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WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch

From the award-winning opinion pages of The Wall Street Journal, Paul Gigot, Kim Strassel, Bill McGurn and Kyle Peterson discuss the latest from Washington. Get critical perspective and the analysis you need on developments from the nation’s capital. Join them every weekday. Send your feedback to [email protected]

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  1. 600

    Trump's USPS Plan for Mail Ballots Loses at the Supreme Court

    The Justices won't revive Trump's proposal for the U.S. Postal Service to regulate ballots, as border czar Tom Homan says there's no plan to send ICE to the polls. Plus, Fed Chair Kevin Warsh weighs interest rates, after a worrying inflation report. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  2. 599

    Will an AI Slowdown Calm Fears About its Development?

    The CEOs of companies building artificial intelligence call for a developmental slowdown and regulation, while Donald Trump says China will win if the U.S. slows down.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. 598

    Lessons Learned and Changes Made 25 Years After 9/11

    Dan Henninger, Bill McGurn and Paul Gigot recall their experience on 9/11 and whether the war on terror succeeded. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  4. 597

    ‘In the War Room’ After Six Months of Conflict with Iran

    Iran still poses a threat to oil products flowing through the Strait of Hormuz, but where does the U.S.-Israel alliance stand after October 7? Elliot Kaufman joins Paul Gigot to discuss the current stalemate and his new book, “In the War Room.”  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  5. 596

    A Trump Plan to Pay Stay-at-Home-Moms?

    Press reports suggest the Trump Administration is drafting a proposal to spend federal welfare dollars on stay-at-home parents. Plus, a new report from the American Enterprise Institute reveals what teachers are studying in graduate school. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  6. 595

    The GOP's Midterm Convention / Ex-Aides Turn On Sen. John Fetterman

    Republicans prepare to gather in Dallas, amid concerns of a possible blue wave in November, with Senate seats at risk in Iowa, Alaska, and maybe Texas, where James Talarico leads Ken Paxton. Plus, what to make of leaks that Fetterman has checked out? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. 594

    Make Hollywood Great Again? Donald Trump Wants Tax Subsidies for Movie Making

    After meeting with Jon Voight, President Trump calls on Congress to pass film "incentives" to keep jobs in California. Plus, the number of people on food stamps has dipped by nearly six million, but Democrats are pushing to weaken the GOP's reforms. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  8. 593

    Donald Trump’s Venezuela Oil Deal and Concerns About Bonds

    Donald Trump's Venezuela oil deal comes into clearer focus, but what does it mean for American policy in Latin America? Plus, should Americans worry about rising interest rates as bond yields fall? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  9. 592

    Dan Driscoll and the Pentagon's Leadership Churn

    What does the Army secretary's resignation mean for the war in Iran and the Trump agenda? Meanwhile, House Democrats vow to punish two members who helped pass GOP bills. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  10. 591

    Donald Trump's Case for Building More Data Centers: Taxes, Jobs and Chinese AI

    As midterm candidates from both parties try to make data centers a political bogeyman, what's the reality of their water and electricity use, and can the U.S. risk a slowdown that hands China a technological edge in artificial intelligence? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  11. 590

    A New Exchange of Fire Between the U.S. and Iran

    Iran's leaders worry about the U.S. economic squeeze as the United States and Iran trade fire in the Persian Gulf region. Plus, faculty at the University of North Carolina fail to undermine the school’s new School of Civic Life and Leadership. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  12. 589

    Mail Ballots, the USPS, and the Supreme Court / Meta's Settlement on Youth Mental Health

    The Justices lift a hold on President Trump's effort to make the postal service a ballot regulator, but the case is only starting. Plus, Meta settles a bellwether trial for $18 billion, plus changes such as time limits for teens on Instagram.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  13. 588

    Inside WSJ Opinion's 'The Path to Zero' Documentary on the Chaotic Retreat From Afghanistan

    Paul Gigot talks with producer Michael Pack about the Journal's new documentary looking back on the August 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, through the stories of the soldiers and diplomats who saw it.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  14. 587

    Paul Ryan's Big Idea to Revamp American Welfare

    Paul Ryan's Big Idea to Revamp American Welfare The former Speaker of the House joins Potomac Watch to discuss new state experiments to help more Americans move off of food stamps and Medicaid.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  15. 586

    Abdul El-Sayed Keeps Driving Left / Linda McMahon's College Call to Action

    GOP voters in South Carolina pick Darline Graham or Ralph Norman; Michigan's El-Sayed won't pivot; and Texas and Iowa Senate seats are now tossups. Plus, Education Secretary McMahon pushes universities on admissions, tuition and diversity of mind.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  16. 585

    Trump Escalates His Trade War With Canada and His Sanctions War with Iran

    The President threatens a 50% tariff on cars and parts from Canada, while the U.S. Treasury launches 'Operation Economic Outcast' against Iran.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  17. 584

    Does Anyone Understand America’s Taiwan Policy?

    South Carolina Senate hopeful Darline Graham flubs a question about Taiwan, but are other politicians just as confused about this vital national security issue? Plus, the Walt Disney Company's ABC sues the FCC on First Amendment grounds. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  18. 583

    Trump Pauses His 50% Canada Tariffs / The West Coast Refuels Under a Jones Act Waiver

    President Trump holds off taxing more imports, including hockey sticks and building materials, saying an agreement is near. But what about his USMCA trade deal? Plus, he extends a Jones Act waiver, letting U.S. fuel be shipped freely to California. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  19. 582

    A Socialist Senator from Florida?

    State legislator Angie Nixon manages a surprise victory in Florida's Democratic Senate primary, but is a candidate who supports a 5% annual wealth tax a gift to Republicans in the state? Meanwhile, President Trump pulls back on U.S. military exercises with South Korea and says he can manage U.S. interests with his own personal relationship with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  20. 581

    The Florida Race to Succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis, and Alaska's Latest Ranked-Choice Fiasco

    Byron Donalds leads for the Republican nomination, while David Jolly is the Democratic favorite. Meantime, socialist candidates are popping up in Florida, too. Plus, Alaska’s race for Senate has two men named Dan Sullivan, and that's only the start.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  21. 580

    The Military Needs Funds, But Will the Bills Get Paid?

    Congress worries about military readiness in the Middle East, but are Democrats willing to approve the funds to fix the problem? Plus, social media companies get the Big Tobacco treatment in a new round of lawsuits.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  22. 579

    New York City Takes on Amazon and Second Homeowners

    New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani announces support for the Delivery Protection Act, to force Amazon to hire its own drivers in the Big Apple. Plus, a legal challenge claiming a botched rollout temporarily halts the mayor’s pied-a-terre tax. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  23. 578

    Duke Law Admissions, Haverford's Legal Settlement, and Michigan's Grading Policy

    The Justice Department accuses Duke Law of illegal race preferences and flouting the Supreme Court. Haverford College settles claims of a hostile environment for Jewish students. And the University of Michigan ends grades for first-semester freshmen.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  24. 577

    The Badger State Says No to Socialism

    Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong loses her bid to be the Democratic candidate for governor in Wisconsin, but only by a few thousand votes. What will the Democratic Party learn from her defeat, and is Milwaukee county executive David Crowley really a "moderate"? Plus, Darlene Graham heads to a run-off in South Carolina to hold her late brother's Senate seat. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  25. 576

    Do Democrats Want Socialist Francesca Hong as Wisconsin's Next Governor?

    Francesca Hong, a 37-year-old DSA member who wants public grocery stores, is the Democratic favorite, but is she electable against Republican Tom Tiffany? Plus, Darline Graham has GOP competition for her late brother Lindsey's seat in South Carolina. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  26. 575

    A Pause on the Gaza Peace Plan?

