernando Valley. The group calls themselves the PECKERWOODS, and is run by a 62-year old woman named Trish. According to the indictment, law enforcement found large quantities of illegal firearms, and dozens of pounds of fentanyl, and other drugs.AMERICAN'T 33:30 - The lies surrounding hurricane Helene have gotten out of control... Sami & V try to cover some of the ones they've heard the most -- like FEMA aid being used for migrants (FALSE) and Kamala Harris went on 'Call Her Daddy' instead of visiting hurricane victims (FALSE)Fact check additional statements here: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/current/hurricane-helene/rumor-response44:30 - The latest updates on the abortion ban in Texas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another debate, another recap! Today V & Sami are joined by Vibes Only's Glennis Meagher & Brian Derrick to compare notes on last night's VP debate. Was Walz's neighborly demeanor a liability? Can Vance answer a question without lying? What does the VP even do? We can answer some of these questions, even if the candidates didn't. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do Sabrina Carpenter and Eric Adams have in common? Maybe more than you think! TEMP CHECK 6: 00 - People are on Chappell Roan's ass over her current political stance. Should she be doing more, or are we expecting too much from the Midwest Princess? MAIN NEWS 16:40 - V & Sami explain the connection between NYC's Mayor, the Catholic Church, and Sabrina Carpenter. Already indicted on bribery charges, it looks like there may be more charges coming Adams' way. Should Governor Hochul pressure a resignation from Adams, or will her support for the Mayor hurt her too? 29:20 - Florida Rep. Maxwell Frost talks about his experiences on the campaign trail with Kamala Harris, the challenges of hurricane recovery in Florida, and how the anti-immigrant rhetoric is getting increasingly more dangerous. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Whoever is writing this week's storyline for America is going a little wild. V fills us in on her latest trip to the Pentagon, where they talk China, Russia, and of course TikTok with the Department of Defense. We also get some clarification on why they use the unsettling phrase "most combat ready lethal fighting force." TEMP CHECK 26:00 Georgia's Election Board voted on a measure which would require counties to hand-count ballots -- which even has some Republican's speaking up in opposition. Nebraska's unique way of distributing electoral votes is causing Trump to panic, and Senator for South Carolina, Lindsey Graham, is also trying to support this "winner takes it all" approach. Although Nebraska's Governor Jim Pillen seems to support this change, he said he won't call a special session without the support of 33 state Senators. MAIN NEWS 37:00 Breaking down all that is Mark Robinson, the self proclaimed "Black Nazi." We wrap up with an in depth look at what we know about the "freak offs" (aka mass rapes) Diddy was part of, including the IV bags and 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lube that were seized from his home, and the alleged tell all that Diddy's ex, Kim Porter wrote, that was published after her death. Go to vote.org & iwillvote.org to check your voter status. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you call her The Latina Hammer, La Luchadora, or maybe just DMP: it's clear Debbie Mucarsel-Powell is making herself known in the Florida race for Senate against incumbent Rick Scott (who was involved in defrauding Medicare in 1997.) Mucarsel-Powell talks about the challenges that Floridians face, from high insurance rates to climate change, and how the normally Republican leaning Villages is showing up for the Harris-Walz campaign. Go to https://iwillvote.com/ to check your voter registration status and sign up to vote. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week V is joined by Senator Baldwin of Wisconsin. In addition to addressing the impact the reversal of Roe v Wade has had on the state, Senator Baldwin talks about how being raised by her grandparents and a childhood illness shaped her policies. V & Sen. Baldwin also talk about the future of clean energy, and why keeping these jobs in the US is so important. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between Trump bragging about talking to Putin, to his claims of people eating their pets, Tuesday's debate makes us wonder if people are finally getting tired of Trump's act, and are ready for some normality in the White House. Considered a win for Harris by all (even Newsmax's Geraldo Rivera) Sami & V break down the biggest moments for Harris, and the moments that left us confused. Check your voter registration here: vote.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back this week talking about more disinformation, this time coming from massive a DOJ indictment which include several Russian nationals and entities, all working to influence 2024 election. The report calls out fake social media profiles, bots, and a front company based in Tennessee, all with the goal to create more division and suppress voter turnout. To wrap up the episode, we're joined by Symone Sanders-Townsend, co-host of MSNBC’s The Weekend, to make predictions on Tuesday night's Presidential debate, including how Harris can counterpunch and pivot effectively. Sanders-Townsend also talks about what a "win" would look like for the Harris team, and we all wonder how low Trump will be willing to go in his attacks against Harris.