The Daily DC

After a week of turmoil in the Democratic primary, Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden sharpen their attacks on one another... and sharpen their focus on the key state of Michigan. At the same time, former candidate Elizabeth Warren's critical endorsement is still outstanding and her choice could swing the race. Join CNN Political Director David Chalian, CNN Senior Political Analyst John Avlon, and CNN Politics Reporter Greg Krieg as they analyze where the nomination goes from here.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the tenth debate of the election cycle in the books, it's fair to say not a single candidate held back in South Carolina. Bookended by the two billionaires on stage, former mayor Michael Bloomberg and businessman Tom Steyer, the debate ensued into what was often a scrappy shouting match as candidates tried to land their best punches. This debate, a mere few days before South Carolina's primary, was critical. CNN chief political correspondent Dana Bash joins CNN political director David Chalian for a deep-dive on the fight for the South Carolina primary.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the most important week and a half of the Democratic race: a debate, CNN townhalls, the South Carolina primary, then Super Tuesday. Is Senator Bernie Sanders running away with the nomination or will his rivals successfully paint him as an 'inflexible' ideologue? And can key endorsements revive former Vice President Joe Biden's momentum? CNN political director David Chalian makes sense of the rapidly evolving 2020 race with CNN senior Washington correspondent Jeff Zeleny.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One vote is a foregone conclusion, the other is a toss-up. As the Senate wraps up the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump - an acquittal is expected on Wednesday - voters in Iowa are preparing to cast the first votes of the 2020 cycle. CNN political director David Chalian and CNN senior writer Zach Wolf discuss the intersection of these consequential events. Plus, CNN political reporter Abby Phillip calls in from Des Moines, where she's been following the Buttigieg campaign, to describe the last-minute efforts to impress voters.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump's attorney, Jay Sekulow, presented a 'dire warning' in the final day of opening arguments. He asserted that impeaching Trump would impair "our constitutional republic" for "generations." Now, the focus shifts to the senators as they prepare to submit questions and vote on witnesses. Will new revelations from Ambassador John Bolton's forthcoming book upend the President's glide path toward a speedy acquittal? CNN political director David Chalian discusses the state of play on Capitol Hill with CNN Politics congressional reporter Clare Foran and CNN political commentator Karen Finney.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been a whirlwind 24 hours. Yesterday, explosive new evidence from Lev Parnas - the Ukrainian-American businessman with ties to Rudy Giuliani - suggested that the then-ambassador to Ukraine was under surveillance before she was quickly fired by the Trump administration. Last night, the Democratic presidential contenders rallied around the President's impeachment. And this morning, the House members who'll 'prosecute' the impeachment case were unveiled. CNN senior writer Zach Wolf dives into the latest developments with CNN White House correspondent Stephen Collinson and CNN legal analyst Shan Wu.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Speaker of the House is taking her time. Despite pressure to transmit the articles of impeachment, Nancy Pelosi announced that she'll act "soon" when she's "ready." Meanwhile, President Trump is contemplating who should defend him at the Senate trial. Plus, what potential witness might be the most damaging to the president? CNN political director David Chalian unpacks a day of consequential developments with CNN Politics congressional reporter Alex Rogers and CNN national security & legal analyst Susan Hennessey.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Senate majority leader is unflappable. Despite pressure stemming from both John Bolton's willingness to testify and constant criticism from Democratic leaders, Mitch McConnell is confident he can start the impeachment trial without committing to witnesses. Plus, will Senators from either party cross party lines when it comes to setting the trial rules? CNN political director David Chalian examines what the Senate trial will look like with CNN Chief National Correspondent John King and CNN Legal Analyst Ross Garber.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The impeachment inquiry has moved to a new venue: the House Judiciary Committee. Today, four legal scholars - including a Republican witness - provided historical context and explained the intentions of the Founding Fathers when they enshrined impeachment in the Constitution. Meanwhile, Democrats seemed poised to include obstruction charges in the case against President Trump. CNN political director David Chalian dissects today's hearing with CNN reporter Michael Warren and CNN political commentator Mary Katharine Ham.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

