Impromptu
Smart when you need it, fun when you want it — with hosts who feel like friends. Impromptu is your twice-a-week conversation with Washington Post columnists who bring fresh insight and perspective to the stories shaping the week. On Tuesdays, Dana Milbank and his colleagues dig into the political news that actually matters. Then, on Fridays, Drew Goins and Molly Roberts ease you into the weekend, breaking down the cultural moments you can’t stop thinking about.
Tue, April 29, 2025
Has it been 100 years? Or 100 days?
Read more from our columnists: Dana Milbank: For the Trump administration, it’s amateur hour Philip Bump: The bubble that created Trump is the reason he’s stumbling Monica Hesse: If Kilmar Abrego García is doomed, we all are Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, April 25, 2025
Why religious people are happier
Americans have been turning away from organized religion for decades — but recent research suggests that trend might be stalling out. And studies do show that people affiliated with a religion tend to be happier and healthier. So should more people be joining up? And are there ways to make some of the most ancient religions a little more modern, or at least more open to progressive ideas? If not, where else can people find community and a sense of belonging? Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Shadi Hamid discuss the usefulness, or not, of religion. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, April 22, 2025
RFK Jr. just doesn’t get it
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s tenure as HHS secretary has been every bit as troubling as many feared. He won’t outright support vaccines, despite a measles outbreak. He’s insulted autistic people by saying the disorder is preventable. And he’s losing scientists who might be able to actually help with his promises to fight chronic disease and get Americans to eat healthier. Dana Milbank, Leana Wen and Robert Gebelhoff discuss the potential consequences of Kennedy’s reign and whether he can keep together the varied assortment of fans who’ve rallied behind him. Additional reading: Leana S. Wen: Why a worsening measles outbreak is a big deal Who are RFK Jr.’s ‘MAHA moms’? They might surprise you. Trey Johnson: Don’t listen to RFK Jr. on autism. Meet my special-needs son. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, April 18, 2025
Has the right revived comedy — or destroyed it?
Bill Maher’s visit to the White House appears to mark a shift in how some comedians and late-night hosts will approach the second Trump presidency. But what role should political and subversive humor play during these very serious times? Can it bring Americans together — or just offer a form of escapism? Post Opinions’ Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Theodore R. Johnson discuss the current landscape of the genre and where it could be headed next. Additional reading by our columnists: León Krauze: Bill Maher went to Washington. He got played. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, April 15, 2025
Will Trump blink on deportation?
President Trump appears to be thumbing his nose at the Supreme Court by defying its rulings on deportation. And he escalated the issue this week during a visit from El Salvador’s president, when both leaders refused to try to return a Maryland father mistakenly deported to a notorious prison. Columnists Dana Milbank, León Krauze and Jason Willick discuss whether defying the rule of law could finally catch up to Trump —and if he'll take a hit on one of his most popular issues. Additional reading by our columnists: Jason Willick: The Supreme Court’s crafty Trump rebuke Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, April 11, 2025
Does anybody want to visit the U.S. right now?
Global travel has boomed in recent years, sometimes to the point of annoying locals. But with all that’s happening with U.S. foreign policy, might we soon be begging for tourists to return? Post Opinions’ Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Catherine Rampell discuss the impact of Trump’s policies on travel, and how local economies and tourists are often bound to each other, whether people like it or not. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, April 08, 2025
How many ‘shocks to the system’ can America take?
Additional reading by our columnists: Dana Milbank: The economy. The Constitution. Is there anything Trump won’t destroy? Philip Bump: What America could look like a decade from now Heather Long: Something worse could be coming for the economy than a recession Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, April 04, 2025
Don’t whitewash this national treasure
Is nothing safe from the culture wars? President Trump has found a new battleground: the nation’s museums. He’s demanded that art and stories that he says divide people based on race be removed from the Smithsonian's dozens of institutions. The Post’s Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Monica Hesse discuss what’s at stake when our history is papered over, and how art can make us uncomfortable or overwhelmed, but sometimes that’s the point. Additional reading by our columnists: Monica Hesse: What exactly does Trump think is in the Smithsonian? Monica Hesse: Don’t say (Enola) Gay Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, April 01, 2025
Is gravity catching up to Trump?
President Trump keeps losing in court. A few Republican senators have started to criticize his administration’s actions, albeit mildly. And consumer confidence and the stock market are plunging with news of more and more tariffs. Are we starting to see some cracks in the MAGA unity that’s held strong since Trump’s victory in November? Columnists Dana Milbank, Karen Tumulty and Jason Willick discuss whether there’s a line Trump can’t cross, and what the special elections this week could reveal about the political atmosphere outside of Washington.
