The Chuck ToddCast

On this episode of the Chuck Toddcast, Chuck reflects on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about the tinderbox state of American politics. He explores how escalating rhetoric, dehumanization, and the amplification of fringe anger online have fueled a culture where violence replaces politics—and where children are left grieving the consequences. From the role of algorithms in supercharging extremism to the failure of leaders and tech companies to meet the moment, Chuck asks whether this tragedy can finally serve as the wake-up call for Americans to step back, recommit to the democratic process, and demand a safer political climate. Then, Congressman Greg Landsman joins Chuck for a wide-ranging conversation that begins with the shocking shooting of Charlie Kirk at an event on the Utah Valley University campus. (This conversation was recorded prior to the news of Charlie Kirk’s death) The two dig into how political rhetoric has spiraled out of control, the role of social media algorithms in fueling polarization, and why platforms shouldn’t be shielded from accountability. Landsman argues that leaders who cross the line with their rhetoric must be called out and stresses the urgent need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people before the U.S. slips further into a dangerous cycle of political violence. From there, the discussion shifts to governing—what Landsman learned on Cincinnati’s city council, why Congress has become dysfunctional since 9/11, and the frustrating reality that most bills are more about messaging than legislating. They also tackle foreign policy, including the stakes of defending Taiwan, the risks of Trump’s trade war with China, and whether an “Asian NATO” could prevent a wider conflict. Plus, Landsman reflects on Kamala Harris’s book, the pressures from party leadership, and the uncertainty of his own political future as redistricting looms. Finally, he reacts to the newly released excerpts from Kamala Harris’s book and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s Introduction - Charlie Kirk assassinated 01:30 We’re in a tinderbox of our own making 02:30 Political rhetoric has escalated out of control 03:00 Young kids lost their father over a political dispute 03:45 When you resort to violence, you are no longer practicing politics 05:00 Dehumanizing rhetoric leads to violence 07:15 We collectively need to step back in this movement 09:00 The way politics has been conducted won’t lead us to a better place 10:15 We have underreacted to political violence in recent years 11:30 Unity doesn’t mean agreeing, it means agreeing to the process 12:45 The super online angry fringe whips people up 13:45 Hopefully this is the “enough is enough” moment 15:45 Algorithms incentive and feed into the extremist rhetoric 16:45 Hoping our leaders can rise up and meet the moment 19:15 The tech companies have created this environment 21:15 Congressman Greg Landsman joins the Chuck Toddcast 21:30 Charlie Kirk shot at event on UVU campus 24:15 We need to turn down the temperature on political rhetoric 25:30 Social media algorithms have accelerated polarization 28:00 Being super online warps your brain 29:15 Political leadership that crosses the line needs to be called out 29:45 Social media companies shouldn't be shielded from litigation 30:45 Algorithms turn social media platforms into publishers 32:15 Need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people 33:45 We're likely to slide into a "which side is more violent" debate 35:30 Why no committee investigation into Trump assassination attempt? 37:45 The country is a tinderbox, the president needs to calm the waters 40:30 Democrats have been chasing Trump for 10 years 41:30 Democrats need to offer solutions and not just opposition to Trump 43:30 What did Greg do before entering politics? 44:30 What was the experience like...

On this episode of the Chuck Toddcast, Chuck reflects on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about the tinderbox state of American politics. He explores how escalating rhetoric, dehumanization, and the amplification of fringe anger online have fueled a culture where violence replaces politics—and where children are left grieving the consequences. From the role of algorithms in supercharging extremism to the failure of leaders and tech companies to meet the moment, Chuck asks whether this tragedy can finally serve as the wake-up call for Americans to step back, recommit to the democratic process, and demand a safer political climate. Finally, he reacts to the newly released excerpts from Kamala Harris’s book and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction - Charlie Kirk assassinated 01:30 We’re in a tinderbox of our own making 02:30 Political rhetoric has escalated out of control 03:00 Young kids lost their father over a political dispute 03:45 When you resort to violence, you are no longer practicing politics 05:00 Dehumanizing rhetoric leads to violence 07:15 We collectively need to step back in this movement 09:00 The way politics has been conducted won’t lead us to a better place 10:15 We have underreacted to political violence in recent years 11:30 Unity doesn’t mean agreeing, it means agreeing to the process 12:45 The super online angry fringe whips people up 13:45 Hopefully this is the “enough is enough” moment 15:45 Algorithms incentive and feed into the extremist rhetoric 16:45 Hoping our leaders can rise up and meet the moment 19:15 The tech companies have created this environment 20:00 Excerpts from Kamala Harris's book released, are very direct 20:45 Harris was set up for failure as the "border czar" 21:45 Surprising that Biden staff treated Harris like Obama's treated him 23:45 Harris is cautious by nature 26:00 Harris likely to run again out of Biden's shadow 27:30 Dean Phillips is owed an apology, party needed an open debate 28:45 Ask Chuck 29:00 Importance of Michigan politics? 32:30 Could the energy Detroit sports teams provide could impact politics? 35:30 How should Democrats call out corruption & unfavorables on their side? 40:15 Should Democrats invite the national guard, then highlight crime in red states? 43:45 If the media hounded Trump about Kennedy, would he be more reactive? 46:15 College football games to keep an eye on 51:15 Find your way to do your part to de-escalate

On this episode of The Chuck Toddcast, Congressman Greg Landsman joins Chuck for a wide-ranging conversation that begins with the shocking shooting of Charlie Kirk at an event on the Utah Valley University campus. The two dig into how political rhetoric has spiraled out of control, the role of social media algorithms in fueling polarization, and why platforms shouldn’t be shielded from accountability. Landsman argues that leaders who cross the line with their rhetoric must be called out and stresses the urgent need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people before the U.S. slips further into a dangerous cycle of political violence. From there, the discussion shifts to governing—what Landsman learned on Cincinnati’s city council, why Congress has become dysfunctional since 9/11, and the frustrating reality that most bills are more about messaging than legislating. They also tackle foreign policy, including the stakes of defending Taiwan, the risks of Trump’s trade war with China, and whether an “Asian NATO” could prevent a wider conflict. Plus, Landsman reflects on Kamala Harris’s book, the pressures from party leadership, and the uncertainty of his own political future as redistricting looms. (This conversation was recorded prior to the news of Charlie Kirk’s death) Timeline: 00:00 Congressman Greg Landsman joins the Chuck Toddcast 00:15 Charlie Kirk shot at event on UVU campus 03:00 We need to turn down the temperature on political rhetoric 04:15 Social media algorithms have accelerated polarization 06:45 Being super online warps your brain 08:00 Political leadership that crosses the line needs to be called out 08:30 Social media companies shouldn’t be shielded from litigation 09:30 Algorithms turn social media platforms into publishers 11:00 Need to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people 12:30 We’re likely to slide into a “which side is more violent” debate 14:15 Why no committee investigation into Trump assassination attempt? 16:30 The country is a tinderbox, the president needs to calm the waters 19:15 Democrats have been chasing Trump for 10 years 20:15 Democrats need to offer solutions and not just opposition to Trump 22:15 What did Greg do before entering politics? 23:15 What was the experience like on the city council? 27:00 Local government teaches you the basics of governing 31:00 After 9/11, congressional leaders ruined congress 32:15 700 bills made it out of committee, 50 made it to the floor 33:15 Most bills on the floor are messaging bills 34:30 America is only united when we have a common external enemy 35:30 We could be in World War 3 within a couple years 36:30 U.S. needs to make clear that it will defend allies 37:45 How do you sell defending Taiwan to the American people? 38:45 Should we have an Asian NATO? 40:00 We have to increase the cost to China for messing with Taiwan 41:15 Trump’s trade war increases the likelihood of a hot war 43:35 Thoughts on the excerpts from Kamala Harris’s book? 45:00 Were you pressured by the administration into not saying anything? 47:30 Will your seat be redistricted?

