Help Russia Win
Oct 15, 2026 · 58m
Summary
Hosts David Plotz, John Dickerson, and Emily Bazelon analyze the 2026 midterms, noting Democrats are poised to flip the House despite redistricting and Elon Musk’s massive spending. They discuss Trump’s capitulation to Russia via diesel purchases and Starlink restrictions, as well as the disturbing federal raid on Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home. The panel explores how the "corruption" narrative is resonating with voters and critiques the administration’s pattern of targeting political enemies with baseless investigations.
Topics discussed
Introduction and host introductions
Providence show postponement and Slate Plus promo
NRDC sponsorship and environmental litigation
House race outlook and redistricting impacts
Senate race speculation and North Carolina dynamics
Polling errors and Democratic skepticism
Inflation, candidate quality, and undecided voters
Corruption as a campaign theme and Trump's focus
Elon Musk's massive political contributions
Public frustration with congressional inaction
Sponsorships: Quince, Upwork, and Built
Russia-Ukraine war, diesel deal, and sanctions
Sponsorships: Leesa and Perk
Ilhan Omar raid, denaturalization, and birth year
Cocktail Chatter: Human trafficking, sports gambling, and soccer
Cocktail Chatter: Radioactive waste and John Prine
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