The Playbook Podcast

Thomas Massie is ousted in Kentucky, and more Trump-backed candidates from Alabama to Georgia take the win. Playbook’s Jack Blanchard and Adam Wren discuss whether Trump’s grip can last through the midterms

Plus, Democrats had a big night in Pennsylvania — and somehow, everyone in DC is already talking about 2028.

It's primary day across six states. Playbook’s Jack Blanchard and Megan Messerly dive into everything to watch — from a potential runoff in Alabama to the Republican scramble to take on Jon Ossoff in Georgia. Plus, acting AG Todd Blanche heads to the Hill to defend the DOJ's controversial new "anti-weaponization" fund, and JD Vance steps into the White House briefing room with big shoes to fill after Marco Rubio's press debut. And a sneak peek of Megan’s reporting on Rubio versus Vance.

It's the final day of campaigning in Kentucky's primary, where more than $30 million has been spent. Thomas Massie is trying to keep his seat but will his outspokeness about Trump hurt him? Then, Cuba could be next on Trump’s foreign policy list. And 2028 is so far yet so close, as J.D. Vance is in Kansas City for more than just midterm campaigning.

Dasha sits down with Reza Pahlavi, the exiled former crown prince of Iran, for a live taping of “The Conversation” at POLITICO’s Security Summit. 

In a wide-ranging interview, Pahlavi discusses the latest on the war in Iran, whether diplomacy with Tehran is possible and the future of the Iranian opposition movement. 

Have a question for our anniversary special? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

New polling shows voters actually want the gerrymandering wars — and it has big implications for 2026. Plus, ground beef is nearing $7 a pound and the White House just quietly shelved its plan to fix it. And Trump comes back from China — so why did Taiwan vanish from the official summit readout?