Checks and Balance from The Economist

Democrats celebrated a string of electoral victories on Tuesday. The winners include a former spy, an ex-Navy helicopter pilot, and a democratic socialist. But finding a unifying message for that big tent may prove difficult in future elections. Will the party over-interpret the results and provide an opening for the GOP?John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and James Bennet.Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

New Yorkers are expected to elect Zohran Mamdani as mayor on November 4th. The Democratic Socialist has promised free childcare, a $30 minimum wage, and a rent freeze for millions. But the New Yorker in the White House has his own plans to “straighten out” America’s biggest city. John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and James Bennet.Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

States across America are breaking norms and rushing to approve new congressional districts. These redrawn maps are likely to help the GOP in the midterm elections. The Supreme Court may also lend the Republicans a hand, as it reconsiders a key section of the Voting Rights Act.  Charlotte Howard hosts with James Bennet and Steve Coll. Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

Donald Trump has brokered a deal in Gaza. The hostages are home and the prisoners released—how can the president ensure a lasting peace? John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and James Bennet.Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

The government shutdown has entered its second week, and neither party appears ready to budge. The Democrats want to extend tax credits for people who use the Affordable Care Act. Political pressure appears to be building on Republicans to acquiesce. Will the politics of healthcare force them to give in? John Prideaux hosts with Stevie Hertz and Steve Coll.Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

The Supreme Court begins a new term next week and it will likely be a good one for President Trump. Since its last term ended, the court has handed him victory in a string of emergency decisions. If the court continues to deliver for the president, he will be even more powerful than he is already. But at what expense?John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and Steve Coll.Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

Americans are souring on Israel. Isolationists in the Republican Party are questioning why Israel has been exempt from America First foreign policy. And Democrats worry about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In all, it’s a troubling sign for Israel and the special bond between the two allies.John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and James Bennet.Runtime: 49.29 Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcastsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

The Democratic Socialists of America are on the brink of capturing real power for the first time. But ahead of Zohran Mamdani’s probable election as New York mayor, the DSA has made its positions more politically palatable to a broader electorate. Is the DSA trying to ready itself for a greater role in American politics, beyond New York?John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and James Bennet.Features a clip from Paramount Pictures. Runtime: 49.51Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcasts Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

The assassination of Charlie Kirk comes after a string of political violence in the United States. The conservative activist was shot dead on Wednesday. Are America’s political leaders willing to try and lower tensions to prevent further violence?John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and James Bennet.Runtime: 35.14Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcasts Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+  For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.