The Playbook Podcast

Trump’s cabinet shakeup continues, with Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer out — the third high-level exit in just weeks. Dasha and Jack break down what’s driving the firings, why allies are getting nervous, and who could be next. Plus, Trump’s pick for Fed chair faces a high-stakes confirmation hearing under intense scrutiny, and voters in Virginia head to the polls in a closely watched redistricting fight that could shape the midterms.

JD Vance returns to Pakistan for another round of Iran talks as a fragile ceasefire nears its deadline. Gas prices may have peaked — but relief isn’t coming anytime soon. And in Washington, top GOP operatives are huddling to prepare for a challenging midterm map.

Jack Blanchard and Dasha Burns break down the key developments driving the day.

California’s governor's race just got a major shakeup.

Democrat Eric Swalwell dropped out amid sexual assault and misconduct allegations, and now the field is wide open ahead of the June 2 primary. So where does that leave Republican candidate and former Fox News host Steve Hilton – backed by Trump and rising in the polls? Does the GOP have a shot at turning California red?

Dasha Burns sat down with Hilton to talk about the state of the race, the impact of Trump's endorsement, and where he thinks Democratic leadership is coming up short.

President Donald Trump’s push to promote his affordability agenda is colliding with economic anxiety at home and a war abroad that’s driving up costs. Meanwhile, Trump heads to Arizona to rally younger supporters amid growing skepticism over the Iran conflict. POLITICO's Megan Messerly and Eli Stokols break down the messaging challenge, the political stakes ahead of the midterms and what to watch next.

Trump heads to Las Vegas to sell his tax agenda, but Republicans worry his message isn’t breaking through — and that could spell trouble for the midterms. Meanwhile, a striking Senate vote and a New Jersey special election underscore a major shift inside the Democratic Party on Israel, especially among younger voters. RFK Jr. returns to Capitol Hill for a marathon stretch of hearings as speculation swirls about his political future. And yes — there’s a bizarre new chapter in RFK Jr. lore that has everyone talking.