POLITICO Playbook Daily Briefing

The internal machinations of Donald Trump’s campaign have dominated headlines this past week, although not in a way they might want. There are accounts of infighting, power struggles and chaos. And there's usually one of two reasons for those kind of stories: finger-pointing when things aren’t going well, or maneuvering because things are going so well that rivals want to elbow each other out of the way. So which is it? Playbook co-authors Eugene Daniels and Rachael Bade discuss.

With less than two weeks out from the presidential election, a rift is opening inside Donald Trump's inner circle. Howard Lutnick, the Wall Street CEO leading Trump’s transition operation, is facing accusations from some insiders that he is double-dealing his role on the campaign with personal business interests. Economic policy reporter Jasper Goodman chats with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels about how this all could play out.

Though Election Day is still two weeks away, jockeying behind the scenes for Trump’s Chief of Staff has already begun. According to insiders, the three potential picks that Trump is eyeing are Susie Wiles, Kevin McCarthy, and Brooke Rollins. National political correspondent Meridith McGraw joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to walk through the options. 

In the six presidential elections since 2000, Republicans have won Michigan only once. But, that one time was Donald Trump's victory in 2016, and he might capture the state again in just over two weeks. A confluence of factors like the state's Arab American population, the uncommitted voter movement, and Michigan's strong union ties could lead to success for the Trump campaign. Playbook deputy editor (and Macomb County native!) Zack Stanton walks through what he's hearing from the state with Playbook co-author Rachael Bade. Plus, is Elon Musk an asset or a nuisance for the Trump campaign?

Yesterday, the Israel Defense Forces announced that they’d killed Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and mastermind of the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023. But with Sinwar dead, do cease-fire talks have a new lease on life, or is the current conflict in the Middle East more entrenched than ever? National security reporter Robbie Gramer joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to go through what we know.

We’re less than three weeks out from Election Day and Kamala Harris is taking big swings. After a blitz on mostly friendly shows and podcasts last week, she ventured into the Fox den last night for a contentious sitdown with Bret Baier. While Trump is also doing a lot of media, he isn't taking as many risks. Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels discuss.

Today, both presidential candidates will make somewhat unexpected appearances on cable news channels in a bid to expand their coalitions with just 20 days left in the election. First, Vice President Kamala Harris will venture into the Fox News guest chair for an interview with Bret Baier. And tonight, former President Donald Trump — fresh off of his own Fox appearance this morning — will appear in a pre-taped town hall with Latino voters on Univision. What do we make of all of it? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains. Plus, the rest of the news you need to know today.

With only three (yes, three!) weeks until Election Day, both the Harris and Trump campaigns are dialing in their final pitches. National political correspondent Adam Wren chats with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels about the challenges both campaigns still face as they approach the critical final weeks of the presidential campaign and why the Keystone State is still key to electoral success.

Just eight days into the fiscal year, FEMA has already spent $9 billion of its annual $20 billion disaster fund. Blame Hurricanes Helene and Milton — but also our era, when major natural disasters are happening with greater frequency. Can America afford the age of the superstorm? And how is Washington adapting to meet the challenge? Climate finance editor Tom Frank from POLITICO’s E&E News joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss.

For generations, Black men have been loyal Democratic voters. But this year, behind closed doors, Democrats are worried that Kamala Harris’ campaign is struggling to win over their support in the numbers needed to clinch the White House. What exactly is going on with the Black male vote, and what is the Harris campaign doing to make inroads? National political correspondent Brakkton Booker joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss. Plus, what a new poll can tell us about the swing states, and all the rest of the news you need to know today.

As the presidential race heads into its final days, Kamala Harris has sat down for a wide range of largely friendly interviews on shows like "Call Her Daddy," "The Howard Stern Show," "The View" and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" — in addition to a hard-hitting interview on "60 Minutes." The campaign is trying to reach voters in key swing states and demographic groups on which Harris doesn’t have a stronghold. Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels chat about whether this blitz is reaching the voters the Harris campaign needs.

The Tampa Bay area is on high alert as the Category 5 hurricane is expected to hit later this week. This comes as the Southern U.S. is still recovering from Hurricane Helene. With Election Day just weeks away, political optics are at the forefront of how the Florida government, and Gov. Ron DeSantis, will manage the crisis. Tallahassee-based reporter Gary Fineout joins Playbook editor Mike DeBonis to discuss the situation.

It’s been one year since Hamas’ attack in Israel that killed 1,200 people. Since then, Israel's ensuing war has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths and now, has extended into Lebanon. The conflict has strained U.S.-Israel relations, particularly with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. National security reporter Robbie Gramer joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss the implications for U.S. foreign relations amid the ongoing war.

Yesterday, the International Association of Fire Fighters announced that they will not endorse a candidate for president — a blow to Kamala Harris, especially as the group traditionally backs Democratic presidential candidates. Coming on the heels of the Teamsters’ non-endorsement, what exactly is the status of organized labor’s relationship with the Democratic Party? Labor and immigration reporter Nick Niedzwiadek joins Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton to discuss what it all means. That, plus big news about former President Barack Obama’s return to the presidential campaign trail.

If you thought there wasn’t anything new you could learn about Donald Trump on January 6, special counsel Jack Smith has news for you. Yesterday, a federal judge unsealed a 165-page legal brief by Smith with new details of Trump’s attempt to overturn the election results in 2020. The questions now: Will this matter in the 2024 election, and how will it affect Trump’s legal jeopardy? Senior legal reporter Kyle Cheney joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to break it down. Plus, Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns today with former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.). That, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Those who predicted a slugfest were sadly disappointed. In Tuesday night's VP debate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Ohio Senator JD Vance had a debate that was light on body blows and heavy on policy. Playbook co-authors Eugene Daniels and Rachael Bade break down the highs, the lows, and, unrelated but importantly: why it's time for you to put your Halloween decorations up.

Expect jabs over military service and who’s ‘weird’ from JD Vance and Tim Walz during the first — and only — vice presidential debate in 2024. With just over one month until Election Day and a tight race, the stakes couldn’t get any higher. Reporters Meredith Lee Hill and Mia McCarthy join Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through what they’re watching for during tonight’s showdown.

After Hurricane Helene devastated cities across the Southeast this past weekend, political finger-pointing has sprung over how to best respond to disaster-torn communities. At a campaign rally, former President Donald Trump accused President Joe Biden of neglecting disaster areas while vacationing, and criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for fundraising over the weekend. Later today, Trump plans to visit Valdosta, Georgia for a briefing on the disaster, and President Joe Biden plans to visit disaster-impacted areas later this week. But, North Carolina Rep. Chuck Edwards told Playbook's Rachael Bade that his constituents need water, food, and federal disaster assistance, not political photo opps. That, plus, everything else you need to know today.

Mitch McConnell’s remaining time as head of the Senate GOP may be limited, but he still has plenty to say — if you get the chance to talk with him. We did. And we asked him about the future of the filibuster, the upcoming election and some of the most controversial campaign remarks from Donald Trump and Sen. JD Vance. Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels talk through what we learned — and the one topic on which he’s remaining mum.

Just weeks before an election in which they hope to regain a majority, Senate Republicans are singing from the same hymnal in public. But behind the scenes, there are real divisions as jockeying heats up to replace Mitch McConnell and become the next GOP leader. Frontrunners John Thune (S.D.) and John Cornyn (Texas) are appealing to supporters and — who else — former President Donald Trump. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through it all. Plus, what we know about New York Mayor Eric Adams’ indictment. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

That smell coming off Capitol Hill today? Jet fumes, as members prepare to get out of dodge. The House of Representatives is expected to vote this evening on a continuing resolution that will fund the government until December. According to Playbook editor Mike DeBonis, what happens next is heavily influenced by the outcome of the election. He breaks it all down with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels. Plus, formal charges from the Department of Justice for would-be Trump assassin Ryan Routh, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

President Joe Biden will address the United Nations General Assembly this afternoon in what is expected to be one of the most important appearances in the final months of his presidency. Aides to the president say Biden has two goals: to burnish his own foreign policy legacy and to bolster Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. White House Bureau Chief Jonathan Lemire joins Playbook editor Mike DeBonis to walk through what else we know. Plus, another possible scandal for a New York Republican representative, and all the rest of the news you need to know today.

Speaker Mike Johnson unveiled a six-month continuing resolution that would fund the government until late December. The move is in direct defiance against former President Donald Trump’s stated wishes for the bill, but Johnson argued that a government shutdown 40 days before the election would be “political malpractice.” Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks down what’s included in the bill and what’s missing. Plus, multiple staffers on North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s campaign team have resigned and everything else you need to know today.

On Thursday, reports surfaced that North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson used a pseudonym on internet forums to express support for antisemitic ideals, as well as to comment on pornographic material. Natalie Allison of POLITICO reported that Robinson had an account on the website Ashely Madison, which is designed for married people looking for extramarital affairs. POLITICO's Natalie Allison talks with Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton about the discoveries and whether his faltering poll numbers in North Carolina could impact Trump.

House Speaker Mike Johnson’s initial attempt to avoid a government shutdown has been quashed. Yesterday, Johnson put a spending bill on the floor, and it died in a 202-220 vote, with some Republicans joining with Democrats to down the proposal. So … where does Johnson go from here? Playbook editor (and former congress reporter) Mike DeBonis joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to walk through next moves. Plus, the Teamsters put out a non-endorsement in the presidential race, while Donald Trump made some outlandish predictions about New York’s vote during a rally on Long Island. All of that, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

On Tuesday, Vice President Kamala Harris sat down with three journalists—including Playbook’s own Eugene Daniels—to chat about some of the election’s most pressing issues. Eugene and Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza discuss what we've learned about the Democratic presidential nominee's stance on the war in Gaza, restoring Roe v. Wade, and how she perceives the task of winning Black voters.

Democrats have been using the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, as fodder for support on the campaign trail, but some are more worried about the transition of power should Kamala Harris win the White House in November. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade digs deep on what both Democrats and Republicans are saying. Plus, the latest updates on the attempted assassination of Donald Trump on Sunday and all the rest of the news you need to know today.

For the second time in just over three months, Donald Trump has survived an assassination attempt. Around 1:30 p.m. EST on Sunday, Secret Service agents opened fire on a gunman who was located in the brush outside of the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. Trump, who was on the golf course, was unharmed. But this story is just beginning; Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through what we know about the incident and the alleged gunman’s puzzling political views.

Legalized sports gambling is everywhere. Could betting on elections be next? Americans will soon be able to legally gamble on the presidential election. After a judge rejected the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s attempt to block it, financial exchange company Kashi launched the country’s first fully regulated election-betting markets on Thursday. Capital markets reporter Declan Harty walks Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels through what this means for the election, and why some officials are ringing alarm bells.

It’s mid-September, which means it’s that time of year again: Sweater weather is upon us, leaves are starting to change colors and the threat of yet another government shutdown looms over Capitol Hill. As Congress braces for a spending fight, Speaker Mike Johnson’s plan to avert a potential government shutdown has, so far, failed. With a slim majority in the House, internal GOP divisions and little vocal support from former President Donald Trump, Johnson is finding it difficult to push a spending bill through ahead of Election Day. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels breaks down Johnson’s dilemma with Congress reporter Sarah Ferris.

In a debate that circled around abortion, immigration, foreign policy and, yes, eating pets, Vice President Kamala Harris effectively dominated Tuesday night's debate against former president Donald Trump by provoking him into outbursts and steering him away from political weak spots.

Playbook co-authors Ryan Lizza, Rachael Bade, and Eugene Daniels analyze the highs, lows, and whoas of the debate, and each campaign’s missed opportunities.

For the first time as the Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris will step on the debate stage to face off against former President Donald Trump. National political reporter Holly Otterbein joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to analyze what each candidate needs to achieve for a successful debate night.

Congress returns to session today after its August recess and it already has a spending fight on its hands. At the center of the fight between House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is a law aimed at preventing undocumented immigrants from voting by requiring proof of citizenship to register. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through the situation.

Just over a year ago, Playbook welcomed readers to the “courtroom campaign” — previewing an election year shaped largely by the legal woes of Donald Trump and Hunter Biden. So much for that. Just consider the news that broke yesterday in California and Washington — and that’s set to happen later today in New York City. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks us through what you need to know about what’s coming and how it’s likely to reverberate politically.

Today, Hunter Biden goes to trial in Los Angeles, the culmination of a six-year federal investigation that resulted in criminal charges over alleged tax evasion. Though the trial is expected to last for about two weeks, its ramifications could have real staying power: The charges are more serious than Biden’s Delaware case, and the issues at hand — including foreign business dealings — have been central to Republican attacks on the president. What are the actual potential repercussions — both for Hunter Biden and for the White House? National correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan guides Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the situation.

Here’s something that elected Republicans won’t tell you on the record: Some of them don’t want Donald Trump to win in November. And, what’s more, they’re already plotting about what happens to the GOP if he falls short. That reality check comes from politics bureau chief Jonathan Martin, who writes that some GOP lawmakers privately believe that losing the White House to Kamala Harris will save the party in the long run. Just how widespread is this outlook? And what would a post-Trump GOP look like? JMart joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss.

There are just 62 days left until the 2024 presidential election, and both candidates are gearing up for the stretch run. VP Kamala Harris is dropping a new ad this morning that tackles middle-class concerns like lowering housing costs and fighting price gouging. Meanwhile, the GOP is trying to keep pace with the Harris campaign’s lofty fundraising totals. Plus, a glimpse into what we know so far about the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza breaks down all of the important news you need to know today.

And that's a wrap from the Democratic National Convention! Playbook's Ryan Lizza, Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels look back on Kamala Harris' closing speech, the potential landmines her campaign faces in the weeks ahead and whether or not TMZ can ever be trusted again after publishing a rumor that Beyoncé would appear at the convention.

Playbook's Ryan Lizza chats with POLITICO's Jonathan Martin and Zolan Kanno-Youngs from The New York Times to recap day 3 of the Democratic National Convention. Former President Bill Clinton made a pitch for unity, Oprah Winfrey brought the joy, and VP pick Tim Walz focused on the blocking and tackling — among many other football metaphors. Ryan, JMart and Zolano discuss the convention programming’s appeal to middle America and the working class, with an eye toward key swing states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania.

Playbook's Rachael Bade joins CNN's David Chalian live from the CNN-POLITICO Grill to recap the second day of the Democratic National Convention. Former President and First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama closed the evening with speeches that struck a notably different tone compared to previous years. Plus, an excerpt from POLITICO's Jonathan Martin discussing the vice presidential vetting process with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. 

Playbook's Eugene Daniels chats with Amy Walter, editor-in-chief of The Cook Political Report, to recap the first day of the Democratic National Convention. While marquee figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Hillary Clinton took the stage, President Joe Biden's symbolic passing of the torch capped the night.

Live from the CNN-POLITICO Grill in Chicago, Playbook's Eugene Daniels chats with Illinois Playbook author Shia Kapos about the key events to watch for on the first day of the Democratic National Convention. Protesters have already hit the streets, reminding some of the 1968 Chicago DNC that was roiled by riots. Eugene and Shia also discuss planned speeches from President Joe Biden and former presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, and why this year's convention quickly became a hot ticket once Harris went to the top of the ticket.

Today, Kamala Harris is expected to unveil a range of economic policies taking aim at the cost of living — from groceries to housing to the care economy. While Donald Trump and allies appear poised to assail that agenda as “price controls,” Harris is betting that her proposals will connect with voters’ as inflation and its effects continue to define the 2024 election. Economics correspondent Victoria Guida joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to break it all down.