“Black Women in America: The Road to 2024,” airs on September 29th at 9pm ET on MSNBC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sami sits down with co-authors Emmanuel Acho & Noa Tishby to talk about their book, Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew. Acho speaks about how his friendship with Tishby developed, and how that friendship allowed them to have constructive conversations with each other about race. Their conversation also highlights the struggles of the Jewish and Black communities and the importance of unity in fighting against oppression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we have a classic American Fever Dream episode for you! Let's break down some of the weirdest, fever dreamiest stories of the last week. TEMP CHECK 5:45 - Starting off, we break down why Trump's photo op at Arlington National Cemetery was so disgraceful. V also fact checks Trump's statement that no military members died under his presidency, when the numbers show a very different story. 27:30 - Next, we cover the Twitter/X ban in Brazil. A Supreme Court Justice in Brazil has taken action against the app because of far-right accounts and disinformation. Musk could have avoided this if he had just hired a lawyer that lived in Brazil... so why didn't he? 35:10 - You may have heard from the NY Post that a Venezuelan gangs is taking over Aurora, Colorado. While the story is still unfolding, V and Sami are highly doubtful that a gang is taking over three specific apartment buildings owned by a company based outside of Colorado. AMERICAN'T 45:15 - A Chase Bank "glitch" let's people take out thousands of dollars without actually having the money in your account. Aka wire fraud. Please don't do this. 49:22 - We end the episode talking about Donald Trump's interesting choice of stops on his campaign trail -- Majority small towns that all happen to be Sundown towns, including Howell, Michigan, which held a KKK rally in July 2024. Have a question for V & Sami, or want to give your fave Philly recommendations? Email [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the giant Project 2025 book to her viral speech on the Michigan Senate floor in 2022, Sen. Mallory McMorrow and Sami talk about all of it. Although many call her a communications guru, McMorrow says she's just authentic in the way she talks to people, and that's what people connect with. Sami and McMorrow also discuss ways you can be engaged with politics, even if you don't want to run for office. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

V & Sami are back from the DNC and they're ready to recap a very busy week. Still unhappy with trad media, they point out the double standard in the way Harris' speech is being fact checked versus the way the media is treating Trump. V also explains why there were no trans speakers at the DNC, and what was going on with the Uncommitted delegates. V & Sami also celebrate the joy and hope that was displayed at the DNC, along with Democrats reclaiming camo and the American flag. Then we share an interview at the DNC where Sami sat down with Senator Laphonza Butler, where Sen. Butler talks about brokering power, and explains why she's not running for reelection. Listen to our episode with Vice President Harris here: Is The Bodily Autonomy In The Room With Us? Ft. Kamala Harris Have questions for Sam & V? Email us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everything that's wrong at the DNC is because of the 200 creators, according to traditional media outlets, and V & Sami are getting fed up. V debunks the prime rib sandwich and yacht party rumors, and we have to ask -- are traditional media outlets just jealous, or are the creators ruining the experience for everyone? While previous days were all about looking forward to a hopeful future, day 3 speeches from Tim Walz, Oprah and others seem more somber and reflective, reminding us about January 6th and what else could happen under another Trump presidency. And yes, the giant Project 2025 book makes a return. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Armed with their credential badges, Sami & V are ready for the Day 2 at the DNC. Today, they break down the difference between the music at the DNC vs the RNC, and recap the Obama's messages of hope and community. (And yes, their speeches made us cry, again.) Plus, the Republican's that spoke in support of Kamala, showing us you don't have to be a Democrat to vote blue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

V & Sami start their week off at the DNC with comedian Alex Pearlman. They commiserate on how long it took them to get into the convention and talk about why it's so important to have media creators involved in politics. Then, a very tired Sami & V go over their favorite speeches of the night, the differences they noticed between the DNC and RNC, and Senator McMorrow's giant Project 2025 book. Follow Alex on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@pearlmania500 Have a question for Sami & V about the DNC? Send us an email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