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks a whirlwind of economic, geopolitical, and political developments shaping America’s future. From Trump’s tariffs likely surviving a fast-tracked Supreme Court review to rising fears of stagflation fueled by deportations and trade headwinds, the economic outlook is looking grim. Abroad, Russia escalates the war by sending drones into Polish airspace, while Israel’s strike on Hamas in Qatar risks leaving it more isolated on the world stage. Back home, Trump once again rewrites reality, denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein as his allies echo the talking points — raising fresh parallels to Orwell’s 1984. Chuck also looks ahead to the Democratic Party’s long-term challenges: how can they remain competitive nationally by 2032, when the current path to 270 electoral votes is likely gone? With Georgia and North Carolina emerging as decisive swing states, Democrats will need to expand their map and rethink their message — particularly as the “socialism” label remains toxic to southern voters. Then, political strategist and K-Street veteran Bruce Mehlman joins Chuck to unpack how politics, media, and business have collided in the Trump era and beyond. From the days when three television networks shaped a shared national narrative to today’s fractured landscape of Substack newsletters, podcasts, and hyper-partisan social feeds, Mehlman and Chuck explore how the internet broke traditional politics. They dive into how Washington has become a magnet for American business titans, the sky-high costs of lobbying access to President Trump, and whether bipartisan firms can even survive in the current climate. The conversation then widens to the global stage, connecting the 2008 financial crisis to the populist revolts of Brexit and Trump, and questioning whether the public underestimates just how much globalization has improved daily life. From Trump’s reliance on tariffs to the reality-versus-perception debate over crime, immigration, and the economy, Mehlman outlines the policy flashpoints that will shape 2024 and beyond. Plus: what the redistricting wars could mean for democracy, and why some argue the House of Representatives needs to grow in size to reflect America’s population. Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states each party should target in order to make them battlegrounds by 2032, and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Trump’s tariffs likely to stay in place despite expedited court ruling 02:15 Trump’s team pushed SCOTUS to rule quickly 04:00 John Roberts is always hesitant to upset those in power 06:00 The bad vibes surrounding the economy look to be right 07:15 Economy was facing headwinds, tariffs & deportations make it worse 09:30 The conditions for stagflation are forming 11:30 Incursion of Russian attack drones into Polish airspace 12:15 Putin has escalated the war since Alaska summit with Trump 13:45 Israel makes brazen strike on Hamas political wing in Qatar 15:45 There’s no chance Trump would have approved strike in advance 16:45 Strike could further isolate Israel 18:00 Israel is a wedge issue amongst the American electorate 20:00 Trump goes full George Orwell, denies letter to Epstein 21:15 Trump staffers have been willing to double down on behalf of Trump 22:30 We’re living through Orwell’s 1984 24:30 Democrats can weaponize Epstein to highlight Trump’s dishonesty 26:30 How can Democrats become a competitive national party in 2032? 27:30 By 2032, the current path to 270 won’t be there for Democrats 29:15 Georgia and North Carolina will become the most important swing states 30:30 Democrats need to figure out how to expand their path to 270 32:30 The word socialism is toxic to voters in the south 34:30 Democrats will have to rebrand and back off the socialism label 39:00 Bruce Mehlman joins the Chuck ToddCast 41:30 Traditional media is...

Political strategist and K-Street veteran Bruce Mehlman joins Chuck Todd to unpack how politics, media, and business have collided in the Trump era and beyond. From the days when three television networks shaped a shared national narrative to today’s fractured landscape of Substack newsletters, podcasts, and hyper-partisan social feeds, Mehlman and Chuck explore how the internet broke traditional politics. They dive into how Washington has become a magnet for American business titans, the sky-high costs of lobbying access to President Trump, and whether bipartisan firms can even survive in the current climate. The conversation then widens to the global stage, connecting the 2008 financial crisis to the populist revolts of Brexit and Trump, and questioning whether the public underestimates just how much globalization has improved daily life. From Trump’s reliance on tariffs to the reality-versus-perception debate over crime, immigration, and the economy, Mehlman outlines the policy flashpoints that will shape 2024 and beyond. Plus: what the redistricting wars could mean for democracy, and why some argue the House of Representatives needs to grow in size to reflect America’s population. Timeline: 00:00 Bruce Mehlman joins the Chuck ToddCast 02:30 Traditional media is forced to “sand the edges”due to political climate 03:15 The internet broke politics and media 04:15 When there were 3 networks, news catered to the entire country 05:45 The energy in media is in the podcast/substack space 06:45 The importance of a varied media diet 08:00 Twitter/X has become incredibly right-wing 09:00 Washington D.C. has become a tent-pole for business titans 10:15 Can bipartisan firms succeed in DC these days? 13:30 How is the “Trump purge” affecting K-Street? 15:15 Lobbying firms with access are charging astronomical rates 16:15 Congress isn’t passing legislation, it’s all executive orders 17:30 Does Mike Johnson have a go-to shop on K-Street? 19:00 Was Brexit the event that caused this era of global instability? 19:45 Brexit and Trump were downstream of the 2008 financial crisis 21:15 The populist revolt was inevitable after the financial crisis 23:30 The public takes for granted the benefits of globalization 26:15 Successful western countries haven’t compensated for globalization 28:15 The public suffers from recency bias, things are better now 30:00 The perception of the economy is the economic reality 32:15 People who predict doom are perceived as right and smarter 33:45 If SCOTUS takes away Trump’s tariff power, will congress restore it? 34:45 Trump views tariffs as the solution to every problem 37:00 If Trump loses in court on tariffs, he’ll just use another law 38:15 There’s no incentive for Dems to cut a deal due to recissions 40:00 If Republicans agree to no recissions, they could find a deal 41:15 If legislation passes one chamber, it should force a vote in the other 42:15 Fallout from the raid on South Korean workers at the Hyundai plant? 44:30 There’s support for the “why” of Trump’s immigration policy, not the “how” 48:15 What pushback to Trump’s deployment of troops to cities is most effective? 50:30 The perception of crime in cities vs the reality 51:45 Downplaying crime is a political loser 52:30 Democrats’ support for capitalism is falling and socialism is rising 54:15 The most important electoral states will be GA, NC and AZ 57:15 Socialism is least popular in the states Democrats need in the south 59:00 Higher embrace of socialism in cities and amongst younger voters 1:00:45 Thoughts on the redistricting wars? 1:03:00 The size of the house needs to grow with the population

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks a whirlwind of economic, geopolitical, and political developments shaping America’s future. From Trump’s tariffs likely surviving a fast-tracked Supreme Court review to rising fears of stagflation fueled by deportations and trade headwinds, the economic outlook is looking grim. Abroad, Russia escalates the war by sending drones into Polish airspace, while Israel’s strike on Hamas in Qatar risks leaving it more isolated on the world stage. Back home, Trump once again rewrites reality, denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein as his allies echo the talking points — raising fresh parallels to Orwell’s 1984. He also looks ahead to the Democratic Party’s long-term challenges: how can they remain competitive nationally by 2032, when the current path to 270 electoral votes is likely gone? With Georgia and North Carolina emerging as decisive swing states, Democrats will need to expand their map and rethink their message — particularly as the “socialism” label remains toxic to southern voters. Finally, Chuck gives his ToddCast Top 5 states each party should target in order to make them battlegrounds by 2032, and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Trump’s tariffs likely to stay in place despite expedited court ruling 02:15 Trump’s team pushed SCOTUS to rule quickly 04:00 John Roberts is always hesitant to upset those in power 06:00 The bad vibes surrounding the economy look to be right 07:15 Economy was facing headwinds, tariffs & deportations make it worse 09:30 The conditions for stagflation are forming 11:30 Incursion of Russian attack drones into Polish airspace 12:15 Putin has escalated the war since Alaska summit with Trump 13:45 Israel makes brazen strike on Hamas political wing in Qatar 15:45 There’s no chance Trump would have approved strike in advance 16:45 Strike could further isolate Israel 18:00 Israel is a wedge issue amongst the American electorate 20:45 Trump goes full George Orwell, denies letter to Epstein 22:00 Trump staffers have been willing to double down on behalf of Trump 23:15 We're living through Orwell's 1984 25:15 Democrats can weaponize Epstein to highlight Trump's dishonesty 27:15 How can Democrats become a competitive national party in 2032? 28:15 By 2032, the current path to 270 won't be there for Democrats 30:00 Georgia and North Carolina will become the most important swing states 31:15 Democrats need to figure out how to expand their path to 270 33:15 The word socialism is toxic to voters in the south 35:15 Democrats will have to rebrand and back off the socialism label 38:45 The Toddcast Top 5 - States each party should target as battlegrounds 40:00 Top 5 states Democrats should target 46:30 Top 5 states Republicans should target 51:00 Ask Chuck 51:15 Why be in congress if you have no interest in exercising power? 57:45 Potential democracy reforms that the U.S. could pass? 1:02:00 Was the eugenics movement similar to the current anti-vax movement?

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, the conversation turns to the political battles shaping 2025. From the issues Democrats should lean into—and the ones they should avoid—to Trump’s trolling of Chicago and his administration’s push for a showdown over crime and “terrorism,” the stakes are high. Chuck dives into how the White House is setting the stage for possible military action against cartels and even Venezuela, with flimsy constitutional justifications that have sparked pushback from voices like Rand Paul. Meanwhile, Democrats face their own identity struggles, from the risks of being tied to “socialism” with Latino voters to Bernie Sanders’ refusal to formally join the party. Plus, a look ahead to the Michigan Democratic Senate primary, where three strong contenders could reshape the party’s future Then, physician-turned-politician Abdul El-Sayed joins Chuck to discuss why he left medicine for the rough-and-tumble of politics. From the challenges of running for office with a foreign name to centering his campaign on improving life for children, El-Sayed argues that healthcare isn’t just about access—it’s about fairness. He pulls back the curtain on a system where insurers and hospital CEOs collude to inflate prices, pharmaceutical companies raise costs simply because they can, and Americans are tricked into thinking “choice” in healthcare actually benefits them. The conversation doesn’t stop at healthcare—it spans the crisis of trust in public health, the lessons El-Sayed learned from his 2018 gubernatorial run, and the corrosive role of money in politics. He weighs in on Gretchen Whitmer’s record, Trump’s overreach beyond Article II, and what sets him apart in Michigan’s Senate race. And in a moment of global reflection, El-Sayed takes on the politics of genocide—from Israel and Gaza to China’s treatment of the Uighurs—arguing that calling atrocities by their name is a test of values, even when nuance is hard to find in today’s polarized climate. Finally, Chuck gives a history lesson on Gerald Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon and its impact on modern politics, recaps the weekend in college football, and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 04:00 The issues Democrats should run on, and issues they should avoid 05:15 Trump’s trolling of Chicago got the reaction he wanted 06:30 The administration wants a showdown over Chicago 08:30 The administration’s aggressive application of the term “terrorism” 10:15 The Democratic base wants fight, government shutdown likely 12:15 Trump administration setting the stage for war with Venezuela 13:30 Administration needs to justify designating cartels terrorists 16:45 Trump's justification to congress for military action against cartels 19:00 Trump's justification was lacking, and didn't mention Venezuela 20:15 Trump ignoring the constitution in rationalizing action against cartels 21:45 Vance says fighting cartels is best use of military 23:15 JD gets into back and forth with Rand Paul on X 24:45 Venezuela story should be consuming Washington 26:15 Rand Paul has been willing to be combative with administration 29:00 The progressive left won't succeed if they're associated with socialism 30:45 "Socialism" isn't rebrandable with Latino voters 31:45 Bernie Sanders still hasn't joined the Democratic party 33:15 Michigan Democratic senate primary has 3 great candidates 33:45 Abdul El-Sayed joins the Chuck ToddCast 35:30 What made you choose politics when your background is medicine? 37:15 The challenge of running for office with a foreign name 38:15 Centering politics around improving the world for children 39:15 Disparities in access to health care based on money and connections 40:45 Health insurance is getting worse despite rising cost 42:00 Insurers and hospital CEOs collude to raise prices 44:00 What should be the cost expectation for pharmaceuticals? 45:30...

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, the conversation turns to the political battles shaping 2025. From the issues Democrats should lean into—and the ones they should avoid—to Trump’s trolling of Chicago and his administration’s push for a showdown over crime and “terrorism,” the stakes are high. Chuck dives into how the White House is setting the stage for possible military action against cartels and even Venezuela, with flimsy constitutional justifications that have sparked pushback from voices like Rand Paul. Finally, Chuck gives a history lesson on Gerald Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon and its impact on modern politics, recaps the weekend in college football, and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 The issues Democrats should run on, and issues they should avoid 01:15 Trump's trolling of Chicago got the reaction he wanted 02:30 The administration wants a showdown over Chicago 04:30 The administration's aggressive application of the term "terrorism" 06:15 The Democratic base wants fight, government shutdown likely 08:15 Trump administration setting the stage for war with Venezuela 09:30 Administration needs to justify designating cartels terrorists 12:45 Trump's justification to congress for military action against cartels 15:00 Trump's justification was lacking, and didn't mention Venezuela 16:15 Trump ignoring the constitution in rationalizing action against cartels 17:45 Vance says fighting cartels is best use of military 19:15 JD gets into back and forth with Rand Paul on X 20:45 Venezuela story should be consuming Washington 22:15 Rand Paul has been willing to be combative with administration 25:15 Chuck's thoughts on interview with Abdul El-Sayed 26:45 This week in history - Chuck's history lesson 27:45 Gerald Ford pardoned Nixon on September 8th, 1974 29:30 The case for pardoning Nixon 31:45 The case against pardoning Nixon 34:30 Ford's decision implied the country couldn't handle a trial 35:45 A majority of the country thought the pardon was wrong 37:30 Nixon never got his due process 38:45 Pardon was a stain on presidential decision making 39:15 College football update 43:15 Ask Chuck 43:45 Why Putin won't grant Trump a ceasefire 46:45 Why do Epstein victims face dehumanization when Trump doesn't? 50:30 Thoughts on the political salience of this season of South Park?

Physician-turned-politician Abdul El-Sayed joins Chuck Todd to discuss why he left medicine for the rough-and-tumble of politics. From the challenges of running for office with a foreign name to centering his campaign on improving life for children, El-Sayed argues that healthcare isn’t just about access—it’s about fairness. He pulls back the curtain on a system where insurers and hospital CEOs collude to inflate prices, pharmaceutical companies raise costs simply because they can, and Americans are tricked into thinking “choice” in healthcare actually benefits them. The conversation doesn’t stop at healthcare—it spans the crisis of trust in public health, the lessons El-Sayed learned from his 2018 gubernatorial run, and the corrosive role of money in politics. He weighs in on Gretchen Whitmer’s record, Trump’s overreach beyond Article II, and what sets him apart in Michigan’s Senate race. And in a moment of global reflection, El-Sayed takes on the politics of genocide—from Israel and Gaza to China’s treatment of the Uighurs—arguing that calling atrocities by their name is a test of values, even when nuance is hard to find in today’s polarized climate. Timeline: 00:00 Abdul El-Sayed joins the Chuck ToddCast 01:45 What made you choose politics when your background is medicine? 03:30 The challenge of running for office with a foreign name 04:30 Centering politics around improving the world for children 05:30 Disparities in access to health care based on money and connections 07:00 Health insurance is getting worse despite rising cost 08:15 Insurers and hospital CEOs collude to raise prices 10:15 What should be the cost expectation for pharmaceuticals? 11:45 Pharma companies raise prices because they can 12:45 RFK Jr. shouldn’t be anywhere near healthcare 13:45 The impact of the internet on public health 15:45 The crisis Kennedy is creating at HHS and CDC 16:30 How can we restore trust in public health authorities? 18:45 MAHA’s appeal is the idea you can control your health future 20:00 Parallels between public health and education 21:45 Health relies on both the individual and public health 22:45 Healthcare industry has tricked the public using concept of “choice” 24:30 Would you keep a semi-privatized system under medicare for all? 27:00 Health networks curtail choice and raise prices 28:30 What did you learn from your 2018 run for governor? 31:00 The disease of our political system is money buying politicians and policy 32:15 Trump spoke to economic pain and was able to reach voters 33:45 Assessment of Gretchen Whitmer’s governorship 35:45 Whitmer tried to work with Trump at times, will you? 37:45 Trump is exercising far more power than Article 2 permits 39:30 Differences between you and your opponents for MI senate? 40:15 Taking corporate money is a major philosophical difference 42:45 Reforming public health will require healthcare pros in D.C. 44:30 The trend of public health officials running for office 46:45 How much will Israel/Gaza factor into the election? 48:00 Calling something a genocide when you see it is a values test 49:15 Was Israel justified in going after Hamas? How much was justifiable? 50:15 The extremes on both sides of the war strengthen each other 51:15 We aim, arm and abet Israeli leaders who don’t want two states 52:15 Tax dollars should benefit taxpayers, not foreign militaries 53:15 It’s difficult to find nuance in our current politics 55:30 Money in politics make it difficult to have an honest conversation 56:15 Having a nuanced conversation around the world genocide 58:30 The holocaust can’t set the bar for use of the term “genocide” 1:00:00 Is China committing genocide of the Uighurs? 1:01:15 Using the word genocide can just “switch off” voters 1:03:30 People assume having an Arab name means tribal loyalty to Arabs

Chuck Todd is joined by Punchbowl News co-founders Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer to unpack the turmoil gripping Capitol Hill in the Trump 2.0 era. With Congress ceding power and lawmakers increasingly preoccupied with their own reelection campaigns, the leadership is under fire as redistricting battles in states like California and Texas threaten to tip the House majority. Democrats’ gamble on independent redistricting may backfire, institutionalists in the GOP have all but vanished, and even the Senate is starting to resemble the fractious House of a decade ago. The conversation also dives into whether John Cornyn can outmaneuver Ken Paxton, how redistricting uncertainty could push members into statewide races, and the looming prospect of a government shutdown with healthcare concessions as Democrats’ strongest bargaining chip. Beyond the legislative fights, the episode explores high-stakes questions over tariffs, the White House’s pressure campaign against releasing Epstein files, and GOP senators’ unwillingness to challenge RFK Jr. 's controversial moves at HHS. With potential Senate retirements on the horizon and California’s referendum putting Democrats in survival mode, Sherman and Palmer argue that members of Congress are increasingly acting less like lawmakers and more like elected pundits. As Punchbowl becomes the “local paper” of Capitol Hill, this episode maps the fault lines shaping both parties—and the country’s future. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer join the Chuck ToddCast 02:00 Congress has ceded their power in Trump 2.0 03:45 After Labor Day, lawmakers worry about reelection campaign 04:45 Leadership is taking flak from members over redistricting 05:30 California or Texas redistricting could swing majority 06:15 Redistricting creating massive uncertainty for lawmakers 07:45 Democrats backed independent redistricting and it hurt them 08:30 Are there any institutionalists left in the GOP? 09:45 The Senate is starting to behave like the House 10 years ago 11:30 Redistricting could cause members to run for statewide office 13:30 Is John Cornyn playing for time to prove he can beat Ken Paxton? 14:45 Cornyn closing gap with Paxton, but still well behind 17:00 Democrats have no incentive to cut deal, avoid government shutdown 18:15 White House and Congress have different targets for CR 19:15 Hidden perils for Dems if they shut down government 21:00 Healthcare is the best concession Democrats can extract 22:45 If Democrats shut down the government, how do they get out of it? 23:45 Trump will make a shutdown painful for Democrats 24:30 Dems in the minority have never caused a shutdown 26:30 If Newsom loses the referendum, how will it affect congress? 28:00 Polling shows referendum barely above 50% 29:15 California’s system has been good to Republicans 30:45 If Newsom loses, the party goes into survival mode 33:30 If courts stop tariffs, would Congress vote authority to Trump? 35:30 House might capitulate on tariffs, the senate won’t 36:45 Any chance Schumer and Jeffries meet with Trump? 38:30 Trump likely has the votes to prevent Epstein release 40:00 Epstein files caused rules committee to freeze congress 41:15 White House is pressuring/whipping members against file release 43:15 Where are GOP senators on RFK Jr’s actions at HHS? 44:30 GOP senators are afraid to exercise any leverage 45:45 Is Russia/Putin the only line that would divide Republicans? 47:00 Will there be any more GOP senate retirements? 49:00 Plans for Punchbowl news? 51:30 Members of congress have become elected Trump pundits on TV 53:45 Punchbowl has become the local paper for capitol hill

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks the growing unease in the GOP over RFK Jr.’s influence and Florida’s decision to drop school vaccine mandates, raising the question of how the once-fringe anti-vax movement went mainstream. Drawing historical parallels to the prohibition era, he examines how framing the issue as “personal freedom” and missteps like the COVID mandate fueled a cultural backlash that could take decades to undo, threatening long-term public health. The conversation then shifts to politics, with Trump maneuvering to dominate the NYC mayoral race—pressuring rivals, exploiting ranked-choice voting debates, and turning contests in New York and California into referendums on his influence, just as Democrats look to tie special elections back to Trump himself. Then, Chuck is joined by Punchbowl News co-founders Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer to unpack the turmoil gripping Capitol Hill in the Trump 2.0 era. With Congress ceding power and lawmakers increasingly preoccupied with their own reelection campaigns, the leadership is under fire as redistricting battles in states like California and Texas threaten to tip the House majority. Democrats’ gamble on independent redistricting may backfire, institutionalists in the GOP have all but vanished, and even the Senate is starting to resemble the fractious House of a decade ago. The conversation also dives into whether John Cornyn can outmaneuver Ken Paxton, how redistricting uncertainty could push members into statewide races, and the looming prospect of a government shutdown with healthcare concessions as Democrats’ strongest bargaining chip. Beyond the legislative fights, the episode explores high-stakes questions over tariffs, the White House’s pressure campaign against releasing Epstein files, and GOP senators’ unwillingness to challenge RFK Jr. 's controversial moves at HHS. With potential Senate retirements on the horizon and California’s referendum putting Democrats in survival mode, Sherman and Palmer argue that members of Congress are increasingly acting less like lawmakers and more like elected pundits. As Punchbowl becomes the “local paper” of Capitol Hill, this episode maps the fault lines shaping both parties—and the country’s future. Finally, he answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 02:30 Alarm over RFK growing in GOP congress, but don’t expect action 03:15 Florida dropping the vaccine mandate for kids in schools 06:30 How did the kooky anti-vax movement go mainstream? 07:00 Anti-vaxx movement has historical parallel in prohibition movement 08:30 Anti-alcohol movement seized on a particular moment in time 09:15 Anti-vaxx movement has been framed as a personal freedom issue 10:15 Biggest mistake by public health officials was the Covid vaccine mandate 11:30 Prohibition created crime & deaths from bootlegged alcohol 14:00 Officials know potential harm, and made the decision anyway 15:30 Older generation has memories of deaths from these diseases 16:45 It could take decades to reverse the damage to public health 18:30 Pro vaccine messaging needs to not be political 20:00 Trump trying to clear field in NYC mayoral to beat Mamdani 21:00 NYC voters should get ranked choice voting in general election 22:45 If Trump gets Adams to drop out, race will become all about Trump 24:00 NYC mayoral and CA redistricting could become Trump referendums 26:00 Democrats are making special elections all about Trump 29:15 Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer join the Chuck ToddCast 31:15 Congress has ceded their power in Trump 2.0 33:00 After Labor Day, lawmakers worry about reelection campaign 34:00 Leadership is taking flak from members over redistricting 34:45 California or Texas redistricting could swing majority 35:30 Redistricting creating massive uncertainty for lawmakers 37:00 Democrats backed independent redistricting and it hurt them 37:45 Are...

On this episode of the Chuck ToddCast, Chuck unpacks the growing unease in the GOP over RFK Jr.’s influence and Florida’s decision to drop school vaccine mandates, raising the question of how the once-fringe anti-vax movement went mainstream. Drawing historical parallels to the prohibition era, he examines how framing the issue as “personal freedom” and missteps like the COVID mandate fueled a cultural backlash that could take decades to undo, threatening long-term public health. The conversation then shifts to politics, with Trump maneuvering to dominate the NYC mayoral race—pressuring rivals, exploiting ranked-choice voting debates, and turning contests in New York and California into referendums on his influence, just as Democrats look to tie special elections back to Trump himself. Finally, he answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 02:30 Alarm over RFK growing in GOP congress, but don’t expect action 03:15 Florida dropping the vaccine mandate for kids in schools 06:30 How did the kooky anti-vax movement go mainstream? 07:00 Anti-vaxx movement has historical parallel in prohibition movement 08:30 Anti-alcohol movement seized on a particular moment in time 09:15 Anti-vaxx movement has been framed as a personal freedom issue 10:15 Biggest mistake by public health officials was the Covid vaccine mandate 11:30 Prohibition created crime & deaths from bootlegged alcohol 14:00 Officials know potential harm, and made the decision anyway 15:30 Older generation has memories of deaths from these diseases 16:45 It could take decades to reverse the damage to public health 18:30 Pro vaccine messaging needs to not be political 20:00 Trump trying to clear field in NYC mayoral to beat Mamdani 21:00 NYC voters should get ranked choice voting in general election 22:45 If Trump gets Adams to drop out, race will become all about Trump 24:00 NYC mayoral and CA redistricting could become Trump referendums 26:00 Democrats are making special elections all about Trump 27:15 Ask Chuck 27:45 Are Dems just living in "the world as it is" when it comes to redistricting? 33:30 Are Trump's attacks on mail-in voting an effort to contest 2026 results? 38:00 Is there a line where Democrats fighting will be the "wrong" move? 44:00 Why is Lisa Cook being targeted for mortgage fraud when Trump did it? 49:45 How long would it take the DNC to find viable candidates in light red districts? 53:15 Could Texas/CA gerrymander backfire and put more safe seats in play

Pulitzer Prize winning war correspondent Dexter Filkins joins Chuck Todd to explore whether the U.S. military is prepared for the realities of modern warfare. From Ukraine’s innovative battlefield tactics to Israel’s use of AI, militaries around the world are embracing cheap, agile technologies that challenge America’s reliance on massive, legacy weapons systems. They examine how Congress’s instinct to protect jobs keeps outdated systems alive, why the Pentagon is scrambling to produce affordable drones, and how America’s vast defense supply chain quietly runs through China. The conversation turns to Taiwan—home to 90% of the world’s advanced microchip production—and whether the U.S. and its allies are truly ready to defend it in the event of a conflict with China. The discussion also delves into the vulnerabilities of low-earth orbit satellites, the role of companies like Palantir in military tech, and whether autonomous targeting and video game–like interfaces are desensitizing the nature of war. Beyond weapons, Filkins and Todd confront America’s recruiting crisis, where three-quarters of young adults aren’t eligible for service, forcing the military to experiment with “pre-boot camps.” They close with reflections on fractured alliances, Trump’s effect on European defense spending, Putin’s ambitions to reconstitute the Soviet Union, and Filkins’s own harrowing experiences covering war zones—from Taliban executions in Kabul to jihadi training camps before 9/11. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Dexter Filkins joins the Chuck ToddCast 02:00 Is the U.S. military vulnerable to small tech innovation? 02:30 U.S. military is studying Ukraine and Israel’s innovations 04:00 U.S. military relies on few, very expensive weapons 05:30 Legacy weapon systems get updated, rarely replaced 06:45 Congress defends status quo to protect jobs in their district 08:15 America spends huge money, doesn’t get bang for buck 09:30 Pentagon has new program making cheap, accurate drones 10:45 50,000 American defense supply chains lead back to China 13:00 Defending Taiwan is a massive logistical challenge 13:45 Is America ready to help Taiwan survive war with China? 14:45 Taiwan produces 90% of the world’s advanced microchips 15:45 If Taiwan falls, the world economy would grind to a halt 17:00 The Asian-Pacific alliance isn’t rock solid 18:30 War between the U.S. and China would be ugly 19:15 Low-earth orbit satellites are vulnerable to attack 20:15 Destroying the satellite network is mutually assured destruction 21:30 China is watching the U.S. response to Ukraine war 23:45 Would Japan jump into a war between the U.S. and China? 24:45 Israel’s military is using AI for targeting 27:45 What is Palantir’s role with military applications? 29:15 Military systems aren’t interconnected for cybersecurity safety 30:45 Modern warfare will require a rapid decision making process 32:00 Autonomous targeting required to avoid jamming 33:30 Modern targeting systems are incredibly advanced 35:15 How much is war desensitized by its video game nature? 37:15 Recruiting problems for the U.S. military 38:30 75% of prime age military recruits don’t quality for service 40:00 Military has set up a pre-boot camp for recruits to lose weight 41:30 What size of military force do we need? 43:00 The fracturing of U.S. alliances in an era of nationalism 44:30 Trump scared the Europeans into increasing defense spending 46:15 Putin has been clear he wants to reconstitute the Soviet Union 46:45 Would Trump defend/liberate the Baltics in an article 5 scenario? 47:45 If Europe gets serious about defense, Trump did a good thing 49:00 How did defense/military become your beat? 50:30 Surviving close calls when covering a war zone 51:45 Watching a live execution at the Kabul sports stadium in the 90s 52:45 Seeing the jihadi training camps in Afghanistan prior to 9/11 53:45 Any desire to cover an active war zone again?

Chuck Todd digs into the looming threat of a government shutdown and the political gamesmanship behind it. He explores whether Democrats will force a showdown with Republicans, the risks and rewards of standing their ground, and how history shows the party that triggers a shutdown usually pays the price. With Trump giving Democrats little incentive to compromise and a restless base demanding a fight, Chuck explains why avoiding confrontation could hurt incumbents more than a shutdown itself. Plus, in the ToddCast Top 5, he breaks down the best Senate pickup opportunities for both Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterms. Then, Pulitzer prize winning war correspondent Dexter Filkins joins Chuck to explore whether the U.S. military is prepared for the realities of modern warfare. From Ukraine’s innovative battlefield tactics to Israel’s use of AI, militaries around the world are embracing cheap, agile technologies that challenge America’s reliance on massive, legacy weapons systems. They examine how Congress’s instinct to protect jobs keeps outdated systems alive, why the Pentagon is scrambling to produce affordable drones, and how America’s vast defense supply chain quietly runs through China. The conversation turns to Taiwan—home to 90% of the world’s advanced microchip production—and whether the U.S. and its allies are truly ready to defend it in the event of a conflict with China. The discussion also delves into the vulnerabilities of low-earth orbit satellites, the role of companies like Palantir in military tech, and whether autonomous targeting and video game–like interfaces are desensitizing the nature of war. Beyond weapons, Filkins and Todd confront America’s recruiting crisis, where three-quarters of young adults aren’t eligible for service, forcing the military to experiment with “pre-boot camps.” They close with reflections on fractured alliances, Trump’s effect on European defense spending, Putin’s ambitions to reconstitute the Soviet Union, and Filkins’s own harrowing experiences covering war zones—from Taliban executions in Kabul to jihadi training camps before 9/11. Finally, he answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 02:15 Will the Democrats force a showdown over a government shutdown? 04:30 Can Democrats trust Republicans to spend appropriated money? 05:15 Trump has given Democrats no incentive to come to the table 06:15 GOP forced shutdown in 2013, paid a heavy political price 08:45 Usually the party that forces shutdown goes down in polls 10:45 Democrats would do well to get caught fighting 13:00 If Democrats roll over, a “burn the establishment” mood will follow 14:45 The Democratic base is angry, not fighting puts incumbents at risk 16:00 Gavin Newsom has been rewarded for fighting 18:00 Trump has written off catering to the middle 19:15 Shutdown is risky, but provides a message for the midterms 22:00 A government shutdown is more likely than not 23:15 ToddCast Top 5 - Best senate pickup opportunities for each party 24:30 Top 5 senate seats for Democrats to pick up 31:45 Democrats need to put more seats in play 32:30 Top 5 senate seats for Republicans to pick up 40:45 Dexter Filkins joins the Chuck ToddCast 42:45 Is the U.S. military vulnerable to small tech innovation? 43:15 U.S. military is studying Ukraine and Israel's innovations 44:45 U.S. military relies on few, very expensive weapons 46:15 Legacy weapon systems get updated, rarely replaced 47:30 Congress defends status quo to protect jobs in their district 49:00 America spends huge money, doesn't get bang for buck 50:15 Pentagon has new program making cheap, accurate drones 51:30 50,000 American defense supply chains lead back to China 53:45 Defending Taiwan is a massive logistical challenge 54:30 Is America ready to help Taiwan survive war with China? 55:30 Taiwan produces 90% of the world's advanced...

Chuck Todd digs into the looming threat of a government shutdown and the political gamesmanship behind it. He explores whether Democrats will force a showdown with Republicans, the risks and rewards of standing their ground, and how history shows the party that triggers a shutdown usually pays the price. With Trump giving Democrats little incentive to compromise and a restless base demanding a fight, Chuck explains why avoiding confrontation could hurt incumbents more than a shutdown itself. Plus, in the ToddCast Top 5, he breaks down the best Senate pickup opportunities for both Democrats and Republicans heading into the midterms. Finally, he answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 02:15 Will the Democrats force a showdown over a government shutdown? 04:30 Can Democrats trust Republicans to spend appropriated money? 05:15 Trump has given Democrats no incentive to come to the table 06:15 GOP forced shutdown in 2013, paid a heavy political price 08:45 Usually the party that forces shutdown goes down in polls 10:45 Democrats would do well to get caught fighting 13:00 If Democrats roll over, a “burn the establishment” mood will follow 14:45 The Democratic base is angry, not fighting puts incumbents at risk 16:00 Gavin Newsom has been rewarded for fighting 18:00 Trump has written off catering to the middle 19:15 Shutdown is risky, but provides a message for the midterms 22:00 A government shutdown is more likely than not 23:15 ToddCast Top 5 - Best senate pickup opportunities for each party 24:30 Top 5 senate seats for Democrats to pick up 31:45 Democrats need to put more seats in play 32:30 Top 5 senate seats for Republicans to pick up 40:00 Ask Chuck 40:15 Book suggestions for 2000’s era politics? 47:00 Love for the DeMaurice Smith interview 48:45 Why isn't the public more up in arms over unilateral tariffs?