It’s the question dividing Trump world: Does the former president’s campaign message need a reset? Trump surrogate Vivek Ramaswamy has earned his MAGA bona fides with his boisterous and, at times, pugnacious appearances on the campaign trail. But he’s also among the most strident voices on the right calling for the Trump camp to change course. His unexpected message for both Trump and the GOP writ large? Drop the insults and focus on policy. The race, he believes, depends on it. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade caught up with Ramaswamy to chat about this, and more.

Though President Joe Biden has reportedly come to terms with his decision to withdraw from the presidential race, he’s also said to harbor resentment towards the key members of his own party who effectively pushed him out. Will this change the dynamics of the upcoming Democratic National Convention? White House Bureau Chief Jonathan Lemire joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to break it all down. Plus, where the Teamsters stand on a presidential endorsement, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

If Kamala Harris wins the presidency in November, some progressives hope that the new administration will listen to their concerns about national security. But are their goals realistic? Foreign affairs correspondent Nahal Toosi walks Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels through some of the nuances. Plus, a recap of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s conversation on X Spaces and the rest of the news you need to know today.

A week before the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the party has yet to define its priorities should Kamala Harris win the presidency. There is no public 100-day plan, and no explicit plan for what would happen if Democrats flipped the House. As a result, the future of critical actions like the filibuster remains uncertain. However, as Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, much of the blurriness is intentional.

What do you do when your opponent seems to be getting all the media attention? Hold a press conference, of course. Yesterday, former President Donald Trump did just that, taking questions in Florida. The backdrop is the surging popularity of Vice President Kamala Harris, whose campaign is now leading Trump’s in most national polls —  the result of what Trump suggested is “honeymoon” that is “going to end.” What stood out from the presser? National political reporter Natalie Allison joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk about everything from the prospect of Harris-Trump debates to the questions the former president would prefer not to answer.

In the two-plus weeks since she’s emerged as the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate, Kamala Harris has yet to give a sit-down interview or field reporters’ questions — and that’s just the way the Harris campaign wants it. Why? White House reporter and West Wing Playbook author Eli Stokols takes Playbook co-author Rachael Bade inside the Harris’ campaign’s media strategy, and the follow-the-vibes political moment we’re in. That, plus the latest on GOP attacks on Tim Walz’s military record.

Last night, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made their first appearance together as running mates in Philadelphia. National political reporter Holly Otterbein joins Rachael Bade from Philly to talk about the crowd — an enthusiastic 10,000 — and how well Walz went over in the room. Also, Holly breaks down Harris’ decision making process in the last couple days and what led to Walz edging out Shapiro for the spot.

Only one president has ever managed a return to the White House after losing reelection. If Donald Trump wins in November and becomes the second, his time in relative exile in Mar-a-Lago may well be the reason why. That period of time — extending from January 2021 to his entry in the 2024 race — is when the seeds of his campaign strategy were sown, his image burnished and return to the national stage plotted. And that’s the focus of national political correspondent Meridith McGraw’s new book, Trump in Exile, which is out today. She sits down with Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss what she uncovered. Plus, Vice President Kamala Harris officially clinched the nomination for president for the Democratic party. Next up, she chooses hew own VP.

Vice President Kamala Harris spent the weekend interviewing at least three candidates to be her running mate. Her campaign said a decision will come by Tuesday, when she will also appear publicly with her pick, kicking off a seven state tour. National politics reporter Elena Schneider talks with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels about the political pros and cons of the options remaining.

In a matter of days, Kamala Harris will officially announce her running mate. But ahead of the unveiling, speculation is rampant in Washington about who she’ll pick and why. National politics correspondent Adam Wren walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through Harris’ VP shortlist and what each of them brings to the table — or not.

If former President Donald Trump wanted to steal back the spotlight after a week of the attention being on VP Kamala Harris, he did that. But it seems likely to backfire in a major way. Yesterday, Trump used an appearance at the NABJ conference to launch a new battery of attacks aimed at Harris’ racial identity — and specifically at the fact that she is both Black and Indian-American. Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels discuss that — and break a bit of news about Harris’ VP search.

On Tuesday, the Heritage Foundation confirmed that Paul Dans, the director of the contentious 2025 Presidential Transition Project, or Project 2025, is stepping down. However, Dans’ departure does not mean the project is shutting down. National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw chats with Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza about how this shakeup will play out during the final few months until the election. Plus, when to expect Harris' VP announcement, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Democrats have been on cloud nine for the past week since President Joe Biden announced his decision not to run for re-election. However, Republicans have shifted their focus and sharpened their strategy for attacking Harris. The Trump campaign is going live with its first TV ad attacking Harris in swing states today. They will blame the crisis at the US-Mexico border on Harris, the Biden administration's so-called "border czar." Will it be enough to dampen the electric momentum surrounding the vice president? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade looks into it. In addition, a bipartisan expansion of the child tax credit is up for a vote today, and it is expected to be defeated by Republicans. How will this play with Republicans' family value-centric identity?

President Joe Biden may not be running for reelection, but that does not mean he intends to be invisible during his lame duck period. Today, Biden is expected to present a proposal to significantly reform the Supreme Court, which included imposing term limits on justices. Biden's decision marks a significant departure from his longstanding reluctance to change the court. White House Correspondent Adam Cancryn joins Playbook editor Mike DeBonis to break down what this all means. Plus, what we know about how the presidential race is shaping one week after Biden's departure from it, and two events around the world that could have large implications for the U.S. That, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

The struggle is real. Ever since Kamala Harris emerged as the likely Democratic presidential nominee, Donald Trump’s allies have struggled to land on a consistent line of attack against the VP. The result? A gusher of insults aimed at Harris’ identity rather than her policies. Can the rhetoric be reined in? Breaking news reporter Irie Sentner joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to explore. Plus, Harris receives an official endorsement from the Obamas, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Last night, President Joe Biden gave a rare Oval Office speech to mark an even more rare occurrence: A president who is eligible for another term choosing not to run for reelection. While at times forward-looking — as when he reiterated his support for VP Kamala Harris — the address was, on its face, an attempt at legacy building. Biden checked off a list of his accomplishments, and framed his overall decision as being taken in the defense of democracy — which, he said, was “more important than any title.” But his remarks also provided a reminder of the same performance concerns that led to calls for him to step aside. What comes next? White House correspondent Eli Stokols joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to unpack it all.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint session of Congress on Wednesday afternoon. However, the recent shakeup in the presidential race has overshadowed what would normally be Washington's biggest story. A vocal few lawmakers have stated that they will not attend the address, and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris will also not attend due to a prior commitment. So what should we expect from the speech, and from the Prime Minister's meetings with President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump later in the week? National Security Daily author Matt Berg joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to offer some insight. Plus, what we know about Biden's Oval Office address this evening. That, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Kamala Harris has received enough commitments to move closer to clinching the Democratic presidential nomination. When Harris previously ran for the Democratic nomination, her record was criticized for being insufficiently progressive. But this time around, that characterization could actually give her an advantage. Former prosecutor and current senior writer for Politico Magazine, Ankush Khardori, joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss. Plus, the latest on who will attend the meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

For the first time in over 50 years, a sitting president eligible for a second term has opted to forgo reelection. After weeks of speculation, the president announced on Sunday that he would withdraw from the race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris. According to reports, the decision caught not only Democratic politicians off guard, but also members of Biden's campaign and White House staff. And with less than a month until the Democratic National Convention, many details must be worked out as the dust settles. Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade, Eugene Daniels, and Ryan Lizza break it all down.

On Thursday night, Donald Trump gave the longest televised acceptance speech ever, and while the crowd was initially locked in, it later grew restless. The news elephant in the room for many reporters was actually President Biden, as speculation continues to increase about when — and if — he steps down from the ticket. Playbook co-authors Ryan Lizza, Eugene Daniels, and Rachael Bade share their takes after the speech, what they're hearing about Biden from sources, and try to go find steak.

J.D. Vance officially accepted his party’s nomination for vice president Wednesday night at the Republican National Convention. To unpack how Vance's speech played in the room — and the split screen as speculation around Biden grew Wednesday — Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza is joined by Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels and national political correspondent Adam Wren.

Day two of the 2024 Republican National Convention was informally about the runners-up. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis were two of the notable speakers. Each pledged their full support for the Trump/Vance ticket, urging even those who don't see eye-to-eye with the former president on every single issue to follow suit. But is the message of unity merely a facade? Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza and Politics Bureau Chief Jonathan Martin caught up with Sen. Ted Cruz (R-T.X.), the 2016 runner-up, to ask just that, and more.

Roughly halfway through the first day of the Republican National Convention, Donald Trump announced that had chosen J.D. Vance, a junior senator from Ohio, as his running mate. But of course although the announcement was one of the biggest and arguably most important moments of the election cycle, it was overshadowed by the biggest elephant in the room: Trump's attempted assassination over the weekend. The former president isn't scheduled to speak until Thursday, but his appearance Monday—with a large bandage on his ear—was unquestionably the highlight of the day. Olivia Beavers sat down with Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza in Milwaukee last night to unpack that and the rest of the highlights from the day.

The Republican National Convention begins today, with former President Donald Trump expected to address attendees on Thursday. But all expectations of what that moment would hold were shattered when a 20-year-old gunman opened fire on Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels from Milwaukee to talk about how the extraordinary incident will effect the convention.

It was almost certainly the most important press conference of President Joe Biden’s long career. And now that it’s done … well, things seem even more unclear than they were before. Democrats now find themselves in a sort of purgatory while their ultimate fate remains undetermined.  Was it enough to silence the naysayers? Probably not. But it also wasn’t bad enough to swell their ranks, either. Where do things head from here? White House reporter Myah Ward — who was in the room during Biden’s presser — talks it through with Playbook co-author Rachael Bade.

What’s driving the day today is what’s been driving the day: Joe Biden’s health and whether he’s going to stay in the race. Recently, the Biden campaign has begun calling delegates, in what politics bureau chief and senior political columnist Jonathan Martin calls an unprecedented sign of the times. He talks about it with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels.

A Tuesday meeting with Hill Democrats left many who initially expressed concerns after the debate two weeks ago reluctantly falling in line with Biden or saying nothing at all. Though the dam appears to be holding behind the president for now, will it stay strong? What will happen if Biden stumbles again before the Democratic National Convention next month? Congressional reporter Nicholas Wu joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to break it all down.

Over the next few days, the spotlight on Joe Biden will only sharpen as the president attends this year’s NATO summit in Washington. His first big test will be a major address today commemorating the 75th anniversary of the organization. Whether a strong performance there — and at a Thursday news conference — can calm the nerves of Democrats still shaken by a shoddy debate performance is another thing entirely. White House correspondent Adam Cancryn joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through what's happening with the Democratic debate over calling for Biden to step aside. Plus, what we’re watching out of Biden’s ultra secure meeting with House Democrats this morning, and all the rest of the news you need to know today.

Congress returns today after time off for the Fourth of July, but it is the forthcoming presidential election that is the only thing anyone is talking about. More and more Democrats are coming out of the woodwork to suggest President Joe Biden step aside and pass the baton to another candidate to run in November. But who, if anyone, actually has influence over the decision? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through what she is watching.

Nearly a week after the disastrous presidential debate, more Democrats are going on the record to suggest President Biden step aside and let another candidate be the nominee for president in 2024. After prominent Democrats called questions about Biden’s mental acuity “valid,” a cascade of other voices echoed the sentiment. But that introduces a potentially more complicated question: if not Biden, who? Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Eugene Daniels take stock of the Democratic disarray. 
 

The Supreme Court ruled Monday that Donald Trump has immunity from criminal prosecution for some actions he took as president while fighting to subvert the 2020 election, further complicating efforts to put Trump on trial in Washington on criminal charges. The decision immediately deflated some of the central allegations that special counsel Jack Smith leveled against Trump. Plus, what does this indicate for the powers a President has? Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza and Ankush Khardori — former federal prosecutor at the Department of Justice and now senior writer for Politico Magazine — break down the details.

The fallout from last week's presidential debate continues. Over the weekend, it was reported that the Biden family gathered to discuss whether the president should remain in the race. His family is said to have encouraged him to see it through. But, despite nobody publicly coming forward to encourage him to drop out, others in the Democratic Party are indicating that they aren’t so sure that is the best approach. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade has the inside scoop. Plus, all eyes are on the Supreme Court, which is set to rule today on whether former President Trump has immunity from criminal prosecution.

President Joe Biden’s campaign gambled on a June debate, ostensibly with the goal of shaking up the trajectory of the campaign. Last night, it backfired in spectacular fashion. Over the course of a disastrous 90 minutes, the incumbent often wandered into incoherence, his voice faint, while former President Donald Trump blasted a firehose of insults and untruths. Now, with word that prominent Dems are in crisis mode, could we be approaching virtually unforeseen political territory? Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade, Ryan Lizza and Eugene Daniels unpack what we saw and where things go from here.

It’s the day that members of both major parties have been waiting for with excitement and/or dread. Tonight in Atlanta, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take to the debate stage for their first debate of the 2024 cycle. Could this be a make-or-break moment for the candidates? How are both candidates angling to get under one another’s skin? What is realistically at stake? White House reporter Lauren Egan joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to tell us what to watch for — and what she’s expecting to see in the spin room.

The Supreme Court is slated to deliver rulings on roughly a dozen cases in the coming days—its last batch of this term. Among these is Trump v. United States, which will rule on whether the former president is immune from criminal prosecution over his bid to subvert the 2020 election. Also expected in this wave of decisions is a ruling on Relentless Inc. v. Department of Commerce, which may spell the end of the controversial so-called Chevron doctrine. Senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss the cases and what—if anything—can be predicted about the rulings. Plus, the biggest takeaways from Tuesday's primary elections. 

It is primary day in the Empire State, and one of the buzziest races of the day involves Rep. Jamaal Bowman (NY-16). In the only public polls out, Bowman appears to be trailing his opponent, George Latimer, by a whopping 17 points. As New York Playbook co-author Emily Ngo explains, it is the issues at hand in the race—namely, a divide surrounding Israel and Gaza, a microcosm of the Democratic Party at large—that are perhaps the most interesting thing about the race. She joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss it and what else she is watching. Plus, Julian Assange is a free man, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Groups including Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and Reproductive Freedom for All are banding together to form Abortion Access Now, an alliance focused on restoring protections for abortion care on the federal level. The new coalition is marking the second anniversary of the fall of Roe v. Wade with a pledge to spend $100 million on a national, 10-year campaign. But the coalition is finding fractures within the Democratic Party about how to best proceed with protecting abortion. Health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through what to know about her scoop. Plus what we're watching during Tuesday's primary elections out West. That, plus all the rest of the news you need to know today.

Today begins a momentous three days of hearings in Trump’s classified documents case in the Florida courtroom of Judge Aileen Cannon. In an alternate timeline, the criminal prosecution — which was originally slated to start on May 20 — is already underway. But in the real world, Cannon has postponed proceedings indefinitely — and it’s likely that, pending what happens today, Monday and Tuesday, they won’t begin at all in 2024. Senior legal affairs reporter Kyle Cheney joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss. Plus, after an enormous wave of donations triggered by his conviction in New York, Trump has all but erased Joe Biden’s cash advantage in the presidential race. All that and the rest of the news you need to know today.

It could happen today. It could happen tomorrow. And you can count on it happening next week, too. The Supreme Court has 22 remaining cases left on the docket, and with time ticking down on this term, the floodgates are about to open. From abortion restrictions to Trump’s claims of presidential immunity in his bid to subvert the 2020 election, to social media censorship, to a decision that could gut the regulatory state, the decisions that remain could have a sweeping impact on American life. Senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein sits down with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through some of the key cases and what pros should watch for.