V talks with board certified gynecologist Dr. Karen Tang about informed consent, how social media has helped women's healthcare, and the impact of new laws on the healthcare industry. Dr. Tang's latest book, It's Not Hysteria Everything You Need to Know About Your Reproductive Health (but Were Never Told) aims to debunk myths and misconceptions about women's health issues that often get dismissed as "normal." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TEMP CHECK 7:00 - Let's break down Australian B-girl, Raygun's....interesting performance in breakdancing, including her signature boomerang moves. 12:45 - Five days after gymnast Jordan Chiles won the bronze medal in the individual floor competition, the IOC sided with a challenge from Romania and wants Chiles to give back the medal. Will Chiles return the medal with a frowny face note? Or will the US counter challenge be successful? MAIN NEWS 19:15 - Sometimes it seems like folks are so creative in their hate, but in fact, no, they aren’t. They’re simply repeating the decades old talking points, ideology and strategies of olde. Today we dissect the John Birch Society. Founded in 1958 by a man who did not trust outsiders and shares Donald Trump’s fear of being poisoned. (In addition to being the creator of the Sugar Daddies candy) 33:00 - Is Mr. Beast, famous YouTuber, running a real life Squid Games? There are some allegations around his reality TV show’s inhumane practices including withholding clean clothes, water, and proper medical attention. 38:45 - New reporting on Donald Trump’s $10M windfall in 2016 from Egyptian dictator Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and what he did for Egypt in return. And you’ll never guess who shut down the FBI investigation into it two years later. DOWN BALLOT ERA 44:30 - Dissecting Cori Bush’s primary loss to Wesley Bell, and how she was defeated by a mix of AIPAC funding and messaging that effectively painted her as someone more concerned with foreign policy than district issues. Today is also Ilhan Omar’s primary race against Don Samuels, who she defeated in the 2022 primary by just 2 points. Samuel’s campaign looks a lot like Bell’s, but without the support from AIPAC, but he’s also highlighting Omar’s husband’s...interesting business practices and questionable income. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fred Trump III, the nephew of former president Donald Trump, is on the show this week to talk all about his book, All In The Family: The Trumps and How We Got This Way. Fred explains why now is the right time for this book, along with the unusual family dynamic among the Trump's (including Donald's attempt at disinheriting him.) Sami & Fred talk about the importance of policies to support families and individuals with disabilities, reflecting on Donald's infamous "maybe those kinds of people should just die" remark, and not so surprisingly why Fred will be voting for a Harris/Walz ticket this November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a VP!! In this special bonus episode Sami & V go over the background and long list of accomplishments of Harris' pick for VP, Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz. Is he the radical that the right wants to paint him as, or just a regular guy who doesn’t want to monitor your pregnancy? From his 24 years of service in Army National Guard, to being a vocal supporter of IVF and reproductive rights, we're excited to have someone so.... not weird on the ticket. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TEMP CHECK 3:20 - This week let’s take a deeper look into Peter Thiel’s past, from paying lawyers to help Hulk Hogan’s sue Gawker Media, to how he’s been influenced by AN INTERNET BLOGGER WHO USED TO GO BY THE NAME MENCIUS MOLDBUG. We also cover some of the politicians that’s he’s funded that have failed, and how JD Vance is a win for Thiel’s extreme ideologies. 12:30 - We break down the “Kamala is a cop” trope and examine her history as a prosecutor, from her “Back On Track” program in San Francisco aimed at reducing recidivism among young adults, to writing the playbook on how to prosecute against the “gay panic defense.” MAIN NEWS 26:20 - If you remember the election certification process from 2020....get ready for it to happen again, on steroids. With 90 days to the 2024 election, there are several ways in which election integrity is already being called into question, and we’re expecting to see voter challenges and accusations of fraud in counties in swing states. Sami also found a report on the Heritage Foundation’s website from some “election integrity exercises” that they conducted in the spring, like war games for the election. AMERICAN'T 49:20 - Last week Olympic athlete Imane Khalief was disqualified after beating her opponent in 46 seconds, and almost as quickly rumors were spreading about Khalief's gender and past. V explains how misinformation spread so quickly, and the troubled past and ties of IBA President, Umar Kremlev, with Putin. (Including how the IBA has been excluded from organizing Olympic boxing since the Tokyo Games in 2021 due to ethical issues.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Sami & V are joined by Congressman Dan Goldman who, before running for office, served as lead counsel in the first impeachment of former President Donald Trump. Goldman breaks down the legality of enacting Project 2025, along with Biden's proposed changes to the SCOTUS. We also make the connection between climate change and immigration, and how Trump's 2024 campaign is a personal revenge and retribution tour. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonjour! Starting off with a TEMP CHECK -- going over our favorite Olympic Opening Ceremony moments (and why it offended the far right) and how Beyoncé is reclaiming the flag aesthetic. Also, why you should be excited about Val Demings joining the USPS Board, and what that might mean for Post Master General Louis DeJoy. MAIN NEWS 14:15 Sami walks us through 3 of the most dangerous groups that are behind Donald Trump that we have affectionately nicknamed the “trifecta of death.” This includes Project 2025/the Heritage Foundation, technocrats like Peter Thiel and Elon Musk (who we can thank for JD Vance’s presence on the ticket) and anti-western foreign interests like Russia and China. Even though all three groups have different tactics, it’s clear their mutual short-term goal is to get Donald Trump elected to end American democracy for their own ends. DOWN BALLOT ERA 48:45 This week, we’re shouting out democratic candidate for Ohio’s 12th district, Jerrad Christian, who outed Trump & Guiliani’s dealings with the Russian mafia, going back to the 1980's on his X thread. Christian highlights how the Russian mafia was living in Trump Tower, and Giuliani’s involvement with them. We love a representative who does his homework. Read Jerrad Christian's full X thread here: https://x.com/JerradChristian/status/1816489797004984584 AMERICAN'T 52:00 We simply can’t fathom the lack of vetting of JD Vance. That’s what happens when you put Don Jr. and Eric in charge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know that the chemicals in your brain might determine what political party you feel aligned with? Guest Keegan Tatum, an expert in political psychology, is here to explain the psychological differences between liberals and conservatives, as well as how religion and emotional biases factor into our political ideology. He also explains how having an overly active disgust mechanism can create anti-trans and anti-gay sentiments. V and Keegan also debate if conservatives have a humiliation kink, and if we can change our brain chemistry. Follow Keegan: TikTok Instagram YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After weeks of speculation, President Biden announced that he is dropping out of the 2024 presidential race -- leaving all eyes on Vice President Kamala Harris, the new likely democratic presidential nominee. Sami & V discuss Biden’s selfless decision, as well as the flood of endorsements and donations she received in the hours after the news broke, including their theory on why the Obamas have not endorsed her yet, as of recording time. They also talk about Trump’s reaction (or lack thereof) to the news and run through the pros and cons of the most likely VP picks. Finally, what’s with all the coconuts and what do brats have to do with the election? Find out in the episode. AMERICAN'T 56:00 - If you don't like Kamala...start planning for 2028. Attacking her at this point only hurts our chance to beat Trump in 2024. We can do this, but it will take all of us. And as Jess Craven says, we are excited AF for Kamala Harris. Want to learn more about VP Harris? Listen to our episode, The Case For Kamala. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sami & V take a look at the history of assassination attempts on US presidents and how these attempts, successful or not, shaped American politics. They also talk about the shared motives that many of these men have, like their desire for attention and recognition. This episode also touches on the history of the electric chair...and how masturbation might have played a role in one of these attempts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

V and Sami break down the shooting at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania, and talk about what could have gone wrong, security failures, and odd choices that were made by the Secret Service. They also share what we know about the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, and his background. Then they move on to the RNC and the unceremonious way JD Vance was introduced as Trump's VP pick, and end the episode on debunking the term Blue MAGA. MAIN NEWS 13:00 It's impossible to not talk about the shooting at Trump's rally in Butler, PA that happened Saturday evening.... so let's talk about it. Sami & V break it down -- what happened, how did it happen, and could it have been prevented? We'll also talk about the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, and what the FBI has learned about his motives.33:00 JD Vance was announced as the Republican vice president pick at the RNC, and it seemed like Trump was both surprised and confused (as were we!) V & Sami discuss what a Trump/Vance ticket for 2024 means for Americans, as well as how this could play out in future elections. IN OUR DOWN BALLOT ERA 47:00 Money plays a significant role in elections, but it doesn't guarantee victory. Despite the fact Republican state leadership has raised a record breaking second quarter haul for their down ballot races, six Democrats have raised over $46 million in the second quarter for their down ballot races too. And where there are donations, there are voters! AND FINALLY... 