Podcast Episodes

The generational brawl inside the Democratic Party

Democrats face a growing generational rift as younger challengers line up to take on veteran incumbents in a series of high-stakes primaries. Anna Palmer and Max Cohen break down the battle lines — a…

Published on 1 month ago

Members flock to Israel as Gaza war deepens

Lawmakers head to Israel as the Gaza crisis deepens, testing Democratic divisions over support for Israel. Anna is joined by Punchbowl News Reporter Max Cohen to break down what’s driving the trip an…

Published on 1 month ago

Schatz secures Schumer’s backing

Sen. Brian Schatz is all but locked in as the next Senate Democratic whip — and possibly a future leader — with Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s backing. Max Cohen joins Anna to break down Schatz’s ra…

Published on 1 month ago

Schumer, Jeffries demand 'Big 4' talks

Anna is joined by Punchbowl News Reporter Max Cohen to break down Democrats’ push for a high-stakes leadership meeting on government funding. Plus: A look at the Senate’s weekend meltdown over nomina…

Published on 1 month ago

The Readback: Kentucky Hemp Wars

Portal newsletter author Samantha Handler discusses Sen. Rand Paul's effort to strip out language that would close a hemp regulatory loophole in the FY2026 Ag funding bill. This story was featured in…

Published on 1 month ago

Netanyahu's massive problem with Dems

Democrats are breaking from tradition, moving to block arms sales to Israel amid growing concerns over the war in Gaza. Anna and Jake break it all down. 

Plus, President Donald Trump’s pitch for tari…

Published on 1 month ago

The Senate's earmark explosion

Who’s cashing in during earmark season? Anna and Jake break down how Sen. Susan Collins is flexing her power — and what it means for Maine. Plus, can the Senate strike a minibus deal before the Augus…

Published on 1 month, 1 week ago

Inside the new Texas map

As early as today, Texas Republicans will release their proposed new congressional map for the Lone Star State. Anna and Jake discuss the Democrats who are most directly in the danger zone. Plus, a l…

Published on 1 month, 1 week ago

Thune’s next big fight: Governing

Anna and Jake discuss how John Thune must somehow balance a vengeful president, unhappy conservatives, worried GOP moderates and Democrats, all while seeking to protect the Senate’s institutional pow…

Published on 1 month, 1 week ago

3 things to watch as August nears

Anna and Jake break down the latest developments in the Senate as Republicans look for a path forward on appropriations and President Donald Trump’s nominees.

Plus, the Senate Leadership Fund is lau…

Published on 1 month, 1 week ago