Trump views tariffs as a tool to make the country rich and believes they can solve economic issues, even suggesting they could replace income taxes.
Tariffs raise the prices of goods, forcing consumers to either pay more or buy less, effectively acting as a tax on consumers.
Many of Trump's voters are concerned about high prices due to inflation. If tariffs lead to increased prices on a range of goods within the first quarter of his second term, it could quickly turn his voters against him.
The Senate, particularly Mitch McConnell, appears less afraid of Trump post-election and may resist picks like Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard due to their lack of qualifications or controversial views.
Kash Patel has been vocal about retribution against journalists and the deep state, which is concerning given his potential influence over powerful agencies like the CIA and FBI.
The DNC chairmanship is less relevant now due to the privatization of party funding and the lack of old smoke-filled back rooms. Leadership roles like the DCCC and DSCC are more critical for campaign strategy.
Gavin Newsom, Josh Shapiro, and potentially Kamala Harris are showing early signs of gearing up for the 2028 race, with Harris having the option to run for governor in 2026 instead.
The new calendar is designed to better integrate African-American voters and white liberals, potentially favoring candidates who can appeal to both groups.
Happy Hacksgiving, Hackeroos! As Axe bastes his turkey to perfection, Murphy and Heilemann carved out time this morning to talk about the true meaning of Thanksgiving—tariffs (the world’s most romantic word), moronomics, and the latest recipe for chaos courtesy of Trump’s cabinet picks. Plus, the stuffing-filled scrum for DNC leadership.
We’re so grateful for all of you, our faithful listeners—without you, we’d just be a bunch of turkeys talking into the void.