December marks the potential beginning of the end for the impeachment inquiry. With a self-imposed deadline looming, Democrats are likely preparing to draft articles of impeachment. Yet the White House is still resistant to participation. And why won't Republicans stop talking about the debunked theory that Ukraine meddled in the 2016 election? CNN political director David Chalian looks ahead at the next few weeks in impeachment with CNN senior writer and publisher of the Impeachment Watch newsletter Zach Wolf and impeachment expert and national security analyst at The Washington Post, Shane Harris.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gordon Sondland didn't just drop a bombshell, he unleashed an artillery. In testimony that might change the dynamic of the impeachment inquiry, the Ambassador to the European Union confirmed the existence of a quid pro quo, linked President Trump to the effort to pressure Ukraine, and pointed a finger at senior administration officials like Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Vice President Mike Pence. CNN national security analyst Sam Vinograd guest hosts and unpacks a historic day on Capitol Hill with CNN senior political analyst John Avlon. Plus, CNN presidential historian Tim Naftali explains how today's revelations compare to the Watergate saga and why Republicans might finally turn on Trump.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lt. Col. Vindman says he never thought he'd have to testify in front of Congress. But he was the center of attention on Tuesday as he described the Trump-Zelensky phone call as "inappropriate" and "improper." He added "I couldn't believe what I was hearing." His emotional testimony - including a reassurance to his Dad that he was safe from retribution - highlighted a revelatory day as three other witnesses appeared in public hearings. Zachary Wolf, senior writer and publisher of the Impeachment Watch Newsletter, guests hosts and makes sense of a consequential day with CNN national security reporter Kylie Atwood and CNN political and national security analyst David Sanger.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

She says she spent her career fighting corruption - only to be pushed out of office amid allegations of it. Today, former Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch testified before Congress and described a corrupt effort to push her out of office and derail longstanding US policy. What message does her dismissal send the world? And was Russia the beneficiary of the Trump administration's Ukraine dealings? CNN national security analyst Sam Vinograd is our guest host and breaks down today's historic testimony with CNN senior reporter Vicky Ward and CNN global affairs analyst Max Boot.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump and his GOP defenders want answers. They want the whistleblower to testify. They want Joe Biden to appear before Congress. The President even reportedly asked Bill Barr to declare that no laws had been broken during the controversial Ukraine call. Will we hear from any of these consequential figures? And what about John Bolton? Meanwhile, Vice President Pence is in the spotlight as one of his aides testifies. CNN political director David Chalian parses through the latest impeachment developments with CNN national security reporter Jeremy Herb. Former National Security Council staffer Samantha Vinograd explains the inner dynamics of her former employer.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It may be the most consequential day so far in the impeachment drama as the House votes to formalize the procedure of the inquiry. Meanwhile, Tim Morrison, a top Russia advisor in the White House, testifies to lawmakers. Impeachment matters are before the courts, too - a pair of hearings impact the status of key witnesses including Don McGahn. Guest host and CNN legal analyst Elie Honing breaks down all the big developments - and forecasts the political fallout - with CNN political correspondent Abby Phillip and CNN crime and justice reporter Katelyn Polantz.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The insiders are finally telling their stories. A series of high-ranking diplomats take to Capitol Hill this week to shed light on the Trump administration's Ukraine dealings. Will any of Trump's allies turn on him? Meanwhile, federal investigators are reportedly engaged in a counterintelligence probe of Rudy Giuliani. CNN political director David Chalian is joined by CNN senior Washington correspondent Joe Johns and impeachment lawyer Ross Garber.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's debate day, a chance for the 2020 hopefuls to distinguish themselves. Democrats agree on the topic that looms largest - the impeachment inquiry - but questions remain. Will Hunter Biden's dealings in Ukraine hurt his father? Will any of Biden's rivals raise ethics concerns? How will the inquiry play among moderates? CNN political director David Chalian is joined by CNN political correspondent Abby Phillip and CNN political commentator Maria Cardona to talk through the latest impeachment inquiry implications.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Biden has gotten aggressive. After weeks of dismissing the President's criticism of his son Hunter, the 2020 hopeful has pledged to prohibit family members from having relationships with foreign companies if he becomes president. But is that enough to stave off criticism at tomorrow's debate? Meanwhile, former White House Russia advisor Fiona Hill testifies in front of Congress. CNN political director David Chalian is joined by CNN reporter Arlette Saenz and CNN political commentator Karen Finney to talk through the latest impeachment developments.