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WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch

by Paul Gigot, The Wall Street Journal

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]

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Jun 13, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. California’s Prop. 40 Wealth Tax and the Economic Stakes

    It's pitched as a one-time 5% retroactive tax on billionaire wealth, but money is already fleeing California in response, which is why Gov. Gavin Newsom backs Prop. 42 to nullify it. Plus, the latest inflation report shows prices up 3.7% in a year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  2. Can Alaska Save the Senate Majority for Republicans?

    Sen. Dan Sullivan says the road to a Republican majority in the Senate goes through Alaska, but can he overcome a challenge from not just Mary Peltola, but also the confusion caused by ranked choice voting and “Decoy Dan” Sullivan? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for...

  3. A Starlink Slowdown in Ukraine?

    Ukraine says its satellite data is being throttled and hamstringing the country’s ability to defend against Vladimir Putin. Plus, NATO’s top military commander unveils a plan to defend the alliance in the event Putin widens his war. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com…

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  4. Could Texas Turn Blue, and South Carolina, Too?

    Sen. Darline Graham avoids another serious debate misstep, but recent polls show her only a point ahead of Democrat Annie Andrews. Plus, the GOP spends millions to try to save Ken Paxton in Texas, as the press publishes more damaging leaked recordings. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company.…

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  5. Donald Trump’s ‘Diesel Deal’ and ‘Energy Ceasefire’

    Donald Trump looks to end the Russia-Ukraine war by making a fuel deal with Vladimir Putin, and calls for an energy ceasefire. Plus, Donald Trump says he may resume a military campaign against the Houthis after the Riyadh airport bombing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  6. Senate Candidates Debate: Medicare for All, Tariffs, Iran and Social Security

    What did voters learn from TV showdowns in Michigan, Maine and Iowa? Republicans are on defense about tariffs, while Democrats struggle to explain abolishing health insurance. Meantime, Abdul El-Sayed won't say Iran is a bigger threat than Israel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  7. Marco Rubio Hails the Accomplishments of Western Civilization

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivers a speech in Greece defending the achievements of Western civilization. Plus, riots break out across France over school conditions, and the country’s gloomy economic outlook looms large over the protests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  8. Can Anduril Help Fix American Shipbuilding?

    The defense technology company is betting it can speed up production of U.S. Navy attack submarines. Christian Brose of Anduril joins Kate B. Odell to unpack the new venture announced this week with the Trump Administration. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for...

  9. Justice Samuel Alito on Originalism, ‘Speechifying’ Colleagues, and Media Caricatures

    In a wide-ranging interview, Justice Alito talks about his legal approach; his decision to sit out the Suncor v. Boulder County climate case; the "very unfair" media portrayals; and threats to the Court that he sees as historically unprecedented. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  10. Sen. Thom Tillis on Losing Friends, Antagonizing Trump, and the GOP’s Future

    As he eyes retirement, the North Carolinian reflects on his biggest regret, tussles with President Trump, worries for Republicans in the midterms, views on JD Vance vs. Marco Rubio, and his new book, “How to Lose Friends and Antagonize Presidents.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  11. Pete Hegseth Says ‘No Beardos, No Weirdos’ / Donald Trump’s AI Safety Accord

    The Defense Secretary's speech to the troops includes a welcome focus on drone warfare, but he also picks cultural fights that drown out his larger message. Plus, Donald Trump gathers tech leaders to sign a “morally binding” pact on controls. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  12. Justice Alito Recuses From the Supreme Court’s Big Climate Case

    Can cities and counties sue oil companies for global climate change? The Supreme Court is starting a new term with case asking that question, Suncor v. Boulder County. Alas, Justice Samuel Alito now says he'll recuse, which could lead to a 4-4 split. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  13. The Democratic ‘Affordability’ Ruse

    Democratic candidates are running on the high cost of living, but their policy plans would drive up the cost of groceries, gas and houses. Plus, do Democrats really regret the excesses of “woke”? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection…

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  14. How Senate Republicans Frame the Midterms / Pope Leo Draws 800,000 in France

    The Senate debates college sports, data centers, and stock trading, as the GOP tries to send a final message to voters before the November election. Plus, Pope Leo gets a warm welcome in secular Paris, as he speaks on AI, assisted suicide, and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  15. An Inside Look at the Drone War in Ukraine

    The war in Ukraine has demonstrated how modern warfare is changing by using data and drones. Jillian Melchior tells Paul Gigot about what she saw at a command center in Ukraine and how the U.S. military can learn from what's happening in Europe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  16. Wrapping Up the Trump-Xi Summit / The President vs. the White House Press Corps

    Donald Trump's meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping result in an extended trade truce, as Beijing presses the U.S. on its stance regarding Taiwan. Meantime, a federal judge halts Trump from banning CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  17. A Standoff of Presidents at the U.N.

    President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered defiant speeches targeting each other at this week's U.N. General Assembly, giving no indication that a peace agreement is near or that Iran intends to reach a deal before the midterm elections. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz...

  18. What’s on Trump’s Agenda With Xi?

    President Trump will host China’s Xi Jinping for meetings and a state dinner at the White House. But behind all the pomp, will he press Beijing to stop supporting Iran? And will Trump hold back weapons from Taiwan? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information…

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  19. Donald Trump's U.N. Speech on Iran and 'Super Intelligence'

    He gets applause for saying Iran can't be allowed nuclear weapons, while dismissing the idea of any global regulator for artificial intelligence. While in New York, he also holds diplomatic meetings, plus a friendly chat with Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  20. Sen. Ted Cruz on Justice Thomas and the Supreme Court’s Future

    Sen. Ted Cruz sits down with Paul Gigot to discuss why the current makeup of the Supreme Court is the best in his lifetime, his thoughts about running for president, and his new book, “Going Further: The Incomparable Clarence Thomas.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com...

  21. The Houthis Seize a Red Sea Chokepoint / Rep. Salazar's Immigration Warning to Trump

    Iranian proxies send oil prices up again, as the Houthis threaten Red Sea shipping, while an Iraqi militia strikes Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline. Plus, a GOP congresswoman in Florida tells Trump in a TV ad that Hispanic supporters feel betrayed. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

  22. Mitch Daniels on Life Lessons from Politics and Academia

    Paul Gigot speaks with former Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels about the future of the Republican party, the changes he made while president of Purdue University, and his new book, “Impatience Is a Virtue.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our…

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  23. The Facts on the Ground in Ukraine

    Kate Odell speaks with Jillian Melchior from Lviv about Russia's new jet-powered drones and how Ukraine is using real-time battlefield pictures to hold the line on the front. Plus, can a bill moving through the U.S. House of Representatives this week put more economic pressure on Vladimir Putin?...

  24. 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...

  25. 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...

  26. 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.

  27. ‘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...

  28. 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...

  29. 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...

  30. 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...

  31. 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...

  32. 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...

  33. 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...

  34. 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...

  35. 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...

  36. 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...

  37. 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...

  38. 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...

  39. 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.

  40. 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…

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  41. 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...

  42. 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....

  43. 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...

  44. 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…

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  45. 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…

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  46. 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...

  47. 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...

  48. 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...

  49. 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...

  50. 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...

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