Politics War Room with James Carville & Al Hunt

James and special guest host, Chief Media Advisor to the Bush presidential campaigns, Mark McKinnon, discuss their rise to politics in the pre-Trump era, Texas politics, faith, corruption, the responsibility of Congress after the midterms, nominating a president, and the outrageous campaign tactics used by Republicans in the MAGA era. Then, master Democratic strategist Doug Sosnik joins them to look at the polls, Trump’s impact on the midterms, how voters perceive corruption, the shift in the opinions of working-class voters and independents, and the evolving identity of the Republican Party in the twilight years of Trump.

Em...

James and Al call out Elon’s election spending and MAGA misinformation, rip apart the last 2 years of Republican governance, and the races to focus on at the state level, before welcoming Brennan Center for Justice President Michael Waldman.  They discuss election integrity, the challenges of certifying an election, the need to prepare legally for expected post-election challenges, and driving turnout to ensure a legitimate election outcome.  They also emphasize the need for ordinary citizens to stay vigilant and the critical opportunity we have to take back our democracy.

Email your questions to James and Al at poli...

James and Al celebrate the election polls giving Dems a strong advantage going into the midterms, the effect of immigration policies on the country, and the motivations of MAGA while Trump is floundering.  Then, they welcome journalist and author of “How Russia Won”, David Corn, to discuss the salience of Russia as a threat to democracy around the globe, how they interfere in our politics, Trump’s relationship with Putin, and what we must do in order to protect our system of government.

Email your questions to James and Al at [email protected] or tweet them to @pol...

James and Al lay out the growing challenges facing Republicans heading into the midterms, how history will view his reign, and how to hold MAGA to account.  Then, they welcome journalist and author of “Profiles In Cowardice”, Jacob Weisberg, to discuss the Trump administration’s war on our institutions, the ethical dilemmas faced by law firms under presidential pressure, and the need for the media to hold politicians to account.  They also sit with congressional candidate for SC-01, Nancy Lacore, to game out her race for the seat of former Rep. Nancy Mace, looking at the need to end forever...

James and Al celebrate the excellent candidates running for office and their growing prospects in the midterms, shame Trump for his renewed war on the press and the 1st Amendment, and make the point that the administration is focusing on the trivial when the world is on fire.  Then, they welcome union leader and smokejumper-turned-congressional candidate for MT-01, Sam Forstag, to discuss the war on rural hospitals, the dangerous influence of money in our politics, the death of accountability, and the need to focus on struggling Americans instead of endless wars.

Email your questions to James and A...

James and Al reflect on Trump’s erratic behavior amid his poorly executed midterm convention, how perception of him and MAGA is changing for the electorate, and the growing debate over AI.  Then, they welcome congressional candidate from CO-08, Manny Rutinel, to discuss the importance of properly regulating AI companies and data centers, how to address the cost of living crisis, and how we can create a more equitable future.  They are later joined by expert on our institutions and legal system, Ira Shapiro, to examine how Trump has disrupted the system, the scope of his corruption, and the chal...

James and Al eviscerate Trump’s midterm convention, share encouraging news about Kansas, analyze the factors most salient to voters, and make some 2026 predictions.  Then, they welcome congressional candidate Zach Dembo for KY-06 to discuss corruption, healthcare, and winning over rural voters.  They address the need to meet constituents where they are, the potential to win over independents, how raising the Social Security tax cap is a winning way to tackle income inequality and keep our country solvent, and the importance of restoring Medicaid and ACA subsidies.

Email your questions to James and Al at [email protected]...

James and Al compare Trump’s favorability to Congress, the value of youth in politics, the politicization of the military under MAGA, the explosion of corruption, and how democrats can win in the midterms.  Then, they welcome congressional candidate for FL-07, Bale Dalton, to speak on corruption, affordability, and tariffs with a focus on the value of a military background and a dedication to public service in the current environment.  Then, they are joined by Fairfax County Supervisor Jimmy Bierman to explore the politics and impact of data centers on voters and the public.