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A political problem might become a criminal problem. As the Trump administration fights off congressional subpoenas, new details emerge about the two Giuliani associates arrested for trying to insert foreign money into the US political system. On the Hill, former Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch told lawmakers that Trump pushed for her ouster. Can the GOP stand by Trump without paying an electoral price? Guest host and CNN chief national security correspondent Jim Sciutto is joined by former federal prosecutor Jennifer Rodgers and Harry Enten, senior writer and analyst for CNN Politics.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a dramatic day of political events, Speaker Pelosi and former Vice President Joe Biden, arguably the nation's top two Democrats, moved their positions on the impeachment of President Trump to being more open and willing to the House of Representatives beginning down that road. CNN's David Chalian analyses the political landscape that shifted beneath their feet and the challenges ahead for Democrats as they seek to bring the country along with them.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the aftermath of newly reported additional allegations of sexual misconduct against Supreme Court Judge Brett Kavanaugh, CNN's David Chalian breaks down the divide in calls for his impeachment from the presidential candidates of the Democratic Party.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the aftermath of the third democratic debate, CNN's David Chalian offers his analysis of how the candidates performed and the high impact moments that will define the next phase of the campaign.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN's Political Director David Chalian discusses how the 2020 Democratic presidential field has unified in its pushback against President Trump on the issues of gun control and white supremacy following the mass shootings in Dayton and El Paso.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Special Counsel Robert Mueller's testimony before two House committees confirmed the underlying facts of his historic investigation into Russian election interference and potential obstruction by the White House. But CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down how his testimony likely failed to move the needle for Democrats hoping he would spark momentum towards impeachment. #Politics #DavidChalian #2020 #Democrats #RobertMueller #TrumpTo learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

All eyes will be on Joe Biden in the coming weeks leading up to the next Democratic debate that will be hosted by CNN on July 30th and 31st. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses what to watch for to see changes the Biden campaign may be trying to implement.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A brand new CNN/SSRS poll shows that nearly three quarters of Americans agree that there is a crisis at the southern border. CNN Political Director David Chalian digs into these new poll numbers and discusses the differences they show across party lines.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first Democratic debates of the 2020 presidential race begin tomorrow in Miami, Florida. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses candidates' styles of preparation and what candidates might be hoping to accomplish at their first debate appearance of the race.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Biden is facing heavy criticism for a story he told highlighting two segregationist senators as people with whom he disagreed, but with whom he could work to accomplish progress in the Senate. CNN Political Director David Chalian reviews Biden's comments, analyses responses from some of Biden's 2020 opponents, and discusses the reaction coming from the Biden campaign.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last night at a DNC event, Joe Biden reversed course on his decades long position on the Hyde Amendment. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses this switch and what events lead up to Biden's change in opinion.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At a CNN town hall last night a confident and prepared Beto O'Rourke showed that his listening sessions and community town halls across the country have paid off. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses O'Rourke's performance and reviews some of the highlights from the event.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today when responding to press questions about comments made by freshman Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Joe Biden gave one of the best indicators yet that he is feeling pretty confident in his position as the front running Democrat. CNN Political Director David Chalian dissusses Ocasio-Cortez's and Biden's comments and reflects on what this could suggest about Biden's campaign strategy.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today after months of waiting, Former Vice President Joe Biden made the long anticipated announcement that he is joining the 2020 presidential race. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the strategy behind Biden's announcement video and discusses what obstacles Biden might face as he leans in to 2020.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the weekend South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg officially announced his candidacy for the presidency. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses the highlights of the Mayor's announcement along with some of the challenges he may face as he enters the race.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the weekend it appeared Trump was recentering immigration as the defining issue of his presidency gearing up for 2020. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses the DHS shakeup and how it may contribute to Trump's reelection campaign.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today Congressman Tim Ryan announced that he is entering an already very crowded Democratic presidential race. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses this move and looks ahead to others who may still be weighing their options.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Trump welcomes Joe Biden to the fray and may have revealed more clearly than ever that Biden is the Democratic candidate he fears the most. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses how this moment could shape Biden's potential 2020 campaign.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Democrats can't knock Trump off his game. His support among GOP lawmakers remains rock solid. Republican voters love him. And now a key witness in the impeachment inquiry says he saw nothing wrong with the Trump-Zelensky phone call. Are Democrats fighting a losing battle by trying to impeach Trump? And will they pay a price in 2020? CNN senior reporter Vicky Ward guest hosts and discusses Trump's resilience and potential weaknesses with S.E. Cupp, the host of 'SE Cupp Unfiltered,' and CNN legal analyst Jennifer Rodgers.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Another day, another set of revelations emerging from closed-door Congressional depositions as two active State Department officials shed light on Rudy Giuliani's shadow diplomacy with Ukraine. Where is Mike Pompeo as his staffers speak out? Meanwhile, new details emerge about Lt. Colonel Vindman's testimony, including his attempt to have the Trump-Zelensky rough transcript edited. Guest host Marshall Cohen, a CNN reporter and producer, talks through the latest impeachment inquiry developments with CNN national security reporter Kylie Atwood and Rear Admiral John Kirby, USN (ret), a CNN military and diplomatic analyst.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Congress hasn't heard from anyone on the July 25th phone call between Presidents Trump and Zelensky - until now. Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman testifies to investigators on the Hill as a GOP member attacks the Purple Heart recipient's patriotism. Meanwhile, Nancy Pelosi finally decides to hold a vote formalizing the impeachment inquiry. What are the political implications? CNN political director David Chalian examines the latest developments with CNN reporter/producer Marshall Cohen. Plus, impeachment expert Ross Garber speculates on President Trump's potential impeachment trial defense.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the wake of two dozen Republicans disrupting the latest impeachment testimony, Sen. Lindsey Graham introduced a resolution condemning the House impeachment process. This resolution, co-sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, was announced before two OMB and State department officials were issued subpoenas. CNN political director David Chalian is joined by CNN national security analyst Jeremy Herb to discuss the latest impeachment headlines, while Republican strategist and CNN political commentator Alice Stewart explains how she thinks the White House should be handling the investigation.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chaos has overcome the impeachment inquiry. Hours after two dozen Republicans disrupted the latest testimony, a GOP congressman vowed to continue a 'proactive' defense of the president. Will the aggressive strategy pay off or will it ostracize voters? Plus, CNN legal analyst Elie Honig explains that President Trump's Ukraine dealings may exceed impeachable acts - he may have committed crimes. CNN national correspondent Athena Jones guest hosts with analysis from Harry Enten, senior writer and analyst for CNN Politics.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The top American diplomat in Ukraine dropped a bombshell in Congress yesterday. Bill Taylor's revelatory testimony about the Trump administration's "highly irregular" policy-making apparatus had the GOP scrambling - so much so that CNN political contributor Matt Lewis now thinks the Senate might convict Trump on impeachment charges. Lewis joins CNN political director David Chalian and CNN political correspondent Sara Murray to discuss a chaotic 24 hours in Washington, D.C.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Americans are split on impeachment. The overwhelming majority of Democrats want Trump removed from office, while the vast majority of Republicans are standing by the president. How will this partisan divide impact the 2020 election? And if Democrats overplay their hand, will they turn off moderates and independents? CNN political director David Chalian gets a GOP point of view from former Republican National Committee Chief of Staff Mike Shields. Plus, CNN senior Washington correspondent Jeff Zeleny talks through the impeachment headlines of the day, including the testimony of the acting Ambassador to Ukraine, Bill Taylor.