Political Gabfest Political Gabfest

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
Listen ad-free on Castria