Twelve years after former President Barack Obama passed DACA, and just a few weeks after President Joe Biden announced a harsh crackdown at the U.S.-Mexico border, Biden is slated to make a major announcement today that takes the opposite approach. The parole-in-place program will allow the spouses of U.S. citizens who have lived in the country for at least 10 years to obtain work permits. A second policy will make certain DACA recipients and dreamers eligible for work visas and expedite the process of obtaining them. Will it strike a much-needed balance for the Biden campaign as it continues to struggle with immigration as a campaign issue? White House reporter Myah Ward joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss. Plus, the primary races to watch in Virginia and Oklahoma, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

The Republican National Convention is less than one month away, which means we are less than one month from knowing who presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump will choose for his running mate. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), and Gov. Doug Burgum (R-N.D.) are among those speculated to be near the top of the list for the job, but each candidate comes with his or her own advantages and disadvantages. National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss. Plus, the Biden campaign is going after Trump for his recent felony convictions to the tune of a $50 million ad campaign, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

At the G7 meetings in Italy, many of the conversations revolve around two men: One who’s there (Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy), and one who isn’t (Donald Trump). Though much of President Joe Biden’s agenda at the summit is occupied by reasserting American support for Ukraine, the specter of the 2024 elections is never far from the center of attention. White House correspondent Adam Cancryn is in Italy and joins the pod to discuss it all with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels. Plus, Donald Trump gives Milwaukee the Baltimore treatment, and all the rest of the news you need to know today.

Former President Donald Trump is visiting Capitol Hill today, where he is set to meet with members of both chambers. Yes, there’ll be chatter about a 2025 agenda and an attempt to rally Republican support for his campaign. But behind the scenes, there’s tension as the GOP’s slim House majority is making it hard for Speaker Mike Johnson to deliver for Trump — whether the issue is impeaching Joe Biden, defunding Jack Smith or kneecapping prosecutors investigating the former president. Congress reporter Anthony Adragna joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss all that and more. All of that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

On Tuesday, Hunter Biden was convicted on all three charges he faced in a Delaware court over an unlawful gun purchase. The result was not necessarily a surprise for the Biden camp, though insiders say it is taking a tremendous personal toll on the president. But could the conviction actually benefit Biden politically? White House bureau chief Jonathan Lemire joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss. Plus, the biggest takeaways from Tuesday's elections around the country. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

It’s Tuesday, and that means another day of primaries. Races to watch today include South Carolina Republican Nancy Mace facing a primary challenger backed by ousted Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the race to fill outgoing North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum’s seat, races in Nevada and Ohio and more. Plus, the bribery trial for Senator Bob Menendez heats up in New Jersey. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

In a sharp blow to PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, Benny Gantz, a key member of Israel’s war cabinet, resigned his post this weekend in protest of the lack of a plan to win the peace in Gaza. While the move — which came with a call for new elections — is unlikely to force Netanyahu from power, Gantz’s departure has significant implications for both Israel and the U.S. Foreign affairs correspondent and columnist Nahal Toosi joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through what you need to know. Plus, Vice President Kamala Harris shifts her focus, and former President Donald Trump upstages his own policy announcement with remarks about the Jan. 6 attackers during his first post-conviction rally.

In the week since former President Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felonies, his campaign has been flooded with a jaw-dropping amount of cash. Aiming to keep up that momentum, Trump is currently in California for a $500,000-per-couple fundraiser with some of the nation’s wealthiest donors. Will it be enough to overtake the Biden campaign’s much touted cash advantage? National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw joins Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton to discuss. Plus, what you need to know about President Joe Biden’s meeting today with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy — and why Kyiv met Biden’s D-Day speech with skepticism.

Black voters have long been the backbone of the Democratic Party. But this year, MAGA is betting it can win over enough Black voters to make a real difference in November. As prominent Black Republicans including Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Reps. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) and Wesley Hunt (R-Texas) make entreaties to Black voters in key states, political correspondent Brakkton Booker joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade break down the nuances of this mission — and where it might come up short.

Hunter Biden’s trial over an unlawful gun purchase is underway in Wilmington, Delaware. The jury (and four alternates) was assembled quickly, and the president’s son is already facing the heat. POLITICO Magazine opinion columnist and former federal prosecutor Ankush Khardori was in the courthouse Tuesday. He tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels that the scene has already been defined by the government’s key witness: Hunter’s own words from his memoir. Plus, Democrats are butting heads over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's forthcoming visit to Washington, even though it doesn't have a set date yet. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

President Joe Biden is expected to sign a long-awaited executive order today that would allow him to halt crossings at the border after a certain threshold of people is reached. But will the move actually do anything to resolve the crisis at the border? Some immigration policy experts say no. White House reporter Myah Ward joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk it through.
Plus, Attorney General Merrick Garland will testify before the House Judiciary Committee this morning in what is expected to be a fiery encounter. All that and the rest of the news you need to know today.

The trial of President Joe Biden’s son Hunter over an unlawful gun purchase begins today in Wilmington. The event won’t just shine a light on the younger Biden’s tumultuous relationship with the law, but on the perhaps even more complicated structures of the Biden family. Both Hunter’s ex-wife and the widow of his brother Beau—with whom he had a relationship after Beau’s death—could be called to the witness stand.Plus, lawmakers on Capitol Hill and the campaign trail are reacting to former President Donald Trump’s 34 felony convictions and a big shakeup at the Washington Post. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

On Thursday afternoon, a Manhattan trial of his peers found former President Donald Trump guilty on all charges of falsifying business records. The jury deliberated for two days. Shortly after the verdict was announced, Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza sat down with senior writer and columnist for Politico Magazine (and former federal prosecutor) Ankush Khardori and senior legal affairs reporter Kyle Cheney. They unpack how the prosecution prevailed, how the defense botched it, and what—if any—effect this will have on Trump’s life and political future.

Jury deliberations in Trump's hush money case started yesterday, and already there have been a number of interesting developments. Twice during the day, jurors sent notes to the judge. The first asked to review segments of testimony that came out during the trial; the second asked the judge to rehash jury instructions. What, if anything, can this tell us about a possible verdict? Legal editor James Romoser offers Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels some insight. Plus, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris make a rare double-appearance in Philadelphia to emphasize the importance of the Black vote, and Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito’s flag fiasco is only getting more complicated. All of that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Jury deliberations for former President Donald Trump's hush money case begin today. Yesterday, attorneys on both sides laid out their closing arguments in what was a nearly 12-hour day in court. But New York isn’t the only place Trump is making legal headlines. In Florida, yet another snafu involving Judge Aileen Cannon is making the likelihood of that trial taking place before the election slimmer and slimmer. Senior legal affairs reporter Kyle Cheney joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to recount what he saw in the courthouse Tuesday and what to expect in the coming days.

As the end of former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial looms, his future has come into question. Should a jury decide to convict Trump, there are a number of different punishment options on the table. He could, of course, be sentenced to jail time. But, what would that look like? And what else could Judge Juan Merchan have the former president and presumptive GOP nominee do? National correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to offer some insight. Plus, some Democrats are voicing fears about the Biden campaign’s approach to the 2024 election, and how will President Biden respond to Israel’s deadly attack on a refugee camp in Rafah? All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Donald Trump held a large rally in the South Bronx in New York City last night, attended by a diverse array of people — a far cry from the typical MAGA rally crowd. National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw, who was present at the rally, tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza about how Trump tailored his message to the Big Apple audience. And just as interesting, she explains, is what he left unsaid. Plus, inside the U.S.’s plan for a “prominent post-war” role in Gaza, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Today’s legislative theme is voter fraud — or “fraud,” as the case may be. The GOP House majority is gearing up for two votes today aimed at blocking non-citizens from voting — with one vote centering on the District of Columbia and the other taking effect nationwide. Democrats are steamed, both because it’s already illegal for non-citizens to vote in federal elections, and because they see in this effort the groundwork for a 2024 reprise of Trump’s “Stop the Steal” push to sow doubt about the rightful outcomes of elections. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains it all. Plus, what’s driving Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) to enter the fray and put himself forward as the next GOP leader? All that, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

For the first time since 2008, the president of Kenya will make a visit today, where he is set to receive the whole nine yards of special treatment. There are a few reasons for this: Kenya is celebrating 50 years of independence, and it has become an emerging tech hub. But there is also the fact that President Biden promised to visit the country and has yet to stay true to his word. Will that cast a certain light on the whole event? Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels joins Playbook editor Mike DeBonis to weigh in. Plus, the Trump defense team rested their case yesterday, but it looks like court won’t adjourn by the end of the week after all. All that, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

It is primary day in various states around the country. But if you ask senior political columnist and politics bureau chief Jonathan Martin, it is the race involving the Portland, Oregon, District Attorney that is the most interesting and perhaps important. In one of the most  left-leaning cities in the country, the progressive DA is at risk of losing his seat amid widespread frustration over lax drug laws. Can this tell us anything about the challenges Biden will face come November? Martin walks Playbook co-author Rachael Bade through some possibilities.

Plus, lawmakers on the Hill are in a frenzy over the International Criminal Court’s warrant request for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. All of that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

After roughly a month of testimony and 19 witnesses, the end of the Trump hush money trial may draw to a close by the end of this week. The former president and current GOP frontrunner will either be charged or acquitted of falsifying business records. This week, the jury takes center stage. Plus, could Trump himself still take the stand? Legal affairs reporter Erica Orden, who has been present in the courtroom throughout the trial, walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through that possibility and what else to expect this week. That, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews legal affairs reporter Erica Orden.

During the last presidential election cycle, Donald Trump said he would never return to Minnesota should he lose. He is slated to break that promise when he keynotes the Lincoln-Reagan dinner this evening. Moreover, Trump’s fixation on the gopher state seems not to have abated but has intensified since 2020. Does he stand any chance of winning a state with a Democratic trifecta? National political correspondent Adam Wren walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the situation. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews national political correspondent Adam Wren.

In a dizzying turn of events yesterday, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump agreed to two debates well before the election this November — one on CNN in June, and one on ABC in September. Did Democrats box Trump in, or Biden walk right into a carefully laid trap? White House bureau chief Jonathan Lemire offers Playbook co-author Rachael Bade some insights.

When Michael Cohen makes an appearance, it is hard to know whether you will be hearing from a vulgar, bombastic hater or the measured and careful man who took the stand this week. The noticeably restrained Cohen may have delivered a critical blow to his former boss when he alleged Trump specifically approved a plan to pay Stormy Daniels hush money disguised as legal payments to cover up an affair. Could this seal the former president’s fate? What else can we expect from the courtroom? Senior legal affairs corespondent Kyle Cheney joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to walk through the whole situation.

Primary elections are taking place today in Maryland, Nebraska, North Carolina, and West Virginia. In Maryland, there is the ultra-competitive (and ultra-expensive) race for who will take over Ben Cardin’s Senate seat after he retires. In West Virginia, Sen. Joe Manchin’s seat is on the line. Senior campaign and elections editor and chief polling analyst Steve Shepard walks Playbook co-author Rachael Bade through the races to watch and what they can tell us about the presidential election.All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

All eyes today are on the Manhattan courthouse where Michael Cohen will take the stand in the hush money case against former President Donald Trump. Politico reporter Erica Orden — who has been at the courthouse since the beginning — joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to break it all down. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Mike Johnson has had a big week. Most notably, he survived a long-awaited attempt by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene to remove him as Speaker. Playbook co-authors Ryan Lizza and Rachael Bade sat down with him shortly after for nearly an hour for Playbook Deep Dive; they join Playbook Editor Mike DeBonis to discuss what they learned, what they were surprised by, and what’s next for Speaker Mike Johnson.

Last night, President Joe Biden drew a clear red line that Israel is rapidly approaching: After months of devastating military efforts, he will halt shipments of bombs and other munitions to Israel if it launches a major military invasion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah. But as Pentagon reporter Lara Seligman tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels, Biden’s new conditions may come too late. Plus, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s  (R-Ga.) long-awaited attempt to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson goes down in flames.

President Joe Biden is betting that $1.6 trillion in climate and infrastructure money can transform America, create green jobs, out-compete China — and maybe catapult him to a second term. But according to a POLITICO analysis of public data, only a small portion of that money has been spent. Energy reporter Zack Colman joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss. Plus, the ongoing feud between Rep. Matt Gaetz and Kevin McCarthy, and a Florida judge indefinitely delayed former President Trump's classified document case.

On Monday, Hamas approved a ceasefire deal proposed by Egypt and Qatar. But Israel did not approve of the proposal, which national security reporter Alex Ward tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza is “softer” than what Israel wanted. As Israel's invasion of Rafah looms, President Biden finds himself in a bind on how to navigate the increasingly complicated situation. Plus, a look inside the meeting between Marjorie Taylor Greene and Speaker Mike Johnson.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews national security reporter Alex Ward.

Texas Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar and his wife have been indicted on bribery charges, and Republicans are looking to squeeze the scandal for all it's worth. This comes mere months after New Jersey Congressman Bob Menendez faced a similar indictment, and the plan, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade is told, is to use the situations as proof of questionable ethics within the party. Also on the agenda this week: Marjorie Taylor Greene says she will force a vote on the motion to vacate Speaker Mike Johnson, and Republicans ramp up the offensive on campus protests. All that, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

It’s the trial that has captured the world’s attention — and, given that it’s closed off from cameras, very few people know what the Trump hush money prosecution looks like up close. One person who does? Politico reporter Erica Orden. She’s been in the courtroom all week, and joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk about the biggest developments — and why they matter in the short and long term. Plus, Playbook has a juicy excerpt from the new book by South Dakota Gov. (and Trump VP hopeful) Kristi Noem, and what Rep. Jerry Nadler has to say on Israel and campus protests on the Playbook Deep Dive podcast.

For the first time since the start of his criminal trial in New York, former President Donald Trump returned to the campaign trail yesterday with rallies in Wisconsin and Michigan. The Trump who showed up marked a return to form — for better or worse — but also a reminder of the unique vulnerabilities he brings to the general election (from railing against his indictments and comparing himself to Al Capone, to thanking by name the conservative justices responsible for overturning Roe). Playbook co-authors Eugene Daniels and Ryan Lizza break down the appearances and where we expect things to go from here.

The Department of Justice is poised to significantly loosen federal cannabis restrictions, reclassifying the substance from Schedule I — the most serious classification — to Schedule III. Federal cannabis policy reporter Natalie Fertig joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through what this means practically and politically. Plus, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is expected to double-down on her effort to oust Speaker Mike Johnson, and Vice President Kamala Harris heads to Florida to reinforce Biden’s abortion rights message.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Federal cannabis policy reporter Natalie Fertig.

White House reporter and West Wing Playbook author Eli Stokols has been reporting on the simmering rift between Joe Biden’s administration and the New York Times, and the White House Correspondent’s Dinner this past weekend introduced another layer. Stokols joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss. Plus, MTG is a no-show in the House Monday night, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews West Wing Playbook author Eli Stokols.

Prior to last week’s congressional recess, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene appeared poised for battle to vacate Speaker Mike Johnson from his post. But over the weeklong break, she didn’t offer any updates on the mission. It has now been 38 days since Greene first filed that motion, and she has gone completely quiet on her plans. What’s going on? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through some possibilities. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Former President Donald Trump had a huge day in two different courtrooms on Thursday, but was only present for the one in Manhattan. David Pecker took the stand as a key witness in the case, and he alleged Trump was not the only prominent political figure for whom he caught and killed stories. Legal reporter Ben Feuerherd takes Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through what it was like in the courtroom. All that, and everything else you need to know today.