Fri, March 28, 2025
Why we want to believe in every wellness fix
A fitness influencer posted a video of his over-the-top morning routine that’s racked up nearly a billion views. What does the video’s popularity tell us about our culture’s obsession with so-called wellness? Are people just searching for meaning in a world that can feel out of control? Columnists Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Ted Johnson talk about our culture’s endless appetite for wellness fixes. Here’s the video referenced in the show. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, March 25, 2025
Make Democrats excited again
Since Republicans took over government in January, Democrats haven’t been able to find a unified message or opposition strategy. While Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tour the country speaking to massive crowds about fighting billionaires, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is taking heat for supporting a Republican-led budget plan. How can the Democrats get out of the wilderness? Columnists Dana Milbank, Shadi Hamid and Matt Bai discuss the need for a fresh philosophy and a messenger from outside of Washington. Additional reading by our columnists: Dana Milbank: My month of living Republicanly Shadi Hamid: Why half of America is cheering for chaos Matt Bai: Where is the anti-Trump resistance? Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, March 21, 2025
Well, at least we aren’t severed or stuck at a White Lotus
Why are so many people talking about two escapist, engrossing TV dramas that let us slip away from our reality for an hour each week? Is it just that this kind of complex, big-budget television show is so rare these days? Columnists Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Monica Hesse talk about the valley on the other side of “peak tv” — and how sometimes you just need shows you can watch while folding laundry. Additional reading: Monica Hesse: ‘The Apprentice’ is now on Amazon. Don’t do what I did. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, March 18, 2025
Just come in legally, they said
The Trump administration is taking its immigration attacks beyond the border. Federal officials have detained green card holder and Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil, and have picked up other legal immigrants returning from travel abroad. What does all of this mean for the legal immigration system? Columnists Dana Milbank, Eduardo Porter and Shadi Hamid discuss the chilling effects of this “hinge moment” in Trump’s presidency. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, March 14, 2025
Some beautiful, slightly deranged ideas for more sunshine
You think you’ve heard all you need to about daylight saving time, but we promise you haven’t heard it quite like this. Most people hate changing the clocks back and forth each fall and spring, but they can’t seem to agree on how we could do it better. In this episode, Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and David Von Drehle take us on a journey of DST through history and around the world. They also pitch some wild ideas for how we can better optimize the sunlight, which is what we're guessing everybody really wants. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, March 11, 2025
Trump’s shock-and-awe strategy hits the economy
As President Trump stays bullish on tariffs, sending markets spiraling and personal anxieties soaring, the Republican-led Congress is trying to pass a budget. Do Democrats have any levers to pull, or should they just let Republicans own whatever happens next? Dana Milbank, Heather Long and James Hohmann talk through the negotiations in Washington this week and how Trump’s unclear messaging could hurt business. Additional reading: Heather Long: A Trump recession has become a real possibility Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, March 07, 2025
Out with the girl boss, but in with…what?
When a few dozen women in pink suits strode into the House for the joint address to Congress last week, something felt a little, well, off. Partly, it seemed taken from a tired old playbook. Partly, it sent a garbled message. But mostly it pointed to the fact that many liberal women don’t know what to do in this post-resistance era. Columnists Molly Roberts and Monica Hesse speak with contributor Carolina A. Miranda about the backlash to “girl boss” culture, how women on the MAGA right are finding their look and why the aesthetics of it all matter. Additional reading by our columnists: Monica Hesse: Democrats sent a scary message with those pink outfits Carolina Miranda: Welcome to the era of Trump Trad Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Wed, March 05, 2025
Did Trump’s address to Congress trap Democrats?
President Trump’s address to Congress was historically long and unusual in its style. Some Democrats booed and heckled him, and Trump did his own trolling of Democrats too. What does this address tell us about our politics and the future of Trump 2.0? Columnists Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and Ramesh Ponnuru get into it. Dana Milbank: In just five days, Trump has set the country back nearly 100 years Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, February 28, 2025
The Oscar films ask more questions than they answer
This year’s top Oscar-nominated films are an eclectic mix, but share some common themes. Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Alyssa Rosenberg discuss the not-so-straightforward heroes and villains in this year’s top movies, the limits of trying to transform oneself and what all of this says about the current moment. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, February 25, 2025
The right-wing media machine is now the U.S. government
President Trump has elevated a podcaster who’s bragged about “owning the libs” to a top position at the FBI, after firing six top generals at the Pentagon last week. Meanwhile, Elon Musk continues to make confusing demands of federal employees. Columnists Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and Philip Bump discuss whether this is all about loyalty and subservience to the president, or if there’s perhaps a bigger grand plan. Additional reading by our columnists: Philip Bump: The right-wing media machine is hitting a wall Ruth Marcus: When the guardrails holding back law enforcement fail Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, February 21, 2025
Is America trying to rebrand?
Names are important symbols, and President Trump is trying to change, or change back, quite a few. There’s the “Gulf of America” of course, but also the reversion of a military base from Fort Liberty to Fort Bragg, and efforts by his administration to erase the “T” in LGBT on government websites. Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Theodore Johnson discuss what names say about our cultural values, and whether renaming places again and again misses the point. Additional reading from the Washington Post: What is Fort Bragg? Hegseth restores Army base name from Fort Liberty. Park Service deletes trans references on Stonewall Inn monument page Yes, really, it’s going to be called the Gulf of America. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, February 18, 2025
Will Trump sell out Ukraine?
President Trump is trying to make good on his campaign promises to end wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and he has brought his shock-and-awe strategy to the world stage. Ruth Marcus talks to David Ignatius about the chaotic past week in Europe, whether Trump will sell out the Ukrainians in a deal with Russia, and how Trump is refusing (for now) to join Israel in bombing a weakened Iran. Additional reading by David Ignatius: At Munich, Trump’s chaotic approach has allies rattled Trump wants to play peacemaker. Israel may have other plans. The art of the just Ukraine peace deal
Fri, February 14, 2025
More pennies, more problems
The penny costs more to make than it’s worth, but why is it so difficult to stop making them? Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Megan McArdle talk about whether there’s a case for continuing to make pennies — and if we should ditch some other coins weighing down our pockets while we’re at it. In fact, how much life is left for cash at all?
Tue, February 11, 2025
Trump fought the law. Will the law win?
As the Trump administration challenges Congress’s “power of the purse” and grumbles at court orders slowing down its deluge of executive actions, it seems like a showdown among the three branches of government is brewing. But is this panic warranted, or will President Trump and his allies do what the courts say? Columnists Ruth Marcus, James Hohmann and Jason Willick get into it. Additional reading by our columnists: Ruth Marcus: Can the courts — can anyone — stop Trump? Jason Willick: Save the panic over Trump’s ‘power grabs.’ It might be needed later.
Fri, February 07, 2025
Remote work changed the country. Can it change back?
