With the American election looming, the world is at the cusp of a new political era. Whether you’re a politics buff or you’re dipping your toe in the arena for the very first time, it’s a great time to learn more about the impact of the upcoming ballots. Whether you fancy going deep on Trump, speculating over the next VP, delving into the history of the last election, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explore the podcasts that can get you up to speed in the most entertaining and informative ways, in the lead-up to the historic 2024 US elections.
Podcasts have naturally emerged as an effective way to explore new areas and expand your knowledge, given that 60% of people seek podcasts to educate themselves. Furthermore, two out of three podcast listeners give them their whole attention (Spotify).
Politics and news is the second most popular podcast genre amongst those who listen to podcasts in Australia, second only to music (YouGov 2023). With a range of interviews, debates, and thought-provoking monologues, political podcasts offer insights that can shape opinions and drive deep introspection like no other medium.
For those new to politics:
This podcast does an excellent job of touching on larger issues, while also breaking things down without getting too technical. Every weekday, NPR's best political reporters are there to explain the big news coming out of Washington and the campaign trail. They don't just tell you what happened. They tell you why it matters. Every afternoon.
There isn't a Republican presidential nominee yet, but for most Republicans, it's former president Donald Trump. But, who will he pick as his running mate? This podcast breaks down what makes a good VP candidate, and who might be on the list.
For the veteran:
State of the Union is a mix of political analysis and predictive economics covering Washington, the US, and the world. Hosted by CNN's Jake Tapper and Dana Bash. This podcast is great for up-to-date, unbiased and intelligent information.
In a recent episode, Dana speaks with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to discuss congress blocking aid to Ukraine, Putin’s treatment of Navalny and the news that negotiators have agreed an outline of Israel-Hamas hostage deal.
Then, Governor of Texas Greg Abbott dismisses speculation about Trump VP pick, weighs in on Alabama IVF ruling and is pressed on the border crisis.
Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer talks about the potential Biden protest in Michigan, says that the Michigan primary is a ‘very high stakes moment’ and the IVF ruling shows that reproductive rights ‘still very much at risk’ if Trump wins.
The background story:
In a post-2016 America, where the specter of election interference looms like a poltergeist over American democracy, Dark Shining Moment is not just another podcast – it’s a harrowing tale of digital deception unraveled by a team of investigative journalists and producers. Chris Zappone narrates this chilling saga, connecting the dots between the 2016 election and the present, elucidating how a foreign power manipulated the American digital frontier – a treachery that continues to have deep reverberations.
Through meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and groundbreaking interviews, Dark Shining Movement plunges listeners into the labyrinthic world of cyberwarfare and the insidious ways misinformation distorts the democratic process. This podcast is not for the faint-hearted, but for those who seek to understand the genesis of modern political turmoil. First episode dropping soon - watch this space for more details.
For the Trump download:
A podcast from Slate chronicling Donald Trump’s rise to the presidency and his administration. Journalists Virginia Heffernan and León Krauze talk to reporters, historians, psychiatrists, and other experts to help explain who this man is and why this is happening, right now, in the United States of America.
Key Episode: Don’t Listen to the Lizard People
A status check on current conspiracy theories. Virginia Heffernan talks to cyberwarfare expert Molly McKew, author of the Great Power newsletter, about the Russian SolarWinds attacks, digital spies, 5G, and other conspiracy theories.
The all-encompassing guide:
Your guide to understanding the 2024 election. Especially the messy parts. From the NY Times. Host Astead W. Herndon talks to the people whose decisions will make the difference. The Run-Up will build on the political storytelling and narrative news pioneered by The Daily to offer listeners the most complete picture of American politics right now.
Key Episode: How Political Polls Really Work
The Run Up listeners have lots of questions about polling. Questions such as: Is it still relevant? How does it work? How do you get a reliable sample when people don’t answer the phone?
At this point in a usual primary season, still weeks away from Super Tuesday, most of the attention of polling would be on who might capture the nomination.
But this year, with the race all but set, we’re anticipating nine months of polling on two men we already know very well.
Today, to prepare for that future and to answer the many questions on the subject, the podcast goes behind the scenes with the New York Times polling team. And Nate Cohn, our chief political analyst, introduces us to “double haters” and other swingy voters he thinks will decide 2024.
In the vast array of political podcasts, these recommendations serve as your compass, guiding you through the nuanced narratives and diverse perspectives that define the campaign trail. To stay on top of the evolving political narrative and to anticipate the currents that will guide the election, these top-rated podcasts offer a roadmap suitable for anyone, ranging from those who want to learn more, to the well-informed voter. For more analysis, insights, and commentary on the growing podcast industry, sign up to our newsletter or feel free to contact us anytime.