Florida Democratic Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins Chuck Todd with a stark assessment of American politics: bipartisanship is dead, foreign interference has poisoned public discourse, and Democrats face an existential choice between fighting dirty or facing potential party destruction. Moskowitz, who represents Parkland and witnessed multiple system failures during that tragic shooting, argues that Trump's second term has fundamentally changed Democrats who now face primary voters demanding fighters while swing voters want uniters—an impossible contradiction that reflects deeper dysfunction where politicians receive no political reward for solving problems. He warns that increased gerrymandering from both parties will worsen congressional dysfunction while big tech companies have created a discourse environment where TikTok operates as a "psyop weapon" showing endless Gaza content while ignoring Uyghur genocide, demonstrating how public opinion gets manipulated by algorithms designed for engagement rather than truth. The conversation reveals a politician grappling with impossible strategic calculations as Florida officially becomes a red state through Trump-driven demographic shifts and COVID-era political realignment, while Democrats debate whether moderates should fall in line when progressives win or continue prioritizing electability over ideological purity. Moskowitz's insights into Israel's "generational reputational damage" and the effectiveness of Trump's intimidation politics—where physical threats cause Republican senators to cave—illustrate how normal democratic processes have been weaponized into permanent warfare. Looking ahead, he warns that Democratic failure in midterms could destroy the party entirely, while practical governance challenges like FEMA's disaster response capabilities face deliberate sabotage from a White House that realizes competent federal agencies undermine their political narrative, leaving states unable to handle hurricane logistics independently as climate disasters intensify. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins the Chuck Toddcast 01:30 As a Dem, could you ever get a job in a 2nd term DeSantis admin? 02:45 The days of bipartisanship are long gone 04:00 Why not stand on principle in the redistricting fight? 05:00 The Democratic base wants to fight fire with fire 06:00 Trump’s second term has changed the Democrats 07:15 Primary voters want a fighter, swing voters want a uniter 08:00 More gerrymander will increase dysfunction in congress 10:30 Both parties moved away from each other after cold war 11:15 Foreign interference in American discourse has been effective 12:45 DeSantis hasn’t succeeded in repealing Florida’s red flag laws 14:15 Stopping school/mass shootings requires an “all of the above” approach 16:15 There’s no political reward for bipartisanship and solving problems 18:15 There were multiple points of failure in Parkland shooting 20:00 Public discourse is at the mercy of five giant tech companies 20:45 TikTok is a psyop weapon 22:45 TikTok shows Gaza content, but nothing about the Uyghurs 24:00 Restrictions government should place on social media/internet 25:15 The big tech lobby has become one of the strongest 27:30 Bipartisan support for internet regulations to protect kids 29:15 The Democratic party is losing the nuance on Israel 30:30 Social media has juiced coverage in Gaza, ignored other conflicts 32:45 Israel is doing generational reputational damage 35:30 Physical threats have caused Republican senators to cave 36:45 Trump's intimidation politics work effectively 37:45 Majority of Americans want to cut off aid to Israel 39:00 Will Israel be a true voting issue? 41:30 Populations move to the right after being attacked 42:30 Covid led to Republican dominance in Florida 46:00 Florida is officially a red state 47:15 Democrats have policy fights, Republicans have personality...

Chuck Todd unpacks how Putin’s latest strikes reveal Trump was played in Alaska and why Labor Day marks a new stage in the political calendar. From looming government shutdowns and Supreme Court battles over tariffs to the total collapse of checks on Trump 2.0, the conversation digs into what—if anything—remains of the pre-Trump Republican Party. With GOP senators capitulating, RFK Jr. emboldened, and even Trump hesitant to cross him, the stakes for public health and American democracy have never been higher. Todd also explores how rumors about Trump’s health could spark a political feeding frenzy, why Kennedy should be forced to prove his vaccine claims, and whether any non-MAGA Republicans are willing to buck Trump to save their party. Finally, he gives his reaction to the first weekend of college football and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Putin’s latest strikes show Trump was played in Alaska 05:00 Labor day marks new stage in the political calendar 06:00 Potential for showdown over government shutdown 07:00 What is left of the pre-Trump Republican party? 08:00 The checks on Trump 1.0 are gone in Trump 2.0 09:15 Rubio and Bessent are the only two checks left on Trump 10:30 Supreme Court showdown looming over tariffs 11:30 Trump has no legal authority to impose tariffs 12:30 There will be a vote in Congress on tariffs 14:00 Pre-Trump GOP would have stopped RFK Jr. 16:30 GOP Senators have all capitulated to Trump 18:30 GOP Senators must grow a spine to build a post-Trump party 20:00 Kennedy is putting children and seniors at risk of dying 21:15 Even Trump seems to be afraid of crossing RFK Jr. 22:00 Former CDC directors write joint op-ed sounding alarm on CDC 24:00 Trumpworld only have themselves to blame for Trump health rumors 25:00 Trump’s health could become next “Epstein” frenzy 26:15 If Trump limits appearances it will trigger a feeding frenzy 27:30 Will non-MAGA Republicans buck Trump to save their seats? 30:30 Is there anything left of the Republican party? 31:45 People have forgotten the pre-vaccine era 33:45 Kennedy should have to prove vaccines DON’T work 35:30 Chuck's experience at Miami vs. Note Dame game 40:00 LSU had the best win of the weekend 41:45 Utah had most impressive win nobody is talking about 42:45 Ask Chuck 43:00 Will politicians make changes to college NIL via legislation? 46:00 Can the U.S. learn from other countries for constitutional reform? 51:15 Does Mike Duggan running as an independent give him an advantage? 56:30 Will America actually be able to bring back manufacturing?

Chuck Todd unpacks how Putin’s latest strikes reveal Trump was played in Alaska and why Labor Day marks a new stage in the political calendar. From looming government shutdowns and Supreme Court battles over tariffs to the total collapse of checks on Trump 2.0, the conversation digs into what—if anything—remains of the pre-Trump Republican Party. With GOP senators capitulating, RFK Jr. emboldened, and even Trump hesitant to cross him, the stakes for public health and American democracy have never been higher. Todd also explores how rumors about Trump’s health could spark a political feeding frenzy, why Kennedy should be forced to prove his vaccine claims, and whether any non-MAGA Republicans are willing to buck Trump to save their party. Florida Democratic Congressman Jared Moskowitz joins Chuck Todd with a stark assessment of American politics: bipartisanship is dead, foreign interference has poisoned public discourse, and Democrats face an existential choice between fighting dirty or facing potential party destruction. Moskowitz, who represents Parkland and witnessed multiple system failures during that tragic shooting, argues that Trump's second term has fundamentally changed Democrats who now face primary voters demanding fighters while swing voters want uniters—an impossible contradiction that reflects deeper dysfunction where politicians receive no political reward for solving problems. He warns that increased gerrymandering from both parties will worsen congressional dysfunction while big tech companies have created a discourse environment where TikTok operates as a "psyop weapon" showing endless Gaza content while ignoring Uyghur genocide, demonstrating how public opinion gets manipulated by algorithms designed for engagement rather than truth. The conversation reveals a politician grappling with impossible strategic calculations as Florida officially becomes a red state through Trump-driven demographic shifts and COVID-era political realignment, while Democrats debate whether moderates should fall in line when progressives win or continue prioritizing electability over ideological purity. Moskowitz's insights into Israel's "generational reputational damage" and the effectiveness of Trump's intimidation politics—where physical threats cause Republican senators to cave—illustrate how normal democratic processes have been weaponized into permanent warfare. Looking ahead, he warns that Democratic failure in midterms could destroy the party entirely, while practical governance challenges like FEMA's disaster response capabilities face deliberate sabotage from a White House that realizes competent federal agencies undermine their political narrative, leaving states unable to handle hurricane logistics independently as climate disasters intensify. Finally, he gives his reaction to the first weekend of college football and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Putin’s latest strikes show Trump was played in Alaska 05:00 Labor day marks new stage in the political calendar 06:00 Potential for showdown over government shutdown 07:00 What is left of the pre-Trump Republican party? 08:00 The checks on Trump 1.0 are gone in Trump 2.0 09:15 Rubio and Bessent are the only two checks left on Trump 10:30 Supreme Court showdown looming over tariffs 11:30 Trump has no legal authority to impose tariffs 12:30 There will be a vote in Congress on tariffs 14:00 Pre-Trump GOP would have stopped RFK Jr. 16:30 GOP Senators have all capitulated to Trump 18:30 GOP Senators must grow a spine to build a post-Trump party 20:00 Kennedy is putting children and seniors at risk of dying 21:15 Even Trump seems to be afraid of crossing RFK Jr. 22:00 Former CDC directors write joint op-ed sounding alarm on CDC 24:00 Trumpworld only have themselves to blame for Trump health rumors 25:00 Trump’s health could become next “Epstein”...