Many U.S. office workers have gotten used to hybrid or remote work in the past few years. These arrangements changed where people live and added flexibility to their schedules. But now, the trend seems to be reversing – some companies are wanting people back in the office five days a week, and President Trump said federal employees need to end remote work, too. Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Heather Long discuss how the balance of power between employers and their workers is shifting, and whether our cities and our lives can really go back to the way they were. Additional reading by Post columnists: Heather Long: Who will follow Amazon back into the office? Catherine Rampell: Return-to-work mandates are an invisible pay cut Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, February 04, 2025
Elon Musk seems to want to break government. Can anybody stop him?
Elon Musk, the unelected billionaire tasked by President Trump with finding government efficiencies, is in many ways treating the federal bureaucracy as if it’s a private company he just bought. Columnists Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and Matt Bai talk about Musk and Trump’s strategy to demoralize those they can’t fire, whether they’re actually saving any money with his actions and what sort of legal hiccups they are running into along the way.
Fri, January 31, 2025
As companies take sides, does it matter where we buy?
One thing we can control is how we spend our money. So should the places where we shop align with our values, or is the politicization of corporate America just one more way the country is fracturing? Post Opinions’s Drew Goins, Molly Roberts and Heather Long discuss boycotts on both sides of the aisle, from Chick-fil-A to Budweiser, and whether voting with your dollars can change anything. Additional Reading: Target’s DEI cuts have Black entrepreneurs saying ‘clear the shelves’ Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, January 28, 2025
Trump is playing all his cards all at once
President Trump wants to take over Greenland and “clean out” Gaza and is threatening both friends and foes of the United States. Is Trump's shock-and-awe approach a smart tactic, or is he weakening America by alienating our allies? Columnists Dana Milbank, Catherine Rampell and Max Boot discuss the pitfalls of Trump bringing his real estate developer instincts back to the world stage. Read more from our columnists: Max Boot: Why McKinley makes an alarming Trump presidential role model Eduardo Porter: Trump is popular abroad. But will his foreign policy doom humanity? David Ignatius: Trump’s Gaza remarks put willing Arab partners on guard
Fri, January 24, 2025
Is it time to delete our social media accounts?
Social media is in flux. X has become Elon Musk’s megaphone, Meta just ended its fact-checking program, and TikTok’s future is up in the air. Some on the left are flocking to Bluesky as other platforms shift right. As these online spaces become as divided as our politics, are they still serving us? Assistant editor Drew Goins talks with columnists Molly Roberts and Philip Bump about the good, the bad and the ugly of today’s social media scene.
Tue, January 21, 2025
Trump: The Sequel
The first day of Donald Trump’s presidency featured a fire hose of execution orders, pardons for the Jan. 6 defendants and lots of long speeches. Columnists Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and Jim Geraghty discuss what stood out to them among the barrage of actions, what might not pass legal muster and how presidential pardons are getting out of hand. Additional Reading: Ruth Marcus: Big Tech’s power surge Jim Geraghty: Trump’s inauguration vow to uphold the law clashes with his TikTok stance Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, January 14, 2025
Alcohol is linked to cancer. But isn't everything?
It’s “Dry January,” non-alcoholic drink sales are soaring and the surgeon general is warning people about the links between alcohol and cancer. But is it really so bad to have a few drinks at a weekly happy hour? Opinions editor Drew Goins chats with contributing columnist and physician Leana Wen and columnist Molly Roberts about the hierarchy of cancer risks and how to weigh the pleasures and perils of drinking. Additional Reading: Leana Wen: The right lesson to draw from the surgeon general’s alcohol warning
Tue, January 07, 2025
Big houses, small houses, we just need (a lot) more houses
There’s a housing crisis in America: high interest rates, not enough homes, and regulations that seem to favor building massive “McMansions” instead of more diverse housing stock. How did we get here, and can we find our way out? Post columnist Heather Long talks to the Atlantic’s Jerusalem Demsas, who’s written a book on the housing crisis, and Bryan DeHenau, a Michigan roofer who sees the struggles in the building industry on the ground every day. Additional Reading: Heather Long and Amanda Shendruk: “ The new American Dream should be a townhouse ” Heather Long talks with Bryan DeHenau about his ideas for how to build more homes in America: “ A Michigan roofer’s smart plan to end the housing crisis ” Jerusalem Demsas: “ An American-Style Housing Crisis in New Zealand”
Tue, December 24, 2024
The laughs, heartbreaks and hopes of 2024
When we look back on 2024, it’s easy for the campaign and the election to drown out everything else that happened. But there was so much more! The Post’s Alexandra Petri, Molly Roberts and Drew Goins talk about this chaotic year and the stories that stuck with them.
Tue, December 17, 2024
Luigi Mangione's motives — and ours
The killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson captivated America, as it played out in an almost cinematic fashion. But there are disturbing issues underneath this crime – the simmering anger over health-care costs and the growing normalization of violence in the United States. The Post’s David Von Drehle talks with columnists Molly Roberts and Matt Bai about what it means when citizens try to take justice into their own hands. Read the Washington Post column by Catherine Rampell referenced in the podcast: " Fan club for suspected shooter is a symptom of burn-it-all-down populism "
Tue, December 10, 2024
Americans don’t like experts? Send in the clowns.
America has lost faith in experts, and it’s certainly showing in some of Donald Trump’s Cabinet picks. Beyond a lack of qualifications, there are concerns over character problems with several nominees too. But do either really matter in American politics anymore? Deputy Opinions Editor David Von Drehle talks with columnists Ruth Marcus and Dana Milbank about what, if anything, can sink a nominee in today’s political culture.