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Taylor was worried about a quid pro quo. Now, the career diplomat is set to testify in front of Congress. What might he reveal about the Trump administration's dealings in Ukraine? Plus, as the scope of the impeachment inquiry keeps growing, the timeline becomes ever murkier. CNN political director David Chalian talks through the latest impeachment developments - including Rudy Giuliani's role at the center of it all - with CNN senior writer Zach Wolf and Washington Post reporter Shane Harris.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trump says the whistleblower has been discredited, but the facts tell a different story. Facts also oppose the conspiracy theory floated by Mick Mulvaney yesterday, and his comments provoked a rare rebuke from the Department of Justice. Guest host and CNN Senior Political Reporter Nia-Malika Henderson talk through the latest impeachment developments with CNN's senior justice correspondent Evan Perez and CNN reporter Daniel Dale.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is Gordon Sondland a Trump loyalist or an independent thinker? Sondland, the US ambassador to the E.U., took to Capitol Hill today and seemed to defy GOP talking points. Meanwhile, over at the White House, Mick Mulvaney denied that the suspension of Ukrainian aid had anything to do with Biden. Instead, he claimed the aid was tied to Ukrainian help with a Department of Justice investigation into 2016 election interference. And for now, Nancy Pelosi resists setting an impeachment timeline. CNN political director David Chalian is joined by CNN reporter and producer Marshall Cohen and CNN justice correspondent Jessica Schneider.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The GOP is largely sticking by Trump, but they're calling him out on the withdrawal of troops in Syria. Meanwhile, Joe Biden is calling for Trump's impeachment and two Giuliani associates have been arrested for their roles in the Ukraine scandal. CNN political director David Chalian talks over the latest impeachment developments with CNN's chief political correspondent, Dana Bash. Dan Caldwell, a Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Pepperdine University, provides historical perspective and explains how the impeachment inquiry impacts international relations.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Will a White House insider turn on Trump? Special guest and former Nixon White House counsel John Dean thinks so as he compares the current impeachment drama to the Watergate era. CNN's law enforcement analyst Josh Campbell fills in as guest host. He's joined by Dean and CNN's senior political reporter Nia-Malika Henderson to talk through the impeachment headlines of the day, including new public polling, a high-profile addition to the Trump defense team, and the White House's scathing letter declaring it won't cooperate with the inquiry.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Trump administration says it's done playing nice. On Tuesday morning, the State Department blocked the congressional testimony of Gordon Sondland, the US Ambassador to the E.U. and a key figure in relations with Ukraine. Democrats say the move to silence Sondland amounts to evidence of obstruction. Meanwhile, according to a new poll, the majority of Americans support the impeachment inquiry. CNN political director David Chalian and CNN law enforcement analyst Josh Campbell talk through the impeachment headlines of the day and how the political sands have shifted.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump may soon have a new antagonist: a second whistleblower with direct knowledge of the administration's Ukrainian dealings. Meanwhile, cracks emerge in the president's GOP support. CNN political director David Chalian and national correspondent Athena Jones are joined by national security analyst Sam Vinograd to talk through the latest headlines and examine if Trump put America at risk.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first deposition of the impeachment inquiry, former United States Special Envoy to Ukraine Kurt Volker handed over text messages that revealed extensive coordination between Trump administration officials and the president's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani to pressure the Ukrainian government to investigate the genesis of the 2016 hack into the DNC and an energy company that employed Joe Biden's son. CNN Political Director David Chalian is joined by Athena Jones and Maggie Haberman.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump once again invites a foreign country, this time China in addition to Ukraine, to investigate the Biden family. CNN's David Chalian analyses Trump's strategy in doing so, and the impact this could have on his efforts to defend himself against a potential impeachment.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After refusing to reveal all he knew about the July 25 phone call between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo now unequivocally admits to not only being aware of phone call, but to having been on it himself. CNN's David Chalian analyses what these new developments mean for both the House Democrats pursuing impeachment and President Trump as he mounts his defense.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amidst the iterative headlines and all the partisan noise surrounding the impeachment inquiry, CNN's David Chalian explains how the most potentially damaging information against the president is already in the public domain - because he and his team released it for all to see. President Trump explicitly asked a foreign leader to investigate a political opponent of his in the current presidential campaign. Everything else is window dressing.