Chuck Todd is joined by former NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith to discuss his new book Turf Wars and the untold battles behind the modern NFL. Smith reflects on how he—despite never playing the game—won the trust of star athletes, navigated intense resistance from owners, and fought for free agency and labor protections. He shares candid stories of his uphill battle to lead the NFLPA, from owners attempting to block his election to risking his career to stand with players. Smith also offers a rare look inside the billionaire owners’ club, likening it to a feudal kingdom where prestige and profit outweigh fairness. He reveals how Roger Goodell consolidated power, why Jerry Jones remains a polarizing force, and how owners exploit their franchises like personal toys. From hidden revenues to weak contract protections, Smith explains why the NFL has thrived financially while leaving players vulnerable. And with college athletes gaining leverage and younger NFL players more empowered, Smith warns that a seismic labor showdown between players and owners may be on the horizon. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 DeMaurice Smith joins the Chuck ToddCast 03:00 Why write Turf Wars? Why did the story need to be told? 05:00 Similarities between political oligarchs & NFL owners 06:30 Why did you get the NFLPA job despite never playing? 08:15 Players voted to strike in 80’s then crossed picket line 10:00 Players went through years of litigation to get free agency 11:30 NFL tried to stop NFLPA from hiring DeMaurice 14:30 DeMaurice forced to risk his job to run for NFLPA job 16:30 Was it hard to connect with the players? 18:30 Star players vouched for DeMaurice to their teammates 20:15 Goodell visited with multiple teams and it went BADLY 24:30 DeMaurice was warned, NFL owners are the worst people 25:00 NFL owners view their team as a toy, vehicle for prestige 27:00 Owners try to pull equity out of their team without selling it 28:15 Relationship with Robert Kraft 30:15 Tension between younger and older owners 30:45 The good and bad of Jerry Jones 31:30 Jerry Jones frustrated with “freeloading” owners 33:15 The NFL is a feudal kingdom 33:45 Pete Rozelle vs Roger Goodell 36:15 Goodell has done an incredible job generating revenue 37:15 Mike Brown isn’t a billionaire without Goodell 37:45 What would the league look like without owners, Packers model? 39:15 Packers requirement to publicly report gives insight into league 41:15 The only rule NFL placed on itself was Rooney Rule, don’t follow it 42:00 The NFL is comfortable knowing it’s basically above the law 43:00 How much revenue was the NFL hiding under its nonprofit status? 44:00 The league gave up nonprofit status to hide salaries, legal issues 45:15 NFL contract protections weaker than other sports 46:00 NFL culture is “psychologically militaristic” 47:30 Players/owners showing solidarity over kneeling for anthem 48:45 NFLPA is a microcosm for labor standing up to capital. 50:15 College players have more leverage than NFL players 51:30 Newer generation of players will change relationship with owners 53:45 NFL owners fear educated and empowered players 55:30 School should mandate financial literacy courses for players 56:45 Are players concerned about the mess at the NFLPA? 58:00 Players need to understand owners aren’t their friends 58:45 There’s a war coming between players and ownership

Chuck Todd unpacks the troubling patterns that emerge after every mass shooting, from how the public rushes to confirm their priors to how culture wars are inflamed when a shooter’s identity becomes politicized. With the FBI investigating the latest tragedy as a possible hate crime, trust in law enforcement once again splits along partisan lines, reflecting the deeper polarization running through government agencies and public perception alike. Then, Todd previews his conversation with DeMaurice Smith as he turns to the looming era of labor strife in professional sports—examining how the NFL operates as a “socialist experiment,” how name-image-likeness deals and the transfer portal are shifting the mindset of athletes, and why collective bargaining disputes will be on the horizon. Then, Chuck Todd is joined by former NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith to discuss his new book Turf Wars and the untold battles behind the modern NFL. Smith reflects on how he—despite never playing the game—won the trust of star athletes, navigated intense resistance from owners, and fought for free agency and labor protections. He shares candid stories of his uphill battle to lead the NFLPA, from owners attempting to block his election to risking his career to stand with players. Smith also offers a rare look inside the billionaire owners’ club, likening it to a feudal kingdom where prestige and profit outweigh fairness. He reveals how Roger Goodell consolidated power, why Jerry Jones remains a polarizing force, and how owners exploit their franchises like personal toys. From hidden revenues to weak contract protections, Smith explains why the NFL has thrived financially while leaving players vulnerable. And with college athletes gaining leverage and younger NFL players more empowered, Smith warns that a seismic labor showdown between players and owners may be on the horizon. Finally, he answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s Introduction 01:00 There’s a pattern to every mass/school shooting 02:15 People always look to confirm their priors with every shooting 03:30 The shooter being trans could inflame the culture wars 04:30 Shooting could be politicized in all the wrong ways 06:00 FBI announces it will be investigated as terrorism/hate crime 07:00 Trust and favorability of law enforcement is polarized 10:00 Agencies are being run by partisans acting partisanly 12:45 The public & Trump view everything through a partisan lens 14:45 DeMaurice Smith TEASE 18:00 We’re about to enter an era of labor strife in professional sports 19:45 The NFL is one of the great socialist experiments in America 22:30 The attitude of future NFL players will change due to NIL/Xfer portal 23:45 We’ll likely see collective bargaining amongst college players 26:45 DeMaurice Smith joins the Chuck ToddCast 29:45 Why write Turf Wars? Why did the story need to be told? 31:45 Similarities between political oligarchs & NFL owners 33:15 Why did you get the NFLPA job despite never playing? 35:00 Players voted to strike in 80's then crossed picket line 36:45 Players went through years of litigation to get free agency 38:15 NFL tried to stop NFLPA from hiring DeMaurice 41:15 DeMaurice forced to risk his job to run for NFLPA job 43:15 Was it hard to connect with the players? 45:15 Star players vouched for DeMaurice to their teammates 46:00 Goodell visited with multiple teams and it went BADLY 51:15 DeMaurice was warned, NFL owners are the worst people 51:45 NFL owners view their team as a toy, vehicle for prestige 53:45 Owners try to pull equity out of their team without selling it 55:00 Relationship with Robert Kraft 57:00 Tension between younger and older owners 57:30 The good and bad of Jerry Jones 58:15 Jerry Jones frustrated with "freeloading" owners 1:00:00 The NFL is a feudal kingdom 1:00:30 Pete Rozelle vs Roger...