Tue, December 03, 2024
Mexico vs. Trump: The rematch
Donald Trump is promising Mexico a lot of deported migrants with a side of trade war. How will Mexico and its new president handle a neighbor like Trump? Opinions assignment editor Damir Marusic talks to columnists León Krauze and Eduardo Porter about the view from both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, November 26, 2024
Searching for gratitude
As many head off for Thanksgiving after a disorienting month, our columnists tried to find anything in the world — in news and politics and their lives — to be grateful for. They had to dig deep, but they found gratitude for traditions forcing them toward normalcy, for the systems that work and for Matt Gaetz making Cameos instead of being the next attorney general. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Sat, November 23, 2024
She’s the future. How does the government keep her?
As potential deep cuts to federal agencies dominate headlines, it’s more important than ever to understand the people who make the government run. In the final installment of our “Who is Government” series, comedian and filmmaker W. Kamau Bell delves into the antitrust division of the Justice Department and learns about the surprising ways it can help America live up to its promise. Watch Bell’s video or read his column here: The Rookie And be sure to check out the rest of the “Who is government?” series. The Canary , by Michael Lewis The Sentinel , by Casey Cep The Searchers , by Dave Eggers The Number , by John Lanchester The Cyber Sleuth <span style="background-col
Tue, November 19, 2024
RFK Jr. has some good ideas. It’s what makes him so dangerous.
People are justifiably alarmed at the prospect of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being in charge of U.S. health policy. He amplifies conspiracy theories, is anti-vaccine and makes bizarre health claims that aren't backed up by evidence. But underneath his rhetoric, Kennedy has floated some interesting ideas, like limiting processed foods or banning pharmaceutical ads. Deputy Opinions editor Charles Lane talks with physician and columnist Leana Wen and editor Rob Gebelhoff about separating fact from fiction and what we should actually do to make America healthier. Read more from Leana Wen about Kennedy’s positions: “ RFK Jr.’s views on fluoride aren’t as crazy as you might think” “ The main reason RFK Jr. is unqualified to serve as HHS secretary ” Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, November 12, 2024
Trump 'Resistance' didn't work. What will?
Donald Trump’s election might feel like déjà vu. But America is in a different place than it was eight years ago. Contributing columnists Amanda Ripley, Matt Bai and Theodore Johnson talk through how they’re thinking about Trump’s second term, how to set boundaries between the personal and political, and what type of civic involvement is actually useful.
Wed, November 06, 2024
This is bigger than any one mistake Harris made
Donald Trump won. But why? Were Americans really just mad about their grocery bill? Columnists Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and James Hohmann grapple with this election result as an “X-ray into our national soul.” Read more from Washington Post columnists: “ No, the way to cope with a Trump win isn’t moving to Canada ” “ A big win for the Blow It Up Party, but what then? ” Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Mon, November 04, 2024
It’s Election Week. Grab the whiskey.
None of us can know the outcome of the election, but our columnists talk through the campaign’s final spasms. Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and James Hohmann discuss the shifting mood in Pennsylvania, whether abortion will be as motivating this time around and if Donald Trump can get “crypto bros and the guy who vapes” to actually vote. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, October 29, 2024
Are Republicans Kamala-curious? Not so much.
In the final stretch of the campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is making a play for Republicans who don’t like Donald Trump. But can they be swayed to vote for a lifelong Democrat? Columnists Megan McArdle, Jim Geraghty and Ramesh Ponnuru discuss what they’re hearing from fellow conservatives about this election and the future of the GOP. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, October 22, 2024
To tip or not to tip? That is now the question. Everywhere.
Americans don’t seem to have a shared understanding of when or how much to tip. Yet, millions of people rely on what we give to make a decent wage. Columnists Theodore Johnson, Heather Long and Molly Roberts talk about why things have become so confusing and get into the real issues beneath the campaign proposals to end taxes on tips. Read more from The Washington Post: “ Tipping is more confusing than ever. Here’s how to handle it. ” Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, October 15, 2024
Doritos and cocaine: Harris and Trump try out podcast populism
In the final stretch of the presidential campaign, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are turning to popular lifestyle and comedy podcasts to woo different audiences. We were curious whether the candidates sounded any different in these environments than at their rallies. So columnists Charles Lane, Molly Roberts and Perry Bacon listened in and discussed what they learned. Listen to the podcasts we discussed in the episode here: Donald Trump on “This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von ” Donald Trump on “Flagrant ” Kamala Harris on “Call Her Daddy ” Kamala Harris on “All the Smoke ”
Sat, October 12, 2024
‘I exist because of this piece of paper’
The National Archives might seem like a distant trove of documents and arcane laws for Americans far from Washington. But many of these national treasures are actually relevant to our lives. Author Sarah Vowell found the people inside the Archives who are making sure everybody can access these documents and find their stories. Read Sarah Vowell’s full story here: The Equalizer And check out the rest of the “Who is government?” series. The Canary , by Michael Lewis The Sentinel , by Casey Cep The Searchers , by Dave Eggers The Number , by John Lanchester The Cyber Sleuth , by Geraldine Brooks </
Tue, October 08, 2024
Just how bad will the Middle East get?
As tensions between Israel and Iran soar, columnists David Ignatius and Josh Rogin talk with Damir Marusic about the broader forces at play in the conflict, the lack of plans for a stable future and what a Trump victory would mean for the U.S.-Iran relationship. Read more from David Ignatius on this issue: “ What the Oct. 7 attacks didn’t change ” “ Trump courts disaster by underestimating Iranian death threats ” Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Sat, October 05, 2024
How a cyber sleuth in the IRS takes down terrorists
The IRS may be one of the most hated departments in the federal government, but it turns out it does more than just collect taxes. Pulitzer-Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks got to know the folks in charge of the IRS’s cybercrime unit which investigates criminals who use cryptocurrency. In this bonus episode, Brooks talks with Michael Lewis about what she learned. Read Geraldine Brooks’s full article here: Meet the black-belt, tattooed IRS official who saved 23 children from their abusers And check out the rest of the “Who is Government” series. The Canary , by Michael Lewis The Sentinel , by Casey Cep The Searchers , by Dave Eggers The Number , by John Lanchester
Wed, October 02, 2024
JD Vance had nowhere to go but up
In the vice-presidential showdown JD Vance tried to remake himself by being nice, while Tim Walz directed his attacks at Donald Trump. Columnists Karen Tumulty, Dana Milbank and Ruth Marcus discuss the Jan. 6 moment and what Vance’s soft talk on abortion says about Republicans’ fear of how the issue will hurt them at the ballot box. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Sat, September 28, 2024
What’s a government for? Let me count the ways.