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the impeachment process unfolds, will Donald Trump find his footing as he tries to fight back? How might this affect vulnerable members of Congress as they consider their constituents at home? CNN's David Chalian analyzes where the political chips may fall.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we get closer to seeing third quarter fundraising numbers and the fourth debate, CNN's David Chalian analyzes the shifts in strategy employed by the various candidates, and what it means for the various campaigns moving forward in the battle for the democratic nomination.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a debate around the corner, CNN's David Chalian dives into a new CNN poll that shows Joe Biden continuing to hold his place in the lead, Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders in a heated battle for second place as Warren makes gains on electability.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Voters in North Carolina's 9th District head to the polls today to re-do their 2018 midterm vote after voting fraud caused that election to never be certified. CNN's Political Director David Chalian offers insight on what to look for in this closely watched and hotly contested special election in a district that Trump won in 2016.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a bevy of new polls, both national and from early states, on the 2020 Democratic presidential race, CNN's Political Director David Chalian dives into the numbers and provides an update on themes of the race, including the continuing steady rise of Sen. Elizabeth Warren and former Vice President Joe Biden's strong hold on the electability question.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After one night of 10 different 2020 Democratic candidates and seven hours worth of town hall events on the climate crisis, CNN's Political Director David Chalian revisits the groundbreaking evening and discusses some of the night's most memorable and most important moments.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Labor Day in the rearview, the 2020 Democratic candidates turn to the fall campaign as the Iowa Caucus draws ever closer. CNN's Political Director David Chalian gives an update on the race, with former Vice President Joe Biden maintaining his steady lead despite a new gaffe, and reminds listeners to pay closer attention to developments in Iowa, rather than the national horse race polling.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN's Political Director David Chalian checks in from San Francisco where the DNC is hosting their summer meeting. He highlights the remarks of Massachusetts Rep. Seth Moulton, who is bowing out of the Democratic presidential campaign, and fellow presidential candidate Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet, who strongly criticized the DNC's debate qualifications.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the third Democratic primary debate approaching, and only 10 candidates qualified so far, the large field has started to shrink in the past few days. CNN's Political Director David Chalian addresses Washington State Governor Jay Inslee's withdrawal from the race and today's announcement from the recently withdrawn candidate former Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper that he plans to run for Senate for a chance to flip a crucial seat from red to blue.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN's Political Director David Chalian discusses the head-spinning past 24 hours as President Trump has doubled down on anti-Semitic language, disparaged the prime minister of Greenland and showed a growing concern over the economy and how that may impact his own reelection prospects.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Former Vice President Biden's campaign rolls out an ad touting his ability to beat President Trump, his wife, Jill, makes the case that he is the most electable candidate. CNN's Political Director David Chalian analyzes the Biden campaign's argument and how it may be helping his standing in the race including in a new CNN national poll showing the former vice president with a double-digit lead over his closest competitors for the nomination.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Since her entry into the political arena in 2012, Sen. Elizabeth Warren has been followed by her decision to have claimed Native American ancestry, leading to attacks from President Trump and the poorly-received release of her DNA test. CNN's Political Director David Chalian discusses her recent public apology at a Native American forum and her other attempts to move past the controversy.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As presidential campaigns enter the summer doldrums of late August, CNN's Political Director David Chalian provides an update on the 2020 Democratic primary. He discusses Mayor Pete Buttigieg addressing the potential reluctance of some religiously conservative African American Democrats towards his sexual orientation and looks at a new Fox News national poll showing a rising Sen. Elizabeth Warren.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the news cycle begins to move on from the mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton, 2020 Democratic candidates are working to keep the issues of gun control and combating hate in the spotlight. CNN's Political Director David Chalian looks at what some of the candidates are doing, including Sen. Kamala Harris' new gun control proposals and a Julian Castro tv ad targeted directly at President Trump.