Email your questions to J...

James and Al warn of Trump’s enduring strength with the base after the win of Lindsey Graham’s sister in South Carolina, while emphasizing the overall decline in support for MAGA.  Then, they welcome Stanford Law Professor Pam Karlan to discuss SCOTUS and its recent rulings, explain the shadow docket, and the defense of our democracy coming from lower-level judges and our Constitution.  Then, they are joined by congressional candidate for VA-02 and Navy veteran Elaine Luria to review Trump’s disastrous effect on our military readiness and the need to focus 2026 midterm campaigns on affordability, healthcare, and bringing...

James and Al explore the recent primaries in Florida and Alaska, Trump’s waning influence, and the meaning of the results as they look ahead to the midterms.  Then, they welcome congressional candidate for OH-07, Brian Poindexter, to discuss workers' rights, what it would take to win over voters in his district, and the value of making tariffs actually work for the average person and of fixing healthcare for those in need.  They are also joined by the congressional candidate John Vincent from SC-07 to discuss the dereliction of duty by Trump and his minions regarding the military, how to w...

James and Al cover yesterday’s primary results and weigh the influence of Trump and the DSA on their respective parties going into the midterm elections.  Then, they welcome congressional candidate for WI-03, Rebecca Cooke, to discuss the reasons she won her recent primary, her plans to unite the factions of the party into a big tent for the general election, and the effect of big tech on local economies.  Afterward, they are joined by the author of the 2024 Democratic Party autopsy report, Paul Rivera, to explain the findings, take the party and the DNC to task, and lay out...

James and Al give their take on the Michigan primary and push back against the DSA and their candidates while the future of the party is at stake.  Then, they welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Wessel to discuss the resilience of the US economy, the danger Trump has put us in, foreign currency interventions, and the need to address the national debt.  They also welcome IA-03 congressional candidate Sarah Trone Garriott to explore her faith, winning in a Midwestern Red state, the perils of ideological labels when elections are on the line, agricultural politics, and how to create a bi...

James and Al fight back on Dr. Fauci’s behalf after Republican attacks on him and his legacy and discuss the influence of the Democratic Socialists on the party and the upcoming midterms before welcoming congressional candidate for NE-02, Denise Powell.  They dive into the state of her race for a winnable district in a notoriously red state, looking at the prominence of the agriculture industry, concerns about the budget deficit, and fair tax policies.  They also emphasize the need to focus on affordability and explore her journey into politics, why she’s running, and why she can win.

E...

James and Al raise awareness about the effect of misinformation and voter ID laws, call for strong leadership from the ground up, and weigh election predictions and candidate quality.  Then, they welcome Emmy-winning journalist turned congressional candidate for PA-10, Janelle Stelson, to discuss her campaign against Scott Perry.  They explore the challenges Democrats face in the district, her focus on healthcare, corruption, and the economy, how to address lies from the Right, and the need for change that targets the actual desires that constituents share with the candidates.

Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gm...

James and Al analyze the Senate races in Michigan and Maine after the Platner debacle, reflect on Lindsey Graham’s career, and call for greater press freedoms.  Then, they welcome NY-17 congressional candidate Cait Conley to discuss her military background, the end of the war in Iran, and how she plans to win against Mike Lawler.  Together, they discuss her plans to address the cost of living crisis, tackling political corruption and bringing about more accountability, fixing the tax system, the importance of ethical leadership, and the need for change in Washington, DC, 

Email your questions to James...

James and Al welcome journalist Ron Brownstein to discuss the accusations against Graham Platner and the future of Susan Collins’ Senate seat in Maine, Democrats' changing relationship with Israel, the rise of populism on the Left, and the challenges they face in the general election.  Then, they are joined by US Navy veteran and congressional candidate for NJ-7, Rebecca Bennett, to dive into her military service, building a coalition to win in a swing district, her opponent's absence from the House, the importance of the American Dream, and why she deserves to win in November.

Email your que...

