Welcome to It Matters

The conversation between Michael and Cenk Uygur, originator of The Young Turks, covers various topics including the transition from Biden to Vice President Harris, the importance of sticking with facts and reality, the fallibility of democratic leadership, the potential future of the Republican Party, the need for authentic and progressive Democratic candidates, and the role of identity politics in elections. They also discuss the popularity of Tim Walz and the Minnesota model, the challenges of staying true to progressive values in Washington, and the influence of the media on political narratives. In this conversation, Cenk Uygur and Michael discuss the culture of political interviews in the media. They also delve into the topic of Israel and how Democrats can talk about it in a more nuanced and honest way. They touch on the rise of Christian white nationalism and its connection to Israel, as well as the need for Democrats to prioritize policies that benefit the majority of Americans. Takeaways Sticking with facts and reality is important in politics Democratic leadership is fallible and should not always be trusted The Republican Party may move in a more populist direction after Trump Authentic and progressive Democratic candidates are popular The media plays a powerful role in shaping political narratives Most politicians prefer interviews that are complimentary and avoid hard questions, leading to a lack of real conversations in the media. There is a culture of intoxication in politics, where politicians are constantly surrounded by people who tell them how great they are. Talking about Israel and Palestine requires careful navigation due to the potential career repercussions of saying the wrong thing. Democrats need to find a way to talk about Israel that separates the government's actions from the Jewish people as a whole. Christian white nationalism poses a danger to the region and is tied to the issue of Israel. Democrats should prioritize policies that benefit the majority of Americans, such as paid family leave, rather than catering to corporate donors. Chapters 00:00 The Transition from Biden to Vice President Harris 00:49 The Importance of Sticking with Facts and Reality 04:31 The Fallibility of Democratic Leadership 07:07 The Potential Future of the Republican Party 09:06 The Need for Authentic and Progressive Democratic Candidates 12:02 The Role of Identity Politics in Elections 15:43 The Popularity of Tim Walz and the Minnesota Model 19:52 Challenges of Staying True to Progressive Values in Washington 22:04 The Influence of the Media on Political Narratives 24:44 The Lack of Real Conversations in Political Interviews 28:47 Navigating the Israel-Palestine Conversation 39:04 The Danger of Christian White Nationalism and its Connection to Israel 39:34 Democrats' Challenge: Talking About Israel in a Nuanced Way 47:49 Prioritizing Policies that Benefit the Majority of Americans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Michael and Joe Walsh, a Republican voting Democratic, discuss the current political landscape and the upcoming election. They talk about the impact of the VP pick, Kamala Harris, and how it has energized the Democratic campaign. They also discuss the changing media landscape and the shift towards digital platforms. Joe expresses his support for Kamala Harris despite policy disagreements, emphasizing the importance of stopping Trump. They also touch on the potential for Trump to become desperate and refuse to accept election results. In this conversation, Michael and Joe discuss the political landscape and the upcoming election. They touch on topics such as Kamala Harris's political positioning, the emergence of a new generation of Democrats, the future of the Republican Party, and the challenges Kamala Harris may face in keeping her coalition together. They also discuss the complexities of the Israel-Palestine issue and the importance of Kamala Harris's likability. Overall, they anticipate a tough race and discuss the potential strategies and challenges for both candidates. Takeaways The VP pick, Kamala Harris, has energized the Democratic campaign and is reminiscent of Obama's campaign in 2008. The media landscape is shifting towards digital platforms, and cable news may become obsolete in the next five to ten years. Joe expresses his support for Kamala Harris despite policy disagreements, emphasizing the importance of stopping Trump. There is a concern that Trump may become desperate and refuse to accept election results, leading to potential violence and unrest. Kamala Harris is seen as a centrist Democrat who understands the dynamics of coming to power in a liberal urban city. There is a new emergence of Democrats who are tough on national security while still being humane. The Democratic Party is experiencing a shift with women and young people coming to the forefront. The Trump team's message on the economy and immigration could be a challenge for Kamala Harris. Black voters are supportive of Kamala Harris and racial attacks against her may actually increase African-American voter turnout. The Republican Party may become a strong regional rural party rather than a national political party. The Israel-Palestine issue is a divisive topic within the Democratic coalition. Kamala Harris faces the challenge of balancing the interests of different groups within her coalition. Trump's unpredictability and lack of preparedness could be a challenge in a debate against Kamala Harris. Kamala Harris's likability is an advantage for her, but she needs to maintain a balance between different generations and progressive groups. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 00:41 Initial Thoughts on the Democratic Campaign 02:56 The Impact of the VP Pick 06:25 The Shift Towards Digital Media 09:23 Navigating the Media Landscape 12:45 The Future of Cable News 14:21 Joe's Support for Kamala Harris 17:02 Concerns About Trump's Desperation 20:24 The Political Positioning of Kamala Harris 22:02 The Emergence of a New Generation of Democrats 23:10 The Future of the Republican Party 24:04 The Challenges of Keeping a Coalition Together 24:28 The Complexities of the Israel-Palestine Issue 25:45 The Importance of Kamala Harris's Likability 37:50 Anticipating a Tough Race Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Michael interviews Erin Perrine, a Republican strategist, about her career in politics and the upcoming election. They discuss working on the Hill versus working on campaigns, the strengths and weaknesses of Kamala and Trump, the quick shift in the presidential race from Joe Biden to Kamala Harris, and the challenges of messaging on abortion and immigration. They also touch on the importance of emotions in politics, the likability factor for Kamala Harris, and the upcoming debates between Harris and Donald Trump. Takeaways Working on the Hill and working on campaigns are two different experiences, but it is possible to do both. The messaging on abortion and immigration is challenging for both Republicans and Democrats. Emotions play a significant role in politics, and voters are motivated by negative ads. Republicans should focus on delivering their message and not try to trap Donald Trump in debates. Democrats need to acknowledge the failures in certain areas, such as the economy and immigration, to resonate with voters. The likability factor is important for Kamala Harris, and she should stay focused on her message during debates. Both the Trump campaign and the Biden-Harris campaign are neck and neck in the race. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and background 01:11 Working on the Hill vs. working on campaigns 05:24 The quick shift in the presidential race 07:50 The challenges of messaging on abortion and immigration 16:00 The role of emotions in politics 29:55 Preparing for debates with Donald Trump 33:31 The neck and neck race between the Trump campaign and the Biden-Harris campaign Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Michael interviews Anthony Coley, a former DOJ and Treasury official, about the current political landscape and the importance of voting. They discuss Kamala Harris's rise in popularity, the strength of the Democratic bench, the threat of a second Trump term, and the need for Democrats to engage with the Republican media ecosystem. They also touch on the role of the DOJ and the importance of preserving voting rights. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of the upcoming election and the need for Democrats to mobilize and protect democracy. Takeaways Kamala Harris has gained popularity through her hard work and connection with voters, particularly on issues like reproductive rights. The Democratic Party has a strong and diverse bench of talented individuals who are ready to lead. Voting rights are crucial, and efforts to restrict access to the ballot must be fought against. The threat of a second Trump term is concerning, as it could lead to the further weaponization of the DOJ and erosion of democratic norms. Democrats need to engage with the Republican media ecosystem to reach a wider audience and make their case. The Biden presidency represents a return to decency and a fight for the soul of the country. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Discussion of Kamala Harris 09:33 Importance of Voting Rights 12:24 Threat of a Second Trump Term and DOJ Weaponization 16:05 Engaging with the Republican Media Ecosystem 23:30 The Biden Presidency and Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow discusses the political landscape in Michigan and the impact of the Biden-Harris campaign. She highlights the importance of Michigan in national politics and the fear of losing the state to Republicans. McMorrow also talks about the excitement and hope surrounding the Biden-Harris campaign and the need for a functional two-party system. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and down-ballot races. McMorrow discusses the significance of reproductive rights, particularly in light of the Dobbs decision, and the need for access to safe and legal abortion. She reflects on the rise of Trumpism and the importance of standing up against hate and bullying. Takeaways Michigan is a crucial state in national politics, and the fear of losing it to Republicans has been a concern for many voters. The Biden-Harris campaign has brought excitement and hope to Michigan, with people feeling a sense of relief and a chance to move on from the past few years. Grassroots organizing and focusing on down-ballot races are key strategies for Democrats to maintain momentum and ensure long-term success. The Dobbs decision and the threat to reproductive rights have mobilized many people in Michigan, who are fighting to protect access to safe and legal abortion. The rise of Trumpism has highlighted the need for a functional two-party system and the importance of standing up against hate and bullying. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Pronunciation 00:39 The Importance of Michigan in National Politics 03:10 Excitement and Hope in the Biden-Harris Campaign 06:03 Grassroots Organizing and Down-Ballot Races 08:54 Protecting Reproductive Rights in Michigan 11:57 The Rise of Trumpism and the Need for a Functional Two-Party System 14:49 The Importance of Organizing and Not Taking Anything for Granted 18:25 The Focus on Abortion and Its Impact on Elections 22:12 Moving Beyond Trumpism and Fostering Unity 24:30 The Significance of Kamala Harris and the Potential for Change 26:24 Lessons from Trumpism and the Importance of Standing Up Against Hate Social Media: IG and X: theonlyhonest Tik tok: @therealonlyhonest --  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael discusses in this short solo episode, the issue of states' rights and its impact on various rights, particularly women's rights and voting rights. It highlights the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs, which