50:00 Have you heard the term Blue MAGA? Sami & V talk about the difference between Biden critics and "stans," and how the later can actually cause more harm to the Democratic party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Sami is in Philadelphia promoting her new book, Democracy in Retrograde, with her co-author Emily Amick. (Out now!) While in town, she spoke with Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro about the importance of democracy and the steps being taken to ensure free and fair elections, including creating a task force led by Republican Al Schmidt, to protect local poll workers and stop the spread of misinformation. Governor Shapiro also emphasizes the importance of increasing voter participation by creating policies like automatic voter registration, and encourages people to vote out politicians who suppress the vote. (We're looking at you, DeSantis.) This episode was recorded live at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, visit www.theweitzman.org to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Project 2025 is officially in the mainstream news, and Sami and V compare its ideologies to that of Agenda 47, and the 7 Mountains Mandate. They also discuss Nazis marching in Tennessee and how the US could follow the UK's elections last week and pull a "Taccy V." MAIN NEWS 5:00 Project 2025, tied to the Heritage Foundation, is gaining mainstream attention, and both the Vice President and Taraji P. Henson are warning American's to start paying attention. Sami & V also dive into the 7 Mountains Mandate and their strategy to turn America into a Christian nation by capturing the 7 pillars of society that they’ve identified: family, religion, education, media, entertainment, business, and government. And last but not least, V tells us about the British voting trend affectionately called the "Taccy V' or the tactical vote, and how this might be the key for Democrats in 2024. IN OUR DOWN BALLOT ERA 48:15 Voter suppression via the ADA. Sami & V talk about how many Republicans misuse the Americans with Disabilities Act to force the closure of polling places that are not entirely ADA accessible, and what we can do about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this very special 4th of July episode, Sami and V discuss the case for Kamala Harris as the potential Democratic presidential candidate, highlighting her voting record as a Senator, her advocacy for LGBTQ rights, and her stance on Israel-Palestine. They also consider how embracing Harris and giving her more spotlight is the clearest path to a victory against Donald Trump in November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back from Vidcon, V and Sami are comparing Project 2025, the Nazi's, Theocracy and Saudi Arabia, and where a win for Trump this fall would leave us. V and Sami also explore what the current round of Supreme Court rulings mean, and how this might be the end of #vanlife. TEMP CHECK: What are the realities of Project 2025? Everyone is quick to compare it to Nazi Germany, but is the reality more a Theocracy like Saudi Arabia? President Biden gives a mild speech after the Supreme Court’s decision to rule (6-3) that Donald Trump has immunity from being prosecuted for election interference & AOC says she’ll introduce articles of impeachment. Other laws being passed across the country include: rollbacks on child labor laws, age of consent laws & punishing people for sleeping in cars/public spaces MAIN NEWS: Sami and V go deeper into the 6-3 Supreme Court ruling, including Sotomayor's dissent and how this would have affected past presidents' actions. They also talk about the Chevron Deference and what that means for organizations like the FDA, Title IX, and Veteran Affairs. AMERICAN/T: Why you should vote for a Democrat even if you're not excited about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sami and V are joined by host and creative director at MSNBC Live, Luke Russert, to talk about his book Look for Me There: Grieving My Father, Finding Myself. “Give them the best and the world will take care of the rest.” Luke shares how his grandparents’ and parents’ legacies shaped not only his career but his worldview. There is no correct way to grieve. Luke shares how his life has changed after the passing of his father and how he has navigated his grief. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

04:45 TEMP CHECK: Will this week’s headlines give you a fever or make you freeze? 24:45 MAIN NEWS: Now that Louisiana has posted the 10 Commandments in every classroom, Sami and V discuss how extreme conservatives are spreading the Christian Dominionist Movement and how they want to completely rewrite the Constitution to create a more evangelical America. 50:15 DOWN BALLOT: It’s Election Day, and the primary race between Jamaal Bowman and George Latimer has now become the most expensive in history as well as controversial due to the Within Our Lives protest. 1:03:20 AMER-I-CAN’T: Hyper-capitalism in journalism is baring its fangs now that journalists are revealing they acquired important information while researching and how their contracts kept them from disclosing it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

00:00 Sami and V are joined by authors Lisa Lerer & Elizabeth Dias of the new book The Fall of Roe: the Rise Of A New America, to discuss the decades of work done by anti-abortion groups to finally overturn Roe. 11:00 V wonders if American politicians had been more comfortable with using the word ‘abortion’ and didn’t shy away from these conversations, would it have been harder for conservatives to chip away at reproductive rights? 20:20 Everyone knows that religion affects politics, but less discussed is how politics has actually changed religion, and how that has played into recent elections. 24:20 Can Roe be put back? Lisa and Elizabeth’s book theorizes about how we go about getting our reproductive rights back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices