The Takeout with Major Garrett

Primaries are happening in multiple states including Iowa and California. KCCI chief political reporter Amanda Rooker sets the scene for the races in Iowa, while Julie Watts breaks down the dynamics of the LA Mayor and California Governor’s race. Maine Senate Candidate Graham Platner is on Capitol Hill, just days after reporting came out about him sexting multiple women. Nikole Killion reports on how Democratic leadership is responding to the controversy. Plus, the White House Correspondents Dinner has officially been rescheduled to July 24 with a new location and increased security measures. Major speaks with Matt Viser from the Atlantic about how the access has tightened around the White House complex. All that and more right here on The Takeout!

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

CBS News has learned that the Trump Administration will drop the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund. Ed O’Keefe discusses his latest reporting. President Trump posts on Truth Social that conversations are ongoing with Iran, while the country’s state media asserts negotiations are suspended. Aaron MacLean provides analysis on the ongoing war between the U.S. and Iran. Voters in California will cast their ballots in multiple primaries, including the races for the Los Angeles Mayor and Governor. POLITICO’s Melanie Mason joins to preview these races and how the newly drawn maps will affect congressional primaries. Plus, Major will speak with TMZ DC’s co-Managing Editors Jacob Wasserman and Charlie Cotton about the tabloid’s effort to cover politics in the nation’s capitol. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

On tonight's edition of The Takeout...Major starts with Nancy Cordes on the latest confusion over Iran negotiations. Margaret Brennan joins with part of her interview with Ukranian President Zelenskyy. We'll have Epstein survivor Annie Farmer on to react to Pam Bondi's closed door testimony on the release of the Epstein files. And super progressive candidate Chris Rabb discusses his campaign for a House seat in one of the country's most liberal districts. That and more on The Takeout podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

Major sits down with veteran journalist Lois Romano to discuss her new biography "An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincoln". The rare and extensive profile of the former first lady looks at her life before and after her husband's assassination. Romano and Major break down Mary Todd Lincoln's mental health struggles, discussing how they'd be treated today and how misogyny has shaped the public's perception of her. Romano also details how Mary shaped the role of the first lady with her ground-breaking presence in Washington.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

Welcome to the Takeout. President Trump is pushing for a $250 bill featuring himself, but his political currency with Republicans is wavering after last week's fallout over the anti-weaponization fund. Conflicting messages about a lasting ceasefire with Iran continued today, even after reports that Iran launched a ballistic missile towards Kuwait. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Celine Gounder breaks down the threat of Ebola for exposed Americans who will be sent to a Kenyan treatment facility, there are concerns about their level of care. CEO of the Atlantic Nick Thompson sits down with Major to talk about why young people are not fully embracing AI. Finally, Washington bureau chief for the Atlanta Journal Constitution Tia Mitchell and NOTUS senior editor Dave Levinthal break down the contentious LA mayor race, Georgia senate primaries and a lot more.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

In a compelling interview with Major, Ben Rhodes reflects on his upcoming book, “All We Say”, which tells the history of 15 speeches that define America 250 years after its founding. Rhodes, who served as Deputy National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama, shared his thoughts on the Iran war, why he thinks the Obama White House “did get right” the 2015 nuclear deal, and the state of the Democratic Party as it faces backlash over the handling of the 2024 election autopsy release. From Martin Luther King’s "I have a dream" speech to right- and left-wing populism in America, Rhodes gives his first-hand account to Major and how the nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence under the presidency of Trump.

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2026

Welcome to The Takeout. Texas senate race is set following Ken Paxton’s decisive run off win as President Trump declares he doesn’t “care about the midterms.” A tale of two incumbents: Rep. Christian Menefee speaks to Major about his agenda and generational shift after defeating Al Green. A peace deal with Iran is at stalemate but Trump claims Tehran is “negotiating on fumes.” CBS News national security contributor Joe Zacks analyzes a potential deal and its implications for Washington. Finally, political strategists Joel Payne and T.W. Arrighi zero in on why Jill Biden told CBS Sunday Morning she was "frightened" by her husband's 2024 debate performance, and was concerned he might be having a stroke.

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2026

Welcome to The Takeout. President Trump asserts his third medical exam "checked out perfectly” as questions are raised over his health. Nancy Cordes has the latest from the White House. Wisconsin Republican Senator Ron Johnson joins The Takeout to discuss the Justice Department’s “anti-weaponization” fund and what it entails for the Republicans. Next, Aaron MacLean explains the Qatar talks aimed at ending the war in the Middle East and Iran's end goal. Finally, political panelists Kendra Barkoff Lamy and Terry Sullivan explain the heated Cornyn-Paxton Senate primary runoff in Texas.

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

Major conducts a wide-ranging interview with author Jon Krakauer, three decades after the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. Jon reflects on the time that has passed since the release of his 1997 book "Into Thin Air", which chronicles his first-hand account of the journey and what ultimately led to the deaths of twelve people. 

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2026

Aaron MacLean and Sam Vinograd join Major at the top of the show to discuss the resignation of Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's Director of National Intelligence. They both detail the role of the ODNI, what the shift in leadership will mean for the administration, and the latest on the war in Iran. As the President defends his proposal of the anti-weaponization fund in a Truth Social post, Michael Cohen speaks with Major about wanting to apply for the fund. Plus, Maryland Democratic Congressman Glenn Ivey and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison join "The Takeout" to reflect on six years since George Floyd's death and their renewed push for policing reform. Join us for the full episode here. 

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2026

Major begins the show with Ebola, discussing with Dr. Celine Gounder how the virus has spread within the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the travel restrictions to neighboring African countries. Nikole Killion explains her latest reporting, where some Republicans, staunch allies of the President, are not sold on the Department of Justice's Anti-Weaponization Fund. Georgetown Law's Rupa Bhattacharya provides legal analysis on this fund and whether there is precedent for it. Major has a wide-ranging interview with Former Georgia Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene about her reaction to Rep. Thomas Massie losing his primary, the role foreign funding played in that race, and her takeaways on this year's Georgia elections. Plus, former Sen. Lamar Alexander discusses his new memoir, "The Education of a Senator: From JFK to Trump," and his worries about the Republican Party not holding President Trump accountable. All that and more, right here on "The Takeout".

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

President Trump's revenge tour continues: Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie lost his primary and his candidate in the Georgia Senate race advanced to a runoff, hoping to beat Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff. Anthony Salvanto breaks down the primary numbers. Staying in the Peach State, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms clinched her win in the Democratic primary, and she has her eye on becoming Governor. She discusses what led to her breaking the 50% threshold and what policies she's hoping to implement to combat inflation. Nevada Democratic Senator Jacky Rosen joins to discuss her new bipartisan legislation with Oklahoma Republican James Lankford regarding federal actions to tackle antisemitism. Plus, the U.S. officially indicts Raul Castro on a crime he allegedly committed three decades ago: downing two planes which led to the deaths of four people. Margaret Brennan gives us the toplines of this announcement and what it means for U.S.-Cuba relations. All that and more on The Takeout. 

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2026

Primaries are happening in six states including Kentucky and Georgia. Ed is in Kentucky following Congressman Massie’s primary against Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein. Ed spoke with Massie about a variety of topics surrounding his campaign and what it means to be a Republican under Trump’s ire. Skyler Henry is in Atlanta recapping the primaries happening for Georgia Senate and Georgia Governor. Anthony Salvanto and Kyle Kondik provide polling and analysis on what to watch out for in these races. Plus, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testifies on Capitol Hill, being questioned about the DOJ’s 1.8 billion dollar compensation fund for people who they claim have been victims of “weaponization.” Jake Rosen explains the fund and the future ramifications that can ensue. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

Nikole Killion is in for Major today. She recaps the breaking news of a shooting at a San Diego Islamic center with Anna Schecter and Sam Vinograd. Sources tells CBS News that two suspects are dead. Aaron Navarro’s in Lexington, Kentucky covering the congressional primary of Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican that’s been under the President’s crosshairs. Adam Beam, deputy editor from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, discusses tomorrow’s primaries in the Peach State. Plus, we’re a couple of weeks away from the Los Angeles mayoral race — where incumbent Karen Bass faces LA Councilmember Nithya Raman and reality star Spencer Pratt. Nikole speaks with Raman about her third place performance in the polls and what she’s doing to close the gap. Listen to the full episode here! 

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

An Iraqi national has been charged with planning terror attacks. Anna Schecter details what we know so far. President Trump ends his summit in Beijing with Chinese President Xi and plans to head back to the U.S. Ed O’Keefe is at the White House North Lawn, recapping the important topics of the trip. California Democratic Representative Ro Khanna provides his perspective on the summit and explains his endorsement of CA Gubernatorial Candidate Tom Steyer. Plus, Michigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow is one of three Democratic candidates for Senate. She joins "The Takeout" to discuss why she's the best candidate to beat Mike Rogers in the general election. Listen to the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping laying down the gauntlet to President Trump, stating that Taiwan is their most important issue. Anna Coren continues her reporting from Beijing, breaking down what we know so far. Michigan Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin reacts to the summit between Trump and Xi, specifically voicing her worries about Taiwan and artificial intelligence. We're five days out from Georgia voters casting ballots in their primary elections. Major speaks with Republican Congressman Buddy Carter, who's running for Senate in the Peach State. He explains why he is the best Republican to beat Sen. Jon Ossoff. Plus, California Democratic Congressman Lou Correa joins  to discuss his push for psychedelic therapy for veterans struggling with PTSD, after President Trump signed an executive order to expand research into the effects of those drugs. He also hints at whom he's backing in the race to replace CA Gov. Gavin Newsom. All that and more, right here on "The Takeout." 

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026

CBS News Contributor Elliot Ackerman & Admiral James Stavridis provide their perspectives on the war in Iran. They also have a new book out, "2084: A Novel of Future War", which is the third book in their series. It tackles issues of climate change, the rise of artificial intelligence and the connections between their novel and the present day. It's a conversation you won't want to miss, right here on "The Takeout".

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026

President Trump continues his travel in Beijing. CBS News Foreign Correspondent Anna. Coren is there with more, while CBS News Contributor Sam Vinograd analyzes what to expect from meetings between Trump and President Xi. Nicole Sganga tosses to parts of her interview with DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin about security at the FIFA World Cup and the current state of Alligator Alcatraz. Booking.com CEO Glenn Fogel speaks with Major about the rise of artificial intelligence in the travel industry. Plus, Major interviews Elliot Ackerman and Adm. James Starvidis about the issue of climate change, the wars in Iran and Ukraine as well as their latest science fiction novel: “2084: A Novel of Future War. 

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

Just before heading to meet Xi Jinping in Beijing, President Trump told reporters he’s not thinking about Americans’ financial situations, when questioned on the war in Iran. Ed O’Keefe joins Major at the desk with more. Aaron MacLean provides analysis on the latest on the war in Iran, and his reaction on Pakistan’s role as mediator between the two countries. CBS News Contributor Patrick McGee previews Apple CEO Tim Cook joining Trump in his trip to China. Plus, Major takes us back to the 60s when CBS Radio covered then-President Lyndon B. Johnson delivers remarks following the marches in Selma, Alabama. Join us for the full episode here! 

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

Major and Ed tag team today’s show. Major begins the show in New York, following his interview with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Nancy Cordes joins from the White House with the toplines of her recent call with President Trump. CBS News Contributors H.R. McMaster and Elliot Ackerman react to Major’s interview. Ed then takes it away with a pivot to the latest on the Hantavirus with analysis from Dr. Jon LaPook. He tosses to our CBS Radio Flashback for the day, when Fmr. Pres. George HW Bush discusses Operation Desert Storm. Join us for the full episode here! 

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

CDC has designated a Level 3 response for the Hantavirus outbreak, after members on a cruise were first exposed. Dr. Celine Gounder notes what this means and how it differs from COVID. Virginia's State Supreme Court struck down the proposed congressional map in a 4-3 vote. This comes after voters in the state approved of a referendum that would've given Democrats four more seats. CBS News Election Law Contributor David Becker discusses the implications for the redistricting effort. Plus, the Pentagon releases UAP (unidentified aerial phenomena) files to the public, leaving them open to interpretation. Former Navy Pilot Alex Dietrich, who has her own experience with seeing a UFO, reacts to the latest. All that and more on The Takeout!

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

Caitlin Huey-Burns fills in for Major. The U.S. is awaiting Iran’s response to their proposal to end the war. Nancy Cordes joins from the White House with more. A suicide note allegedly linked to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has been released. Anna Schecter reports on the latest and the response from the Department of Justice. Nicole Sganga details her CBS News investigation into the 13-minute lapse in footage where the suspect is not accounted for. Plus, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is in the midst of her re-election campaign, facing off against Councilwoman Nithya Raman and Reality Star Spencer Pratt. Just a day after the LA Mayoral Debate, Adam Yamaguchi interviews Pratt on his pitch on why voters should choose him, given his lack of experience. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2026

Caitlin Huey-Burns anchors today. From Secy. Rubio telling reporters that the war's new phase of Project Freedom to President Trump's announcement pausing the same project, the administration's provided mixed messaging about the war in Iran. Nancy Cordes and Aaron MacLean join to cut through the noise. Five of the seven Indiana Republican lawmakers who opposed the President's redistricting effort lost their primaries. Fin Gomez recaps those results and the other primaries from Tuesday night. Plus, longtime South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham faces a longshot challenge from Dr. Annie Andrews. Andrews joins "The Takeout" to discuss what sets her candidacy apart. Listen to the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026

Secretary of State Marco Rubio briefs reporters on what he calls the new stage of the war in Iran. Nancy Cordes joins from the White House North Lawn to report on his comments. It’s primary day in Ohio and Indiana, where several Republican state lawmakers bucked the President on his redistricting effort to gain more seats. Ed O’Keefe tosses to his interview with one of the lawmakers impacted. As many Americans disapprove of the Supreme Court, one Maryland Congressman is introducing legislation that would provide term limits to justices. Rep. Johnny Olszewski joins “The Takeout” to discuss his bill. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026

Weijia Jiang fills in for Major. Spirit Airlines shuts down over the weekend, citing high oil prices due to the war in Iran. Kris Van Cleave and Peter Greenberg discuss what this means for the airline industry. Two U.S. service members are reported missing in Morocco, while participating in a military exercise. Eleanor Watson details the latest. Plus, the Supreme Court temporarily blocks a lower court ruling that would limit mifepristone access. Jessica Levinson walks us through the next steps. Listen to the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026

Caitlin Huey-Burns fills in for Major. CBS News confirms that Spirit Airlines could shut down as soon as tomorrow. Kris van Cleave discusses the latest developments. Iran makes a new offer to settle the war, this as President Trump sends a letter to Congress, claiming that hostilities have terminated in the region. Aaron MacLean joins for analysis. U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro releases additional footage of the moments before and during the shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner. Anna Schecter breaks down the footage, while Sam Vinograd explains from a national security lens. Plus, Louisiana Democrat Troy Carter reacts to the state's effort to draw new maps following Wednesday's Supreme Court ruling, and what it means for his seat. All that and more, right here on "The Takeout"!

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2026

Congress has finally funded the Department of Homeland Security, ending the partial government shutdown that lasted over 70 days concerning the agency. Nikole Killion is on Capitol Hill with more. Maine Governor Janet Mills suspends her Senate campaign, clearing the path for Graham Platner to become the Democratic nominee. Major speaks with New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham about what this means for the state of the Democratic Party. Pam Bondi is set to face the House Oversight Committee on May 29 regarding her involvement with the Epstein Files. Virginia Democrat James Walkinshaw, who serves on that committee, discusses what questions he would ask the former Attorney General. The redistricting battle between Democrats and Republicans continues, with Florida's legislature passing new maps that would grant Republicans four additional seats in the House. Florida GOP Party Chair Evan Power joins to discuss that and how Wednesday's Supreme Court decision would impact future elections in his state. All that and more on "The Takeout." 

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2026

In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act, throwing out a Louisiana congressional map with two majority-minority districts. Jan Crawford breaks down how the justices reached their decision. Major interviews House Minority Whip Katherine Clark for her reaction, where Congress stands as the war in Iran reaches 60 days, and the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testifies at the House Armed Services Committee, where he is pressed on the administration's war in Iran. Democratic Senator John Fetterman joins "The Takeout" to defend Operation Epic Fury and explain why he supports President Trump's request for a White House Ballroom. Former FBI Director James Comey turned himself in today, following the second indictment from the Justice Department. Jake Rosen provides color and context for Comey's arrival in the courtroom. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2026

Under Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department of Justice indicts former FBI Director James Comey once again. Katrina Kaufman joins Major in New York with more. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis proposes a new congressional map that, if passed, would likely give Republicans four extra seats in the House. Rep. Kathy Castor, a Florida Democrat, whose district would be impacted, reacts to the map. Plus, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is leading a state accountability commission seeking to provide answers following ICE enforcement in the state through Operation Midway Blitz. Major interviews Gov. Pritzker on what he hopes to accomplish with this initiative, his executive order on prediction markets and much more. Listen to the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026

Major hosts from New York. Nicole Sganga and Ed O’Keefe report on the fallout from the shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner. Acting Attorney General Blanche emphasizes that law enforcement did not fail. CBS News National Security Analyst Aaron MacLean provides analysis on the dinner as well as the latest on the Iran War. Adam Smith, Ranking Democrat of the House Armed Services Committee, joins “The Takeout” to preview Defense Secy. Hegseth on the Hill later this week and his reaction to the 70+ day DHS shutdown. Plus, Queen Camilla and King Charles start their 4-day visit in the U.S. in the nation’s capital with the President and the First Lady. Caitlin Huey-Burns brings us up to speed with the royal schedule. Join us for the full episode here! 

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

Major speaks with Anita McBride, the former Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, about the role First Ladies have played in early presidential tenures. McBride, who’s also the co-chair of the InPursuit essay series, responds to the pieces of Abigail Adams and Dolly Madison garnered 10-15% more interest than that of the Presidents profiled.

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2026

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to travel to Islamabad to continue peace negotiations with Iran. These conversations follow President Trump's announcement of a three-week extension between Israel and Lebanon. Ed O'Keefe is at the White House with more. Major speaks with former Trump National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien to parse through all the details. A soldier involved in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro allegedly placed bets on the prediction market platform Polymarket before the raid went public, gaining over $400,000. Nicole Sganga joins Major at the desk to explain the latest. Plus, Sami Sage, founder of BETCHES, discusses how influencers and mainstream media outlets collaborated to reveal and vet the reporting that led to former Congressman Eric Swalwell's resignation. Join us for the full episode here! 

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2026

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick testified on Capitol Hill, saying that the U.S.’ current trade relationship with Canada “sucks". Major interviews Ontario Premier Doug Ford for his response. Off the heels of the state’s first governor debate last night, California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra joins “The Takeout” to discuss his platform. Plus, Major continues his tribute to CBS News Radio. This time, he shares a snippet of when the radio covered Japan’s surrender which led to the end of World War II. All that and more right here on The Takeout!

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2026

Major speaks with New York Times investigative reporter Jodi Kantor about her new book, "How to Start: Discovering Your Life's Work". The book sets out to provide advice to recent college graduates looking to find the career they're most passionate about. Kantor also discusses her latest reporting on the Supreme Court's shadow docket. 

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2026

Major returns to the anchor chair. Ed O'Keefe is at the White House reporting on the fluid situation between US and Iran, following the extended ceasefire announced by President Trump. Voters in Virginia approved a new map that would give Democrats a 10-1 majority in the state. Fin Gomez joins Major at the desk to discuss the results. Republican Senator Thom Tillis has vowed not to vote on Fed nominee Kevin Warsh, until Trump ends his probe against current Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Tillis joins the show to explain. House Armed Services member and Colorado Democrat Jason Crow speaks with Major about his reaction to the war in Iran. Major plays a snippet of the 1932 Republican National Convention radio broadcast. It's the first day of Major's month-long tribute for the radio division. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2026

Nikole Killion is in for Major Garrett. Moments before the show, President Trump announces an extension of the ceasefire between the US and Iran in a Truth Social post. Ed O'Keefe is at the White House with the news, while Sam Vinograd provides additional analysis about what this means. Florida Democratic Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigns from office, before a House Ethics hearing that would've determined her punishment for violating campaign finance laws. Taurean Small is at Capitol Hill with more. Plus, Virginia voters are casting their ballots today. They will vote on a redistricting measure that would bolster Democratic support in the state. David Becker joins Nikole to discuss. Nikole also interviews former Republican Senator and Governor George Allen about his reaction. Listen to the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026

Major speaks with Megan Garber of The Atlantic, whose new book, “Screen People: How We Entertained Ourselves into a State of Emergency”, discusses her take on internet culture and how people are seen more as characters than given grace as being human. She also provides some solutions about how we should perceive the algorithm and taking back agency from technology. 

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026

U.S. forces seized an Iranian vessel over the weekend. President Trump’s messaging continues to change about whether he would reach another deal with Iran. Charlie D’Agata reports from Tel Aviv about the state of the Strait of Hormuz. Aaron McLean joins Major at the touchscreen and Major touches on the breaking news that Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer has resigned with Ed O’Keefe at the White House. Jake Rosen discusses FBI Director Kash Patel’s new lawsuit against The Atlantic after their reporting that accuses Patel of excessive drinking and absence in his position that has worried his peers at the agency. Plus, Major interviews former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms about her gubernatorial run and Bill Nye the Science Guy about his advocacy in pushing for members of Congress to stop proposed cuts to NASA. All that and more on The Takeout! 

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

Major interviews Susan Page, USA Today’s Washington Bureau Chief, to discuss her latest book, “The Queen and her Presidents”. The book highlights Queen Elizabeth’s relationships with several presidents throughout her multi-decade tenure. Page details the Queen’s impact on multiple world events like the Suez Canal as well as the World Wars. 

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2026

President Trump announces on Truth Social that the Strait of Hormuz is open, yet the U.S. blockade continues. Eleanor Watson joins Major on-set to parse through the details, while Aaron MacLean is at the touchscreen with analysis. The California Governor's race continues to heat up, after former Rep. Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign due to sexual assault claims. Will this be the opening Democrats need to take over? Major interviews San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, one of the Democratic gubernatorial candidates, about what sets him apart from the crowded field. Plus, William Henry Harrison had one of the shortest tenures in presidential history. He's often overlooked in U.S. politics, but Major speaks with author/educator Sharon McMahon about the lessons we take away from his presidency. All that and more, right here on The Takeout!

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2026

Charlie D’Agata joins from Israel to break down the latest going on with the war in Iran. CBS News National Security Contributor Joe Zacks provides additional analysis. With two members of Congress resigning to avoid expulsion resolutions from their peers, Major speaks with Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, who has been behind the recent efforts. Rep. Luna claims that there’s a Senator who may have committed sexual misconduct and breaks the news on our air. Plus, former Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax kills his wife before ending his life in their home. Nicole Sganga joins Major at the desk with more. Listen to the full episode here. 

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2026

Major speaks with Josh Owens on his new memoir “The Madness of Believing,” which details his journey experience working for conspiracy theorist Alex Jones between 2013 and 2017. Owens discusses what led him to working with Jones, the outlandish anecdotes he acquired during his tenure and what ultimately led to his departure from the company.

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2026

Major speaks with Sharon McMahon about her InPursuit essay detailing how the late president's short tenure impacted how candidates campaign through the years. McMahon, known as "America's Government Teacher," breaks down the significance of Harrison's enduring inauguration speech and how it ultimately led to his sudden death. 

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2026

Today marks four years since the Sudanese civil war started. Major speaks with Mercy Corps CEO Tjada D'Oyen McKenna, whose organization is helping provide aid to the people in the region. As President Trump continues to threaten taking the U.S. out of NATO, the Wall Street Journal reports that European nations are expediting a back-up plan if that comes to fruition. Former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg joins to discuss. Plus, former InfoWars Video Editor Josh Owens has a new memoir: "The Madness of Believing," describing his time working for Alex Jones. He tells all about his experience on "The Takeout." Listen to the full episode here!  

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2026

California Democrat Rep. Eric Swalwell and Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales have announced their resignations from the House. Both members of Congress face sexual harassment claims from former staffers. Their resignations will supersede the expulsion resolutions from their fellow members. Nancy Cordes spoke with two women who accuse Swalwell and explained their fear of coming forward. New Mexico Representative Teresa Leger-Fernandez, who led the expulsion resolution against Rep. Gonzales, reacts to the fallout surrounding both resignations. New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez joins Major on-set to discuss the next steps in his case against Meta, following the landmark verdict forcing the social media platform to pay $375 million. Plus, Illinois Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth joins to discuss her effort to push for a War Powers Resolution against the President's war in Iran. All that and more right here on The Takeout!

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2026

President Trump posts an AI-generated picture depicting him as Jesus on his Truth Social account, which led to backlash over the weekend. Weijia Jiang joins us from the White House North Lawn with Trump's reaction. Aaron MacLean is at the touchscreen to discuss how the U.S. blockade on the Strait of Hormuz is affecting the pathway for oil. Fmr. Ambassador Nicholas Burns provides additional analysis following the peace talks between the U.S. and Iran on Saturday. Major covered the breaking news of California Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell announcing his resignation with Taurean Small from Capitol Hill. Swalwell faces sexual harassment claims from former staffers, which triggered calls from his Democratic peers not only to suspend his campaign but also to vacate his congressional seat. House Ethics Committee announced an investigation into those claims against the outgoing Congressman. Join us for the full episode here.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

The Artemis II crew prepares for splashdown, where their spacecraft will land on Earth. Mark Strassmann continues his coverage from the Johnson Space Center in Houston, while former NASA Astronaut Danny Olivas provides additional analysis on the heat shield: an important capsule feature that protects astronauts from extreme temperatures as they leave space. Major interviews Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner, who's leading the polls in his primary against the state's governor, Janet Mills. Plus, Jim Axelrod is in Augusta, home of the Masters tournament in golf. Major greets him wearing his olive green blazer, which is on theme with the terrain. Join us for the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2026

First Lady Melania Trump gives remarks, denouncing her ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Ed O’Keefe breaks down the latest from the White House North Lawn. CBS’ Investigative Unit spoke with anonymous soldiers who survived the deadly attack in Kuwait. They claim they were unprepared to defend themselves, going directly against reports from The Pentagon. Major poses the latest reporting to House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rick Crawford (R-AR) for his reaction. Plus,  congressional reporter Juliegrace Brufke announces her Sources Say podcast, where she spills tea on the interesting stories of members on Capitol Hill. All that and more, right here on The Takeout! 

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2026

President Trump announces a two-week ceasefire with Iran, after threatening the death of an entire civilization. Weijia Jiang reports from the White House with more. Major interviews Republican Representative Don Bacon, a member of the House Armed Services committee, on his reaction to the deal. Plus, fresh off his victory in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, Rep.-elect Clay Fuller joins “The Takeout” to discuss his win. Listen to the full episode here!

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2026

Major speaks with Colleen Shogan, former U.S. Archivist and CEO of In Pursuit: the essay series where political leaders highlight the successes and failures of former presidents. Major and Colleen go into depth about the presidencies of Andrew Jackson and Martin van Buren and how history can teach us about how to  lead in present-day. If you’re a history buff like Major, it’s an episode you won’t want to miss. 

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2026