Somebody's Gotta Win with Tara Palmeri

Tara is joined by Rahm Emanuel to look at what he feels are the past mistakes of the Democratic Party and what needs to change moving forward. They discuss Joe Biden’s decision to not seek reelection, President Trump invoking antisemitism to defund universities, and Emanuel’s own political aspirations. For more of Tara’s independent journalism, subscribe to her newsletter The Red Letter here on Substack! Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Rahm Emanuel Producers: Mike Wargon and Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

Tara Palmeri sits down with Maureen Dowd to talk about her latest release, Notorious. Their conversation covers everything from Elon Musk and Donald Trump to the shifting dynamics of American politics. Dowd reflects on her decades in journalism, offering a look at Washington’s current challenges and the media’s complicated relationship with figures like Trump. She also touches on her writing process, Gretchen Whitmer’s photo misstep, and the growing demand for political leaders who balance authenticity with a touch of showmanship. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Maureen Dowd Producer: Devon Renaldo Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Tara starts the pod with some inside reporting on RFK Jr.’s mismanagement of the Dept. of Health and Human Services. She’s then joined by Rikki Schlott from the New York Post to talk about Donald Trump’s standing with Gen Z. They discuss possible breaking points Trump may be testing with young men, shine a light on the current administration’s war on universities, and speculate on how the president's current actions will hurt the Republican Party politically going forward. For more of Tara’s independent journalism subscribe to her newsletter ‘The Red Letter’ here on Substack! Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Rikki Schlott Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

Tara is joined by author and journalist Chris Whipple to discuss his latest book, 'Uncharted: How Trump Beat Biden, Harris, and the Odds in the Wildest Campaign in History.’ During their conversation, they focus on the passages that talk about the inner workings of Team Biden during Joe's chaotic 2024 campaign and discuss how the influence of a certain Hollywood celebrity, in concert with Democratic top brass, ultimately pressured the former president out of his own reelection bid. For more of Tara’s independent journalism subscribe to her newsletter ‘The Red Letter’ here on Substack! Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Chris Whipple Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Tara is joined by NBC senior political analyst Jonathan Allen and senior political journalist for The Hill, Amie Parnes, to discuss their latest book, ‘Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House,’ a behind-the-scenes account of the events surrounding Joe Biden stepping down in the presidential race through the end of Kamala Harris’s unprecedented campaign. They talk about the chaotic discussions that ensued within the Democrats' top brass after Biden’s announcement, shine a light on the efforts to hide Biden’s mental deficiencies, and highlight Harris and Tim Walz’s reactions after the election results came in. For more of Tara’s independent journalism subscribe to her newsletter ‘The Red Letter’ here on Substack! Host: Tara Palmeri Guests: Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

Tara is joined by billionaire entrepreneur and ‘Shark Tank’ co-host Mark Cuban to talk about all the hot political topics currently burning up the Hill. During their wide-ranging conversation, they cover the possible negative effects of Donald Trump’s ambitious tariffs, Elon Musk’s role in the White House, Signalgate, AI, and much more. For more of Tara’s independent journalism subscribe to her newsletter ‘The Red Letter’ here on Substack! Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Mark Cuban Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

Tara starts the pod with an update on the Department of Defense text chain scandal currently rocking Capitol Hill. She is then joined by Teddy Schleifer from The New York Times in front of a live audience at the Sine Institute to discuss Elon Musk’s rise to the forefront of the Trump administration and subsequent red-pilling of the tech industry. They examine Musk’s clandestine entry into the world of politics, highlight the moment when his support for Trump became public, and analyze how his presence at the White House is affecting federal policy. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Teddy Schleifer Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

Tara begins the show by discussing Pete Hegseth accidentally sending war plans in a group chat that included Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor in chief of The Atlantic; a preview of her newsletter, where she has the details to a secret AI conference; and more. Then she welcomes Matthew Bennett, and they discuss Axios’s Alex Thompson’s list on why the Democrats lost the election, the fights Republicans are picking, and how the Democrats can get their shit together. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Matt Bennett Producer: Brian H. Waters Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Tara is joined by political reporter Alex Isenstadt to discuss his new book, ‘Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump’s Return to Power.’ He shares his intel on Trump’s political moves, campaign strategy, and cabinet selections. They go over some of Trump’s quotes in the book, and he shares what the Republican campaign team was planning for after Joe Biden’s first 2024 debate. He breaks down Trump’s vice presidential choice and how JD Vance regained both Trump and the public’s support, becoming the potential heir to the MAGA following. Finally, they discuss Trump’s decision to have the Putin meeting regarding the war on Ukraine and the release of the JFK assassination files on the same day. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Alex Isenstadt Producer: Olivia Crerie Additional Production Supervision: Chris Sutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

Tara is joined by Gov. Kelly Armstrong to discuss Donald Trump’s tariffs and government cuts. They break down the Republican budget resolution decision that the Democrats passed in December, which is now blindsiding them. She asks Gov. Armstrong about Trump and Musk’s DOGE sledgehammer to government agencies, tariffs and how that affects North Dakota’s soybean and fertilizer trade—two of their largest exports. Lastly, Gov. Armstrong talks about getting rid of the North Dakota property tax and what that would entail. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Gov. Kelly Armstrong Producer: Olivia Crerie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Tara is joined by Marc Caputo and Teddy Schleifer to discuss the state of the White House and the economy. Tara gets their perspective on Elon Musk’s power over Trump’s economic decisions and cabinet, as well as what they expect Democratic and Republican responses to the declining stock market will be. Host: Tara Palmeri Guests: Marc Caputo and Teddy Schleifer Producer: Olivia Crerie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Tara is joined by Colorado Rep. Jason Crow to explain his walkout during Donald Trump’s address to Congress last Tuesday. They discuss the Republican decision to extend Joe Biden’s budget, which was passed in December, in hopes to reroute it toward border control and defense. Additionally, they break down the potential repercussions of freezing government credit cards, particularly for veterans. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Rep. Jason Crow Producer: Olivia Crerie Please sign up for “The Red Letter” here: https://x.com/tarapalmeri/status/1898869017877663963 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

Tara is joined by political adviser Joe Hack to discuss an eventful and fiery past few days on the Hill. They break down the political fallout from Donald Trump’s contentious Oval Office meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, preview the president’s State of the Union address, and speculate on the future star of the Democratic Party. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Joe Hack Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

Tara starts the pod by recapping a highly chaotic week for the Trump administration. She’s then joined by Michael LaRosa, former press secretary for Jill Biden, in front of an audience at American University for her Sine Institute seminar on changing media. They discuss and dissect Jake Tapper’s upcoming book about the alleged top-level cover-up of Joe Biden’s declining health during the last year of his presidency. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Michael LaRosa Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

Tara is joined by freshman Senator Jim Banks (R-Indiana) to discuss Trump’s policy decisions in the first month of his second term, including whether he views Elon Musk as a conflict of interest for the Trump administration, his level of concern over potential tariffs hitting his home state, what to make of the MAHA movement, and his thoughts on whether the GOP’s upcoming tax cuts will continue to benefit corporations and billionaires over working people. For more of Tara's reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. You can also follow Tara on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @tarapalmeri Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Senator Jim Banks Producer: Eduardo Ocampo Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

In this special episode, recorded live in front of a group of students at American University in Washington, D.C., Tara Palmeri talks with Pennsylvania representative Brendan Boyle about what went wrong in the state in the 2024 election, Elon Musk's takeover of Washington, Donald Trump's current approval rating, Chuck Schumer's strategies to counter Trump's agenda, why Boyle believes it's no use to look back on the 2024 election, and much more. For more of Tara's reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Brendan Boyle Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

Host Tara Palmeri welcomes Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) for a wide-ranging conversation about President Trump's plans for Gaza, how he views Trump's flurry of executive orders in the first three weeks of his presidency, Trump's ties to the tech billionaires, Elon Musk's increasing role in the government, why the Democrats can't secure votes from white men, and so much more. For more of Tara's reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: John Fetterman Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

Host Tara Palmeri begins by discussing the latest moves from the Trump administration and the ripple effects they could send throughout the economy. Then, Democratic insider Alex Hoffman tells Tara about what he witnessed at this past weekend’s DNC elections, where the party selected Minnesota’s Ken Martin to help the Democrats rise from the ashes over the next four years. The two discuss what Martin’s election means for the party’s future, how Kamala Harris fits into the party moving forward, the need for the Democrats to run an autopsy report on what went wrong in 2024, and more. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Alex Hoffman Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Tara starts the pod with an update on the fallout from Donald Trump’s federal funding freeze, and Robert Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation hearings. She’s then joined by lobbyist and consultant with Oxford Strategies, Shanti Stanton, to talk about the legalities of Trump’s executive orders, examine Elon Musk’s role in the chaos, and discuss what this means for the affected programs going forward. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Shanti Stanton Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025

Tara is joined by cryptocurrency industry expert Kevin Cirilli and host of the ‘Coin Stories’ podcast Natalie Brunell to discuss the state of digital currency heading into the new Donald Trump administration. They discuss the viability of cryptocurrency and Bitcoin in the U.S. economy, speculate on Trump’s actual geopolitical vision for digital currency, and talk about the effect Deepseek could have on the AI market. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guests: Kevin Cirilli and Natalie Brunell Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

Tara joins Meghan McCain on her podcast, ‘Citizen McCain,’ to share her firsthand experiences from Donald Trump’s inauguration proceedings and the accompanying events. They then break down all the rumors surrounding Team Trump, discuss the upcoming confirmation hearings, and even spill some tea on the Obamas. To check out more of Meghan on the ‘Citizen McCain’ podcast, click here. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Hosts: Tara Palmeri and Meghan McCain Producers: Chris Sutton, Karrah Kaplan, Miranda Wilkins, and Olivia Dicopoulous Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2025

Tara is joined by Axios’ Marc Caputo from Donald Trump’s inauguration in Washington, D.C., to share their instant reactions to the events of the day and over the preceding weekend. They discuss the highlights of Trump’s speech, differentiate the rhetoric from his actual presidential intentions, and talk about their favorite moments from the event. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Marc Caputo Producers: Chris Sutton and Ryan Jones Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

Tara is joined by Pat Dennis, president of the Democratic Super PAC American Bridge 21st Century, to discuss the viability of Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees and the media’s role in exposing their inefficiencies to the American public. They shine a light on the dark world of political opposition research, speculate on which of Trump’s controversial picks will make it through confirmation, and debate the effectiveness of mainstream news on the modern voter. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Pat Dennis Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2025

Tara is joined by ex-deputy secretary of Homeland Security Ken Cuccinelli to talk about the viability of Donald Trump’s ambitious immigration reforms on the eve of his inauguration. They discuss the legality of using the military to execute mass deportations, debate the effects they will have on the American people, and break down the national and international logistics of implementing such a large scale plan. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Ken Cuccinelli Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025

Tara is joined by former Trump administration appointee and political consultant Matthew Bartlett to discuss the viability of Donald Trump’s ambitious legislative agenda as we approach Inauguration Day. They analyze Trump’s provocative Mar-a-Lago press conference from earlier in the week, speculate on what his first days in office will be like, and shine a light on the tech-bro swagger currently infecting the Hill. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Matthew Bartlett Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2025

Tara is joined by British political activist and adviser Raheem Kassam to discuss and compare the current states of right-wing populism in England and the United States. They shine a light on the rising influence of the Reform party and its ideological leader (Nigel Farage) in U.K. politics, analyze Elon Musk’s political moves in Europe, and talk about what will be different about Donald Trump’s administration the second time around. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Raheem Kassam Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2025

As President Biden prepares to leave American politics after 50 years of service, presidential historian Douglas Brinkley joins Tara Palmeri to reflect on Biden’s legacy. Will the history books remember him fondly for his dedication to the American people, or will a controversial final year in office overshadow President Biden's lifetime of work? Plus, the two discuss what President-Elect Donald Trump could do to help or harm the legacy of his predecessor over the next four years. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, ’The Best and the Brightest,’ at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Douglas Brinkley Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2024

Tara is joined by legal scholar and former political advisor John Yoo to discuss the parameters of Donald Trump’s executive power as we head closer to his upcoming presidency. They examine the myriad ways Trump can manipulate the justice system, talk about the ways he can strengthen his influence further, and shine a light on the viability of some of his proposed executive orders. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: John Yoo Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

Tara is joined by political strategist and Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign manager, Bill Stepien, to dissect Trump’s mindset as he gets his cabinet ready for his upcoming presidency. They examine his current level of power in D.C., break down the paths forward for his legislative agenda, and examine his mercurial relationship with pollsters. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Bill Stepien Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

Tara is joined by writer, Iraq War veteran, and host of the ‘Independent Americans’ podcast Paul Rieckhoff to discuss Pete Hegseth’s bid to be secretary of defense in Donald Trump’s upcoming administration. They break down the tactics MAGA devotees are employing to pressure senators into accepting Pete’s nomination, examine the culture wars developing within the U.S. military, and talk about why Trump’s DNI nominee, Tulsi Gabbard, is an equally controversial choice for her prospective role. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Paul Rieckhoff Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2024

Tara is joined by Puck’s own Dylan Byers to talk about Donald Trump’s relationship with the media and investigative journalism. They discuss how Trump’s previous administration altered modern political discourse, speculate on the future of big cable news after the last election cycle, and shine a light on how the media has to change the way it covers his upcoming presidency. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Dylan Byers Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024

Tara is joined by political commentator Chris Cillizza and former press secretary for Jill Biden Michael LaRosa to analyze Joe Biden’s presidential résumé as we head toward the end of his administration. They speculate on the effect Hunter Biden’s controversial pardon will have on Joe’s legacy, shine a light on Jill Biden’s influence on the president’s career, and talk about how Biden’s legislative accomplishments will be viewed in the future. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guests: Michael LaRosa and Chris Cillizza Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2024

Tara is joined by adviser and lobbyist Joe Hack to discuss the most recent developments within President-Elect Donald Trump’s increasingly controversial cabinet selection process. They profile the parade of nominees, break down the systematic nomination process, and take a look at some of the GOP members of the Senate who could stand in the way of confirmations. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Joe Hack Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2024

In a special Black Friday edition of the program, Tara Palmeri is joined by former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley, who recently announced his decision to run for chair of the Democratic National Committee. First, O’Malley discuses what went wrong in the presidential election for the Democrats and how the Democrats plan to learn from their mistakes. Then, the two discuss the political future for Kamala Harris, how to change the perception of the Democratic Party, and why O’Malley thinks he’s the right man to steer the ship for the DNC moving forward. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Martin O’Malley Producer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2024

Tara starts the pod with some new reporting on Donald Trump’s tumultuous transition team. She’s then joined by Max Rose, the former Democratic representative for New York City’s 11th Congressional District, to discuss how his party should move forward after a disastrous 2024 election. They talk about how the Kamala Harris team failed in delivering its messaging to voters, shine a light on the success of the Ruben Gallego and Elissa Slotkin campaigns, and speculate on the DNC’s next internal moves. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Max Rose Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

Tara is joined by Marc Caputo from The Bulwark and Politico’s Meridith McGraw to discuss Donald Trump’s increasingly controversial cabinet selections. They shine a light on Trump’s new chief of staff, Susie Wiles; debate the viability of Matt Gaetz as his selection for attorney general; and speculate on what Trump's first days in office will look like. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guests: Marc Caputo and Meridith McGraw Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2024

Tara starts things off with some reporting on the growing number of appointments in Donald Trump’s increasingly controversial Cabinet. She's then joined by Republican Party pollster and strategist Patrick Ruffini to talk about how Trump won both the electoral and popular vote in spectacular fashion. They shine a light on the GOP’s ongoing efforts to court minority voters, discuss the Democrats' failed attempts at campaigning on identity politics, and speculate on how each political party will move forward from here. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Patrick Ruffini Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2024

Tara begins the pod with an update on Donald Trump’s cabinet selections as his transition team prepares for Inauguration Day. She’s then joined by pollster and founding partner of Slingshot Strategies, Evan Roth Smith, to go through the numbers and break down how Kamala Harris lost the presidential election. They examine which of the gettable voter bases leaned to the right on election day, shine a light on some of Kamala’s political missteps during her campaign, and Evan offers some sobering advice to his Democratic colleagues on how to move forward as a party after this historic loss. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Evan Roth Smith Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2024

Tara and her Puck colleague Peter Hamby join Mosheh Oinounou on his podcast, ‘Mo News,’ to discuss the fallout of the 2024 presidential election. They break down the strategies of both parties throughout their campaigns, debate Kamala Harris’s missteps, and speculate on what’s next for Team Trump. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Hosts: Tara Palmeri, Peter Hamby, and Mosheh Oinounou Producers: Chris Sutton and Mosheh Oinounou Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