    Benjamin Netanyahu rejects the next steps in Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza, while Iran insists on charging tolls in the Strait of Hormuz. Plus, Vladimir Putin tests the U.S. and Europe with a spate of drone incursions into NATO territory. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  27. 574

    A Senate Pileup Before Summer Recess / The FDA Approves an mRNA Flu Vaccine

    Senators race to handle Todd Blanche’s confirmation as Attorney General, the late Lindsey Graham's Russia sanctions bill, a deal to fund the government, and more. Plus, the FDA clears Replimune's melanoma drug and Moderna's mRNA influenza shot. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  28. 573

    Abdul El-Sayed Narrowly Wins Michigan Democrats. Can He Pivot to November?

    The insurgent progressive sneaks past Rep. Haley Stevens, amid big polling error, prompting new debate on socialism and the future of the Democratic Party. But his appeal beyond his base remains untested, and GOP nominee Mike Rogers is battle tested. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  29. 572

    Trump Fans Another Deal with Iran

    President Trump says the Strait of Hormuz will open soon, but is his purported deal a capitulation that would allow Iran to control a vital waterway? Kate B. Odell interviews Rear Admiral (Ret.) Mark Montgomery about his new book "Axis of Aggressors," and Iran's larger cooperation with China, Russia and North Korea.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  30. 571

    Abdul El-Sayed, Haley Stevens, and the Senate Choice for Michigan Democrats

    The polling frontrunner is El-Sayed, who wants to pass Medicare for All and abolish ICE. Why won't mainstream Democrats, such as Stevens, take on these arguments directly? Plus, do primary voters care about electability? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  31. 570

    Is Another Iran Deal in Sight After Trump Calls Off Another Attack?

    President Trump again decides not to escalate the conflict with Iran, saying the regime now wants to make a deal. Plus, Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche wins the support of key Republican Senators after he promises in writing not to resurrect the anti-weaponization fund.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  32. 569

    The U.S. Hits Iran Again, as the Regime Widens its Aggression

    Donald Trump renews strikes on Iran, after it launches ballistic missiles at U.S. forces, an attack that was thankfully intercepted. Plus, what to make of the leaks that Trump held off a major escalation because of concerns about munition supplies? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  33. 568

    The Economy Slows, as the Fed Keeps Rates Steady

     The economy grows a tepid 1.5% in the second quarter, despite the boom in spending for AI. Plus, the Kevin Warsh Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady for the second meeting in a row.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  34. 567

    Fauci Takes the Fifth on Capitol Hill

    Sen. Rand Paul releases pages of the government scientist's diary from the Covid-19 pandemic, but Fauci refuses to answer questions. Plus, Ukraine's President Zelensky visits Washington, as the Senate moves to put sanctions pressure on Putin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  35. 566

    Donald Trump Pushes to End the Filibuster, as Sen. John Fetterman Defends It

    The President urges the GOP to nuke the Senate's 60-vote rule now, even as Fetterman flips and says Democrats were wrong about the filibuster. Plus Maine nominates Troy Jackson and Michigan's Abdul El-Sayed tries to distance himself from socialism. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  36. 565

    How Progressive Democrats Became Power Players

    Recent primary results show Democratic Socialists and other progressives on the rise heading into the November midterm elections. But can the Democratic establishment do anything to stop a takeover of their party?  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  37. 564

    Trump vs. Thune, New Jersey's 400 Noncitizen Voters, and Congressional Stock Trading

    The White House vents frustration that Sen. John Thune can't pass the SAVE America Act, as New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill says a glitch added 6,600 noncitizens to the voter rolls. Plus, the House passes a bill to curb Congress's stock trading. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  38. 563

    The Houthis Complicate a Possibly Escalating Iran War

    As President Trump surges military forces to the Middle East after nearly two weeks of nightly bombing, the Houthis hit two Saudi Arabian tankers in the Red Sea. Are the U.S. and Iran headed toward greater escalation? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  39. 562

    Mamdani Drops His Threat to Handcuff Bibi

    New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani admits he lacks the legal authority to arrest the Israeli prime minister. But what does the episode say about the Democratic socialist's worldview? Plus, what can the GOP still accomplish this year in Congress? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  40. 561

    JD Vance and Marco Rubio: Who's the Future of the Republican Party?