Even by modern standards, this is a dizzying day of Trump legal news. Today, he’ll return to a Manhattan court room where Judge Juan Merchan could rule over whether he violated a gag order and former National Enquirer chief David Pecker will resume his testimony in Trump’s criminal trial. Meanwhile, in Washington, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments over Trump’s claims of presidential immunity from prosecution related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. POLITICO Magazine staff writer Ankush Khardori joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through what to expect.

Late Tuesday evening, the Senate finally passed the long-awaited foreign aid bill that also moves to ban TikTok, citing national security concerns. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill in the coming days. So, what does this mean for the popular social networking app, and can anything save it? Tech policy reporter Rebecca Kern walks Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels through some of the possibilities.

Can Joe Biden win Florida come November? It's unlikely, but the Sunshine State might still loom large in Biden's campaign -- serving as perfect fodder for why he needs to be reelected. When Biden travels there today, he will denounce its red-tinged policies, especially the six-week abortion ban set to take effect next week. Deputy national editor Zach Montellaro joins Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton to talk through it all. Plus, Trump faces accusations he violated the gag order, and how the chaos at Columbia University is affecting Capitol Hill.

After every day last week was devoted to assembling a jury, the trial involving allegations that Trump paid hush money to two women with whom he was having affairs will begin today in Manhattan. Senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein chats with Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza about what’s on his radar and District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s attempt to “rebrand” the case.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein.

Mike Johnson is close to notching a major legislative victory that may come at an extremely high cost: His job as speaker of the House. The foreign aid supplemental that’s been roiling the House GOP comes up for a procedural vote today where it’ll need Democratic support to pass — and if that vote on the rule passes, the underlying legislation will also need Democratic votes to get through. That’s good news for Ukraine and Israel. But for Johnson, the picture is decidedly less clear. Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Ryan Lizza game it all out.

After two days, the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal prosecution for business fraud in New York is taking starting to take shape — and the legal world is surprised by what it sees. Of the seven jurors impaneled so far, two have something very important in common: They are lawyers. That is deeply unusual, legal correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels, and it could have interesting implications for the entire case.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews legal correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan.

On Tuesday, Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky became the second congressman to publicly declare support for a motion-to-vacate attempt against House Speaker Mike Johnson. The basis for all of the drama? The rising tensions over the proposed foreign aid package. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade joins co-author Eugene Daniels to walk through all the nuances, and what comes next. Plus, what's next in the Trump hush money trial, and could the impending impeachment trial of Alejandro Mayorkas be the shortest one in history?

After stalling for months, House Speaker Mike Johnson finally has a plan to tackle aid to Ukraine and Israel — and it amounts to the trickiest legislative issue of his speakership. Among its provisions? Turning foreign aid into loans, using frozen Russian assets to assist Zelenskyy’s government and — if that weren’t enough — a TikTok ban. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks it all down.

Donald Trump has been outspoken in his belief that he has been martyred by the U.S. justice system, especially in the lead-up to his hush money trial Monday. But as legal editor James Romoser has uncovered, Trump might be on to something with the idea that the justice system is two-tiered; what he hasn't mentioned is the extent to which it favors him. Romoser joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to break it all down. Plus, Eugene's reporting about Vice President Kamala Harris' new, more aggressive message on abortion rights; and on this week's Playbook Deep Dive, Michael Cohen sat down with Ryan Lizza — don't miss it.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews legal editor James Romoser. 

Is Mike Johnson’s time as speaker limited?  After weeks of delay, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s motion to vacate — a procedural move that would oust him from the House’s top spot — seems to be coming to a head, just at Johnson’s moment of maximum vulnerability. And this time, House Democrats won’t be able to save him. Congress reporter Anthony Adragna joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to break it all down.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews Congress reporter Anthony Adragna.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is expected to provide a new centerpiece of sorts for the administration's Indo-Pacific strategy during his visit to the U.S. today, with a main goal of countering the footprint of China in the region. DC-based China correspondent Phelim Kine walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the nuances. All that, and everything else you need to know today.

Donald Trump’s new video outlining his stance on abortion rights offered the clearest reminder yet that he is being simultaneously pulled in two opposing directions. He wants the credit for appointing the conservative justices who overturned Roe and wiped away constitutional protections for abortion. What he very much does not want is the electoral albatross that comes along with that reality. The result is a muddle that is unlikely to satisfy anyone — though the Trump team seems to think it’s the best political path available to them. National political correspondent Meridith McGraw joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to talk it through.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews National political correspondent Meridith McGraw.

After the two-week spring recess, Congress will return to a plethora of work, including the debate surrounding FISA, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. In the coming days, House Speaker Mike Johnson will finally bring to the floor a reauthorization of this foreign surveillance law. But with Republican infighting over FISA and a pair of contentious amendments being pushed by privacy hawks eager to limit the ability to gather Americans’ data (and a coordinated effort by national security-minded members to kill those amendments), the debate will be nothing near straightforward. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks it all down.

In a phone call yesterday with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, President Joe Biden made two central demands: First, to allow the flow of humanitarian aid; second, to empower negotiators to broker a cease-fire and hostage deal. If that sounds like a marked change in Biden’s posture, it is: The killings this week of seven aid workers with World Central Kitchen seems to have fundamentally shifted the calculus at play for the U.S. in Gaza. National security reporter Alex Ward joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to break it all down.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews National security reporter Alex Ward.

House Republicans are fighting again. That’s not a story in and of itself. But the stakes are. There is disagreement over both whether and how to fund Ukraine aid, and nobody is happy about it. “This isn’t a Republican speaker we have right now; this is a Democrat speaker,” Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene told Tucker Carlson, slamming Mike Johnson while explaining her motion to oust him as House speaker. Can the chaos be tamed? White House reporter Jen Haberkorn joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss it all.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews White House reporter Jen Haberkorn.

On Monday, the Florida Supreme Court issued a number of significant rulings that will impact abortion politics in the state. The justices upheld a Gov. Ron DeSantis-backed, 15-week abortion ban that in one month will trigger a far more restrictive 6-week ban. The justices further ruled that Floridians will get a chance to vote on a constitutional amendment come November that would reverse the ban and make abortion broadly legal in the state. So, what does this mean for the Biden campaign in a state where registered Republicans handily outnumber Democrats? Florida Playbook author and politics reporter Kimberly Leonard joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss.

In an interview with Trey Gowdy of Fox News on the evening of Easter Sunday, Mike Johnson called Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s effort to oust him a distraction from the mission. Attempting to impart a dose of reality on Republican viewers, the House Speaker told his former colleague that his job is particularly difficult right now, but said he does have plans for resolving the Ukraine aid debacle. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade talks through it all. 

The smattering of prominent Republicans who have refused to commit to supporting Donald Trump in the general election differ in their ideological beliefs, their geography, their offices and their profiles. But they all share one thing in common: None have heard a peep from Joe Biden. Senior political columnist Jonathan Martin knows that because he reached out to every single one of them. Today, he joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk about why this is political malpractice for Biden. Plus, the continuing fallout from the internal revolt at NBC over former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel’s hiring and firing, and the one-year anniversary of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich’s arrest in Russia.

Robert F. Kennedy’s presidential run has been a spectacle from the start. Despite being born into Democratic royalty, the independent candidate holds a hodgepodge of policy views that sometimes veer into conspiracy theories — but which also give him a strange appeal to an array of voters scattered across the political spectrum. Could his choice of running mate change that? Politics reporter Brittany Gibson joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss RFK Jr., his role in the broader 2024 race and how his running mate, Nicole Shanahan, might play into Democrats’ hands with her views on in vitro fertilization.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Politics reporter Brittany Gibson.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court heard arguments on whether the nation should significantly limit the use of mifepristone, a pill that terminates early pregnancy. A number of justices on the majority-conservative court appeared to take issue with the idea of a sweeping, national pronouncement. But, this story is really just getting started. Anti-abortion activists and elected officials have several backup plans if the Supreme Court reject their arguments for nationwide restrictions on the drug. Health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein walks Playbook co-author Rachael Bade through the story.

In the last 24 hours, the diplomatic dynamic between the U.S. and Israel took on another layer of complexity when the U.S. abstained in voting for a UN Gaza ceasefire resolution, allowing it to pass. The action resulted in officials from Israel cancelling a trip to Washington. National security reporter Alex Ward joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss how things got here, and what lies ahead. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

There are three important things on Donald Trump’s agenda today, and they're all connected. First, the former president has a half-billion dollar bond due stemming from the New York civil fraud case. He has said he is struggling to procure the funds to fulfill this, so it is particularly timely that Trump Media and Technology Group is going public today. Trump is estimated to have about a $3 billion stake in the company, but he can’t use that money to pay for his bond thanks to lockup provisions. Finally, Trump will get a date from the Manhattan DA in the hush money trial that was delayed due to a last-minute documents dump. Legal editor James Romoser joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk this all through.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Legal editor James Romoser.

Most polls show a tight race between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. But ever since Biden’s notably energetic State of the Union address, his campaign has been feeling a strange new optimism. He’s outpacing Trump on fundraising, his campaign schedule is purposefully packed and his team is already going up with TV ads in an effort to define the race early — while Trump is still struggling to catch up. National politics reporter Elena Schneider tells joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk it all through.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews National politics reporter Elena Schneider

Time and again, Speaker Mike Johnson has relied on an unexpected source to propel legislation to success: House Democrats. We’ve already seen Dems help Johnson pass a $78 billion tax bill, the proposed de facto ban on TikTok and multiple stopgap spending proposals. (Up next: another federal funding deal!) But is the approach an unexpected stroke of bipartisan unity, or a risky tactic that will blow up in the speaker’s face? Congress reporter Nick Wu joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss.

Plus, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell throws water on the idea of turning Ukraine aid into a loan, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Bernie Moreno, the car dealer-turned Trump-endorsed Senate candidate, won the Ohio GOP primary quickly and handily yesterday. It is obviously good news for the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, but it is also the outcome many Democrats were hoping for as well. Will longtime incumbent Democrat Sen. Sherrod Brown be able to keep his seat out of the hands of another MAGA Republican? Politics bureau chief and senior political columnist Jonathan Martin joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to break down the election results, and what they may mean for November.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Politics bureau chief and senior political columnist Jonathan Martin.

Five states — Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, and Ohio — are holding primary elections today. Though President Joe Biden and Donald Trump clinched the presumptive nominations for their respective parties last week, some of the House and Senate contests around the country could have enormous implications. Plus, in one swing state, we will get another look at how big of an impact the Democratic voters displeased with Biden could have in November. Senior campaign and elections editor Steve Shepard joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to break it all down.Plus, some much-needed movement on Congress’ struggle to fund the government before the end of the week, and new developments in how they will tackle their next big funding fight: Ukraine.

Six massive bills that make up roughly 70% of discretionary federal spending  — including the military — need to be passed by Friday in order to keep the government open. It is a predicament Congress has found itself in over and over again the past few months, but, as appropriations reporter Caitlin Emma tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza, the challenge is different this time: These are some of the biggest and hardest bills to fund, and a final showdown is looming.  Plus, a new Ipsos-POLITICO poll reveals a conviction may not doom Donald Trump’s presidential hopes, but it could do real political damage. That, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews appropriations reporter Caitlin Emma.

A theme has emerged in the recent developments surrounding former president — and presumptive GOP nominee — Donald Trump’s criminal trials: They keep being delayed. In the New York hush money case, Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg conceded that he would be OK with as much as month's delay. Federal judge Aileen Cannon is also expected to delay Trump’s May 20 trial date in Florida but is otherwise remaining tight-lipped. And news on whether Georgia DA Fani Willis will remain on Trump’s case in Atlanta might also emerge this week. Legal editor James Romoser joins Playbook coauthor Ryan Lizza to discuss.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews legal editor James Romoser.

It’s one of the biggest economic trends shaping American life — and it happens to be something of an obsession of the president’s: The high cost of housing. Sources tell POLITICO that for months, Biden has used his debriefs to press senior staff on affordability, quizzing them on mortgage rates and rental costs. Now, the White House is making a fresh push to show it shares Americans’ frustrations and elevating housing to a top priority as the general election begins in earnest. White House reporter Adam Cancryn joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews White House reporter Adam Cancryn.

Republicans on the Hill were hoping that Special Counsel Robert Hur’s testimony Tuesday would kickstart their stalled impeachment campaign, but that isn’t how things shook out. Without the smoking gun Republicans were hoping for from Hur, they now must face the reality that an impeachment of President Joe Biden is increasingly unlikely. Congress reporter Jordain Carney joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss. Plus, Biden and former president Donald Trump clinch their respective party nominations, and TikTok may be on the chopping block. All that, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews Congress reporter Jordain Carney.
 

Special Counsel Robert Hur is set to appear before the House Judiciary Committee today to talk about his explosive report on Biden's handling of classified documents. Ankush Khardori, a senior writer for POLITICO Magazine and a former federal prosecutor — joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to talk about what Democrats should take heed of as Hur takes the stand.Plus, the House is inching toward what could be a bipartisan vote to effectively ban TikTok in the U.S. That, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews senior writer for POLITICO Magazine Ankush Khardori.

The budget President Biden is releasing today is through fiscal year 2025, potentially leading into Biden’s second term if he is reelected. As economics reporter Victoria Guida tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels, it’ll be an interesting look into what his policy priorities are going to be.

Also today, the deteriorating relationship between Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Plus, the race for Senate Republican Conference Chair appears to have a new challenger.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews economics reporter Victoria Guida.

It was the speech Joe Biden’s supporters were aching to hear: A 66-minute stemwinder that torched Donald Trump and the GOP on issues from abortion rights and IVF to taxes on the wealthy to Ukraine and Russia. Along the way, Biden bore his teeth and set to bed — for the moment, at least — concerns about his mental acuity. The big questions after: Did the SOTU speech just reset the 2024 campaign? And where does Biden take his message from here? Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade, Eugene Daniels and Ryan Lizza discuss.

The importance of State of the Union speeches is vastly overrated. Except this year.When President Joe Biden addresses a joint session of Congress this evening, the vast viewing audience won’t simply by listening to the usual laundry list of accomplishments; they’ll be looking for reliable proof of his stamina and mental acuity, for his narrative frame that justifies his reelection campaign, and for a sense of vision that will provide his presidency with badly needed momentum. How’s the Biden team handling all this? White House Correspondent Adam Cancryn joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss that and what else to look at tonight’s big speech.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews White House Correspondent Adam Cancryn.

On the campaign trail, Super Tuesday was a romp for Joe Biden and Donald Trump — though both men stopped short of a clean sweep in their parties’ respective contests. Down the ticket, we now have a clear view of what the November general election will look like in some of the nation’s most pivotal House and Senate contests. And yet, for all of that, Tuesday’s most consequential news might be about someone who isn’t going to be on the ballot this fall: Sen. Kyrsten Sinema. The colorful Arizona independent announced that she will not seek reelection this year — a move with significant implications not just for November, but for the future of the Senate. Politico Deputy Managing Editor for Congress Elana Schor sits down with Playbook Deputy Editor Zack Stanton to discuss what it all means on the micro level — and the larger trend it hints at on a macro level.

Though it is one of the most significant dates of the U.S. election cycle, this year’s Super Tuesday looks like it won’t come with many surprises. President Joe Biden has won every early Democratic competition, and former president Donald Trump has won all but one. But in some parts of the country, like Texas, things are getting exciting on a state level. The implications of the drama stretch all the way to the White House. Senior columnist and politics bureau chief Jonathan Martin walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the situation. Plus, SCOTUS rules Trump can appear on state ballots, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Ahead of the State of the Union on Thursday, members of President Joe Biden’s cabinet are scattering about the country to tout Biden's accomplishments to voters. Included in that group is Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who spoke with national politics correspondent Adam Wren over the weekend. Adam joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to reflect on the takeaways from that interview. Plus, House and Senate negotiators released a $459 billion spending package Sunday afternoon that would keep the government open — for now. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Donald Trump’s week has been a mixed bag.

There was a victory of sorts as the Supreme Court agreed to hear his argument that he is immune from charges related to allegedly subverting the 2020 election — effectively granting him a bit of a delay in the trial. Then there was a humbling filing in which the former president and self-proclaimed billionaire admitted to not having the cash on hand he needs to pay the hundreds of millions of dollars he’s on the hook for in two civil suits — judgments he’s appealing and trying to postpone. And, finally, today, he faces vital hearing in his federal criminal trial over allegedly mishandling classified documents — one that could affect how long the trial date will be delayed. Legal editor James Romoser joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to break it down for us.

The MAGA makeover of Senate GOP leadership is coming. At least, that’s what allies of Donald Trump are hoping now that longtime Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced that he’s stepping down from his leadership post at the year’s end. It’s a seismic shift on Capitol Hill — one with major implications on everything from the GOP’s policy outlook to President Biden’s relationship with the Hill. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through the situation.

Plus, a government shutdown looks to be narrowly avoided by yet another CR, and SCOTUS takes up the question of Trump’s potential immunity for his alleged attempts to subvert the 2020 election. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Hunter Biden will appear for a closed-door Congressional deposition today, where he will answer questions about alleged involvement with his father’s business dealings. Republicans hope any revelations within the meeting will justify proceeding with impeaching President Joe Biden. But the case is already on wobbly footing. Congress reporter Jordain Carney walks Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels through what to watch, and just how vital this is to the potential impeachment.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Congress reporter Jordain Carney.

In must-win Michigan, Joe Biden is expected to handily win the primary election today. But the numbers — specifically the number of Democrats who vote “undeclared”— could provide some insight into one of the president’s weak spots come November. Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton, freshly returned from a reporting trip in the Wolverine state, offers some insight into the importance of the race, and what the locals are saying about 2024.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton.

Once again, Congress has found itself up against a deadline for a partial government shutdown, and once again, things on Capitol Hill appear to be cracking under pressure. Late last week, congressional leaders had hoped they would be able to unveil a small government funding package today to buy time to negotiate the rest of the bills that need resolutions before the deadline. But now the situation has “devolved into full blown finger-pointing and fighting,” according to budget and appropriations reporter Caitlin Emma, who sat down with Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to walk through the situation. 

Plus, Donald Trump unsurprisingly beat Nikki Haley in the primary in her home state. What’s next for the former governor’s campaign?

South Carolina’s Republican presidential primary has long had a reputation as something like a knife fight in a phone booth. But this year, it feels different. It’s a conventional campaign despite having the most unconventional candidate of modern times in the lead. It even risks being — gasp! — a bit boring. At least, that’s according to Jonathan Martin, our politics bureau chief and columnist, who joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk all things Trump, Haley and Palmetto State.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza  interviews politics bureau chief and columnist Jonathan Martin.

Following a ruling in Alabama that grants legal personhood to frozen embryos, Republicans are bracing for another round of backlash — and for more punishing headlines likely to turn off swing voters, suburbanites and women ahead of the 2024 election. Why? The ruling ventures into virtually unexplored legal territory that could see IVF and other fertility treatments targeted and effectively banned in states that have embraced major restrictions on abortion, including fetal personhood laws. Yet an overwhelming majority of Americans support IVF, suggesting that Republicans may be walking on thin ice. Health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein talks Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton through the situation.

The first Federal Election Commission reports for 2024 paint an interesting picture for the three most prominent candidates in the race. The biggest takeaways? President Joe Biden’s campaign is flush with cash; January showed strong fiscal turnout for former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley’s campaign; and the leadership PAC for former President Donald Trump’s campaign spent $3 million on legal fees during the first month of the year. State politics reporter Zach Montellaro walks through the highlights with Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

With a week until the Democratic Primary in Michigan, President Joe Biden has his eyes on the state’s Muslim population that helped get him elected in 2020. The Abandon Biden movement, a coalition of Michigan progressives — including Rep. Rashida Tlaib — calling for residents to vote uncommitted next week, is growing stronger by the day. The administration, too, has shifted its message toward Israel dramatically, and the U.S. has drafted a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for a temporary ceasefire and encouraging Israel to push pause on plans to attack the southern city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through that and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis took the stand on Thursday to face pointed and personal questions from from lawyers representing former President Donald Trump. They allege Willis’ past romantic involvement with fellow prosecutor Nathan Wade is a conflict of interest and ought to disqualify her from leading the criminal case against Trump for alleged election interference in Georgia. But is their real goal to disqualify her, or simply delay the proceedings? Senior legal reporter Josh Gerstein walks Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton through what we saw, and what it all could mean.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton interviews Senior legal reporter Josh Gerstein.

Two major hearings today will shape the trajectory (and timing) of the legal woes that Donald Trump faces as he attempts to return to the White House. In New York, a judge will decide whether the hush money case against the former president can move to trial in late March or whether that timeline will be pushed back — a popular Trump delay tactic honed over his many decades of lawsuits. Meanwhile in Georgia, Trump and his co-defendants aim to sideline Fulton County DA Fani Willis in her sweeping election interference case. Plus, more headaches for Speaker Mike Johnson, and urgent new concerns about Russian space nukes. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade talks with legal editor James Romoser and walks through what you need to know.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews legal editor James Romoser.

On their second attempt, House Republicans managed to formally impeach Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas by one vote. That will likely be the end of the story, though, as the impeachment proceedings are expected to come to a stop in the Senate. Plus, in Tuesday’s election, Democrats managed to flip a seat in the New York District 3 special election to fill the seat formerly occupied by Rep. George Santos. And, despite the increasingly urgent need for foreign aid, the supplemental continues to stall. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through all of this and more.

The center of the political universe today is on Long Island, where voters in Queens and Nassau County will decide whether Democrat Tom Suozzi or Republican Mazi Pilip will replace George Santos, the fabulist who was expelled from Congress. Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza calls up Politico editor Steve Shepard — a fellow Long Island native — to discuss. Plus, the latest on the Senate's supplemental bill and the changes former President Donald Trump is pushing at the Republican National Committee.

Over the weekend, former President Donald Trump captured headlines and confused many when he said he would “encourage” Russia to attack NATO members who did not pay their financial dues. Among those who were quick to condemn the comments is former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, Trump’s remaining challenger for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade spoke with Haley about her reaction to the comments. Plus, House Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner weighs in on Speaker Johnson's approach to Ukraine aid.

The special counsel report on Joe Biden’s handling of classified documents was about as damaging as it could possibly be while stopping short of recommending criminal charges. Over nearly 350 pages, the investigation paints a troubling picture of Biden’s behavior and cognitive abilities — one almost certain to feed voters’ existing concerns about the 81-year-old president, whom it describes as a “sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” National correspondent Betsey Woodruff Swan walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the report and its reverberations across Washington.

This morning, the Supreme Court will hear arguments in a momentous case that could determine former President Donald Trump’s ballot eligibility — and, potentially, whether the 14th Amendment’s insurrection clause bars him from a return to the White House. Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza and legal editor James Romoser break down what to expect inside the courtroom.

House Republicans dramatically failed to both impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and pass the Israel aid bill last night, delivering two major blows to the party leader. Speaker Mike Johnson has vowed to reintroduce articles of impeachment, but with yet another failure during his brief tenure, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains Republican members of the House are beginning to question whether he can guide the party through a very public implosion.All that, plus the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook editor Mike DeBonis interviews Playbook co-author Rachael Bade.

It took months of negotiations to craft the bipartisan border agreement that debuted Sunday night, and only a few hours for its fate to take a grim turn.  Republican senators are continuing to come out of the woodwork to voice concerns that  the deal isn’t tough enough on border security. But, as congress reporter and Inside Congress author Daniella Diaz tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza, there is no apparent Plan B.

Plus, the all signs point to an impeachment of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, but the implications of that move aren’t entirely clear.

Senate negotiators unveiled at the text of the bipartisan border agreement Sunday night, offering a compromise that would both tighten security at the U.S.-Mexico border and send air money to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. But whether the $118 billion agreement that came to be after months of negotiations even stands a chance is another question entirely, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains.

At this hour, virtually no one knows exactly what is or isn’t in the hotly anticipated bipartisan Senate border bill — legislative text could drop as soon as tonight. But it’s already dominating conversation in Washington and on the campaign trail. Former President Trump is eager to kill the deal and keep the border alive as a galvanizing election issue — and so far, House Republicans seem to be falling in line. But could the arrival of the actual proposal swing momentum in the other direction? Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza sits down with editor Mike DeBonis to walk through the possible paths forward.

What are the biggest takeaways from last night’s major new fundraising numbers? For starters, here are two: Democratic frontrunner President Joe Biden is in pretty good shape, and GOP frontrunner former president Donald Trump is spending an unprecedented amount on legal fees. Campaign reporter Zach Montellaro joins Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton to walk through more key findings, and what these totals can tell us about the shape of things in the year ahead.

CEOs from five of the world’s biggest social media companies head to Capitol Hill today to face a grilling about the safety of children on their platforms. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg — a hearing veteran — will be joined by leaders from X, Snap, Discord, and TikTok during the appearance. Politico Tech host Steven Overly talks with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels. Plus, the House's Homeland Security Committee is moving closer toward an impeachment of Alejandro Mayorkas, and the latest on the border deal.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews  Politico Tech host Steven Overly.

President Joe Biden has vowed the U.S. will respond to the weekend drone attack of three U.S. troops in Jordan, but what will that look like exactly? And, does this mean the country is at war with Iran — or at the very least, an Iran-backed militia group? Pentagon reporter Lara Seligman walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the details.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Pentagon reporter Lara Seligman.

After three U.S. troops were killed and 25 more were wounded in a drone attack in Jordan, President Joe Biden vowed a response and Senators Lindsey Graham and John Cornyn echoed a call for retaliation. Plus, over the weekend, House Republicans unveiled articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Finally, Legal Editor James Romoser walks Playbook co-author Rachael through this week in Trump trial watch.

An earlier version of this episode referred to the verdict in the Carroll lawsuit inconsistently. The jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million.

Republicans demanded a border deal in order to pass any Ukraine aid. And they’ve just about got one. But if Donald Trump gets his way, Republicans will abandon that effort and the bill will go down in flames. Congress reporter Ursula Perano joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to talk through the bizarre politics on the Hill that are leading some Republicans to ditch the deal they helped broker — and what Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell really thinks about it.

When it was unveiled, the bipartisan tax deal brokered by Senate Finance Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and House Ways and Means Chair Jason Smith (R-Mo.) seemed like a layup — it expanded the child tax credit (a Dem priority) while offering relief to businesses (a GOP priority). But now, in the cold spotlight of simple congressional vote-counting, it faces a very real challenge: border politics. Can it actually pass? Tax policy reporter Ben Guggenheim walks Playbook co-author Rachael Bade through what has to happen to make it through the Congress.

A victory in the granite state for former President Donald Trump effectively ended Nikki Haley’s shot at the 2024 GOP presidential nomination. But the former governor of South Carolina announced Tuesday she will continue the fight in her home state, even though she is expected to lose by an even larger margin there. President Joe Biden, meanwhile, handily — and, as expected— won the New Hampshire write-in campaign, upsetting Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips who hedged much of his campaign’s bets on success in the state. The biggest takeaway from the night, as Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza tells Eugene Daniels, is that all signs point to a repeat of the 2020 race.

Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Ryan Lizza talk about what Ryan's been experiencing on the ground in New Hampshire, where Donald Trump currently has a double digit polling lead over Nikki Haley. Plus everything else you need to know today.

After vowing to stay in the race despite a disappointing second place finish in Iowa, Gov. Ron DeSantis made a 180-degree turn and ended his turbulent campaign Sunday. Florida reporter Gary Fineout talks to Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels about the failure to launch and whether we'll see DeSantis as a surrogate. Plus, POLITICO legal editor James Romoser breaks down what you need to watch for in Donald Trump trial news this week.

With Senate negotiators expected to unveil a bipartisan border deal any day now, the chatter on Capitol Hill has turned to one elephantine obstacle: How to get this thing past the GOP-led House. The answer may just be… Democratic votes. And that could be a problem for Speaker Mike Johnson, especially as Donald Trump and the party’s right flank aren’t eager to support a border compromise — potentially dooming Johnson’s speakership. But now, a new scenario is gaining steam: If that happens, might Democrats actually help keep the gavel in the Louisianan’s hands? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through the possibilities.

With a partial government shutdown just days away, a clutch of top government officials — including President Joe Biden and House Speaker Mike Johnson — met yesterday to negotiate a potential spending deal. But before any deal gets finalized, they must reach a compromise on two big issues: border security (a priority for the GOP) and aid to Ukraine (a priority for Biden). So, what, if anything, changed in the meeting? And what’s the state of play today? White House reporter Myah Ward shares her readout with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews White House reporter Myah Ward.

The Supreme Court will take up Chevron deference on Wednesday, a principle related to how much consideration judges must give to federal agency regulations and other executive branch decisions that stems from a Reagan-era environmental regulation. Energy reporter Alex Guillén tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza that the fact the court is even taking it up signals that a change in the 40 year-old rule seems likely.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews energy reporter Alex Guillén.

Capturing more than 50% of the delegates up for grabs, former president Donald Trump claimed a historic, dominant win mere minutes after the Iowa caucuses began Monday night. By the end of the evening, he had also picked up another endorsement, this time from businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, who withdrew his bid for president. Florida governor Ron DeSantis claimed second place and South Carolina governor Nikki Haley came in third. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade was on the ground in Iowa and tells Eugene Daniels what she saw and heard.

We’re just days away from the first ballots cast in the 2024 presidential cycle: the Iowa caucuses. But this year’s GOP contest is shaping up to look a bit different than you may expect. Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza sits down with storied Iowa Republican strategist David Kochel in Des Moines to talk the field, campaigns and what to expect on Monday.

Last night in Des Moines, the split-screen reality of the GOP primary was on full display. On CNN, Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley brutalized each other for two hours during a debate essentially for second place — largely ignoring the man who even while absent from the stage, is running away with the race. Instead, a noticeably subdued former President Donald Trump took to a Fox News-sponsored town hall, where he mostly focused on a general election message. What should we make of it all? Playbook co-authors Rachael Bade and Ryan Lizza sort through what matters, what didn’t and where things stand with just a few days left.

Some of the youngest staffers working in government are challenging norms that have been in place for decades by speaking out when they don’t agree with the Biden administration. The unwritten code of conduct is to keep quiet or quit, but the newest generation is speaking up, speaking out, and staying on the payroll. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels walks co-author Rachael Bade through how the president is handling the conundrum.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels.

Former President Donald Trump will appear in a D.C. Circuit Court Tuesday as oral arguments are heard in the case claiming he attempted to subvert the 2020 election. But, as senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza, Trump’s presence — which isn’t required— could be performative ahead of the kickoff of GOP primary voting.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein.

Over the three week-long holiday break, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer appear to have reached an agreement on top line spending numbers. Plus, Senate negotiators say they've made progress on discussions about the U.S.-Mexico border. But as Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, multiple complications remain before either deal can be finalized.

Grassroots groups looking to add a constitutional amendment protecting the right to an abortion are inching towards procuring enough state-certified signatures by the Feb. 1 deadline to put a referendum on the 2024 ballot. If successful, the move could undo the state’s abortion bans and deliver a hard blow to Governor and presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis. Florida-based health reporter Arek Sarkissian walks Playbook co-author Rachael Bade through the ins and outs of the ballot initiative

Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley is rising in the GOP presidential polls. With New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu’s endorsement, she’s prepared to enter the state’s primary in a strong position. But the elephant in the room is that at this point, it is still a race for second place. So has anything changed? Massachusetts-based political reporter Lisa Kashinsky tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels that Haley, who once shied away from directly attacking former President Trump, seems to have decided to up the ante.

As the election year kicks off, President Joe Biden is making plans. In the coming weeks, Biden will headline big speeches in both Pennsylvania and South Carolina. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson is applying pressure on the president to act more aggressively about the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border, which just happens to be an area where the president consistently polls weakest. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks it all down.

Though the House and Senate are still on holiday recess, two big pieces of business from 2023 remain unfinished. Government funding for the new fiscal year and the $100 billion supplemental for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan — a bill that Republicans are demanding be paired with new border security policies — are likely to dominate the first few weeks on the Hill. The looming Iowa caucuses, too, Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza explains, may further complicate things.

An earlier version of this episode misstated the first government funding deadline this year. It is January 19.

For 40 years, Michigan’s Macomb County has been something like the de facto national capital of white middle America — home of the “Reagan Democrats” and a must-visit for every serious presidential contender. But behind that very familiar story is one you’ve never heard — and which hasn’t really been told in full until this morning, in Politico Magazine. Deputy editor Zack Stanton joins Playbook co-author Rachel Bade to unspool the thread that runs through the last half-century of politics — and which explains so much about American life.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews deputy editor zack stanton.

Deep blue California is shaping up to have one of the most consequential and hard-fought Senate races of the 2024 cycle — and that’s before the general election takes shape. A new POLITICO/Morning Consult poll finds that Rep. Adam Schiff, a Democrat of Burbank, is in the driver’s seat, with a wide lead heading into election year. But in the race for second place, two prominent Democrats — Reps. Katie Porter and Barbara Lee — are in a statistical dead heat with Republican Steve Garvey of L.A. Dodgers fame. Why does that matter? California political reporter Melanie Mason joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to talk it through.

The Colorado Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that former president and 2024 GOP frontrunner Donald Trump is ineligible to appear on the state’s ballots, citing his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol. Senior legal reporter Kyle Cheney joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to break down what this means going forward, and how it may impact the election at large.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews senior legal reporter Kyle Cheney.

At a number of recent appearances, President Joe Biden has shown he is not afraid to draw comparisons between the rhetoric of former President Donald Trump and Adolf Hitler. Though not wholly unexplored territory, the move is unusual and seen by some as extreme. White House bureau chief Jonathan Lemire joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss why the Biden team has decided to cross the line, and what potential drawbacks he could face.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews White House bureau chief Jonathan Lemire.

With senators stuck on the Hill for another week before the Christmas holidays — thanks to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer — the pressure is on to pass President Joe Biden’s $106 billion national security supplemental. But Republicans aren’t going for it, so it is unclear whether there will even be a hearing before the new year. Plus, more trouble in the DeSantis camp as Jeff Roe, the leader of his PAC, Never Back Down, resigned Saturday night.

It’s the race that political obsessives across the nation are looking to: the special election to succeed ousted GOP Rep. George Santos in New York’s third congressional district. And the nascent campaign to become his replacement is set: Republican Mazi Melesa Pilip, a Nassau County legislator and Ethiopia-born former IDF soldier, vs. former Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzi. New York Playbook author Emily Ngo joins Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton to talk through all the twists and turns of the race everyone will soon be talking about.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton interviews New York Playbook author Emily Ngo.

As it weighs how to proceed in negotiations over a new tranche of aid to Ukraine, the Biden administration faces a dilemma of both policy and politics: How much can they concede on border security without losing ground with Democratic voters in 2024? The answer to that question is complicated — both on Capitol Hill, where progressives are fuming at Biden for what they see as caving to the right, and in the general public, where independent voters are fuming at Biden for being too far to the left on matters of migration. White House reporter Jen Haberkorn joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to explore the ins and outs of the latest fight roiling Washington.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews White House reporter Jen Haberkorn.

In a last ditch attempt to convince Congress to agree to send more humanitarian aid to his country before the end of the year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to Capitol Hill. He met with House Speaker Mike Johnson and other senior officials, and hosted a press conference with President Joe Biden. But, as national security reporter Alex Ward tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels, without a border deal, chances of more aid to Ukraine are all but impossible.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels national security reporter Alex Ward.

On Monday, special counsel Jack Smith — who is investigating Donald Trump's attempt to subvert the 2020 election — asked the Supreme Court to leapfrog the D.C. Circuit court and take up the case in order to keep it on track. He reasoned that the case will ultimately end up with SCOTUS regardless, and it should decide the issue before the end of the current term. But that’s not the only thing Smith revealed, legal reporter Kyle Cheney tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels; one of the more intriguing revelations involves Trump’s Twitter account.

House Republicans are ready to get rolling on formally authorizing an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden with a floor vote later this week. Despite a lack of evidence, accusers say Biden may have benefited from his son’s business ventures. Right now, as Congress reporter Anthony Adragna explains, the GOP is largely united in supporting the  investigation. But that doesn't necessarily mean they'll ultimately vote to impeach Biden. Plus, an update on an action-packed week on Capitol Hill, with big-ticket issues such as the National Defense Authorization Act and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, and a visit from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Playbook editor Mike DeBonis interviews congress reporter Anthony Adragna.

Hunter Biden’s legal jeopardy reached dramatic new heights late Thursday night, when he was charged with nine criminal counts stemming from allegations that he failed to pay taxes. National correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swann tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels that the severity of the new charges may be cause for concern for both Hunter and for his father — who is less than a year out from running for reelection.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews National correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swann.

It was the last scheduled GOP debate before primary ballots start being cast. But did it change anything? Last night in Tuscaloosa, Chris Christie, Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy traded barbs, unspooled occasionally outlandish talking points and did their best to recapture the narrative in the final month of the primary race. Yet it was the candidate not in attendance — Donald Trump — who once again loomed large, defining the stage even while absent. And what we saw seems unlikely to disrupt the fundamentals of the campaign. National politics correspondent Adam Wren joins Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton to unpack it all.

The Colorado Supreme Court will hear oral arguments today on whether Trump should be disqualified from the ballot in 2024 based on alleged violations of the 14th amendment. The case, which legal reporter Kyle Cheney explains is almost bound to end up being heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, has implications both for the 2024 election and legal precedent for years to come.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews legal reporter Kyle Cheney.

The future of the $106 billion budget supplemental funding package hangs in limbo as negotiations between Democrats and Republicans failed to resolve over the weekend. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says he will bring a clean supplemental to the floor this week, but Republicans have vowed to filibuster, White House reporter Jen Haberkorn tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza. With the clock ticking down and the need for aid becoming more and more dire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will virtually address the chambers on an invitation from the Biden administration.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews White House reporter Jen Haberkorn.

The agenda this week includes the White House making a final plea to Congress for Ukraine aid, a likely vote on the $106 billion supplemental funding package, and a potential re-gagging of former president Trump. Topping it all off is a new focus for Democrats as election season nears: so-called MAGAnomics, the GOP’s policy plans.

GOP presidential candidate and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis met with California Gov. Gavin Newsom for chaotic debate Thursday night. The two—and moderator Sean Hannity— set out to contrast the Republican and Democratic ways of governing during the 90 minute spectacle billed as the red vs. blue debate. A gamut of topics were covered and slews of fiery buzzwords were hurled at one another, but did the audience actually learn anything? California bureau chief Christopher Cadelago joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to unpack the event.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews California bureau chief Christopher Cadelago,

There is a lot going on on Capitol Hill, and not much time left in the year to get it all done.
First, House freedom Caucus chairman Rep. Scott Perry has suggested conservatives may consider compromising on demands for steep spending cuts and accept the funding deal that contributed to the demise of Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s speakership.
Sen.Tommy Tuberville, on the other hand, is looking for a way out of his extensive holdup of military promotions.
Finally, members of both parties are still figuring our how to tackle the White House’s $100 billion supplemental funding request.

The White House and Congress are trying to find common ground on immigration, an issue President Biden has significantly struggled to gain popularity on in the past. Right now, as White House reporter Myah Ward explains, there are three areas of focus at the center of the debates. Asylum reform, safe third country restrictions, and changes to the country’s parole system are what is causing conflict, and one issue, she tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza, is nowhere near resolution.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews White House reporter Myah Ward.

The complicated life of President Joe Biden’s son Hunter has been capturing the attention of the media and the public for years. But it reached a new level during summer 2023 when the younger Biden  rejected a plea deal in a case related to his business dealings. As the 2024 election nears, national correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan and Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels discuss how Hunter Biden’s team has been reevaluating both his legal approach and public image.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews national correspondent Betsy Woodruff Swan.

After the Thanksgiving break, lawmakers return to Capitol Hill today to tackle the White House’s $100 billion supplemental funding request. The funds would be designated for aid to Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan and the U.S.-Mexico border, but finding the common ground between parties needed to move the package as one will be a difficult feat. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through how party leaders are handling the pressure.

Qatari officials announced late Tuesday that Hamas plans to release 50 hostages in exchange for a multi-day pause in fighting between Hamas and Israel after a deal was struck between the two powers. The extensive agreement will lead to the first reprieve after six weeks of nearly nonstop aggression. National security reporter Alex Ward tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels that the sensitive deal was written to encourage the release of even more hostages down the road and send more aid into Gaza.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews national security reporter Alex Ward.

On Monday, a panel of three judges with the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals signaled they may loosed a gag order imposed on former President Donald Trump originally imposed by the judge during his Washington, D.C. criminal trial. Senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein was in the courtroom and walks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through what lies ahead for Trump in this case and the others with which he is currently dealing.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews  Senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein.

During a slow Thanksgiving week on the Hill, attention is largely focused on the new year, when Democratic incumbents in the Senate will go full speed into campaign mode in an attempt to hang on to their seats. Few seats are more important to Senate Democrats next year than those occupied by Montana’s Jon Tester and Ohio’s Sherrod Brown, who have proven they can emerge victorious even as their states go red.

Republicans are also dipping their toes in the water; the NRSC is launching a new digital ad targeting Arizonans with the goal of driving them back to independent incumbent Kyrsten Sinema’s camp instead of Democratic challenger Ruben Gallego’s. But could it backfire? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks us through.

All of this, plus President Biden pardons a turkey on the South Lawn today.

A blistering report on Thursday from the House Ethics Committee poured jet fuel onto the efforts to oust Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) from Congress. Among the many damning details: Santos allegedly spent campaign funds on Sephora, OnlyFans and cosmetic procedures like Botox. What comes next? Congress reporter Anthony Adragna talks Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton through the coming expulsion vote Santos faces — which may be the final nail in the proverbial coffin for the congressman’s brief political career.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton interviews Congress reporter Anthony Adragna .

The truth about UFOs is out there. But what exactly do we know, and how? Unidentified flying objects — or, as they are now called, UAPs (unidentified anomalous phenomena) — have long captivated curious minds. But where the topic was once taboo, recent years have seen more and more mainstream discussion on the topic in Washington. That transition — and the underlying questions beneath it — is the topic of Garrett Graff’s new book, “UFO: The Inside Story of the U.S. Government’s Search for Alien Life Here ― and Out There.” Garrett joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to talk about that veil of secrecy, and the very real explanations that exist for at least some of the cosmic unexplained.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Garrett Graff.

President Biden is in San Francisco for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, where he will meet with President Xi Jinping of China. There is a lot riding on the meeting, Phelim Kine tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels, and not just because Biden will be on the campaign trail for the next year. Issues as varied as artificial intelligence, espionage, and fentanyl are expected to come up. And last night the House passed a funding bill to avert a government shutdown. All that, and everything else you need to know today.

We’re less than a year from the election and the Biden campaign has to reckon with some troubling new voter insights. Extensive data conducted by the organizations Progressive Change Campaign Committee and Data for Progress found those surveyed generally lacked confidence in President Biden’s handling of the economy. But, as White House reporter Adam Cancryn tells Playbook co-author Rachael Bade, there is some nuance to these results. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews White House reporter Adam Cancryn.

Congress has until the end of the work week to determine, once again, how to keep the government funded. New House Speaker Mike Johnson wants to pass a continuing resolution that is going to delay funding for some government agencies until January and the rest of until the deadline in early February. The CR is clean enough that it’ll be hard for Democrats to reject the plan, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains. But, even some hardline Republicans are already vowing they won’t vote for it.Plus, the GOP Primary pool is down another candidate, new exclusive polling shows a comfortable win for Donald Trump in 2024, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook editor Mike DeBonis interviews Playbook co-author Rachael Bade.

Sen. Joe Manchin announced yesterday that he will not seek reelection in 2024 — news with wide-reaching 2024 implications. His seat is almost certain to flip into Republican hands, drastically complicating Democrats’ hopes of holding a majority in the chamber. But rumors abound that Manchin himself may not be done with politics just yet. Political reporter Ally Mutnick joins Rachael Bade to break down just how big a blow it is, and what role Donald Trump himself may have had in Manchin’s decision.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews political reporter Ally Mutnik.

Last night, five Republican presidential candidates took the stage in Miami for a policy-heavy debate where they clashed about everything from TikTok to Trump to taking on Hamas. National political correspondent Brakkton Booker joined Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to talk through the highs, the lows, and whether or not it all will make a difference in the long run.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews National political correspondent Brakkton Booker.

Andy Beshear secured a second term as governor of Kentucky; Democrats kept the Virginia state Senate and flipped the House; and Ohioans voted to enshrine the right to an abortion in the state Constitution. So what does all of this say about 2024? Morning Score author Madison Fernandez breaks it all down with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Morning Score author Madison Fernandez.

The 2024 presidential election may be a little less than a year away, but residents in states around the country today will cast ballots for a variety of pivotal races. There are gubernatorial contests in Kentucky and Mississippi, a referendum on abortion rights in Ohio, and a battle for control of the Virginia legislature, among other contests. As senior campaigns and elections editor Steve Shepard explains, some of today’s results may provide some insight into what we can expect next November.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews senior campaigns and elections editor Steve Shepard.

Donald Trump is scheduled to appear in a Manhattan courtroom today, testifying about claims that his companies falsified documents submitted to banks and insurers to land favorable real estate loan terms. New York Attorney General Letitia James is looking to bar the former president from doing business in the state and have him pay $250 million in damages. But a chance to take the stand could give Trump another opportunity to score political points, legal reporter Erika Orden tells Playbook co-author Rachael Bade. That, plus more drama in the House even with a new speaker, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews legal reporter Erika Orden.

A Republican-backed $14.3 billion bill to aid Israel passed the House, but is going nowhere fast in the Senate. One reason is because the bill is funded by IRS cuts, which the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office says would add to the federal deficit over the next decade. Another  is that the bill does not contain any money for Ukraine. White House reporter Myah Ward lays out some compromises Democrats and the Biden administration may propose in order to procure the aid money.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton interviews White House reporter Myah Ward.