overturned 50 years of precedent on abortion rights and sent the issue back to the states. The conversation also addresses the broader agenda of rolling back civil rights, including marriage equality and the right to vote. It emphasizes the need for people to stand up, fight back, and protect their rights through voting and supporting organizations that advocate for these rights. Takeaways: States' rights have historically been used to justify morally questionable actions, such as owning slaves and segregating schools. The Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs has significant implications for abortion rights and sets the stage for potential rollbacks of other rights. States that are most aggressively rolling back abortion rights often rank poorly in areas such as maternal and infant health and child well-being. The fight for reproductive rights is part of a broader agenda to roll back civil rights, including marriage equality and the right to vote. People have the power to protect their rights through voting, holding elected officials accountable, and supporting organizations that advocate for these rights. Chapters 00:00 The Historical Context of States' Rights 01:26 The Supreme Court's Decision in Dobbs 02:22 The Broader Agenda of Rolling Back Civil Rights 04:48 The Impact on Maternal and Infant Health 06:14 The Fight for Reproductive Rights as Part of a Broader Agenda 08:10 The Power of the People to Protect Their Rights Social Media: IG and X: theonlyhonest Tik tok: @therealonlyhonest --  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Michael discusses the current state of the Republican Party and their regressive policies. He highlights their fixation on issues like abortion and voting rights, their disregard for marginalized communities, and their attempts to control the narrative and distort reality. Michael emphasizes the importance of progressive values and the need to reject the Republican agenda in the 2024 election. He emphasizes that Trump uses the word “freedom” but really their policies are the most controlling. Michael wants us all to be aware of how Trump’s policies will strip our democracy down to a more authoritarian state and how important it is for everyone to vote in this election. Takeaways: The Republican Party is pushing regressive policies that threaten progress and equality. Their focus on issues like abortion and voting rights is a distraction from their lack of solutions to real problems. Republicans prioritize the interests of the wealthy and powerful over the needs of the majority. Progressives must organize and vote to reject the Republican agenda and create a more inclusive and just future. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Stripping Away the Noise and Distractions 02:19 The Pro-Poverty Agenda 05:11 Trump's Record of Deceit and Exploitation 07:09 Embracing Authoritarianism 10:30 Progressives Leading the Way 12:00 Rejecting Regressive Policies in the 2024 Election Social Media: IG and X: theonlyhonest Tik tok: @therealonlyhonest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Michael interviews Kaivan Shroff, a Democratic political consultant, political commentator and attorney about the 2024 election and the stakes for Democrats. They discuss the dangers of a Trump presidency, the people he surrounds himself with, the meanness of the Republican party, the messaging challenges for Democrats, the role of the media, the influence of money in politics, and the need for Democrats to be more assertive and proactive. They also touch on the challenge of winning back Trump supporters and the lack of backbone among some Republicans. The conversation covers topics such as media bias, TV commentary, the role of contributors, and the American dream. Michael and Kaivan discuss the influence of media in shaping public opinion and the tendency to seek out controversial voices for entertainment value. They also share their experiences in TV commentary and the challenges of navigating the industry. The conversation touches on the importance of staying true to one's beliefs and not compromising for the sake of popularity. The American dream is defined as the opportunity for individuals to work hard and improve their lives, but the current political climate and polarization hinder its realization. Takeaways The stakes are high in the 2024 election, as a Trump presidency would have serious consequences, including the installation of an authoritarian government. Trump surrounds himself with dangerous and unqualified individuals who are driven by bigotry and hate. Democrats need to improve their messaging and communication strategies to effectively reach and persuade voters. The media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and can be biased against Democrats. Democrats should be more assertive and proactive in challenging Republicans and holding them accountable. Winning back Trump supporters will be a challenge, but Democrats should focus on engaging undecided voters and those who sat out previous elections. Some Republicans lack backbone and are willing to humiliate themselves to gain favor with Trump. Democrats should prioritize the Supreme Court and investigate corruption and ethics issues among conservative justices. Navigating the TV commentary industry can be challenging, and it's important to stay true to one's beliefs and not compromise for popularity. The American dream is about providing equal opportunities for individuals to improve their lives, but the current political climate and polarization hinder its realization. Investing in social systems and education is crucial for creating a more equitable society and fostering economic growth. The conversation highlights the need for meaningful dialogue and finding common ground, even among individuals with differing political views. Social Media: IG and X: theonlyhonest Tik tok: @therealonlyhonest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Janelle