As America turns 250, James and Al discuss the rise of the DSA and its popularity among younger voters, rising antisemitism, how the recent SCOTUS decisions will impact the country, and the effects of polarization on our future.  Then, they welcome historian Joseph Ellis to look back at the nation’s inception, the courage of the Founding Fathers, the long process of forging a more perfect union, and the value of understanding our history.  They are also joined by IA Rep. Josh Turek to examine the changing politics of Iowans, highlight the affordability crisis, and game out a midterm win agai...

250 Year Competition:
Vote for which of Trump’s insiders you think the Founding Fathers would send back to England
https://forms.gle/XFwsfqkec7UEsKxbA

James and Al discuss the DSA's wins in New York’s primaries, the growing schism in the Democratic Party, the need to unite to win in the general, and the prevailing political narratives heading into the midterms, as well as the leaks weakening the Trump administration.  Then, they welcome pollster Jim Gerstein to examine our tumultuous relationship with Israel after the deal with Iran, the challenges facing Netanyahu, and who the count...

250 Year Competition:
Vote for which of Trump’s insiders you think the Founding Fathers would send back to England
https://forms.gle/XFwsfqkec7UEsKxbA

James and Al review the political landscape, the changes in the electorate, and the candidates after getting a lay of the land during the primary season.  Then, they welcome the NYT’s David Sanger to discuss the end of the Iran war and its consequences, the seemingly endless war in Ukraine, Trump’s foreign policy, and its effects on the future of our country.  They are also joined by the author of ‘The...

250 Year Competition:
Vote for which of Trump’s insiders you think the Founding Fathers would send back to England
CLICK HERE TO VOTE

James and Al analyze Tuesday’s primaries, focusing on the enduring support for Graham Platner in Maine and the surprisingly weak showing for perennial incumbent Lindsey Graham in South Carolina. Then, they welcome Judge Luttig to give his verdict on Trump in a discussion of his settlement with the IRS, the pushback from judges around the country, his weaponization of the DOJ, Todd Blanche’s lack of fitness for AG, and the partis...

250 Year Competition
Vote for which of Trump’s insiders you think the Founding Fathers would send back to England
CLICK HERE TO VOTE

James and Al review the performance of Democrats in Tuesday’s elections, examining what it can tell us about the midterms, the quality of the candidates, and the importance of keeping voters engaged to drive turnout.  Then, they welcome the Council on Foreign Relations’ Max Boot to discuss Trump’s foreign policy, his relationship with the intelligence community, and the wars in Iran and Ukraine.  Afterward, they are joined by the President and CEO Em...

James and Al report on the Texas primary results and the opportunity to take advantage of a Blue shift following the controversial win of Ken Paxton, pressure Democrats to avoid the strategic mistakes of 2024, and game out how to win in other Red states in the wake of the gerrymandering war.  Then they welcome Columbia, Tennessee’s Mayor, Chaz Molder, to discuss his congressional campaign against ultra MAGA Andy Ogles, the corruption of his opponent, how to appeal to independents and the other side of the aisle, and the evolution of Tennessee politics.

Email your questions to Jam...

James and Al report on this week’s elections, breaking down Trump’s continued dominance in the Republican party, Democrats' ability to win over party switchers, and an energized Black electorate.  Then, they call out the miscalculations Trump made in the Iran war and expose the effect of media ownership on the political landscape before welcoming government accountability advocate Fred Wertheimer.  They discuss Trump’s settlement with the IRS, the ways he’s enriched himself and his supporters, the difference between the Trump and Biden DOJ, and the dangers of corruption.

Email your questions to James and Al at poli...

Remembering Barney Frank
James and Al are joined by Chairman of the Financial Services Committee, congressman Barney Frank, for an in depth look at the current budget negotiations and the thinking motivating its key players.  Then, they examine the power of a competent and active government to make our lives better in the fight against COVID and beyond, with an update on the 2021 baseball season.