Republican senators pushed to confirm more than 60 military nominees Wednesday evening in a direct challenge to fellow GOP member Tommy Tuberville and his blockade on promotions — but the Alabama senator is refusing to budge. Defense reporter Connor O'Brien breaks it down with Playbook co-author Rachael Bade. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Over the next two days, tech giants and world leaders — including Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Vice President Kamala Harris — will gather in London for a summit on artificial intelligence. Highlighting the agenda is discussions on the dangers of the evolving technology and how to regulate it. Additionally, the U.S. and U.K. are slated to announce a collaborate effort on AI safety. But already, Politico U.K. senior tech correspondent Vincent Manancourt tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels, a lack of international presence isn’t painting Sunak in the best light.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews  Politico U.K. senior tech correspondent Vincent Manancourt.

Speaker Mike Johnson has come out swinging in his first few days with the gavel. The newly-elected leader of the House has raised eyebrows in both parties with an announcement that he will use funds allotted to the IRS plus-up within the Inflation Reduction Act to offset 4.3 billion worth of assistance to Israel. The decision, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, is leaving many Democrats in between a rock and a hard place pitting aid to Israel against plus-up funding, and may not be all that popular among some Republicans either.

In a meeting with lawmakers later today, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will talk artificial intelligence and Biden will issue an executive order expected to organize for federal agencies to monitor and find new uses for artificial intelligence technology. Vice President Kamala Harris will also travel to London this week for a summit focused on AI hosted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels and Playbook editor Mike DeBonis break it all down.

Playbook editor Mike DeBonis interviews Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels.

Today, Dean Phillips launches his presidential campaign in New Hampshire — a quixotic attempt to unseat President Joe Biden in the Democratic primary, mounted just ahead of the early state’s filing deadline. It’s a long shot. But amid  widespread concerns about Biden’s age and electability, Phillips is betting that voters will be drawn to his relative youth and outsider message. How will he make that pitch? National politics reporter Elena Schneider — who first reported on Phillips’ congressional campaign — walks Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton through what to expect.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton interviews National politics reporter Elena Schneider.

After a 23-day stalemate, House Republicans unanimously elected a new speaker: Rep. Mike Johnson. Now, the question being asked by much of Washington is: Mike who? We’ve got answers. Politics bureau chief and senior columnist (and noted Louisianophile) Jonathan Martin joins Playbook editor Mike DeBonis to talk through the new MAGA-aligned speaker’s background, what his ascendance tells us about the new center of power in the Republican Party and what to expect in the days and weeks ahead.

Playbook editor Mike DeBonis interviews Politics bureau chief and senior columnist Jonathan Martin.

Donald Trump dominated headlines in Washington and around the country Tuesday. After staying mum for much of the House Speaker search process, Trump took to Truth Social to call frontrunner Tom Emmer a “globalist” and a “RINO” among other things, leading to Emmer’s decision to withdraw from consideration. The move came hours after Trump’s former campaign attorney, Jenna Ellis, pleaded guilty to a felony charge connected to election fraud in Georgia. National politics correspondent Meridith McGraw joins Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza to discuss whether the former president can now be an expected part of the ongoing search for a new House Speaker.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews National Politics Correspondent Meridith McGraw

Now in its third week, the search for a new House Speaker leads House Republicans back to a private internal conference vote to decide who of the eight candidates should be the next nominee. Congress reporter Anthony Adragna lays out for Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza what we can expect (or try to) from the Hill in the week ahead. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Congress reporter Anthony Adragna.

After more than two weeks and multiple failed floor votes, House Republicans have yet to elect a new speaker. Among nine declared candidates, Majority Whip Tom Emmer is most likely to win the GOP conference nomination and head to the floor. But will he be able to evade accusations that he is not in lockstep with Donald Trump? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks it down.

Rep. Jim Jordan has a press conference at 8 a.m. and another speaker vote scheduled for 10 a.m. Will 217 members of the Republican conference back him? Unlikely — but we’ll be watching. Plus, President Biden used his Oval Office address last night to forcefully advocate for aiding both Israel and Ukraine. National security reporter Alex Ward breaks it down with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels.

The House is still without a Speaker after Rep. Jim Jordan once again failed to receive the 217 votes necessary to secure the gavel.Rather than continuing with a second vote after the Ohio Republican’s first failed ballot on Tuesday, Jordan used the time to attempt to flip more members of his own party to yes votes. Instead, he received an additional two ‘nos’ bringing the total on Wednesday to 22. The plan for Jordan—and the entire speaker-less House going forward— is unclear, Huddle author Daniella Diaz tells Playbook Deputy Editor Zack Stanton. Plus, protestors calling for a ceasefire in Gaza sat in the Capitol as President Biden was en route back from Israel, and the different ways Democrats have chosen to address (or not address) the crisis is deepening some existing fissures within the party.

Playbook Deputy Editor Zack Stanton interviews Huddle author Daniella Diaz.

After failing well short of the necessary 217 votes, Rep. Jim Jordan scrambled yesterday to rescue his campaign for House speaker. But with a whopping 20 members of his own party breaking ranks, he's got serious work to do ahead of a second floor vote scheduled for 11 a.m. today. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade and Editor Mike DeBonis discuss whether Jordan has any hope of salvaging his bid for the gavel and what might happen if he can't. Plus, a hospital attack in Gaza leaves hundreds dead and complicates President Biden’s trip to the Middle East. That, plus all the news you need to know today.

In an unexpected turn of events, Rep. Jim Jordan has become the favorite to claim the Speaker’s gavel after an unprecedented number of initial detractors say they will flip their votes in favor of the Ohio Republican. A final vote for the new Speaker is expected Wednesday. Plus, President Biden will make a rare wartime visit to Israel to show support as the county prepares a ground invasion of Gaza. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks down the news you need to know today.

A little over a week into the conflict playing out in Israel and Gaza, the impact on Washington is becoming more clear. President Biden may try to visit Israel in the near future if the violence subsides long enough to make it safe. The administration has also sent a request to Congress for an aid package to both Israel and Ukraine. But as National Security reporter Alex Ward tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza, Ukraine funding is a divisive topic in the House, which could imperil all the aid.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews National Security reporter Alex Ward.

Yesterday, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise shocked colleagues and reporters by pulling out of the race to become the next speaker — a little more than 24 hours after clinching the GOP’s nomination. What now? Congressional reporter and Huddle author Daniella Diaz walks Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels through some possibilities of what could come next in the speaker-less House.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Congressional reporter and Huddle author Daniella Diaz.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise clinched the GOP’s nomination for speaker of the house Wednesday. But that doesn’t mean it’s a sure thing from here: Not long after, members of his own party began coming out of the woodwork to say they would not back the Louisiana congressman’s run for the gavel. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains why those in Scalise’s corner say there’s no reason to give up now, even when Scalise can only lose four Republican votes.

At 10 a.m. Wednesday, Republicans will cast blind ballots for the person they want to be nominated to assume the Speaker of the House role left vacant after Kevin McCarthy’s ousting last month. In one scenario, things could proceed simply with the Representative who receives the most votes seamlessly assuming the gavel in due time. But, a last minute a push for a rules change to try to raise the threshold to win could complicate the process tremendously, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains.

A weekend of carnage after Hamas launched an attack on Israel, and the country in turn declared war on Palestinian-populated Gaza, disrupted international diplomacy for the foreseeable future. Though the events in the Middle East are just beginning to unfold, National Security Reporter Alex Ward tells Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza officials on the Hill—from the Oval Office, to Congress, to the campaign trail—must reckon with the aftershocks of the crisis and decide how to proceed as allies of Israel. 

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews National Security Reporter Alex Ward.

Late Thursday night, former President Donald Trump endorsed Rep. Jim Jordan’s bid to become speaker of the House — ending far-fetched speculation about a possible Trump run while dousing the campaign to succeed Kevin McCarthy with rocket fuel. Until that moment, it was unclear how the former president would approach the vacancy. Trump had previously mentioned that he was planning a visit to Capitol Hill to attempt to unite the party, and hinted at running for the position himself. But when Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) posted to X that he had spoken to Trump about his decision to endorse Jordan rather than run, it changed the entire trajectory of the race. National political reporter Meridith McGraw talks Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza through the situation.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews National political reporter Meridith McGraw.

With Kevin McCarthy dethroned, House Republicans are mired in a frantic search for someone to fill the leadership vacuum. On Wednesday, two big names threw their hats in the ring: House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). Another name in the conversation: former President Donald Trump, the subject of a hard-right pipe dream that imagines him ending up with the speaker’s gavel — a far-out idea that Trump himself is stoking on social media posts. Congressional reporter Anthony Adragna joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to sort it all out.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews Congressional national security reporter Anthony Adragna.

For the first time in history, a Speaker of the House was ousted. Yesterday, Kevin McCarthy’s tumultuous time as Speaker came to an end after every Democrat joined Rep. Matt Gaetz and seven others voted to take away his gavel. Rep. Patrick McHenry is serving as temporary Speaker and McCarthy has confirmed he will not run again, but beyond that, not much is clear as the territory is entirely uncharted.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Playbook Editor Mike DeBonis.

Laphonza Butler is well known in Democratic circles. Her resume includes roles as a regent on the board of the University of California, president of the California SEIU, and most recently the third president of EMILY’s List. But with her appointment to the late Dianne Feinstein’s Senate seat this afternoon, her profile is about to get far more public. It also means she has mere weeks to decide if she will run to be elected to the seat she is assuming. California Bureau Chief Christopher Cadelago tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels that it's a decision that could throw an already complicated race into a tailspin.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews California Bureau Chief Christopher Cadelago.

Capitol Hill is lurching from one crisis to the next. Congressman Matt Gaetz announced yesterday that he plans to file a motion to vacate against Speaker Kevin McCarthy this week. Plus, former President Donald Trump is expected to attend the opening of the civil trial in the New York attorney general’s fraud case against him. And California Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to appoint Laphonza Butler to fill Dianne Feinstein’s seat.

Barring something genuinely surprising, the federal government will shut down in a little more than 24 hours’ time, as House Republicans show no sign of being able to pass the appropriations bills that have vexed them for weeks. Now, as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy takes the blame, there are growing whispers that conservative hard-liners will launch an audacious gambit to oust him and replace him with Majority Whip Tom Emmer. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks us through the state of play behind the scenes — including the central role played by Trumpy Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz.

As the 2024 GOP hopefuls gathered in California to debate, the barbs aimed at Donald Trump were more pointed, the elbows thrown at one another were sharper, and all in all, the moderators let the exchanges careen out of control. And yet, for all of that, the debate largely fell flat: Nobody’s performance was strong enough to touch Trump’s massive polling lead. What exactly happened? Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza talks it all through with national politics correspondent Adam Wren, who covered the debate in person, and takes us behind the camera to reveal how it played in the room.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews national politics correspondent Adam Wren.

Candidates vying for the Republican nomination for president will once again take the stage to debate tonight, this time in California. But Donald Trump, whose lead continues to grow, says he once again will not attend. Electrifying performances in August did not translate to bumps in poll numbers; could that change this round?Plus, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is still trying to keep the government open, and Senator Chuck Schumer is now also trying to keep the government open.

After a press conference that provided few answers about the federal charges leveled against him, Sen. Bob Menendez now must face a jury of his peers. Only three of his Democratic colleagues in Washington have called for his resignation, but as New Jersey Playbook author Matthew Friedman tells Ryan Lizza, it's a whole different story back home in New Jersey. We'll be on Cory Booker watch.

Plus, President Joe Biden will join the picket line in Michigan, and Speaker Kevin McCarthy is still trying to avoid a shutdown.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews New Jersey Playbook author Matthew Friedman.

As the clock ticks down, Kevin McCarthy is still trying to wrangle his fellow Republicans toward avoiding a government shutdown. But there seems to be no straightforward solution for the House speaker. Even if a shutdown is avoided, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, something else seems inevitable: a challenge to McCarthy’s gavel. Plus, on the schedule for this week: the first Biden impeachment hearings and the second Republican debate.

A government shutdown appears inevitable as the clock winds down with little progress evident on the bills necessary to keep the government open. It’s so dire that Speaker Kevin McCarthy is seemingly unable to rally House Republicans on even the smallest necessary procedural matters. Where do we go from here? Congress reporter Daniella Diaz talks to Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza about the road ahead — and what to expect as the most unlikely of characters steps in to try to get things moving.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza interviews Congress reporter Daniella Diaz.

Republicans emerged from a meeting on Capitol Hill last night confident in their ability to move forward on critical spending bills that would keep the government funded and open. But, as Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, that optimism may be short-lived as GOP infighting is likely to derail the legislation. Plus, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits Washington tomorrow to present his case for more aid to his country.

As the clock ticks closer to a government shutdown, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is struggling to pass a bill that would keep the government open, and the White House is not going to come to his rescue, reporter Jennifer Haberkorn tells Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels. Plus, a preview of Attorney General Merrick Garland’s comments to the House Judiciary Committee. That, and all of the news you need to know today.

With a number of other world leaders skipping the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week, President Joe Biden has the opportunity to take the spotlight. He is expected to push a message of democracy and encourage more funding for humanitarian aid for Ukraine. But, as senior foreign correspondent Nahal Toosi tells Playbook co-author Rachael Bade, there is plenty more to keep an eye on at UNGA. Plus, all the latest on the spending showdown tearing House Republicans apart. 

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade interviews Senior Foreign Correspondent Nahal Toosi.

House Republicans spent the weekend trying to find common ground on a stopgap spending bill that could unite them against Democrats ahead of a potential government shutdown on Oct. 1. But with multiple Republican lawmakers already voicing their opposition, its chances of passing the House are already fading. Plus, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visits Capitol Hill.

At midnight, the UAW’s roughly 150,000 members went on strike against General Motors, Ford and Stellantis — the first time ever that the union has targeted all three companies simultaneously in a labor action that threatens to rattle national politics. Though the more immediate issues at play are higher wages wages and better benefits, the broader implications for President Joe Biden — who has yet to win the UAW’s endorsement — and for the 2024 electoral map are undeniable. Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton sits down with E&E White House reporter Scott Waldman for the whole story. That, and the latest from Capitol Hill and Hunter Biden’s legal saga, on this morning’s Playbook Daily Briefing.

Playbook Deputy Editor Zack Stanton interviews E&E White House reporter Scott Waldman.

Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerburg and other of heavy hitters from the tech world joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer last night for a closed-door meeting about the future of artificial intelligence — and what the government should do about it. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with Politico Tech host Steven Overly. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews Politico Tech host Steven Overly.

Mere hours into the first day members of the House convened after August recess, Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced he would be opening an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. At the center of the investigation are claims that the overseas business dealings of Biden’s son Hunter influenced his political agenda. But, as Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, McCarthy must accomplish a few key tasks before take-off; namely, he must rally his party for enough votes to make it happen.

House Republicans are supposed to be taking up (and are expected to pass) a right-wing defense funding bill this week. But, head butting within the party over spending may throw a wrench in that plan. As Playbook co-author Rachael Bade explains, the vitriol is starting to get messy and spill over onto social media

When the House reconvenes after August recess tomorrow, Speaker Kevin McCarthy will be greeted in the Capitol by unhappy people, many of whom are members of his own party. McCarthy must navigate conservatives who feel the he has not delivered on promises the Speaker made when seeking the gavel back in January. Playbook editor Mike DeBonis talks with Playbook co-author Rachael Bade.

As the House returns next week, the relationship between Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell could face its greatest test yet. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade joins deputy editor Zack Stanton to talk through the road ahead, the unique pressures McCarthy faces, and the battery of issues that threaten to put the House and Senate GOP on very different pages.

Deputy Editor Zack Stanton interviews Playbook co-author Rachael Bade.

Today, President Joe Biden heads to New Delhi for the G-20 summit. The subtext of the trip? Convince countries that the U.S. is a better bet than China. That’s a complicates sales pitch, but could be coming at exactly the right time. National security reporter Alex Ward joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss the potential for a historic breakthrough at the meeting — and what success looks like from the White House’s perspective.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels interviews national security reporter Alex Ward.

Mitch McConnell is moving as fast as he can to get beyond questions about whether his health will hurt his ability to lead Senate Republicans. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with Senate reporter Ursula Perano. Plus, Jim Messina on why Democrats need to take a third-party threat seriously and what songs the 2024 Republican presidential candidates are listening to.

A new book dropping today offers a rare inside look at Biden’s first two years in office. Franklin Foer’s “The Last Politician” offers in-depth insights into topics such as the president’s approaches to foreign policy and opinion of reproductive rights. Plus, fresh off the holiday weekend, a fight is brewing over fentanyl; and some Republicans are still pushing for an impeachment inquiry. Ryan Lizza breaks down the news you need to know today.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton talks with senior columnist and politics bureau chief Jonathan Martin about this week in politics and his new column on why you should be paying attention to Virginia, where Sen. Mark Warner is sounding the alarm about the Virginia legislative elections — which Gov. Glenn Youngkin hopes to use to catapult himself into the national conversation.

Playbook Deputy Editor Zack Stanton talks with Senior Columnist and Politics Bureau Chief Jonathan Martin.

One story looms above all others today: the first Republican debate. (Although a close second is Donald Trump, who is expected to surrender to law enforcement in Georgia later today, after giving a bizarre interview to Tucker Carlson that aired last night.) The Playbook team got together for a post-debate call to talk it all through.

We’re just a few hours away from the start of the first presidential debate of the 2024 cycle, and the event is already mired in controversy. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through everything you need to know about the main event, and then sits down with RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel to talk about the sideshows.

The debate stage is set. Late last night, the RNC announced that eight candidates will be participating in the first presidential debate of the 2024 cycle on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, the debate’s most notably absent figure — Donald Trump — announces when he will surrender to an Atlanta court on Thursday. Reporter Zach Montellaro walks Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels through the debate maneuvering in the GOP and the opaque process that frustrated a number of Republican hopefuls.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with reporter Zach Montellaro.

Vice President Kamala Harris’ political future — and quite possibly the success of the Democratic ticket in 2024 — hinges on a simple question: In modern-day D.C., is it possible to make a second impression? She recently sat down with Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to discuss how her job has changed, what people get wrong about her public profile, and what many insiders see as a major shift in her comfort in recent months. That, plus, a look ahead to a busy week for Donald Trump — and for the GOP presidential candidates he won’t be joining on the debate stage.

As Republicans gear up for the big debate in Milwaukee, further west, California Gov. Gavin Newsom injects himself into the debates raging in San Francisco. The city’s myriad challenges — from culture war topics to substance abuse to unaffordable housing to rampant crime — not only pose governing problems, but political ones as the city reemerges as a Republican punching bag. Deputy editor Zack Stanton talks with California Bureau Chief Christopher Cadelago on how Newsom plans to navigate it. All that and the news you need to know today.

Deputy Editor Zack Stanton interviews California Bureau Chief Christopher Cadelago.

Six months into her presidential campaign, Nikki Haley is mired in the single digits and needs a breakout moment. Could next week’s presidential debate offer it? Playbook co-author Rachael Bade joined the former South Carolina governor at the Iowa State Fair to talk through the benefits and drawbacks of being the sole woman in the crowded GOP primary race, what she thinks of her campaign’s trajectory — and Haley cleared the air about the assumptions others make about her candidacy.

Thus far, President Joe Biden’s administration has not used Donald Trump’s multiple indictments as fodder for insult. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels and White House Bureau Chief Jonathan Lemire explore what it will take for the White House to change their approach. Plus, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is unhappy with the situation at the Southern border, and Mark Meadows wants his trial out of Georgia. All that, and the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with White House Bureau Chief Jonathan Lemire.

On Monday night, a Georgia grand jury delivered a 98-page indictment against Donald Trump and many of his close allies on charges of interfering with the 2020 election. Legal Affairs reporter Kyle Cheney joins Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels to explore the most wide-ranging indictment against the former president yet.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with reporter Kyle Cheney.

Republican Minority Leader McConnell says he is working to preserve the United States’ identity as a strong, visible presence internationally and within NATO. But with Donald Trump now the de facto party leader, that’s no longer a popular position to take. The senator’s declining health only adds further complication to his endeavors. Host Ryan Lizza talks with Politics Bureau Chief Jonathan Martin about his newest piece about McConnell’s political endgame.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza talks with Senior Columnist and Politics Bureau Chief Jonathan Martin.

Nearly every Republican presidential hopeful will be in Des Moines for the Iowa State Fair this weekend. And so will our own Rachael Bade. She joins Ryan to discuss the scene at Ron DeSantis, Mike Pence and Doug Burgum’s campaign stops. That, plus what (and who) we can expect to make headlines in the days ahead.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza talks with reporter Rachael Bade.

As abortion rights advocates celebrate a major win in Ohio, eyes are turning to other purple-to-red states as Democrats potentially see a path to juice 2024 turnout in some of the most competitive areas of the country. Plus, as Republican presidential hopefuls flock to Des Moines for the Iowa State Fair, former President Donald Trump is bringing an entourage hand-picked to troll Ron DeSantis. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Eight candidates – including, most recently, former Vice President Mike Pence – have qualified for the first GOP Presidential Debate. Will Donald Trump take the stage? Plus, a victory for proponents of abortion rights in Ohio yesterday, and another staffing shakeup for the DeSantis campaign. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Today voters in Ohio decide the fate of Issue 1, an amendment that would make it significantly harder to alter the state’s constitution. But the stakes are broader: If passed, it would immediately jeopardize efforts to enshrine abortion rights into state law. Plus, Donald Trump’s legal team is arguing that a protective order proposed by DOJ special counsel Jack Smith would be an infringement on Trump’s free speech rights.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with campaigns reporter Madison Fernandez about the implications of the Ohio special election.

D.C. District Judge Tanya Chutkan has given Donald Trump until 5 p.m. today to respond to a protective order in his Washington, D.C., criminal case. Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza explains how this event will give important clues about how the former president’s prosecution will unfold in D.C., and when his trial may actually happen.

Donald Trump’s third arraignment may be dominating chyrons nationwide this week, but in California, he and his allies are working to ensure that he can secure every last GOP delegate. Rivals like Ken Cuccinelli are even claiming that the Trump camp is “looking to rig the system in their favor.”

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade digs into her exclusive reporting.

With President Joe Biden still at the beach and Congress in August recess, there’s one gigantic story dominating the headlines today: Donald Trump’s expected arraignment in Washington D.C. following his indictment this week stemming from his attempts to overturn the 2020 election.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza talks with senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein about what to expect from this latest arraignment.

The case filed Tuesday by special counsel Jack Smith is the first attempt to hold Trump criminally accountable in a court of law for his actions between Election Day 2020 and Jan. 6, 2021 — actions which, prosecutors allege amounted to four federal felonies. Ryan Lizza quizzes legal affairs reporter Kyle Cheney about what he learned about yesterday’s historic grand jury indictments.

Midnight marked the mid-year FEC filing deadline for PACs and parties. Rachael Bade and data reporter Jessica Piper have a first look at the donations and spending habits of former President Donald Trump’s campaign. Plus, President Biden has decided to keep U.S. Space Command in Colorado, igniting tensions among Senate Republicans. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

As Congress begins its summer recess, the biggest questions for the remainder of 2023 are coming into focus: Will Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema run for reelection? How will NRSC Chairman Steve Daines get his candidates through contentious primaries – and in so doing, avoid another 2022-style disappointment for Republicans? And can Joe Biden’s cabinet sell “Bidenomics” to voters? Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels on what’s next along all these fronts.

Special counsel Jack Smith introduced three new felony charges against former President Donald Trump — including a blockbuster claim that he asked an employee to delete security camera footage sought by investigators. Kyle Cheney joins Ryan Lizza to explain what it means for the case — and what indictments we can expect next. Plus, the Senate passed its annual NDAA defense bill yesterday — check out Playbook Deep Dive this morning where Ryan nerds out with Arnold Punaro, a retired general with the U.S. Marine Corps, on the politics and policy of the bill.

Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell offered some good news on Wednesday: The Fed’s staff believes the U.S. will avoid a recession in 2023. Plus, so much for Ron DeSantis's campaign reset - check out Playbook this morning where Eugene charts some paths forward. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with economics reporter Victoria Guida.

The campaign of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis cut more than a third of its staff on Tuesday in another move billed as a 'reset.' Plus, Speaker Kevin McCarthy walks back comments he made on Fox News about a possible Biden impeachment. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade talks with national political reporter Alex Isenstadt.

Donald Trump’s presidential race rivals are hesitating to leverage his impeding January 6 indictment, treating it like a new primary third rail. In a rare statement, Kevin McCarthy alludes to a possible impeachment inquiry for Biden. Plus, the most surprising guests at Bohemian Grove this year. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza breaks it all down.

Over the weekend, Tim Scott received the latest in a series of polls that show him in third place in some key early states. The candidate he’s closing the distance with: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade examines how other GOP campaigns are reacting to Sen. Scott’s surge, and what they're doing to stunt his momentum.

The scoop about Kevin McCarthy’s promise to Donald Trump about an impeachment expungement vote continues to rock Capitol Hill. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema may be dashing confirmation hopes for Biden Labor Secretary nominee Julie Su. Plus, Ron DeSantis is pivoting his campaign strategy to stay in the game. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton chats with co-author Rachael Bade about her ongoing reporting.

After Kevin McCarthy suggested that Donald Trump may not be the strongest 2024 candidate, the former president fumed. So the speaker placated him with a promise: the House would vote expunge his impeachments before the August recess. That bill is now coming due, posing a major dilemma for the McCarthy, as many moderate Republicans want nothing to do with such a vote and fear electoral backlash. Plus, Sen. Lindsey Graham may soon have to guard his back against a Norman — Rep. Ralph Norman, that is. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade dishes on her inside scoops.

Yesterday, Donald Trump announced that he expects to be indicted by special counsel Jack Smith’s Jan. 6 grand jury, citing a new “target letter” he received from investigators. Joining Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss the implications, including when such an indictment may come, is Kyle Cheney, POLITICO’s senior legal affairs and Jan. 6 reporter.

After largely eschewing mainstream media for months, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has a sit-down interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper this afternoon. All that, and everything else you need to know today.

It’s not often that we in Washington obsess over a policy issue that everyday voters are following closely as well. That changes this week, as Congress hits the gas on legislation to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration — Playbook co-author Rachael Bade talks with transportation reporter Alex Daugherty about everything you need to know.

Late last night, in a slight surprise, the House punted on the National Defense Authorization Act, the annual defense policy bill; SAG-AFTRA goes on strike today and Sally Goldenberg previews the Family Leadership Summit, a gathering of evangelical Christians that most of the Republican presidential candidates will be at, except for Donald Trump. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook deputy editor Zack Stanton talks with national political correspondent Sally Goldenberg.

President Biden’s NATO visit is wrapping up on a high note, as Turkey ends its blockade of Sweden’s bid for membership. Meanwhile, Biden has major domestic momentum as new economic numbers put inflation at its lowest rate since March 2021 — igniting hopes that the economy has finally turned the corner. Even so, it may be too soon for him to declare victory. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with White House reporter Adam Cancryn.

For the first time in more than 100 years, the Marine Corps has no Senate-confirmed commandant, thanks to Sen. Tommy Tuberville's blockade of hundreds of senior military appointments. At issue is the Pentagon’s new policy of reimbursing troops and their families should they have to travel to receive an abortion. Joe Gould, anchor of POLITICO’s Morning Defense newsletter, joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade to discuss what plays, if any, Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell have available to resolve this standoff. 

The National Defense Authorization Act and its 1,500 amendments are headed to the House Rules Committee today, but Kevin McCarthy can’t exhale just yet. Proposals regarding abortion, diversity and medical treatment for transgender troops are worrying Democrats. Plus, Turkey shocks the world by advancing Sweden’s NATO bid. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with senior defense reporter Connor O’Brien.

House Republicans are ready to wield a new tool in their quest to punish Biden Cabinet officials. The Holman Rule could allow the House to eliminate salaries of Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray or other GOP targets. But there are already some skeptics. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks down her reporting.

President Joe Biden is about to embark on his latest tour of Europe, with stops visiting Britain’s King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. But what will he face when he arrives at the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania? Also, Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy is hesitating to endorse one of his biggest supporters: Donald Trump. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza talks with national security reporter Alex Ward.

We've seen Republican voters rally around former president Donald Trump following his recent indictments. But his second-quarter fundraising haul of $35 million is really causing jaws to drop. Plus, "Bidenomics" is hitting the road in South Carolina. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with national political reporter Alex Isenstadt.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade walks through the buzziest stories of the morning, including Rep. Adam Schiff’s gigantic new fundraising numbers, the discovery of cocaine in the White House and President Biden’s stumping on the economy.

President Joe Biden gave a live interview on Thursday. Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels and White House reporter Myah Ward discuss the major takeaways. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Whether it’s affirmative action, LGBTQ rights or student loan forgiveness, we’re awaiting a cascade of opinions from the Supreme Court that have the potential to remake American life — as well as the contours of the political battlefield. 

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein.

Former President Donald Trump and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy have had one of the most powerful relationships in Washington. So when McCarthy went on CNBC and didn't provide a full-throated endorsement that Trump was the strongest Republican candidate, it got a lot of tongues wagging, especially in Trump world. Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks down her reporting.

Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis are racing to appeal to New Hampshire voters with full slates of campaign events today. Plus, more developments in the Trump documents case and political strategist Doug Sosnik’s latest must-read strategy memo. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

It’s going to be a quiet week on the Hill but a frenzied one on the campaign trail, where 2024’s GOP hopefuls will be hitting the donor circuit in advance of Friday’s quarterly fundraising deadline. Meanwhile, Ron DeSantis has a new setback in New Hampshire. Lisa Kashinsky, author of POLITICO’s Massachusetts Playbook, joins Playbook co-author Rachael Bade with more. 

As President Joe Biden fetes Indian PM Narendra Modi in D.C., he faces uncomfortable questions about his rhetoric putting idealism at the heart of American foreign policy — and what happens when that approach runs head-on into the buzzsaw of realpolitik.

Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza talks with national security reporter Alex Ward.

Hunter Biden, President Joe Biden’s son, struck a plea bargain with the Department of Justice over a five-year investigation into tax fraud and illegal firearms possession. It’s a relief for President Biden, but still an event that’s been used politically by his opponents. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Eugene Daniels talks with White House reporter Eli Stokols.

All eyes are on the 2024 presidential election, but Congress is heating up as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy contends with a growing conservative uprising and tough times for moderates. Meanwhile, Democrats are analyzing and looking to capitalize on the situation. All that, and the rest of the news you need to know today.

Playbook co-author Rachael Bade breaks down her reporting.

Yesterday the Republican presidential primary got a new contender: the 45-year-old mayor of Miami: Francis Suarez. Hear excerpts of Playbook co-author Ryan Lizza's interview with him as he tries to make his case.