    Chatter about 2028 picks up, as the Vice President presents a worldview skeptical of free-market economics, including in his book "Communion" and on the Joe Rogan podcast, while the Secretary of State offers the public a different vision. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  41. 560

    The War With Iran Escalates and Andy Burnham Is Britain's Newest PM

    Iran strikes a U.S. base in Jordan, while three more Americans killed brings the total number of U.S. casualties to 17 during the conflict. Plus, who is Andy Burnham, Britain’s newest prime minister and its seventh in 10 years? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  42. 559

    The GOP's Reconciliation 3.0 and Trump's Speech on the SAVE America Act

    As Republicans try for a third reconciliation bill, what's in the House's new $95 billion budget framework? Plus Donald Trump gives a prime-time address on election security, calling for voter ID, citizenship checks, and broad limits on mail ballots. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  43. 558

    Trump Won't Renew His USMCA Trade Deal, as Michigan Gets a New Bridge to Canada

    The White House wants to renegotiate trade terms with Canada and Mexico, creating uncertainty for businesses, including auto makers. Plus, the Gordie Howe Bridge is finally set to open in Detroit, though a crony political intervention was no help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  44. 557

    The Supreme Court Wants a Security Upgrade / Todd Blanche's Confirmation Hearings

    Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan testify about rising security threats, as the Court seeks more money from Congress. Plus, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faces the Senate as he tries to get confirmed to the job permanently.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  45. 556

    Trump Blockades Iran Again, While Saying the U.S. Will Guard Hormuz

    Donald Trump reinstates his naval blockade of Iran and pledges to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, with or without its help. Yet his initial talk of charging a 20% toll confused his message, and if oil prices rise will he make his case to voters?  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  46. 555

    The Legacy of Sen. Lindsey Graham and How Will His Death Affect the Senate?

    Lindsey Graham will be remembered as a man who loved politics and as an advocate for a muscular, principled U.S. foreign policy. Why was he so influential, and what happens in the Senate after losing one of its most consequential members?  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  47. 554

    Michigan’s Democratic Senate Debate / Trump Fires the Election Assistance Commission

    The next test for leftist Democrats is Michigan's race between Abdul El-Sayed and Rep. Haley Stevens. Plus, Alaska's top court puts Dan J. Sullivan back on the ballot, as Donald Trump ousts the leaders of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  48. 553

    Raging Against the Machine, Graham Platner Exits the Maine Senate Race

    Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner announces he’s leaving the race by denying the allegations against him and railing against establishment Democrats. Plus, GOP donor Ken Griffin says he'd support Marco Rubio over JD Vance for president in 2028.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  49. 552

    Trump Calls Iran's Leaders 'Scum' and Says the Ceasefire Is ‘Over’

    Donald Trump now says talks with Iran are a waste of time, since its leaders are liars and cheats, as the U.S. military hits 80 targets in response to the regime's strikes on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. What are Trump's options for next steps? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  50. 551

    Democrats Quit Defending Graham Platner After a New Accusation

    Graham Platner is reconsidering his Senate campaign in Maine after being accused of forcing himself on a woman in 2021. If he drops out soon, Democrats can pick another nominee, but who? And could any replacement beat Republican Sen. Susan Collins? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

From the award-winning opinion pages of The Wall Street Journal, Paul Gigot, Kim Strassel, Bill McGurn and Kyle Peterson discuss the latest from Washington. Get critical perspective and the analysis you need on developments from the nation’s capital. Join them every weekday. Send your feedback to [email protected]

HOSTED BY

Paul Gigot, The Wall Street Journal

Produced by The Wall Street Journal

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch have?

WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch about?

From the award-winning opinion pages of The Wall Street Journal, Paul Gigot, Kim Strassel, Bill McGurn and Kyle Peterson discuss the latest from Washington. Get critical perspective and the analysis you need on developments from the nation’s capital. Join them every weekday. Send your feedback to...

How often does WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch release new episodes?

WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

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You can listen to WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch?

WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch is created and hosted by Paul Gigot, The Wall Street Journal.
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