The skittish inflation number that flies across headlines might feel arbitrary; in fact, it’s anything but. To arrive at that number, it takes millions of calculations into granular details such as the chemical composition of turkey meat and the flavor notes of olive oil. In this episode, John Lanchester chats with Michael Lewis about what the government counts and how tracking these things tells us a lot about what a country values. Read John Lanchester’s full article here: This number has shaped political debate and determined the fate of presidents Check out the rest of the “Who is Government” series. The Canary , by Michael Lewis The Sentinel , by Casey Cep The Searchers , by Dave Eggers
Tue, September 24, 2024
The meaning of ‘Jeopardy!’ in a post-truth America
“Jeopardy!” has been on the air and wildly popular for 60 years. What makes it endure, and what does that say about American culture? Contributing columnist Amanda Ripley talks to Alexandra Petri, Drew Goins and Ryan Vogt — Post Opinions staffers who’ve been contestants on the show — about its staying power, and if “Jeopardy!” can still bring Americans together. Correction: In this episode, we mistakenly said Bob Eubanks hosted The Match Game in the 1970s. Gene Rayburn was the host of that show. We regret the error.
Sat, September 21, 2024
To find new planets, you have to dim the stars
The scope of the federal government is vast, and in one corner lies NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, where the search for new planets and new life continues. As part of the Post Opinions “Who is government?” series, author Dave Eggers takes a look at the lab’s latest innovations and gets to know the people who are reaching for the stars. In this special episode, Michael Lewis talks to Eggers about what he learned. Read Eggers' entire article here: The Searchers . And be sure to check out the rest of the "Who is government?" series. The Canary , by Michael Lewis The Sentinel , by Casey Cep
Tue, September 17, 2024
The real reasons Americans are having fewer kids
Many economists and politicians are alarmed that Americans, like others around the world, are having fewer kids. But, apart from wanting a growing labor force, is this really a problem? Opinions columnists Shadi Hamid and Heather Long talk with Style columnist Monica Hesse about what’s really behind the baby bust and whether we just need to prepare for a lower fertility future. Read more from our columnists about this topic in the Washington Post: Editorial board: A reader quiz on world birthrate -- and what it means for the future Monica Hesse: The birth rate is still sluggish. Don’t blame the birth givers.
Wed, September 11, 2024
Harris wiped the floor with Trump. But what did we learn about her?
Did the debate cause a vibe shift? Columnists Charles Lane, Megan McArdle, Dana Milbank and Jim Geraghty discuss how much voters care about policy, whether Trump made any good points and how his false claims about pet-eating immigrants mask a genuine issue. And don't forget to check out the first two stories in our series, “Who is Government? Seven writers go in search of the essential public servant.” The Canary , by Michael Lewis The Sentinel , by Casey Cep Keep an eye on Washington Post Opinions each Tuesday morning to see future installments.
Tue, September 03, 2024
What do men want?
The evidence is in. American men are facing a crisis — in health, in education and in the labor force. But under all of that runs deeper trends — disconnection, loneliness and a lack of role models. Columnists Theodore Johnson and Shadi Hamid talk with Richard Reeves, founder of the American Institute for Boys and Men, about the dueling visions of masculinity on the political stage and a hopeful way forward for the modern man. Check out some of the work Richard Reeves mentioned in the show: “ Men are having a health crisis. Why aren’t we paying attention? ” “ The State of Working Class Men ” And read more from Washington Post Opinions on this topic: Theodore Johnson: “ I grappled with masculinity. My mother showed me the truth. ” Christine Emba: “ Men are lost. Here’s a map out of the wilderness. ” Subscribe to The Washington Post <a href="https://subscribe.washingtonpost.com/acquisition/?s_l=
Tue, August 27, 2024
Why not pay teachers $100,000?
As American kids head back to school, columnist Daniel Pink makes the case for paying teachers more money. High-quality teachers, he argues, significantly improve student learning, so shouldn’t they be paid as much as somebody assessing insurance premiums on your car? Plus, humor columnist Alexandra Petri discusses sending her child to school for the first time. This essay by Daniel Pink is part of a year-long project with Washington Post Opinions called “Why Not?” Check out some of the other columns in his series: Why not ban left turns on busy streets? Why not shake up the Olympics? Why not overhaul America’s national holidays? Why not require a civics test as a rite of passage for all Americans? Don’t miss any of Daniel Pink’s “Why Not?” columns. You can follow his LinkedIn newsletter here . Subscribe to The Washington Post <
Tue, August 20, 2024
Out with the old at the DNC
We are in Chicago, where it's Kamala Harris's party now. Columnists Dana Milbank, Jennifer Rubin, Jonathan Capehart and Jim Geraghty discuss why gender isn’t being talked about in this campaign so far, and they do the math on what percentage of the Democrats’ energy is from excitement, relief and just avoiding existential dread. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Wed, August 14, 2024
Surviving Putin's gulag: Vladimir Kara-Murza tells his story
Pulitzer Prize winner Vladimir Kara-Murza, who was part of August’s massive prisoner exchange with Russia, sat down to talk with Post Opinions editor David Shipley about his time in jail, the importance of freedom of speech and what the future holds for Putin’s regime. Today’s show was produced by Charla Freeland. It was edited by Allison Michaels and Damir Marusic and mixed by Emma Munger. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, August 06, 2024
Tim Walz won’t hurt Kamala Harris. Will he help?
Tim Walz went from being a little-known Midwestern governor to Democratic vice-presidential candidate in a matter of a few weeks. But in this sprint of a campaign, nothing is moving slowly. Charles Lane, Molly Roberts and Matt Bai talk through whether Walz can keep up the momentum of the Harris campaign, if the “weird” strategy is good or bad, and how much of a unifier Walz will be for the Democratic ticket. Read more from our columnists about Kamala Harris’s choice of a running mate here: Karen Tumulty: “ Tim Walz made ‘weird’ happen. What he offers the ticket is much more. ” Perry Bacon Jr: “ Tim Walz is a bold, smart choice for Harris’s running mate ” Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Wed, July 31, 2024
The misery of airline travel might be our fault
Airline travel is increasingly exasperating. Any blip, whether it’s a weather event or a technical problem, leads to cascading days of delays and cancellations. Why does it all seem so fragile? Charles Lane, Catherine Rampell and Marc Fisher discuss the economics of flying and how customers might be helping drive a race to the bottom. Stay until the end to get humor columnist Alexandra Petri's take on flying. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Fri, July 26, 2024
Introducing, "The Sports Moment"
Ava Wallace, sports reporter at The Washington Post, is in France to report on the Summer Games — and eat a lot of croissants. Join her through the entire run of the games, for several episodes a week as she captures the highs, the lows and the Paris of it all, along with other Post colleagues. Follow The Sports Moment podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Amazon Music or YouTube . Sign up for The Sports Moment: Olympics Edition newsletter here .
Tue, July 23, 2024
Can Kamala Harris win?
After all the hand-wringing over the last month, it took only about 24 hours for Democrats to fall in line behind Vice President Harris as their new nominee. Even so, some worry she’s not the strongest candidate that could have been put forward. Our columnists discuss whether she can win, who might join her as a running mate and what it means for her chances to be a woman of color on the top of the ticket in 2024. Read more from Post Opinions: “ The five groups of Democrats that ended Biden’s candidacy ” “ Today's Democrats love unity and hate arguing. Here's why. ” “ Democrats should not fear running two women ” “ What Harris needs to do, now, to win ”
Tue, July 16, 2024
Republicans are euphoric. Can it last?
After a truly wild few weeks in politics, our columnists huddle up at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. They discuss the mood on the ground in the aftermath of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, how the unity message seems to be fraying and what recent events mean for the presidential campaign – and the country – going forward. Plus, humorist Alexandra Petri serves up an imagined J.D. Vance infomercial using his own words about Trump. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Tue, July 09, 2024
Democrats feel doomed. What’s the least risky move?
With falling poll numbers and President Biden's public appearances doing little to reassure voters he’s still got what it takes to win, Democrats are faced with a difficult decision about how to proceed. Biden has dug in, pledging to the public that he isn’t going anywhere. Charles Lane, Karen Tumulty and Perry Bacon Jr. talk through whether Biden can salvage his campaign, how possible it really is to change course now and who else could step up. Read more from our columnists: “ Kamala Harris walks into the storm — and keeps her footing ” “ What if Biden steps aside from the Democratic nomination? ” “ If not Biden, who? Five columnists weigh in.”
Wed, July 03, 2024
America, we love you. But it’s hard.
It’s the week of the Fourth of July and the word patriotism is as divisive as the rest of American politics. Theodore Johnson, Karen Attiah and Jason Rezaian discuss the good and the bad about the United States, and how to reconcile its shortcomings while pushing for a better future. Read more from some of our columnists — Ted Johnson: “ American democracy is fine. It's the republic that's in trouble. ” “ Buck up, America. Help is on the way. ” Karen Attiah: “ How to reckon with the cult of the gun ”
Fri, June 28, 2024
Biden finally overshadowed Trump, in all the wrong ways
President Biden’s debate performance has Democrats in a panic and Donald Trump supporters gleeful. Columnists Karen Tumulty, Dana Milbank and Jim Geraghty process how things feel the morning after, whether the president should step aside and how the truth was the night’s biggest loser. Read more from our columnists about the debate: Karen Tumulty: “ The Great Democratic Freakout is upon us ” Dana Milbank: “ If America is failing, that debate showed why ” Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Wed, June 26, 2024
Is the smartphone panic dumb?
Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy recommended putting a warning on social media for minors last week, while governors from coast to coast have pushed for restrictions on teen phone use. But how worried should we really be, and what is there to do about it? Post columnists Amanda Ripley, Molly Roberts and Theodore Johnson talk through the dumbphone trend, how explicit lyric warnings on CDs backfired and what actually worked in the campaigns to stop kids from smoking. Listen to Murthy talking to our colleagues on the daily news podcast, Post Reports, about why he sees social media as such a threat to young people. " How bullying shaped the surgeon general's fight against social media " Read more from the Washington Post: “ Surgeon general calls for social media warning labels ” “ What research actually says about social media and kids’ health ” “ Opinion | Why a warning label for social media is so crucial ” Subscribe to The Washington Post <a href="https://subscribe.w
Wed, June 19, 2024
Movie theaters are dying. Do you care?
It’s been a rough few years for movie theaters, and the dismal start to the summer blockbuster season hasn’t helped. If people go to theaters less often, will that change the type of movies that are made? Is the future of moviegoing a boutique, high-end experience? Matt Belloni, host of “The Town , ” joins The Post’s Alyssa Rosenberg and Chris Suellentrop to talk about what’s going on with the movies and what, if anything, will get people out of their living rooms and into theaters. Read more from Belloni here and subscribe to his “What I’m Hearing” newsletter. Or you can find his podcast about the entertainment business, “ The Town ” wherever you listen. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Wed, June 12, 2024
Why can't Americans agree on immigration?
A quarter of Americans, most of them Republicans, say immigration is the most pressing issue facing the country. Post columnists Karen Tumulty, León Krauze and Jim Geraghty discuss why this issue is top of mind for so many people, how politics continues to thwart policy and whether Americans still see our country as a cultural melting pot. Read more from the columnists. Karen Tumulty: “ The U.S. is failing millions of undocumented essential workers ” León Krauze: “ Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge fall spotlights immigrant workers ” Jim Geraghty: “ Why America Needs a Secure Border | National Review ” And here’s more information on the topics discussed in the show: “ Immigration Named Top U.S. Problem for Third Straight Month ” “ The Economic Impacts of Removing Unauthorized Immigrant Workers <span style="background-color: transparent; color: r
Wed, June 05, 2024
So you married a Supreme Court justice
The Alitos are the latest couple to face the question: When you are married to someone in public life — a Supreme Court justice, a member of Congress, a Post Opinions columnist — what compromises do you need to make? Should you be held to the same ethical standards as your spouse? Charles Lane, Ruth Marcus and James Hohmann discuss the politics of marriage, whether the Supreme Court is more partisan now than in the past and why they don’t think Justice Alito needs to recuse himself in the Jan. 6 case. Read more from the Washington Post: “ The strange case of Alito v. Alito ” “ Sam Alito's flag flew upside down. Are his ethics? ” “ Read Justice Alito’s letter denying requests to recuse from Jan. 6 cases ”
Fri, May 31, 2024
An impromptu ‘Impromptu’: Processing Trump’s conviction
Ruth Marcus, Dana Milbank and Karen Tumulty got together to talk about their immediate reactions to Donald Trump’s guilty verdict, the quality of his defense, and why the most knowledgeable people in Washington were expecting something different.
Wed, May 29, 2024
Do we actually want AI that seems human?
Do we actually want AI that seems human? Chatbots are being made to act and sound like humans. That makes them easier to talk to, but there could be other consequences. As our relationships with artificial intelligence evolve, do we need to draw a brighter line between what is technology and what is us? Opinions columnists Josh Tyrangiel, Bina Venkataraman and Amanda Ripley talk about what we really want out of AI. Read more on AI from our Washington Post columnists. Josh Tyrangiel: “ Honestly, I love when AI hallucinates ” “ Let AI remake the whole U.S. government (oh, and save the country) ” “ College students are dropping out in droves. Two sisters could fix that. ” Bina Venkataraman: “ When technology of the future traps people in the past” “ <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/11/15/ai-rare-disease-diagnosis/?utm_source=podcasts&utm
Wed, May 22, 2024
Is home ownership the wrong dream for America?
The house, the yard and the picket fence have long been part of the American Dream. Owning a home is lauded as a way to grow your wealth and pass it down to future generations. But high demand and short supply, coupled with today’s soaring interest rates, have made home ownership out of reach for many Americans. Opinions columnist Catherine Rampell and associate editor Alexi McCammond join deputy editor Charles Lane to talk about the cultural and financial forces at work and the generational shift in thinking about whether buying a house is the best place to put your money. Read more from the Washington Post: “ The YOLO economy is saving American cities” “ Cities try every tool to fix the housing shortage except what works ” “ Stop blaming millennials for the housing crisis ” Take advantage of our Memorial Day sale and subscribe to The Washington Post for just 99 cents every four weeks for your first year. This deal runs from May 21-June 3, 2024. Subscribe here .
Sun, May 19, 2024
Rethinking identity in a fractured America
As trust in institutions plummets and many people search for shared values, what is the state of American identity? This bonus "Impromptu" episode features a live discussion between Opinions columnists Shadi Hamid and Jason Willick and the hosts of "Post Reports" Martine Powers and Elahe Izadi about the importance of identity in a changing world. For more from our colleagues in the newsroom, listen to " Post Reports ," a daily afternoon podcast, where you can hear deep dives into the biggest and most important stories of the day. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .
Wed, May 15, 2024
It's bigger than Caitlin Clark
The WNBA season began this week following a college tournament where the women were more popular than the men. Is this shift about more than Caitlin Clark and the fantastic players in basketball right now? Sports columnist Sally Jenkins joins Opinions columnists Theodore Johnson and Amanda Ripley to talk about what athletes have done for the women’s movement and whether the women’s game can avoid some of the pitfalls that have plagued men’s sports. Read more from our columnists about what they discussed in this episode. Sally Jenkins: “ Title IX showed generations of women what was possible ” and “ Caitlin Clark is coming, and the WNBA better get ready for her ” Theodore R. Johnson: “ Healing medicine for a fractured nation? College basketball. ”
Wed, May 08, 2024
Fewer Americans believe in God. Is that a problem?
When asked about their religious affiliation, nearly 30 percent of Americans identify as “nones,” or “nothing in particular.” And over the past 25 years there’s been a steep decline in people belonging to any type of church, synagogue or mosque. But what is lost as people drift from religion? Is it at all responsible for today’s loneliness crisis? Read more from our columnists about what they discussed in the episode. Perry Bacon: “ I used to be a Christian. Now I miss church. ” Kate Cohen: “ How atheists can fix a broken America ” and “ Go back to church! (Or something like it.)” Shadi Hamid: “ The dilemmas of living in a post-religious world .”
Wed, May 01, 2024
Campuses are wrestling with the politics of war. So are we.
Campus protests across the country have renewed Americans' attention on the Israel-Gaza war and are scrambling U.S. politics, particularly on the left. Senior Opinions Editor Amanda Katz speaks with columnists Dana Milbank and Shadi Hamid about how their views have evolved since Oct. 7, whether there’s a double standard on free speech, and what the protests could foreshadow for the upcoming presidential election, particularly among young people. ( Note: This episode was recorded Monday, April 29 and does not reference events that took place after) Read some of the columns referenced in this episode. Dana Milbank wrote on what it felt like for him in the weeks following the Oct. 7 attacks: “ It’s a lonely time to be a Jew in America ” Shadi Hamid wrote about the recent Israeli aid bill and some Democrats’ changing views: “Why it matters that some Democrats voted against aid for Israel”
Wed, April 24, 2024
Is Trump above the law? The Supreme Court weighs in.
The Supreme Court is set to decide to what extent former President Trump could be immune from prosecution for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election on Jan. 6, 2021, as his lawyers have claimed. Post Opinions columnists Charles Lane, Ruth Marcus and Jason Willick discuss the strategy and timing of these arguments and what we might expect the justices to decide in this showdown about the future boundaries of presidential authority. Read Ruth Marcus on why she thinks this case is “simultaneously bogus and important.”: “ How the Supreme Court should rule on presidential immunity .” And here’s her column on what she sees as the Trump team’s delay tactics: “ How Trump could win by losing, and delay his trial date .” Check out Jason Willick’s column where he describes the “nightmare scenarios” that dominate this debate: “ Trump’s immunity claim at the Supreme Court deserves to fail, as does his Jan. 6 prosecution .” Here’s more on his thoughts about how this case has been prosecuted: “ Special counsel Jack Smith has exposed his error in prosecuting Trump .”
Wed, April 17, 2024
What the 'tradwife' trend says about modern life
Some women are retreating to stereotypical, retro gender roles that embrace the patriarchy. Known as “tradwives,” they are all over TikTok. Style columnist Monica Hesse, letters and community editor Alyssa Rosenberg and senior editor for Opinions Amanda Katz discuss how this trend exposes a continued struggle over equality for men and women in modern society. Read Monica Hesse’s column: Tradwives, stay-at-home girlfriends and the dream of feminine leisure Read the Cut article that kicked off a lot of recent controversy over #TradWives: The Case for Marrying an Older Man
Wed, April 10, 2024
How to cope with the absurd, high-stakes 2024 election
America is entering a grueling presidential election season that’s also a rematch of the one from four years ago. Many Americans report feeling dread and exhaustion about politics and the news. So how do we stay engaged? What can journalists do to help? Three of our columnists talk through it. Read Amanda Ripley’s deep dive crowdsourcing a playbook for election-year sanity: How to survive another Trump-Biden election And we want to hear your strategies too! Let us know how you plan to make it through this election year. Are there things you are doing differently to manage stress, preserve relationships and feel like you are making a difference? Tell us here . Read Perry Bacon’s latest on voters of color shifting right: More voters of color are backing the GOP. Should Democrats panic? And check out Jim Geraghty writing about why we all need to stop pretending this election is normal: Welcome, Democrats, to the 'abnormal is the new normal' charade
Wed, April 03, 2024
What we saw on the ground in Ukraine
Post columnists David Ignatius and Jim Geraghty just returned from Ukraine. They detail the mood on the ground, how much U.S. aid actually matters and whether the war seems winnable. Plus, Ignatius talks about his meeting with President Zelensky. Read David Ignatius’s interview with President Zelensky: Zelensky: ‘We are trying to find some way not to retreat’ Read Jim Geraghty’s latest columns from Kyiv: Ukrainians have a message for Mike Johnson How Russians are joining the fight against Putin
Wed, March 27, 2024
Biden is pushing EVs. Who actually wants them?
The Biden administration wants America to transition to electric cars. Last week, the EPA announced a rule requiring more than two-thirds of new vehicles be electric or plug-in hybrid by 2032. This comes on top of pouring federal money into tax credits and developing charging infrastructure. But there are still bumps on the road to an electric-vehicle America. Charles Lane, Catherine Rampell and Megan McArdle talk about how to navigate them. Read Megan McArdle’s latest column on EVs: The best way to get everyone into electric cars? Hint: It's not a mandate. Catherine Rampell wrote this month about everything packed into the Inflation Reduction Act, including EV tax credits: Biden should fight climate change, not trade wars Read Charles Lane on the hard choices needed for an electric future: Electric vehicles won’t fix our carbon dilemma without some hard choices along the way Further reading: Electric Cars Are Coming. How Long Until They Rule the Road? <a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/90999268/unsold-evs-are-piling-up-at-car-dealerships-what-does-that-mean-for-the-auto-industry#:~:text=Sales%20of%20electric%20vehicles%20hit,for%20the%20auto%20industry%20overall" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color:
Wed, March 20, 2024
What to expect when you’re expecting an abortion pill argument
When the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade back in 2022, it indicated that abortion was an issue to be relegated to the states. Instead, it has blown up American politics, firing up voters and leading to conflicting lower court rulings. Post columnists Ruth Marcus, Alexandra Petri and Amanda Ripley discuss how it feels to be a woman in the post- Dobbs world and what’s at stake when abortion returns to the Supreme Court this term as the justices hear a case on access to mifepristone. Ruth Marcus: Even after abortion pill ruling, reproductive rights remain in the balance Alexandra Petri: I don’t know how to write about all that hasn’t happened since the fall of Roe
Trailer · Wed, March 06, 2024
A fresh new 'Impromptu'
Smart when you need it, fun when you want it — with hosts who feel like friends. "Impromptu" is your twice-a-week conversation with Washington Post columnists who bring fresh insight and perspective to the stories shaping the week. On Tuesdays, Dana Milbank and his colleagues dig into the political news that actually matters. Then, on Fridays, Drew Goins and Molly Roberts ease you into the weekend, breaking down the cultural moments you can’t stop thinking about.
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