The Playbook Podcast

Graham Platner is out. What happens next?

In a video statement, Graham Platner announced that he is suspending his campaign for the U.S. Maine Senate race. Since the aftermath of POLITICO’s report on sexual assault allegations against Platner, Maine Democrats tentatively approved a nominating convention to identify their replacement, and a band of hopefuls are already raising their hands. So who is vying for the Democratic nomination, and what does this moment say about the future of the Democratic Party?  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook [https://www.politico.com/playbook]

Dems brace for Maine Senate race as Trump rips NATO allies

The political fallout continues after POLITICO's reporting on sexual assault allegations against Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner. On this episode, host Jack Blanchard and White House reporter Myah Ward get into what this means for Democrats as they head into a highly contested seat for the 2026 midterms. Meanwhile, President Trump is still at the NATO summit where he’s been bashing against allies on all fronts. Trump is expected to hold a press conference from Turkey later this morning.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook [https://www.politico.com/playbook]

The allegations against Graham Platner, and what they mean for Maine's Senate race

A woman who dated Maine U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner has accused him of sexual assault, in reporting exclusive to POLITICO. Platner denied the allegations, calling them "troubling, serious, and false." Today on the Playbook Podcast, host Jack Blanchard in conversation with the reporters who broke the allegation explores what this all means for Platner, the Democrats, and the battle for the United State Senate.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook [https://www.politico.com/playbook]

What to expect from the NATO summit

Donald Trump heads to Turkey for the NATO summit, where there’s plenty of questions about defense spend, Ukraine, and the future of Greenland. POLITICO White House reporter Megan Messerly gives us the rundown on what she’s looking out for this summit.  Plus, the Qatari-gifted jet serving as Air Force One makes its first international trip. And in an extraordinary twist ahead of tonight's World Cup U.S.-Belgium match, FIFA reversed U.S. star Folarin Balogun's suspension after Trump urged the organization to review the decision.  For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook [https://www.politico.com/playbook]

Can the American experiment survive? (with Ken Burns) | The Conversation

As America marks 250 years since its founding, award-winning documentarian Ken Burns joins Dasha to reflect on what history can teach us about this political moment. In this wide-ranging interview, Burns discusses what lawmakers misunderstand about the founding of our nation, what George Washington would think of Donald Trump, and whether the American experiment can survive the next chapter. Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.