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After spending four days in Iowa, a crucial proving ground for the 2020 Democratic presidential candidates, CNN's Political Director David Chalian shares his takeaways on the state of the race, how Democrats perceive who is most electable, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren's extensive Iowa operation. He also spoke with Iowa politics power couple Sue and Bob Dvorsky, who recently endorsed Sen. Kamala Harris' presidential bid.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With 2020 Democratic candidates flocking the Iowa State Fair this week, the race for the first-in-the-nation caucuses is on. CNN's Political Director David Chalian analyzes the state of play for the Democrats in Iowa, focusing on Sen. Kamala Harris' recent TV ad buy and the new Monmouth Poll showing Biden holding his lead in the state.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As 2020 presidential candidates respond to the fallout of the mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton, CNN's Political Director David Chalian looks especially at how President Trump's behavior and rhetoric may be a boost for Joe Biden's candidacy.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN's Political Director David Chalian reviews the second night of Democratic primary debates last night in Detroit and takes a look at the attacks launched between the candidates, particularly towards the frontrunner Joe Biden.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Detroit, CNN's Political Director David Chalian reviews the clashes between progressive and moderate candidates in the first night of debates, and previews CNN's second night of debates tonight at 8 p.m. EST.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN Political Director David Chalian is in Detroit for CNN's Democratic Presidential Debates. He previews the matchups he's most looking forward to watching during the first debate this evening at 8 p.m. EST.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Vice President Joe Biden unveiled an expansive criminal justice platform today just one week before the second presidential debates. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses Biden's history on the issue, his new plan and the criticism he faces on criminal justice from fellow 2020 contenders Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Kamala Harris.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Robert Mueller's Russia investigation is set to take center stage in Washington again, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is advising her Democratic members to not be distracted by President Trump. CNN Political Director David Chalian looks at the challenge for Democrats, both in Congress and on the presidential campaign trail, to break through these Trump-driven summer news cycles.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After last night's primetime Draw event, the stages are determined for CNN's two-night Democratic Debates in Detroit on July 30th and 31st. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the debate lineups for each night and shares what matchups he's looking forward to watching.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Donald Trump attempted to back away from a racist chant directed at Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar that occurred at his rally on Wednesday night. CNN Political Director David Chalian explains how the president unsuccessfully tried to distance himself from language that he first used and looks at how Democratic front-runner former Vice President Joe Biden has weighed in.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vice President Biden, Sen. Kamala Harris, and Sen. Bernie Sanders are in a three-way battle over the future of healthcare for Americans and who foots the bill. CNN Political Director David Chalian examines the latest lines of attack and defense.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the new polls showing the Former Vice President still holding on to a solid lead, CNN Political Director David Chalian explains what the results mean on the race.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday, Former Vice President Joe Biden gave a speech outlining what his foreign policy would be as president. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the speech and Biden's strategy as frontrunner.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down the candidacy and chances of prominent billionaire and Democratic mega-donor Tom Steyer in his quest for the 2020 Democratic nomination.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the immediate fallout of the first debate in the rear view mirror, CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses how the 2020 race for the Democratic presidential nomination hits a summer reset.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breaking CNN poll numbers show that the 2020 democratic presidential nomination race has dramatically shifted. CNN Political Director David Chalian breaks down these poll numbers and highlights the key changes that might affect the future of the race.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The second night of the first Democratic debate could make a big splash on the history books of the 2020 presidential campaign. CNN Political Director David Chalian reviews the moment when Senator Kamala Harris and former Vice President Joe Biden went head to head and discusses some of the other key take aways that could have implications for the future trajectory of the 2020 race.