James and Al game out the gerrymandering war, call out the SCOTUS for its voting rights decision, declare inflation’s return as an election issue, and lament Trump’s imprint on the Republican party, with a look at how it all will affect the midterm elections.  Then, they are joined by The New Yorker’s Evan Osnos in Beijing to discuss the Trump-Xi meeting, Taiwan, China’s ongoing rise, its relationship with Iran, and the AI war.  Afterward, they welcome Paul and Stefanie Taylor to reflect on aging and the boomer generation’s legacy in our culture and politics.

Email y...

James and Al give an update on the Democratic prospects for the midterms, the waning influence of Donald Trump amid Republican remorse, the Iran war, and the Supreme Court’s attack on voting rights. Then, they welcome retired USMC Gunnery Sergeant and Drill Instructor, AZ-06 congressional candidate, JoAnna Mendoza, to discuss life in the Marines and her experience growing up in poverty, the affordability challenges spanning healthcare, energy, and the overall cost of living in her community, immigration, the need for widespread reform, and her vision for the future.

Email your questions to James and Al at po...

James and Al sound off on voting rights and review recent polling before welcoming Ed Luce of the Financial Times.  They discuss the future of Ukraine and the status of the war, the changing political landscape in the UK, and the growing US platform of King Charles and the Pope.  Then, they are joined by pollster Jim Gerstein to review current voter priorities, changing attitudes towards Israel and Netanyahu, the emerging Democratic candidates, the danger of MAGA election interference, and the possibility of a Blue Wave heading into the midterm elections.

Email your questions to James and Al...

James and Al discuss the redrawing of Congressional districts in Virginia in the wider context of the gerrymandering battle being waged for the House and share lesser-known issues plaguing our democracy.  Then they are joined by Ohio’s gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial candidates, Amy Acton and David Pepper, and they dive into healthcare, corruption, and the need for political change.  They also welcome Tejano star-turned-TX-15 candidate Bobby Pulido to game out how to win in Texas, bring back conservative-minded Latino voters, and craft a strong economic message, capped off with a short musical performance.

Email your questions to J...

James and Al sound the alarm over Trump’s deteriorating mental state, and explain the challenges it poses for JD Vance and the effects it will have on the upcoming election.  Then, they analyze the political dynamics at play in the California gubernatorial election, and welcome Dr. Trita Parsi to examine the aftermath of the Iran war.  They discuss the reasons the Iranian regime was able to repel the attack, the need to revisit sanctions to weaken the regime and empower civil society, what the future looks like for Israel and the Gulf states, and the potential for shifting alli...

James and Al game out the implications of Trump’s foreign policy following the ceasefire with Iran, analyze the growing schism in the MAGA movement, and examine the shift toward Democrats and Independents in recent off-year elections.  Then they welcome former MT Governor Steve Bullock to discuss winning in the Mountain West, strategies for independents and Democrats in Red areas, how to connect with rural voters, the importance of values that resonate with everyday people, and how to address cultural issues head-on.

Email your questions to James and Al at [email protected] or tweet them to @pol...

James and Al blast the state of journalism, call out Scott Jennings for his toxic coverage, and explain Trump’s recent political struggles and declining popularity, centering on the disastrous war with Iran and the complications involved in resolving it.  Then they welcome sports writer and author of ‘On Her Game’, Christine Brennan, to discuss the growing dominance of college sports, legendary coaches, basketball, the excitement around women’s teams driven by Caitlin Clark, the power of personality on the court, and the importance of youth athletics for March Madness.

Email your questions to James and Al at politi...

James and Al skewer Trump’s approach to warfare and military strategy, draw historical parallels to the current conduct of the war, and game out ways to preempt possible election interference by Trump and the SCOTUS.  Then, they welcome polling wizard G. Elliot Morris to discuss the value of data-driven journalism and polling in informing the electorate and creating winning campaigns, before looking at the current numbers.  While analyzing them, they explore the disappearing Trump vote, growing dissatisfaction with his administration, and the role corruption will play in upcoming elections.

Email your questions to James and Al at p...

James and Al welcome Council on Foreign Relations President Emeritus Richard Haass to analyze the effects of the Iran war and Trump’s wider policy decisions, looking at the roles of Russia, the GCC, and China, the challenges of negotiating with Iran, and the consequences for our alliances, the global economy, and the region.  Then, they are joined by Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti to discuss her current House race, making government accountable to the people, rising energy costs, declining affordability, and the power of infrastructure improvements to create jobs and grow our cities.

Email your questions to Jam...

James and Al look at the Senate run-off in Texas, the blue shift in the Hispanic vote, the effects of redistricting in California, and MAGA’s attempt at voter suppression under the SAVE Act. Then, they welcome Dr. Trita Parsi for a deep dive into U.S.-Iran relations, exploring Iran’s historical significance, how war will change the region, their ability to repel an invasion, and game out the ways the conflict might end.  Then, James sits down with Stephen A. Smith to discuss how to win over young men, the power of authenticity, making predictions in sports and p...

James and Al celebrate Talarico’s win in Texas and share their excitement about the 2026 midterm elections, given the Democratic field's growing strength and Trump’s weakening support among Republicans.  Then, they welcome Senior Fellow for National Security Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, Max Boot, to discuss the war in Iran.  Together, they investigate the true reasons for the attack, the dangers posed by military intervention, the stability of the wider Middle East, and the effect on the MAGA movement and public opinion. 

Email your questions to James and Al at [email protected] or tweet t...

James and Al rip Trump’s State of the Union and analyze its impact and the effectiveness of the democratic response in the context of the approaching midterms.  Then, they welcome Oscar-nominated filmmaker Andrew Jarecki to explore his findings on corruption in the Alabama prison system and how to hold the government to account for its chronic mismanagement of our jails.  From there, they are joined by author Andrew Lownie to discuss Prince Andrew’s relationship with Epstein, its effect on the British Monarchy, and whether it will lead to increased transparency and reform to ensure its continued relevance going...

James and Al expose the latest developments from the Epstein Files and game out their political ramifications before welcoming Catherine Rampell, The Bulwark’s economics editor, and MS NOW Anchor, to review the state of the economy,  looking at why the effects of tariffs have been muted, financial strategies the Republicans might pursue, the danger posed by the national debt, and the perils of AI.
Then SC Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews joins to plan her victory over Lindsey Graham.  They discuss her career in medicine, why she’s running, her policy positions, how to fix our healthcare system...

James & Al are joined on the sofa by James Talarico as they discuss his campaign for the U.S. Senate from Texas, emphasizing the importance of grassroots support and addressing issues like healthcare and housing. He reflects on his political journey, the role of faith in his life, and the need for a Democratic Party that truly represents the people. Talarico also critiques the politicization of Christianity and advocates for a return to the core values of compassion and service.

Chapters
00:00 James Talarico: The Rising Star of Texas Politics
00:10 Challenging the Status Quo in Texas<...

In this election-focused episode, James and Al welcome the President of the Brennan Center For Justice, Michael Waldman, to discuss the administration's attempts at voter suppression and its historical parallels.  They expose the myth of widespread voter fraud, explain the laws and constitutional framework that set up and protect our elections, and dissect the problems with the SAVE Act.  Then they lay out a plan to stop the steal in 2026, focusing on the media's role, voter mobilization, public awareness, and increasing civic engagement, before taking your questions.

Email your questions to James and Al at [email protected]...

James Carville & Al Hunt are joined by super-lawyer Abbe Lowell, they discuss the current political climate, the differences in the Justice Department under the current administration, and the implications of prosecutorial overreach. He highlights the importance of due process, the role of subpoenas, and the unique challenges faced by lawyers today. They also delves into specific cases, such as that of John Bolton, to illustrate the political motivations behind certain prosecutions. The conversation emphasizes the need for legal representation and the historical context of prosecutorial power in the United States.

Chapters
00:00 False Equivalency in Political Discourse<...