Tara is joined by political strategist and host of the 'Warning’ podcast, Steve Schmidt, to assess the aftermath of Donald Trump’s historic victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. They discuss what went wrong with the Democrats' campaign, shine a light on Joe Biden’s possible role in the defeat, and talk about what Kamala could’ve done differently to improve her standing with voters. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Steve Schmidt Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2024

Tara is joined by Axios national political correspondent Alex Thompson to discuss the state of the Kamala Harris campaign as it heads down the home stretch toward election night. They talk about Donald Trump’s undisciplined rhetoric over the last couple of weeks, examine the obstacles Harris has had to overcome since her nomination, and debate who will receive the most blame from the candidate who loses. Tune in to see Tara and friends on 'Election Night Live With Brian WIlliams' streaming on Amazon Prime Video on Tuesday, November 5th. Coverage starts at 5 p.m. PT. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Alex Thompson Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2024

Tara is joined by former governors Tom Corbett (R-Pennsylvania) and Jim Blanchard (D-Michigan) to discuss the state of the election in their respective swing states as we head closer to November 5th. They shine a light on the governors’ bipartisan efforts to protect election integrity through the Keep Our Republic initiative, share which local counties will be the most pivotal, and examine Kamala Harris’s last-minute campaign efforts. To learn more about the Keep Our Republic initiative, click here. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guests: Tom Corbett and Jim Blanchard Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024

Tara is joined by journalist Rachel H. Janfaza to take the temperature of the youth vote as we head toward election day. They shine a light on Kamala Harris’s “vibes” campaign, examine the effectiveness of Donald Trump’s podcast appearances with young men, and talk about what pollsters may be getting wrong about the Gen Z voter block. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Rachel H. Janfaza Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 November 2024

Tara starts the pod by catching us up on the Trump campaign's struggle to control the fallout in Pennsylvania over some of the controversial comments made during his Madison Square Garden rally, and Kamala Harris’s closing campaign speech at the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. Tara is then joined by Michigan congresswoman Debbie Dingell to talk about the tireless work she’s doing with Team Harris to secure the Great Lakes State's electoral votes as we near election day. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Rep. Debbie Dingell Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2024

Tara starts the pod by recalling her experiences at Donald Trump’s recent campaign rally at Madison Square Garden. She’s then joined by journalist and political commentator Jon Ralston to discuss the recent Republican enthusiasm in the key swing state of Nevada as we head into next week’s election. They analyze the unusual voter turnout pattern in the Silver State, talk about why there are so many registered independents among its residents, and break down how Democrats and Republicans motivate their bases. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Jon Ralston Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2024

Tara is joined by Republican pollster and writer Kristen Soltis Anderson to shine a light on where Nikki Haley’s voter base might be leaning on election day. They discuss Kamala Harris’s recent appearances with Liz Cheney, break down the political pressure undecided voters are currently feeling, and talk about Donald Trump’s upcoming campaign stops with Haley. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Kristen Soltis Anderson Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

Tara is joined by pollster and political strategist John Anzalone to discuss Team Harris’s poll numbers as we head toward Election Day. They analyze Kamala’s standing with different demographics, shine a light on Trump’s dark campaign messaging, and dissect the current state of the presidential race in the critical swing states. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: John Anzalone Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024

Tara is joined by author and political consultant Stuart Stevens to discuss the state of the presidential race as we head down the homestretch. They dissect Trump’s current poll numbers, shine a light on Kamala Harris’s media blitz, and speculate on the future of both major parties regardless of the election results in November. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Stuart Stevens Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2024

Tara is joined by Republican pollster and strategic consultant John McLaughlin to discuss Donald Trump’s current standing in the key swing states as we head into the presidential election. They discuss his campaign’s focus on first-time voters, analyze the viability of Team Trump’s ground operation, and speculate on how Donald will ultimately fare with voters in November. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: John McLaughlin Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024

Tara is joined by her mom, Yolanda Palmeri, to discuss why she’s still deciding who to vote for in the 2024 presidential election. They talk about the political history within their family and community in North Carolina, break down the issues concerning Yolanda the most this cycle, and weigh in on which direction her vote will most likely lean in November. For more of Tara’s reporting, please sign up for her newsletter, 'The Best and the Brightest,' at puck.news/tarapalmeri and use the discount code TARA20. Host: Tara Palmeri Guest: Yolanda Palmeri Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2024