Perez, the executive director of LPAC, discusses the work of LPAC in supporting and electing LGBTQ women and non-binary folks. She shares her personal experience running for office in Florida and the attacks she faced from the Republican party. The conversation also touches on the Republican party's attack on the LGBTQ community, the Don't Say Gay Bill, and the fear-mongering tactics used by Republicans. The discussion expands to the challenges faced by Democrats in Florida, the need for better messaging and outreach to diverse communities, and the importance of addressing pocketbook issues that impact voters. The conversation covers various topics related to politics, elections, and the American dream. The main themes include the need for bipartisan dialogue, the volatile nature of politics, the importance of emotional messaging, the impact of losing a race, the behavior of Trump and Republicans, the preservation of personal freedoms, and the definition of the American dream. The conversation also highlights the work of LPAC in endorsing LGBTQ+ women and non-binary candidates. Takeaways LPAC is the nation's only LGBTQ organization dedicated to supporting and electing LGBTQ women and non-binary folks. The Republican party in Florida has launched attacks on the LGBTQ community, such as the Don't Say Gay Bill, which targeted parental rights and education. Republicans often use fear-mongering tactics and scapegoating of the LGBTQ community to rally their base. Democrats in Florida face challenges in messaging and outreach, particularly to diverse communities like Cuban-Americans and Venezuelans. Addressing pocketbook issues and highlighting the impact of progressive policies on voters' daily lives is crucial for Democrats to win in Florida. Bipartisan dialogue is crucial for finding solutions and moving forward as a country. The current political climate is volatile and characterized by personal attacks and hostility. Emotional messaging can be more effective than policy-focused arguments in connecting with voters. Losing a race can be emotionally challenging, but it can also lead to new opportunities and a different kind of impact. Some Republicans have adopted a bullying and nasty mentality, which undermines their policy arguments. The American dream is about freedom of choice, personal happiness, and the well-being of all members of society. A Trump presidency threatens personal freedoms and the progress made in areas like LGBTQ+ rights and healthcare. LPAC is dedicated to endorsing and supporting LGBTQ+ women and non-binary candidates in elections. Chapters 00:00 Supporting and Electing LGBTQ Women and Non-Binary Folks 01:45 Attacks on the LGBTQ Community by the Republican Party 05:48 Fear-Mongering Tactics and Scapegoating by Republicans 09:46 Challenges Faced by Democrats in Florida 12:30 The Importance of Messaging and Outreach to Diverse Communities 15:24 Addressing Pocketbook Issues to Win in Florida 26:19 The Volatile Nature of Politics 28:21 The Power of Emotional Messaging 31:37 The Impact of Losing a Race 35:21 The Behavior of Trump and Republicans 39:06 Preserving Personal Freedoms 41:26 Defining the American Dream 45:26 LPAC's Work in Endorsing LGBTQ+ Candidates SOCIAL MEDIA: IG and X: @theonlyhonest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

*This episode was recorded prior to the Biden announcement on Sunday. Michael talks with the Head of Next Gen, Christina Tzintzun Ramirez. Next Gen empowers young voters to engage in political process and ensure government responsiveness to the biggest and most diverse generation in American History. The conversation covers a range of topics related to this election, the Biden administration, young voters, and the role of organizers in engaging the electorate. It delves into the challenges and opportunities in mobilizing young voters, the impact of policy decisions on their support, and the changing dynamics of political engagement. The conversation also explores the influence of economic policies, and the role of the courts in shaping the political landscape. Michael and Christina cover a wide range of topics including the impact of the Supreme Court on young voters, immigration, the political landscape in Texas, the influence of young people in politics, and the importance of voting. It also delves into the role of young people in shaping the future of the country and the need for their active participation in the political process and this election especially. Takeaways The Biden administration's policies on student debt, climate change, and labor unions have resonated with young voters, but there are areas, such as the conflict in Gaza, where the administration's stance has eroded support. Engaging young voters requires a focus on economic policies, labor unions, and addressing the concerns of a generation facing economic insecurity and limited opportunities for upward mobility. The role of AI, the impact of economic policies, and the influence of the courts are emerging as critical factors in shaping the political preferences of young voters and the broader electorate. The Supreme Court's decisions have a significant impact on young voters, especially in relation to issues like abortion and healthcare. Immigration is a critical issue that affects young people, and their support for immigrants is strong. The political landscape in Texas serves as a warning of the potential consequences of voter suppression and minority governance. Young people are playing an increasingly important role in politics and are driving change through their active participation and engagement. Voting is essential for young people to influence the direction of the country and shape its future. Mobilizing Young Voters and Policy Impact Chapters 00:00 The Impact of the Supreme Court on Young Voters 36:56 The Political Landscape in Texas Social Media: IG and X : theonlyhonest tiktok: @therealonlyhonest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices