Logo

    To the Winfrey, to the Walz (feat. Gretchen Whitmer)

    enAugust 22, 2024
    What message did Governor Tim Walz emphasize in his speech?
    How did Walz's background influence his speech style?
    What criticisms did the Republican National Convention face?
    What roles are expected in the upcoming Trump-Harris debate?
    How might RFK Jr's endorsement affect the election dynamics?

    Podcast Summary

    • Democratic ConventionDemocratic Convention featured authentic speeches from democratic stars, emphasizing Kamala Harris' ability to help with affordable healthcare, taxes, and housing

      The Democratic National Convention was packed with democratic stars and emotional speeches, including a standout performance from Governor Tim Walz. Walz, a high school teacher with no political experience, connected with the audience by focusing on his background as a coach and teacher. He emphasized the importance of helping neighbors and contributing to a country where everyone belongs. The message was clear: Kamala Harris will be a great president and will help people by tackling issues like affordable healthcare, taxes, and housing. The speech was tight, emotional, and authentic, standing in stark contrast to the plastic and scripted nature of the Republican National Convention. Overall, the Democratic Convention was a call to action for listeners to get involved and support the campaign, one yard at a time.

    • Authenticity in Political SpeechesAuthenticity in political speeches is crucial for success. Speakers like Tim Walz who use personal experiences and relatable imagery can effectively resonate with audiences, despite initial labels. Strategy and effective communication are also important for political campaigning.

      During the recent Republican National Convention, Tim Walz delivered a compelling campaign speech that effectively utilized personal experiences and authenticity to convey values, creating a new cliche and resonating with audiences. Despite initial plans to label him as a radical liberal, Tim Walz's speech was a strategic success, with specific tasks given to win the election and an authenticity that sets him apart from other speakers. The use of relatable imagery and confidence in his own words made the speech stand out, showcasing the importance of being true to oneself when delivering a great speech. While some speakers, like Bill Clinton, may have longer speaking times or meandering starts, the effectiveness of their speeches should not be discounted, as they still hold political value in appealing to specific demographics. Overall, the RNC speeches showcased the importance of authenticity, strategy, and effective communication in political campaigning.

    • Democratic strategy for winning the presidencyThe Democrats are using a combination of strategy, inspiration, and targeted messaging to appeal to key voting blocs, including older white voters and working-class white women, and inspire undecided voters through high-profile endorsements and speeches.

      The Democratic Party, specifically Kamala Harris, aims to appeal to a broad coalition of voters, particularly black voters and older white voters. Oprah Winfrey's surprise appearance at the Democratic National Convention was a strategic move to inspire and persuade undecided voters, especially older white women. The party recognizes the importance of fact-checking Trump's lies but understands that voters already know he is dishonest. Instead, they are focusing on the importance of choosing leaders who inspire and unite the country. Oprah's endorsement and inspiring speech carried significant weight with older voters and could potentially sway undecided voters, especially in the crucial demographic of older white women. The Democrats are also targeting working-class white women, who may be open to their message on issues like abortion rights. Overall, the Democrats are using a combination of strategy, inspiration, and targeted messaging to appeal to key voting blocs and win the presidency.

    • Timing issues and personal attacksThe Democratic National Convention faced challenges with timing and self-centered speeches, causing delays and distracting from the main messages and policy discussions.

      The Democratic National Convention was marred by issues with timing and self-centered speeches from some politicians. Despite the excellent job done by Stephanie Carter and Nancy Pelosi, speakers caused delays and went over time, pushing Tim Walz's speech back. Pelosi, who played a crucial role in getting Biden the nomination, faced backlash from some Democrats, with some even plotting to diminish her influence in the party. Trump, on the other hand, countered the DNC programming with his own rallies and personal attacks on politicians like Obama and Biden. The convention's timing issues and personal attacks distracted from the main messages and policy discussions, causing frustration for many.

    • Emotional DebatePersonal attacks and emotions are expected to dominate the upcoming debate between Trump and Harris. RFK Jr's endorsement may not significantly impact the race, and some voters might consider alternative candidates.

      During the upcoming debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, personal attacks and emotions are expected to play a significant role, as Trump has expressed his dislike for his opponents and his intention to be mean. RFK Jr's potential endorsement of Trump might not significantly impact the race, as his voters could split between the two candidates, with some leaning towards Trump due to his anti-vax stance. The absence of RFK Jr on the ballot could lead some voters to consider alternative candidates, such as Jill Stein or Cornel West. Overall, the debate is expected to be emotionally charged, and the impact of RFK Jr's endorsement remains uncertain.

    • DNC StrategyThe DNC is focusing on engaging voters directly through the convention, reaching them where they consume media, and contrasting their agenda with Trump's message of chaos and division.

      The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is focusing on both introducing Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz, as well as reminding voters of the stakes and the contrasting agendas between them and Donald Trump. The convention is not just a television production, but an opportunity to engage voters directly and convert them into volunteers. The DNC is also reaching voters where they consume media by having credentialed content creators at the convention and investing heavily in digital advertising. Despite Trump's attempts to personalize the election, the DNC believes that the American people are not interested in his message of chaos, fear, and division, and instead want solutions for their lives. The DNC's North Star is to meet voters where they are and tap into their true media consumption habits.

    • Organic ConversationsIn the digital age, organic conversations on social media can significantly shape public perception and should be embraced by communications professionals. Balancing control with the organic flow requires a strategic approach, including translating energy into actionable steps and continuing to build infrastructure.

      In today's digital age, organic content and online conversations play a significant role in shaping public perception. Communications professionals, like ourselves, need to embrace this reality and find ways to connect with and leverage these organic conversations. The success of campaigns like Project 2025, which gained traction organically on social media, demonstrates the power of this approach. Balancing control with the organic flow of conversations requires a strategic approach, including translating the energy and enthusiasm into actionable steps and continuing to build organizing infrastructure in battleground states. The upcoming debates present an opportunity to further highlight the contrast between the two campaigns and mobilize voters.

    • Democratic outreach to votersDemocrats can connect with voters by focusing on fundamental issues like child care, healthcare, and economic opportunities, and by engaging in authentic, listener interactions

      Kamala Harris and other Democrats can connect with voters by focusing on fundamental issues that resonate with all communities, particularly young people. Harris's success in Michigan, despite some voters being undecided, can be attributed to her ability to understand and address the concerns of middle-class Americans on issues like child care, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Her authenticity and listening skills also help build trust and persuade voters. Harris and other Democrats should continue to engage with voters directly, prioritize voter contact efforts, and stay focused on key issues that matter to all Americans.

    • Infrastructure needsAddressing infrastructure issues, such as fixing roads, can have a significant impact on people's lives by reducing financial burdens and saving time. Active listening and follow-up questions are crucial to understanding community needs, while concise and engaging speeches help effectively communicate political messages.

      During a conversation with a woman at the Detroit Children's Hospital, the importance of addressing infrastructure needs, specifically fixing the roads, was emphasized. This issue, while not typically the focus of political discussions, can significantly impact people's lives by causing financial burdens and taking away precious time with family. It's essential to actively listen and ask follow-up questions to truly understand the needs and concerns of the community. Additionally, during a political event, speakers should keep their speeches concise and engaging to effectively communicate their messages to the audience.

    Recent Episodes from Pod Save America

    Trump Is Too Afraid to Debate Harris Again

    Trump Is Too Afraid to Debate Harris Again

    Two days after getting trounced in the debate, Trump turns to a familiar playbook: claim a win, trash the moderators, and—above all—refuse to debate again. The only hitch? All those Trump advisors and endorsers talking to the press about how poorly he did. Jon and Dan discuss Trump's attempt at spin, Harris's post-debate agenda, and the MAGA freakout over Taylor Swift's endorsement.

     

    For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

    Kamala Dominates Trump at the Debate

    Kamala Dominates Trump at the Debate

    In what may be the last huge moment of the campaign, Kamala Harris pulls off an overwhelming win: drawing a clear contrast with Donald Trump, presenting herself as a change candidate, and luring her opponent into getting angry, defensive, and confused. Jon, Lovett, Dan, and Tommy react to Harris's best moments, Trump's tantrums, the crazy pet-eating story, and Taylor Swift's big post-debate endorsement.

    All Tied up Before the Debate

    All Tied up Before the Debate

    Debate day has arrived, and new polls show that the race couldn't be closer. Jon, Lovett, and Tommy offer their final thoughts before Kamala Harris and Donald Trump's first, and potentially only, face-off. Harris lays out her strategy for dealing with Trump in a new radio interview, updates her website with policy proposals, and releases an ad to troll Trump. Meanwhile, Trump plays the hits with new threats to arrest his political opponents and incite violence. Then, Senate candidate Angela Alsobrooks joins Tommy in studio to talk about why people need to pay close attention to the Maryland Senate race, and about getting to know Kamala Harris over the years.

     

    For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

    Trump's Happy-Go-Lucky Debate Strategy

    Trump's Happy-Go-Lucky Debate Strategy

    Kamala Harris prepares for Tuesday's debate while Donald Trump has "policy time" and complains about his legal woes. Live in Phoenix, Jon, Lovett, Tommy, Dan, and guest host Jane Coaston discuss the upcoming debate, some surprising Republican endorsements for Harris, and the GOP's continued turn to weird. Then, Rep. Ruben Gallego talks with Dan about his crucial Senate race against Kari Lake and what Democrats need to do to win Arizona in November. Plus, a Kari Lake-themed game.

    Kamala Harris: Still the Underdog

    Kamala Harris: Still the Underdog

    As the final campaign sprint begins, both candidates roll out plans on the issue that matters most to undecided voters: the economy. Republican truth-teller Liz Cheney throws her support behind Kamala Harris, while other Republicans quietly cross their fingers for a Trump defeat—even as Harris and Walz remain, in their campaign manager’s words, “clear underdogs.” Then, CNN’s Dana Bash joins the show to talk about the debate that changed everything and what to expect in next week’s big face-off.

     

    For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

    Doug Emhoff Is Ready to Win (Fantasy Football)

    Doug Emhoff Is Ready to Win (Fantasy Football)

    Doug Emhoff stops by the Crooked studio! The Second Gentleman talks with Jon, Lovett, and Tommy about why Kamala Harris is such "a badass," masculinity and winning over young men, and his role fighting the rise of antisemitism. Plus: the hug with Tim Walz that his friends are still giving him shit about, Kamala's kitchen skills, and why he still makes time for fantasy football.

    Pollercoaster: State of the Race with Dan Pfeiffer (Subscription Preview)

    Pollercoaster: State of the Race with Dan Pfeiffer (Subscription Preview)

    Lean into the long Labor Day weekend with a special 'Best Of' preview episode of Crooked’s subscriber-exclusive series, Pollercoaster. In this episode, enjoy highlights featuring Dan Pfeiffer and expert guests as they share their insights on latest polls and the state of the Presidential elections. 

    Don’t miss out on future episodes – be sure to sign up for Friends of the Pod at crooked.com/friends

    More on Pollercoaster: Does every new poll make you want to crawl under your desk and get into the fetal position? Do you hate the polls but can’t quit them? Well, we have a podcast that’s just for you (and us!). Pollercoaster is Crooked’s new home for exclusive in-depth analysis across the biggest national polls, latest voter trends, and closest races up and down the ballot. Join former White House Communications Director and Pod Save America host Dan Pfeiffer and a series of expert guests to break down the polls, unpack what they actually mean, and whether or not it’s time to hit the panic button. New episodes of Pollercoaster drop twice monthly for Friends of the Pod subscribers.

    Pod Save America
    enSeptember 03, 2024

    Harris and Walz Meet the Press

    Harris and Walz Meet the Press

    Kamala Harris and Tim Walz sit down with CNN's Dana Bash for their much-hyped first big interview—and they pass the test. Donald Trump tries again to tack to the left on reproductive rights, and his campaign leans into their fight with Arlington National Cemetery over politicking at gravesites. Then, Jon and Dan go through the latest batch of national and state polls, all showing an extremely tight race.

     

    For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

    Harris Hits the Airwaves

    Harris Hits the Airwaves

    Lovett and guest host Symone Sanders Townsend of MSNBC discuss the Harris-Walz campaign's latest moves: new ads hitting Trump and touting her housing plan, and a big bus tour through southeastern Georgia. Then, they look at Trump's counter-programming—notably, selling trading cards of himself—and who benefits most from muted mics at the September 10 debate.

     

    For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

    Kamala Harris's Path to 270

    Kamala Harris's Path to 270

    Trump threatens to bail on the September debate, his campaign signals yet another attempt to keep their candidate on message, and his newest big endorser now comes with even more dead-animal baggage. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz prepare to hit the road on a Georgia bus tour and sit for a high-stakes interview. Jon and Tommy break down the state of the race as we head into the final two months, and Harris-Walz battleground state director Dan Kanninen stops by to talk about Harris's pathways to 270 electoral votes—and all the work they're doing on the ground to make sure she gets there.

     

    For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.