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first round of Democratic presidential debates begins tonight in Miami, Florida. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses what to watch for as the first 10 candidates take the stage.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Biden campaign is entering day two of the fallout from the former Vice President's comments about working with two segregationist senators, even though he had different opinions than them, during his time in the Senate. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses the response from one of Biden's 2020 rivals, Senator Cory Booker, and the continued reaction from the Biden campaign.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tonight Donald Trump will hold his official campaign reelection launch rally in Orlando, Florida. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses Trump's actions going into this rally and analyses the president's strategy as he gears up to focus more effort on a bid for reelection.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The candidate lineups for the two nights of the first 2020 Democratic presidential debate was announced today. CNN Political Director David Chalian is joined in studio with CNN Political Reporter Dan Merica to discuss the lineups and what this breakdown may mean for candidates individual strategies going into the first debate.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After two years of claiming "no collusion," Trump essentially said he was ready and willing to collude with foreign actors in an interview with George Stephanopoulus yesterday on ABC News. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses Trump's unprecedented comments and the responses, or lack there of, from other political leaders.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today while announcing his proposal for a 21st Century economic bill of rights, Bernie Sanders continued his push for the political philosophy that has driven his public career. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses Sanders' remarks and analyses the political strategy behind this push.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A brand new CNN/SSRS national poll covering the president's standing, impeachment, Robert Mueller, and more has been released. CNN Political Director David Chalian reviews these numbers and discusses what they say about America's current political climate.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Donald Trump is the most avid media consumer that has ever occupied the White House and it is clear that he is upset with the statement Mueller made yesterday regarding the Russia probe. CNN Political Director David Chalian compares statements from Trump and Mueller and discusses how Trump is lying to the American public about the findings of the Russia investigation.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The DNC has released its new set of rules and thresholds that Democratic candidates must meet to participate in the third and fourth debates of the DNC's 12 presidential debates series. CNN Political Director David Chalian examines these rules and discusses how they are aimed at significantly winnowing the field as the debate season moves forward.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In his first month out campaigning, Joe Biden has been the clear front runner in the polls, securing endorsements from many Democratic office holders, and solidifying support with key constituencies across the party. CNN Political Director David Chalian reflects on one gnawing question that continues to surround his candidacy. Is Biden's frontrunner status rock solid or is there a soft underbelly to it that makes it truly vulnerable to a credible challenger?To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is using the president as a tool to unify her caucus as she demonstrated today in comments she made to the press on the topic of impeachment. CNN Political Director David Chalian reviews these comments and analysis the political strategy behind Speaker Pelosi's message.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a speech in Philadelphia on Saturday Joe Biden showed that he has a fundamental difference from some of the other candidate about what he believes Democratic voters want. CNN Political Director David Chalian discusses Biden's comments and looks at how this sets him apart from other candidates.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Biden is finishing up his extended campaign rollout and Bill de Blasio and Steve Bullock officially joining the race, while the rest of the field is battling to climb up the polls. CNN Political Director David Chalian and CNN Senior Political Reporter Nia-Malika Henderson take stock of this new phase of the 2020 campaign. Plus, they look at how new anti-abortion laws in Georgia and Alabama will shape the Democrats' campaign strategy going forward.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This morning Bill De Blasio, the mayor of New York City, entered the Democratic presidential nomination race bringing the Democratic candidate count up to 23. CNN Political Director David Chalian looks into the newest candidate and discusses the considerable size of the Democratic field.To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices