https://simplecast.com State of Play with Peter Alexander Based in Washington, D.C., ‘State of Play’ will provide viewers with authoritative and original reporting, thoughtful conversations, and in-depth analysis of the biggest political and national stories shaping the day. Built around Peter Alexander’s trusted reporting, deep experience covering Washington, and unmatched relationships across government and beyond, the program aims to help audiences better understand not only what is happening, but why it matters. MS NOW en Wed, 23 Sep 2026 17:06:03 +0000 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 17:06:14 +0000 https://www.ms.now/ State of Play with Peter Alexander https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6849796f-ae40-4c61-8e06-138baa787cd1/229502f6-b7b3-4fd3-9068-df2507d283a8/3000x3000/ms_nowstate_of_playshowcastcoverart3000x3000.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://www.ms.now/ episodic Based in Washington, D.C., ‘State of Play’ will provide viewers with authoritative and original reporting, thoughtful conversations, and in-depth analysis of the biggest political and national stories shaping the day. Built around Peter Alexander’s trusted reporting, deep experience covering Washington, and unmatched relationships across government and beyond, the program aims to help audiences better understand not only what is happening, but why it matters. PETER ALEXANDER, MS NOW false https://feeds.simplecast.com/6A7CUq3h democrats, republicans, congress, trump, msnbc, midterms, white house, government, ms now, politics MS NOW pods@versantmedia.com ad3bc1fd-fddb-4cf1-96d0-a729f5600d67 Court arguments and China’s presidential arrival Sept. 23, 2026: ‘State of Play’ takes a deep dive into the government’s arguments in the case over the ban on the free press. MS NOW legal analyst Andrew Weissmann joins Peter Alexander to discuss today's court hearing. Meanwhile, the White House is planning a lavish summit to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper reacts. And with just 41 days until Election Day, some Republican candidates are breaking with the president. Democratic Kansas Senate candidate Adam Hamilton hopes to end a nearly 100-year losing streak. He discusses his race. Plus, a closer look at President Trump's projects in the nation's capital and how a group that assists crime victims is preparing to grapple with federal funding cuts.


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]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 17:06:03 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Fallon Gallagher, Andrew Weissmann, Mark Esper, Adam Hamilton, Laura Barron Lopez, Jonathan O’Connell, Marc Santia) https://www.ms.now/ Sept. 23, 2026: ‘State of Play’ takes a deep dive into the government’s arguments in the case over the ban on the free press. MS NOW legal analyst Andrew Weissmann joins Peter Alexander to discuss today's court hearing. Meanwhile, the White House is planning a lavish summit to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper reacts. And with just 41 days until Election Day, some Republican candidates are breaking with the president. Democratic Kansas Senate candidate Adam Hamilton hopes to end a nearly 100-year losing streak. He discusses his race. Plus, a closer look at President Trump's projects in the nation's capital and how a group that assists crime victims is preparing to grapple with federal funding cuts.


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]]> Court arguments and China’s presidential arrival Peter Alexander, Fallon Gallagher, Andrew Weissmann, Mark Esper, Adam Hamilton, Laura Barron Lopez, Jonathan O’Connell, Marc Santia 00:40:52 A court hearing takes place today over the Trump administration's White House media ban. At the same time, President Trump prepares to roll out the red carpet for the arrival of Chinese leader Xi Jinping. A court hearing takes place today over the Trump administration's White House media ban. At the same time, President Trump prepares to roll out the red carpet for the arrival of Chinese leader Xi Jinping. court, midterms, donald trump, china, free press false full 20260923 483ac9fd-834f-4436-a348-d2933b604c39 Trump UNGA address & Don Jr. inquiry September 22, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander gets fresh reaction to President Trump's speech before the United Nations General Assembly from Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and former U.N. Ambassador John Bolton. Plus, a Republican senator wants to know how deep Donald Trump Jr's ties are to the Russian oligarch who bankrolled his wedding weekend. Also, the free press fight sparked by the White House’s ban of journalists heads to court.

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]]> Tue, 22 Sep 2026 16:23:58 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, John Bolton, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, Norm Eisen, Laura Barrón-López, David Rohde, Nnamdi Egwuonwu) https://www.ms.now/ September 22, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander gets fresh reaction to President Trump's speech before the United Nations General Assembly from Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and former U.N. Ambassador John Bolton. Plus, a Republican senator wants to know how deep Donald Trump Jr's ties are to the Russian oligarch who bankrolled his wedding weekend. Also, the free press fight sparked by the White House’s ban of journalists heads to court.

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]]> Trump UNGA address & Don Jr. inquiry Peter Alexander, John Bolton, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, Norm Eisen, Laura Barrón-López, David Rohde, Nnamdi Egwuonwu 00:41:29 September 22, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: President Trump ramps up his threats against Iran during his annual speech to the U.N. General Assembly. Plus, the concerns over Donald Trump Jr's links to a Russian oligarch are now bipartisan. September 22, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: President Trump ramps up his threats against Iran during his annual speech to the U.N. General Assembly. Plus, the concerns over Donald Trump Jr's links to a Russian oligarch are now bipartisan. ukraine, donald trump jr., iran, greenland, russia, president trump, free press false full 20260922 9a81a69c-9389-4c0d-8350-f65c4b779b42 Free press debate & Arch defense September 21, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Luke Russert speaks with MS Now Senior Washington reporter and former White House Correspondents Association President Eugene Daniels about President Trump's latest clash with news organizations. Plus, Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) weighs in on the President's defense of his proposed arch that will have a major impact on the surrounding area. Also, Editor at the Insider, Michael Weiss, previews this week’s U.N. General Assembly, where allies and adversaries are anxiously awaiting the President's remarks. 

 

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]]> Mon, 21 Sep 2026 16:15:44 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Luke Russert, Vaugh Hillyard, Rep. Don Beyer, Eugene Daniels, Adam Jentleson, Tony Plohetski, Michael Weiss, Amanda Shanor) https://www.ms.now/ September 21, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Luke Russert speaks with MS Now Senior Washington reporter and former White House Correspondents Association President Eugene Daniels about President Trump's latest clash with news organizations. Plus, Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) weighs in on the President's defense of his proposed arch that will have a major impact on the surrounding area. Also, Editor at the Insider, Michael Weiss, previews this week’s U.N. General Assembly, where allies and adversaries are anxiously awaiting the President's remarks. 

 

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]]> Free press debate & Arch defense Luke Russert, Vaugh Hillyard, Rep. Don Beyer, Eugene Daniels, Adam Jentleson, Tony Plohetski, Michael Weiss, Amanda Shanor 00:41:01 September 21, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: President Trump ramps up the rhetoric on news organizations after banning MS Now from the White House grounds. Plus, the President's “Triumphal Arch” plans take a familiar turn as the project is now being proposed for military reasons. September 21, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: President Trump ramps up the rhetoric on news organizations after banning MS Now from the White House grounds. Plus, the President's “Triumphal Arch” plans take a familiar turn as the project is now being proposed for military reasons. first amendment, ice, midterm elections, artificial intelligence, president trump, united nations general assembly, free press false full 20260921 a50176b2-d0ec-41df-89a3-f92855c0dd5c Freedom of the Press Sept. 19, 2026: The White House denied entry to reporters from MS NOW, CNN and Politico on Saturday, stripping their press credentials amid President Trump’s media ban. Peter Alexander is joined by Rachel Maddow for a special edition of State of Play examining the First Amendment implications and what this unprecedented moment means for the press and the public’s access to information.

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]]> Sat, 19 Sep 2026 16:08:00 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Rachel Maddow, Akayla Gardner, Lara Korte, Marty Baron, Gabe Rottman, Jim Ruttenberg) https://www.ms.now/ Sept. 19, 2026: The White House denied entry to reporters from MS NOW, CNN and Politico on Saturday, stripping their press credentials amid President Trump’s media ban. Peter Alexander is joined by Rachel Maddow for a special edition of State of Play examining the First Amendment implications and what this unprecedented moment means for the press and the public’s access to information.

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]]> Freedom of the Press Peter Alexander, Rachel Maddow, Akayla Gardner, Lara Korte, Marty Baron, Gabe Rottman, Jim Ruttenberg 00:41:36 Peter Alexander hosts a special edition of State of Play after President Trump follows through on threats to bar MS NOW, CNN and Politico from the White House. Peter Alexander hosts a special edition of State of Play after President Trump follows through on threats to bar MS NOW, CNN and Politico from the White House. white house, first amendment, donald trump, news outlets, free speech false full 20260919 e4e1a417-5a25-44bb-a131-d61d2e277a87 President Trump's plans & Midterm moves Sept. 18, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews Kerry Kennedy, the daughter of Robert Kennedy, about the President's push to rename the Kennedy Center and her brother's impact on America's health. Plus, Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) discusses early voting in his state and what's at stake for the country at the ballot box. Also, Elise Jordan shares what she learned from Maine voters in her new focus group.


 

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]]> Fri, 18 Sep 2026 16:15:53 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Kerry Kennedy, Elise Jordan, Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, Sarah Trone Garriott, Molly Duane) https://www.ms.now/ Sept. 18, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews Kerry Kennedy, the daughter of Robert Kennedy, about the President's push to rename the Kennedy Center and her brother's impact on America's health. Plus, Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) discusses early voting in his state and what's at stake for the country at the ballot box. Also, Elise Jordan shares what she learned from Maine voters in her new focus group.


 

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]]> President Trump's plans & Midterm moves Peter Alexander, Kerry Kennedy, Elise Jordan, Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, Sarah Trone Garriott, Molly Duane 00:41:04 President Trump's vanity projects take center stage at the White House while American families wrestle with high prices. Plus, Vice President Vance heads to another red state to try and boost critical GOP candidates. President Trump's vanity projects take center stage at the White House while American families wrestle with high prices. Plus, Vice President Vance heads to another red state to try and boost critical GOP candidates. midterms, abortion, voting, susan collins, maine, president trump, election security false full 20260918 300fcb7b-0a73-471b-8cfe-3df1d7844d1d House GOP priorities & House Democrats' plans September 17, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander tackles the latest drama for House Republicans and the Pentagon with MS Now's Ali Vitali and Mark Hertling. Plus, California Congressman Jared Huffman reacts to more confusion and concerns surrounding the Kennedy Center. Also, Professor Justin Wolfers breaks down the cash crunch families are facing due to persistent inflation and an ongoing war with Iran. 

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]]> Thu, 17 Sep 2026 16:34:46 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Ali Vitali, Mark Hertling, Rep. Jared Huffman, Justin Wolfers, Ines de la Cuetara, Josh Kaul) https://www.ms.now/ September 17, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander tackles the latest drama for House Republicans and the Pentagon with MS Now's Ali Vitali and Mark Hertling. Plus, California Congressman Jared Huffman reacts to more confusion and concerns surrounding the Kennedy Center. Also, Professor Justin Wolfers breaks down the cash crunch families are facing due to persistent inflation and an ongoing war with Iran. 

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]]> House GOP priorities & House Democrats' plans Peter Alexander, Ali Vitali, Mark Hertling, Rep. Jared Huffman, Justin Wolfers, Ines de la Cuetara, Josh Kaul 00:40:04 September 17, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: House Republicans leaders leave DC early, returning to the campaign trail and avoiding an impeachment vote on Secretary Hegseth. Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA) ticks through his party's priorities if they retake the majority in 2027. September 17, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: House Republicans leaders leave DC early, returning to the campaign trail and avoiding an impeachment vote on Secretary Hegseth. Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA) ticks through his party's priorities if they retake the majority in 2027. congress, mark carney, kennedy center, pete hegseth, kevin warsh, president trump, speaker mike johnson false full 20260917 eedeb9ab-c49b-43d5-84a7-7666278599a6 White House concerns & Ashley Judd on AI September 16, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander speaks with acclaimed actress and activist Ashley Judd on the backlash over the surge in Artificial Intelligence and how a unique bipartisan coalition is forming to spark change. Plus, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal discusses growing bipartisan pessimism over the Iran war in Congress as the price tag reaches $38B. Also, former Congressman Cedric Richmond looks ahead to the midterms as democrats plot a closing strategy. 

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]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 16:34:28 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Ashley Judd, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Tim Heaphy, Jake Traylor, Cedric Richmond) https://www.ms.now/ September 16, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander speaks with acclaimed actress and activist Ashley Judd on the backlash over the surge in Artificial Intelligence and how a unique bipartisan coalition is forming to spark change. Plus, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal discusses growing bipartisan pessimism over the Iran war in Congress as the price tag reaches $38B. Also, former Congressman Cedric Richmond looks ahead to the midterms as democrats plot a closing strategy. 

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]]> White House concerns & Ashley Judd on AI Peter Alexander, Ashley Judd, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Tim Heaphy, Jake Traylor, Cedric Richmond 00:41:19 September 16, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: President Trump's social media posts, policy stances and the actions from his top Cabinet members raise concerns about the priorities inside the White House. Plus, Ashley Judd recaps a bipartisan AI summit bringing Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon together to push for new guardrails. September 16, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: President Trump's social media posts, policy stances and the actions from his top Cabinet members raise concerns about the priorities inside the White House. Plus, Ashley Judd recaps a bipartisan AI summit bringing Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon together to push for new guardrails. midterms, iran, todd blanche, congress, artificial intelligence, president trump false full 20260916 2a382bed-0d10-4233-9a6e-77a37e89b523 AI Anxiety & Don Jr. controversy September 14, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews author Stephen Witt and Senator Angela Alsobrooks on growing national concerns over AI's accelerating growth. Plus, a new report links Donald Trump Junior and a Russian oligarch through a lavish wedding. Also, a racist social media post sparks fiery reaction among Texas lawmakers. 

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]]> Mon, 14 Sep 2026 16:13:52 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Stephen Witt, Kevin Frey, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Mychael Schnell, Justin Elliott, Ashley Parker) https://www.ms.now/ September 14, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews author Stephen Witt and Senator Angela Alsobrooks on growing national concerns over AI's accelerating growth. Plus, a new report links Donald Trump Junior and a Russian oligarch through a lavish wedding. Also, a racist social media post sparks fiery reaction among Texas lawmakers. 

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]]> AI Anxiety & Don Jr. controversy Peter Alexander, Stephen Witt, Kevin Frey, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Mychael Schnell, Justin Elliott, Ashley Parker 00:40:40 September 14, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: The AI backlash grips the country and Congress - but the President continues to move full steam ahead in support of the technology. Plus, a new ProPublica report on the financing behind Donald Trump Junior's private island wedding has national security experts sounding the alarm. September 14, 2026; 11:00 a.m. ET: The AI backlash grips the country and Congress - but the President continues to move full steam ahead in support of the technology. Plus, a new ProPublica report on the financing behind Donald Trump Junior's private island wedding has national security experts sounding the alarm. donald trump jr., congress, artificial intelligence, james talarico, texas, president trump, ken paxton false full 20260914 c505383f-1955-4a12-b023-a03ebd024073 Remembering 9/11 25 Years Later September 11th, 2026 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander looks back on September 11th 2001 and the impact it had on the nation after 25 years with former CIA Director John Brennan, "The Briefing" host Jen Psaki, presidential historian Julian Zelizer and Jude Coke, a video producer with stunning footage from the Pentagon after the attacks. 

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]]> Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:14:19 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Jen Psaki, John Brennan, Julian Zelizer, Marc Santia, Josh Einiger, Antonia Hylton, Jude Coke) https://www.ms.now/ September 11th, 2026 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander looks back on September 11th 2001 and the impact it had on the nation after 25 years with former CIA Director John Brennan, "The Briefing" host Jen Psaki, presidential historian Julian Zelizer and Jude Coke, a video producer with stunning footage from the Pentagon after the attacks. 

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]]> Remembering 9/11 25 Years Later Peter Alexander, Jen Psaki, John Brennan, Julian Zelizer, Marc Santia, Josh Einiger, Antonia Hylton, Jude Coke 00:41:50 Americans across the country mark a solemn day as memorials in lower Manhattan, at the Pentagon and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania bring family, friends, colleagues, and U.S. leaders together to honor 9/11 victims and heroes. Americans across the country mark a solemn day as memorials in lower Manhattan, at the Pentagon and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania bring family, friends, colleagues, and U.S. leaders together to honor 9/11 victims and heroes. manhattan, border, newfoundland, pentagon, 9/11, shanskville, president trump, ground zero false full 20260911 d3594224-8094-4d31-8ce6-a0ee923a0056 Sen. Fetterman and the RNC midterm convention September 10th, 2026 11 a.m. ET: The RNC midterm convention in Dallas made headlines as President Trump reveals his latest promise: $5000 checks for every American adult if Republicans win the midterms. But the President wasn’t the only one making waves at the convention. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman appeared in a prerecorded video in which he promised to work with President Trump. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA) joins Peter to react to Fetterman’s surprise appearance. With the midterms now less than eight weeks away, all eyes are on Texas as key races there heat up. Democratic Texas State Rep. Gina Hinojosa sits down with Peter to discuss her own race for Governor. Plus, a scary message from researchers within the artificial intelligence industry - AI could kill us all by the end of this decade. The CEO of Noble Mobile Andrew Yang joins ‘State of ‘Play to discuss his concerns with AI. And five Democratic state attorneys general speak exclusively to MS NOW - sharing their concerns about election security.

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]]> Thu, 10 Sep 2026 16:41:16 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Vaughn Hillyard, Eugene Daniels, Marc Short, Rep. Brendan Boyle, State Rep. Gina Hinajosa, Andrew Yang, Lisa Rubin) https://www.ms.now/ September 10th, 2026 11 a.m. ET: The RNC midterm convention in Dallas made headlines as President Trump reveals his latest promise: $5000 checks for every American adult if Republicans win the midterms. But the President wasn’t the only one making waves at the convention. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman appeared in a prerecorded video in which he promised to work with President Trump. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA) joins Peter to react to Fetterman’s surprise appearance. With the midterms now less than eight weeks away, all eyes are on Texas as key races there heat up. Democratic Texas State Rep. Gina Hinojosa sits down with Peter to discuss her own race for Governor. Plus, a scary message from researchers within the artificial intelligence industry - AI could kill us all by the end of this decade. The CEO of Noble Mobile Andrew Yang joins ‘State of ‘Play to discuss his concerns with AI. And five Democratic state attorneys general speak exclusively to MS NOW - sharing their concerns about election security.

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]]> Sen. Fetterman and the RNC midterm convention Peter Alexander, Vaughn Hillyard, Eugene Daniels, Marc Short, Rep. Brendan Boyle, State Rep. Gina Hinajosa, Andrew Yang, Lisa Rubin 00:40:18 President Trump spoke last night at the first ever RNC midterm convention, unveiling his latest pitch to voters ahead of the November elections. Plus, Peter speaks with State Rep. Gina Hinojosa (D-TX) about here run for Governor in Texas. President Trump spoke last night at the first ever RNC midterm convention, unveiling his latest pitch to voters ahead of the November elections. Plus, Peter speaks with State Rep. Gina Hinojosa (D-TX) about here run for Governor in Texas. midterms, donald trump, democrats, artificial intelligence, rnc convention, texas, republicans false full 20260910 8ae584d1-eb93-43d2-8aea-7aa71050b18f Previewing Tonight’s Trumpapalooza 9/09 11 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander previews the GOP’s midterm convention in Texas this week. An event that’s supposed to rally support for the base has many Republicans privately wishing it wasn’t happening at all. Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (D-PA) talks about her plans to protest the Trump event. Also, Democratic Congressional candidate Stefany Shaheen joins Peter fresh off her primary win in New Hampshire. She discusses the race to fill her mother’s seat and what her priorities will be if she wins the election. Postal workers are pushing back on President Trump's executive ordering limiting mail-in ballots, arguing mail shouldn't be political. Jonathan Smith, President of the American Postal Workers Union, joins Peter. And another controversial no-bid contract from the White House. MS Now shares a glimpse behind the curtain of that deal.

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]]> Wed, 9 Sep 2026 17:07:30 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Chris Jansing, Vaughn Hillyard, Stefany Shaheen, Eugene Daniels, Rep. Madeleine Dean, Jonathan Smith, David Noriega) https://www.ms.now/ 9/09 11 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander previews the GOP’s midterm convention in Texas this week. An event that’s supposed to rally support for the base has many Republicans privately wishing it wasn’t happening at all. Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (D-PA) talks about her plans to protest the Trump event. Also, Democratic Congressional candidate Stefany Shaheen joins Peter fresh off her primary win in New Hampshire. She discusses the race to fill her mother’s seat and what her priorities will be if she wins the election. Postal workers are pushing back on President Trump's executive ordering limiting mail-in ballots, arguing mail shouldn't be political. Jonathan Smith, President of the American Postal Workers Union, joins Peter. And another controversial no-bid contract from the White House. MS Now shares a glimpse behind the curtain of that deal.

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]]> Previewing Tonight’s Trumpapalooza Peter Alexander, Chris Jansing, Vaughn Hillyard, Stefany Shaheen, Eugene Daniels, Rep. Madeleine Dean, Jonathan Smith, David Noriega 00:40:26 President Trump travels to Dallas today for a GOP midterm convention that many Republicans are privately wishing wasn’t happening. It’s a two-day, televised event that coincides with NFL season openers. Democratic Congresswoman Madeleine Dean joins Peter Alexander to talk about her plans to protest the event. President Trump travels to Dallas today for a GOP midterm convention that many Republicans are privately wishing wasn’t happening. It’s a two-day, televised event that coincides with NFL season openers. Democratic Congresswoman Madeleine Dean joins Peter Alexander to talk about her plans to protest the event. sununu, new hampshire primary, mail-in-ballots, dallas, donald trump, immigration, nfl, pappas, primary, texas, postal workers, republican midterm convention, usps false full 20260909 b32b7ec9-628c-4496-bae5-84acb8e3ab7c Midterms and the Pentagon’s secret purge 9/08 11 a.m. ET: President Trump speaks this morning during a 9/11 event honoring first responders. As gas prices climb and the president’s approval ratings hit a historic low, Republican candidates face a difficult choice this November. Do they lean into Trump’s messaging or keep their distance? MS NOW cohost of “The Weeknight” Michael Steele joins Peter to discuss Trump’s social media frenzies and the upcoming elections. Plus, New Hampshire voters head to the polls today to choose their parties’ nominees in a key Senate race. And more than 4,000 transgender service members face an uncertain future amid Trump’s ban on transgender troops. Master Sergeant Amiah Sale was just shy of hitting 20 years of service in the Army when she was dismissed because of the ban. She joins ‘State of Play’ to talk about her own experiences for the first time.

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]]> Tue, 8 Sep 2026 17:08:55 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Michael Steele, Jake Traylor, Will McDuffie, Amiah Sale, Michael Haley) https://www.ms.now/ 9/08 11 a.m. ET: President Trump speaks this morning during a 9/11 event honoring first responders. As gas prices climb and the president’s approval ratings hit a historic low, Republican candidates face a difficult choice this November. Do they lean into Trump’s messaging or keep their distance? MS NOW cohost of “The Weeknight” Michael Steele joins Peter to discuss Trump’s social media frenzies and the upcoming elections. Plus, New Hampshire voters head to the polls today to choose their parties’ nominees in a key Senate race. And more than 4,000 transgender service members face an uncertain future amid Trump’s ban on transgender troops. Master Sergeant Amiah Sale was just shy of hitting 20 years of service in the Army when she was dismissed because of the ban. She joins ‘State of Play’ to talk about her own experiences for the first time.

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]]> Midterms and the Pentagon’s secret purge Peter Alexander, Michael Steele, Jake Traylor, Will McDuffie, Amiah Sale, Michael Haley 00:26:53 With midterms around the corner, Republican candidates are facing a dilemma: lean into the president or keep their distance. A dismissed transgender Army master sergeant sits down exclusively with Peter to speak out for the first time about her experience. With midterms around the corner, Republican candidates are facing a dilemma: lean into the president or keep their distance. A dismissed transgender Army master sergeant sits down exclusively with Peter to speak out for the first time about her experience. midterms, pentagon, donald trump, new hampshire, military false full 20260908 bd455701-fd81-42a7-8882-8010c522c135 Midterm voting & Pentagon perspectives Peter Alexander interviews state Attorneys General from Colorado and Minnesota during their fight to preserve voting-by-mail for their constituents. Plus, John Bolton discusses the drama at the Defense Department and what comes next for the President. Also, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver reacts to his state supreme court tossing gerrymandered Missouri election maps. 


 

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]]> Fri, 4 Sep 2026 16:14:21 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Phil Weiser, Keith Ellison, John Bolton, Emanuel Cleaver, Maxwell Frost) https://www.ms.now/ Peter Alexander interviews state Attorneys General from Colorado and Minnesota during their fight to preserve voting-by-mail for their constituents. Plus, John Bolton discusses the drama at the Defense Department and what comes next for the President. Also, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver reacts to his state supreme court tossing gerrymandered Missouri election maps. 


 

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]]> Midterm voting & Pentagon perspectives Peter Alexander, Phil Weiser, Keith Ellison, John Bolton, Emanuel Cleaver, Maxwell Frost 00:41:48 The battle between the Trump administration and states over mail-in voting hits a new level as ballots begin going out. Plus, former White House National Security Advisor John Bolton breaks down a tumultuous week at the Pentagon. The battle between the Trump administration and states over mail-in voting hits a new level as ballots begin going out. Plus, former White House National Security Advisor John Bolton breaks down a tumultuous week at the Pentagon. midterms, pentagon, donald trump, voting, john bolton, missouri false full 20260904 578801d1-1ce7-403d-9454-79d564d5b652 Kamala Harris & Nancy Pelosi remember Gloria Steinem 9/03 11 a.m. ET: “State of Play” pays tribute to women’s rights pioneer Gloria Steinem following her death at age 92. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi join Peter to discuss Steinem's lasting legacy and her immeasurable impact on generations of women; With the 2026 midterm elections around the corner, a federal judge is deciding the future of Trump's restrictions on mail-in voting. Former Trump White House Attorney Ty Cobb joins Peter to discuss the ramifications of the case; Plus, two USS Lincoln sailors were involved in a brawl after the ship finally docked in Thailand following a nine-month deployment. The Washington Post's Dan Lamothe joins Peter to discuss his latest reporting on the Pentagon removing decades worth of classified documents from an internal web portal; The Wall Street Journal reports Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is quietly extending Middle East troop deployments into next year. Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) weighs in.

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]]> Thu, 3 Sep 2026 16:36:37 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Kamala Harris, Nancy Pelosi, Ty Cobb, Priya Sridhar, Dan Lamothe, Rep. Jason Crow) https://www.ms.now/ 9/03 11 a.m. ET: “State of Play” pays tribute to women’s rights pioneer Gloria Steinem following her death at age 92. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi join Peter to discuss Steinem's lasting legacy and her immeasurable impact on generations of women; With the 2026 midterm elections around the corner, a federal judge is deciding the future of Trump's restrictions on mail-in voting. Former Trump White House Attorney Ty Cobb joins Peter to discuss the ramifications of the case; Plus, two USS Lincoln sailors were involved in a brawl after the ship finally docked in Thailand following a nine-month deployment. The Washington Post's Dan Lamothe joins Peter to discuss his latest reporting on the Pentagon removing decades worth of classified documents from an internal web portal; The Wall Street Journal reports Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is quietly extending Middle East troop deployments into next year. Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) weighs in.

 For more, follow us on Instagram @stateofplaymsnow.

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]]> Kamala Harris & Nancy Pelosi remember Gloria Steinem Peter Alexander, Kamala Harris, Nancy Pelosi, Ty Cobb, Priya Sridhar, Dan Lamothe, Rep. Jason Crow 00:43:44 In the wake of Gloria Steinem's death, former Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi join Peter to discuss Steinem's lasting legacy and her immeasurable impact on generations of women. In the wake of Gloria Steinem's death, former Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi join Peter to discuss Steinem's lasting legacy and her immeasurable impact on generations of women. white house, pentagon, gloria steinem, mail-in voting, troops, uss lincoln false full 20260903 3d9a1d8a-ac20-4494-bfb4-ddcbc2400282 Escalating Strikes on Iran & USS Lincoln One Step Closer to Home 9/02 11 a.m. ET: President Trump is escalating strikes on Iran, igniting a trade war with Canada, and defending data centers – all while members of his party are trying to bolster support for Republicans on the ballot. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler of New York speaks out against recent actions by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and shares his concerns for national security. Plus, the USS Lincoln docks in Thailand on its way home after a record-setting nine-month deployment in the Middle East. MS Now’s Priya Sridhar is there live. Plus, one of Tuesday’s big primary winners, Massachusetts Democratic candidate Daniel Koh joins Peter to discuss what Tuesday’s results mean for his party on its road to potentially regaining the majority in Washington. Mitt Romney’s former campaign adviser Kevin Madden weighs in on the Texas Senate race. And: a Trump policy decision has a devastating consequence – a stark reminder that policy affects people.

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]]> Wed, 2 Sep 2026 16:58:26 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Mike Lawler, Priya Sridhar, Frank Kendall, Kevin Frey, Dan Koh, Kevin Madden) https://www.ms.now/ 9/02 11 a.m. ET: President Trump is escalating strikes on Iran, igniting a trade war with Canada, and defending data centers – all while members of his party are trying to bolster support for Republicans on the ballot. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler of New York speaks out against recent actions by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and shares his concerns for national security. Plus, the USS Lincoln docks in Thailand on its way home after a record-setting nine-month deployment in the Middle East. MS Now’s Priya Sridhar is there live. Plus, one of Tuesday’s big primary winners, Massachusetts Democratic candidate Daniel Koh joins Peter to discuss what Tuesday’s results mean for his party on its road to potentially regaining the majority in Washington. Mitt Romney’s former campaign adviser Kevin Madden weighs in on the Texas Senate race. And: a Trump policy decision has a devastating consequence – a stark reminder that policy affects people.

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]]> Escalating Strikes on Iran & USS Lincoln One Step Closer to Home Peter Alexander, Mike Lawler, Priya Sridhar, Frank Kendall, Kevin Frey, Dan Koh, Kevin Madden 00:41:36 It’s two months out from midterms and President Donald Trump is escalating strikes on Iran, igniting a trade war with Canada, and defending data centers against opponents across U.S. states. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler joins Peter Alexander to unpack the President’s recent policy moves impacting his constituents. It’s two months out from midterms and President Donald Trump is escalating strikes on Iran, igniting a trade war with Canada, and defending data centers against opponents across U.S. states. Republican Congressman Mike Lawler joins Peter Alexander to unpack the President’s recent policy moves impacting his constituents. trade war, talarico, hegseth, haiti, paxton, haitian immigrants, iran, tariffs, pentagon, tps, donald trump, texas senate race, ma, primary, uss lincoln, canada false full 20260902 9db5f286-988e-4743-a980-95cbd09da3cb Pentagon discord & Massachusetts primary Peter Alexander gets analysis from a retired Army Major General and a veteran Pentagon correspondent to Army Secretary Dan Driscoll’s resignation. Plus, a check on the Massachusetts primary where the debate over generational change is in focus for Democratic voters. Also, a former U.S. Ambassador to Russia reacts to Vladimir Putin's diplomats attending the G20 finance meeting despite reservations from European allies. And a deep dive into how President Trump's past impacts America's present. 

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]]> Tue, 1 Sep 2026 16:33:26 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, James 'Spider' Marks, Barbara Starr, Kai Bird, Kevin Frey, Santiago Mayer, Christina Hines, Michael McFaul) https://www.ms.now/ Peter Alexander gets analysis from a retired Army Major General and a veteran Pentagon correspondent to Army Secretary Dan Driscoll’s resignation. Plus, a check on the Massachusetts primary where the debate over generational change is in focus for Democratic voters. Also, a former U.S. Ambassador to Russia reacts to Vladimir Putin's diplomats attending the G20 finance meeting despite reservations from European allies. And a deep dive into how President Trump's past impacts America's present. 

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]]> Pentagon discord & Massachusetts primary Peter Alexander, James 'Spider' Marks, Barbara Starr, Kai Bird, Kevin Frey, Santiago Mayer, Christina Hines, Michael McFaul 00:40:00 Army Secretary Dan Driscoll's decision to step down raises new questions for the Pentagon and the President. Plus, the Massachusetts Democratic Senate primary pits two current lawmakers against each other and puts the age debate on center stage.  Army Secretary Dan Driscoll's decision to step down raises new questions for the Pentagon and the President. Plus, the Massachusetts Democratic Senate primary pits two current lawmakers against each other and puts the age debate on center stage.  pentagon, massachusetts, russia, roy cohn, sen. ed markey, president donald trump, seth moulton false full 20260901 65476302-4244-401b-ab27-e2d3b5e26244 Iran conflict & Primary preview Peter Alexander interviews former White House National Security Communications Director John Kirby about new and concerning military escalation on both sides of the U.S.-Iran war. Plus, Massachusetts Democratic Congressional candidate Patrick Roath joins to preview his primary matchup against Congressman Stephen Lynch. Also, a deep dive into the Trump administration's new program to secure the U.S. government as an investor in the Venezuelan oil trade.  

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]]> Mon, 31 Aug 2026 16:21:39 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER, Patrick Roath, John Kirby, Inzamam Rashid, Alex Horton, Vera Bergengruen, State Senator Mallory McMorrow) https://www.ms.now/ Peter Alexander interviews former White House National Security Communications Director John Kirby about new and concerning military escalation on both sides of the U.S.-Iran war. Plus, Massachusetts Democratic Congressional candidate Patrick Roath joins to preview his primary matchup against Congressman Stephen Lynch. Also, a deep dive into the Trump administration's new program to secure the U.S. government as an investor in the Venezuelan oil trade.  

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]]> Iran conflict & Primary preview PETER ALEXANDER, Patrick Roath, John Kirby, Inzamam Rashid, Alex Horton, Vera Bergengruen, State Senator Mallory McMorrow 00:39:55 A new wave of strikes exchanged by the U.S. and Iran raises new doubts over any potential solution to end the conflict. Plus, Massachusetts Democratic voters prepare for a major Senate primary showdown along with some critical down-ballot races. A new wave of strikes exchanged by the U.S. and Iran raises new doubts over any potential solution to end the conflict. Plus, Massachusetts Democratic voters prepare for a major Senate primary showdown along with some critical down-ballot races. midterms, patrick roath, iran, jd vance, pentagon, massachusetts, ed markey, seth moulton false full 20260831 d9681f83-8fc9-4875-b690-f14a57710315 Six Months of War With Iran 8/28 11 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander unpacks six months of the war with Iran with Democratic Congressman and veteran Jason Crow and former CIA Director John Brennan. Plus, 63 years after Martin Luther King Jr.’s March on Washington, thousands of people took to Washington today for a rally to defend voting rights. NAACP General Counsel Kristen Clark reflects on the erosion of the progress made in the last six decades. Peter speaks with the Premier of Nova Scotia about President Trump renaming Lake Ontario to “Lake America”  and the underlying trade war. And: according to a grand jury report, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration misappropriated $10 million that was set aside for children’s health care in Florida – using it to advance his political priorities instead. 

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]]> Fri, 28 Aug 2026 16:49:29 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Jason Crow, Kristen Clark, Jake Traylor, Tim Houston, Dave Aronberg) https://www.ms.now/ 8/28 11 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander unpacks six months of the war with Iran with Democratic Congressman and veteran Jason Crow and former CIA Director John Brennan. Plus, 63 years after Martin Luther King Jr.’s March on Washington, thousands of people took to Washington today for a rally to defend voting rights. NAACP General Counsel Kristen Clark reflects on the erosion of the progress made in the last six decades. Peter speaks with the Premier of Nova Scotia about President Trump renaming Lake Ontario to “Lake America”  and the underlying trade war. And: according to a grand jury report, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration misappropriated $10 million that was set aside for children’s health care in Florida – using it to advance his political priorities instead. 

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]]> Six Months of War With Iran Peter Alexander, Jason Crow, Kristen Clark, Jake Traylor, Tim Houston, Dave Aronberg 00:39:20 Despite President Trump’s repeated claims that the U.S.-led war with Iran would be over in just weeks, today it reached the six month mark. Democratic Congressman Jason Crow and former CIA Director John Brennan reflect on the war six months in. Despite President Trump’s repeated claims that the U.S.-led war with Iran would be over in just weeks, today it reached the six month mark. Democratic Congressman Jason Crow and former CIA Director John Brennan reflect on the war six months in. lake ontario, iran, tariffs, donald trump, march on washington, naacp, voting rights, martin luther king jr, canada false full 20260828 09225704-f1d7-4679-bb3b-0f78647b9eb9 The USS Lincoln latest and flash floods 8/25 11 a.m. ET: President Trump confronts his party and legacy as the midterms approach. He reposted a list of grievances on Truth Social as he travels to Texas to boost Ken Paxton in the race for the Texas Senate seat. New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman and Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX) join Peter to discuss Trump and the upcoming midterms. Plus, the Navy sailor who jumped off the USS Lincoln is facing disciplinary charges. While Air Force Major Jason Watson, who called for Trump’s impeachment, is facing criminal charges. Chris Mutimer, the lawyer representing Watson, sits down with Peter to discuss the charges. More than 1,000 people are still missing after a collapsed glacier caused flash flooding along the Nepal-Tibet border. Plus, the FDA approves a new pancreatic cancer drug that has been shown to nearly double survival rates among patients. 

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]]> Thu, 27 Aug 2026 16:30:12 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Maggie Haberman, Priya Sridhar, Allison Jaslow, Rep. Joaquin Castro, Christopher Mutimer) https://www.ms.now/ 8/25 11 a.m. ET: President Trump confronts his party and legacy as the midterms approach. He reposted a list of grievances on Truth Social as he travels to Texas to boost Ken Paxton in the race for the Texas Senate seat. New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman and Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX) join Peter to discuss Trump and the upcoming midterms. Plus, the Navy sailor who jumped off the USS Lincoln is facing disciplinary charges. While Air Force Major Jason Watson, who called for Trump’s impeachment, is facing criminal charges. Chris Mutimer, the lawyer representing Watson, sits down with Peter to discuss the charges. More than 1,000 people are still missing after a collapsed glacier caused flash flooding along the Nepal-Tibet border. Plus, the FDA approves a new pancreatic cancer drug that has been shown to nearly double survival rates among patients. 

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]]> The USS Lincoln latest and flash floods Peter Alexander, Maggie Haberman, Priya Sridhar, Allison Jaslow, Rep. Joaquin Castro, Christopher Mutimer 00:40:36 President Trump takes on his own party as the midterms approach. An MS NOW exclusive: the Navy sailor who jumped off on the USS Lincoln is now facing disciplinary charges. President Trump takes on his own party as the midterms approach. An MS NOW exclusive: the Navy sailor who jumped off on the USS Lincoln is now facing disciplinary charges. nepal, donald trump, midterm elections, uss lincoln, air force, floods, cancer false full 20260827 75539def-0bc4-40b0-90db-97006399f7f4 U.S. Troops’ Concerns and Remembering Dolly Parton 8/26 11 a.m. ET: A growing number of U.S. service members in Iran are looking to leave the military, citing moral conflicts. MS Now’s Priya Sridhar has that reporting. Peter Alexander remembers the music legend Dolly Parton with American documentarian Ken Burns, who interviewed Dolly in his 2019 documentary “Country Music.” Plus, Senator Darline Graham won the Republican senate runoff in South Carolina – after President Trump went all in — but it wasn’t a landslide. Peter breaks down the power of the President’s endorsement this midterm cycle with former White House Legislative Affairs Director Marc Short. Canadians speak out against President Trump’s escalating trade war. And Meta just settled a landmark social media addiction case. Massachusetts Democratic Senator Ed Markey weighs-in and discusses his upcoming Senate primary race.

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]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:50:53 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Ken Burns, Gen. Wesley Clark, Priya Sridhar, Marc Short, Alex Tabet, Ed Markey) https://www.ms.now/ 8/26 11 a.m. ET: A growing number of U.S. service members in Iran are looking to leave the military, citing moral conflicts. MS Now’s Priya Sridhar has that reporting. Peter Alexander remembers the music legend Dolly Parton with American documentarian Ken Burns, who interviewed Dolly in his 2019 documentary “Country Music.” Plus, Senator Darline Graham won the Republican senate runoff in South Carolina – after President Trump went all in — but it wasn’t a landslide. Peter breaks down the power of the President’s endorsement this midterm cycle with former White House Legislative Affairs Director Marc Short. Canadians speak out against President Trump’s escalating trade war. And Meta just settled a landmark social media addiction case. Massachusetts Democratic Senator Ed Markey weighs-in and discusses his upcoming Senate primary race.

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]]> U.S. Troops’ Concerns and Remembering Dolly Parton Peter Alexander, Ken Burns, Gen. Wesley Clark, Priya Sridhar, Marc Short, Alex Tabet, Ed Markey 00:40:56 Skyrocketing numbers of U.S. troops are looking to leave the military on moral grounds. Plus, remembering the beloved Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, with documentary filmmaker Ken Burns. Skyrocketing numbers of U.S. troops are looking to leave the military on moral grounds. Plus, remembering the beloved Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, with documentary filmmaker Ken Burns. dolly parton, iran, tariffs, meta, donald trump, darline graham, south carolina, social media, canada false full 20260826 8a9ce4c4-3f10-48c6-b463-f485e8d78a55 Mail-in voting and a trade war 8/25 11 a.m. ET: The Supreme Court released a ruling saying President Trump can restrict mail-in ballots through an executive order he signed earlier this year. Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold (D) joins Peter to discuss the ruling and mail-in voting in her own state. Plus, Canada announces retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. after Trump's sweeping new tariffs on Canadian goods. Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Cohen talks about the trickle down effects of tariffs on the American economy. Plus, voters head to the polls in South Carolina where Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman face off in the GOP Senate primary runoff. American ranchers criticize Trump over his plan to import ground beef tariff free over the next three months. President Trump keeps making money in office. Peter looks at a June financial disclosure showing the president’s stock portfolio. 

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]]> Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:17:46 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Jena Griswold, Tom Dupree, David Cohen, Ron Insana, Mychael Schnell, Jaime Harrison, Justin Tupper) https://www.ms.now/ 8/25 11 a.m. ET: The Supreme Court released a ruling saying President Trump can restrict mail-in ballots through an executive order he signed earlier this year. Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold (D) joins Peter to discuss the ruling and mail-in voting in her own state. Plus, Canada announces retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. after Trump's sweeping new tariffs on Canadian goods. Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Cohen talks about the trickle down effects of tariffs on the American economy. Plus, voters head to the polls in South Carolina where Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman face off in the GOP Senate primary runoff. American ranchers criticize Trump over his plan to import ground beef tariff free over the next three months. President Trump keeps making money in office. Peter looks at a June financial disclosure showing the president’s stock portfolio. 

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]]> Mail-in voting and a trade war Peter Alexander, Jena Griswold, Tom Dupree, David Cohen, Ron Insana, Mychael Schnell, Jaime Harrison, Justin Tupper 00:39:26 The Supreme Court clears a hurdle for President Trump to restrict mail-in voting. Plus, Canada announces retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. after Trump threatens sweeping new tariffs on Canadian goods. The Supreme Court clears a hurdle for President Trump to restrict mail-in voting. Plus, Canada announces retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. after Trump threatens sweeping new tariffs on Canadian goods. tariffs, election, beef, donald trump, supreme court, south carolina, canada false full 20260825 fb8a4b76-a724-4ac2-9b8d-a2ee745b07ed Iran sanctions and a private meeting 8/24 11 a.m. ET:  Iran’s currency falls to a record low after the U.S. announced its latest threat against Iran: an “economic D-Day.” Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta joins Peter to talk about the latest on the Iran war and more. The New York Times reports Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and the President’s son-in-law Jared Kushner met privately in NYC to discuss common ground as the midterm elections approach. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) weighs in on that meeting and the U.S.-Canada trade war. Plus, the Pentagon fired three journalists from a military news outlet over allegations of “insubordination.” One of those journalists joins Peter to discuss her experience. Thousands of people in Indiana have now gone two weeks without power after a storm hit the region. 

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]]> Mon, 24 Aug 2026 17:17:19 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Leon Panetta, Annie Karni, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, Mychael Schnell, Laura Korte, Nnamdi Egwuonwu) https://www.ms.now/ 8/24 11 a.m. ET:  Iran’s currency falls to a record low after the U.S. announced its latest threat against Iran: an “economic D-Day.” Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta joins Peter to talk about the latest on the Iran war and more. The New York Times reports Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and the President’s son-in-law Jared Kushner met privately in NYC to discuss common ground as the midterm elections approach. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) weighs in on that meeting and the U.S.-Canada trade war. Plus, the Pentagon fired three journalists from a military news outlet over allegations of “insubordination.” One of those journalists joins Peter to discuss her experience. Thousands of people in Indiana have now gone two weeks without power after a storm hit the region. 

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]]> Iran sanctions and a private meeting Peter Alexander, Leon Panetta, Annie Karni, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, Mychael Schnell, Laura Korte, Nnamdi Egwuonwu 00:40:38 The U.S. announces an “economic D-Day” on Iran as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prepares to outline what this financial pressure could look like today. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) joins Peter to discuss Democrats’ political future and the U.S.-Canada trade war. The U.S. announces an “economic D-Day” on Iran as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prepares to outline what this financial pressure could look like today. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) joins Peter to discuss Democrats’ political future and the U.S.-Canada trade war. white house, iran, pentagon, donald trump, special election, power outage false full 20260824 189225bd-a83f-42cc-b6cf-01fabbe8a935 National Security and Trump’s vanity projects 8/21 11 a.m. ET:  President Trump heads to South Carolina today while Vice President Vance is in Ohio, both campaigning for the upcoming midterms. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Hegseth focuses on campaigning in Iowa as the U.S. approaches six months of war. New reports coming out of the USS Lincoln reveal just how the conditions got so bad onboard as they head home. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) joins Peter to talk about his own Senate race and the war with Iran. Plus, President Trump continues his bid to leave his mark on D.C. with his latest vanity projects, even as affordability concerns persist. Democrats have a new found hope after reports show the Senate races in Texas and Iowa as toss ups. Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA) discusses that and more on the 2026 midterms with Peter. ICE is back in the headlines as a Virginia man says he suffered a brain injury after an encounter with agents.

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]]> Fri, 21 Aug 2026 16:21:37 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Rep. Seth Moulton, Mychael Schnell, Eugene Daniels, Jon Meacham, Rep. Suzan DelBene, David Noriega) https://www.ms.now/ 8/21 11 a.m. ET:  President Trump heads to South Carolina today while Vice President Vance is in Ohio, both campaigning for the upcoming midterms. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Hegseth focuses on campaigning in Iowa as the U.S. approaches six months of war. New reports coming out of the USS Lincoln reveal just how the conditions got so bad onboard as they head home. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) joins Peter to talk about his own Senate race and the war with Iran. Plus, President Trump continues his bid to leave his mark on D.C. with his latest vanity projects, even as affordability concerns persist. Democrats have a new found hope after reports show the Senate races in Texas and Iowa as toss ups. Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA) discusses that and more on the 2026 midterms with Peter. ICE is back in the headlines as a Virginia man says he suffered a brain injury after an encounter with agents.

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]]> National Security and Trump’s vanity projects Peter Alexander, Rep. Seth Moulton, Mychael Schnell, Eugene Daniels, Jon Meacham, Rep. Suzan DelBene, David Noriega 00:40:12 With November just three months away, President Trump and Vice President Vance are back on the campaign trail today. The war with Iran shows no signs of winding down, and Peter is joined by Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) to talk about that and more. With November just three months away, President Trump and Vice President Vance are back on the campaign trail today. The war with Iran shows no signs of winding down, and Peter is joined by Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) to talk about that and more. white house, ice, midterms, donald trump, military, cancer false full 20260821 bd508d83-600f-4fb5-802f-a391792d1261 North Korean missiles and U.S. crosses $40T debt 8/20 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander speaks to two women veterans who have been outspoken about the conditions aboard the USS Lincoln and national security threats in their bid for congressional office. MS Now has exclusive reporting on President Trump’s closest aide, who was working from inside the Oval Office without a security clearance. Michael Cohen is trying to get back into President Trump’s good graces. The journalist who gave Cohen Trump’s number joins Peter on the show today. Plus: the U.S. surpasses $40 trillion dollars of debt. Jared Bernstein, former Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, discusses what this means for future generations. 

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]]> Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:51:38 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Eileen Laubacher, Nancy Lacore, Jake Traylor, Tara Palmeri, Ken Dilanian, Lauren Villagran, Ana Kikabidze, PETER ALEXANDER, JARED BERNSTEIN) https://www.ms.now/ 8/20 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander speaks to two women veterans who have been outspoken about the conditions aboard the USS Lincoln and national security threats in their bid for congressional office. MS Now has exclusive reporting on President Trump’s closest aide, who was working from inside the Oval Office without a security clearance. Michael Cohen is trying to get back into President Trump’s good graces. The journalist who gave Cohen Trump’s number joins Peter on the show today. Plus: the U.S. surpasses $40 trillion dollars of debt. Jared Bernstein, former Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, discusses what this means for future generations. 

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]]> North Korean missiles and U.S. crosses $40T debt Eileen Laubacher, Nancy Lacore, Jake Traylor, Tara Palmeri, Ken Dilanian, Lauren Villagran, Ana Kikabidze, PETER ALEXANDER, JARED BERNSTEIN 00:40:27 North Korea fires missiles toward the sea today -- just one day after President Trump touted his friendship with the North Korean dictator. Two retired navy admirals, who are also running for office this year, weigh-in on the U.S. relations with North Korea. North Korea fires missiles toward the sea today -- just one day after President Trump touted his friendship with the North Korean dictator. Two retired navy admirals, who are also running for office this year, weigh-in on the U.S. relations with North Korea. kim jong un, ice, economy, iran, donald trump, north korea, michael cohen false full 20260820 ae6cf64d-c7be-403b-8037-f818b95b5688 Primary fallout & Julia Curlee 8/19 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews David Jolly after his primary victory to hear his plan to win the Florida statehouse after more than a decade of republican superiority. Plus, an in-depth discussion with Julia Curlee, a longtime CIA officer who transitioned during her time working the highest levels of national security for multiple administrations, on how being transgender factored into her firing within the Trump administration. Also, a rough night on the debate stage for Senator Darline Graham raises questions about her political future. 

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]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 16:24:41 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER, David Jolly, Bale Dalton, Mychael Schnell, Julia Curlee, Alex Tabet) https://www.ms.now/ 8/19 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews David Jolly after his primary victory to hear his plan to win the Florida statehouse after more than a decade of republican superiority. Plus, an in-depth discussion with Julia Curlee, a longtime CIA officer who transitioned during her time working the highest levels of national security for multiple administrations, on how being transgender factored into her firing within the Trump administration. Also, a rough night on the debate stage for Senator Darline Graham raises questions about her political future. 

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]]> Primary fallout & Julia Curlee PETER ALEXANDER, David Jolly, Bale Dalton, Mychael Schnell, Julia Curlee, Alex Tabet 00:40:49 The primary front-runners roll in the Florida governor's race - but some surprising results in the senate and house matchups raise questions over what to expect in November. Plus, ousted transgender CIA officer Janet Curlee details her dismissal from the White House after serving the prior Trump administration.  The primary front-runners roll in the Florida governor's race - but some surprising results in the senate and house matchups raise questions over what to expect in November. Plus, ousted transgender CIA officer Janet Curlee details her dismissal from the White House after serving the prior Trump administration.  midterms, primaries, iran, florida, donald trump, julia curlee, darline graham, byron donalds false full 20260819 e705feb4-0ef4-4d54-aba2-b2073b94f7f2 Primary day + Trump allies & adversaries 8/18 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews progressive congressional candidate Elijah Manley, who makes his pitch to Florida voters and takes on an incumbent lawmaker in his state's primary. Plus, John Bolton, former White House National Security Advisor and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, joins as tensions spike along the Korean Peninsula and the stalemate with Iran continues. Also, the legal battle between Disney-ABC and the Trump administration's FCC enters a critical new phase.

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]]> Tue, 18 Aug 2026 16:18:36 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER, John Bolton, Texas State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, ALEX TABET, Elijah Maney) https://www.ms.now/ 8/18 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews progressive congressional candidate Elijah Manley, who makes his pitch to Florida voters and takes on an incumbent lawmaker in his state's primary. Plus, John Bolton, former White House National Security Advisor and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, joins as tensions spike along the Korean Peninsula and the stalemate with Iran continues. Also, the legal battle between Disney-ABC and the Trump administration's FCC enters a critical new phase.

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]]> Primary day + Trump allies & adversaries PETER ALEXANDER, John Bolton, Texas State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, ALEX TABET, Elijah Maney 00:40:39 Florida takes center stage in the midterm discussion with today's primary where key races for Governor, Senate and the House are all in focus. Former Trump National Security Advisor John Bolton weighs in on the President's challenges with Iran and his connection to Kim Jong Un. Florida takes center stage in the midterm discussion with today's primary where key races for Governor, Senate and the House are all in focus. Former Trump National Security Advisor John Bolton weighs in on the President's challenges with Iran and his connection to Kim Jong Un. florida primary, white house, midterms, iran, big bend, donald trump, disney, north korea, abc, fcc false full 20260818 d8cdd2a3-4a0d-403c-8732-678ca0ec94cb Trump foreign policy & Primary preview 8/17 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed, the ranking member on the Armed Services Committee, about President Trump's threat to "bomb" Oman if the nation "gets in the way" of Iran negotiations. Senator Reed also discussed the conditions aboard the USS Lincoln and the U.S. relationship with South Korea. Plus, Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds enters Tuesday's Florida primary with a key endorsement from the President while facing political headwinds in the form of weakening poll numbers on affordability for his party. Also, a former Justice Department pardon attorney discusses the impact within the agency of Attorney General Todd Blanche's refusal to pledge that the DOJ will act independently of the White House. 

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]]> Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:25:40 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER, Senator Jack Reed, Rep. Byron Donalds, PRIYA SRIDHAR, Rob Bonta, Liz Oyer, Julia Jester) https://www.ms.now/ 8/17 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander interviews Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed, the ranking member on the Armed Services Committee, about President Trump's threat to "bomb" Oman if the nation "gets in the way" of Iran negotiations. Senator Reed also discussed the conditions aboard the USS Lincoln and the U.S. relationship with South Korea. Plus, Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds enters Tuesday's Florida primary with a key endorsement from the President while facing political headwinds in the form of weakening poll numbers on affordability for his party. Also, a former Justice Department pardon attorney discusses the impact within the agency of Attorney General Todd Blanche's refusal to pledge that the DOJ will act independently of the White House. 

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]]> Trump foreign policy & Primary preview PETER ALEXANDER, Senator Jack Reed, Rep. Byron Donalds, PRIYA SRIDHAR, Rob Bonta, Liz Oyer, Julia Jester 00:40:11 U.S. allies absorb surprising new statements & policy decisions by President Trump, sparking new questions about America's role in key regions. Florida voters prepare for a critical primary election as the race to replace Governor Ron DeSantis heats up. U.S. allies absorb surprising new statements & policy decisions by President Trump, sparking new questions about America's role in key regions. Florida voters prepare for a critical primary election as the race to replace Governor Ron DeSantis heats up. florida primary, jared kushner, israel, midterms, gaza, iran, todd blanche, benjamin netanyahu, hamas, north korea, uss lincoln, byron donalds, paramount false full 20260817 accf0d7c-1d3a-4992-b9d9-61b7f2f77067 The Mangione case and a look into the Blanche era of the DOJ 8/14 11 a.m. ET Luigi Mangione pleads guilty to federal stalking charges in the killing of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. MS NOW reporter Fallon Gallagher is outside the courthouse bringing live updates. Peter is joined by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to talk about the state of the democratic party, data centers and his own potential 2028 run. Plus, Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee put AG Todd Blanche on notice this morning over DOJ payouts for Trump allies. Senator Adam Schiff weighs in on DOJ oversight in the new Todd Blanche era and Trump’s slush fund.

For more, follow us on Instagram @stateofplaymsnow.

 

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]]> Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:34:37 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, Fallon Gallagher, Gov. Andy Beshear, Sen. Adam Schiff, Ankush Khardori) https://www.ms.now/ 8/14 11 a.m. ET Luigi Mangione pleads guilty to federal stalking charges in the killing of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. MS NOW reporter Fallon Gallagher is outside the courthouse bringing live updates. Peter is joined by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to talk about the state of the democratic party, data centers and his own potential 2028 run. Plus, Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee put AG Todd Blanche on notice this morning over DOJ payouts for Trump allies. Senator Adam Schiff weighs in on DOJ oversight in the new Todd Blanche era and Trump’s slush fund.

For more, follow us on Instagram @stateofplaymsnow.

 

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]]> The Mangione case and a look into the Blanche era of the DOJ Peter Alexander, Fallon Gallagher, Gov. Andy Beshear, Sen. Adam Schiff, Ankush Khardori 00:41:37 The ‘State of Play’ brings you live updates into a Manhattan courtroom as Luigi Mangione pleads guilty to federal charges. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Senator Adam Schiff join Peter to talk the democratic party and the DOJ. The ‘State of Play’ brings you live updates into a Manhattan courtroom as Luigi Mangione pleads guilty to federal charges. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Senator Adam Schiff join Peter to talk the democratic party and the DOJ. court, luigi mangione, department of justice, president donald trump, democratic party false full 20260814 49b23c17-964b-4152-88e4-c7c89db75391 Inside the Briefing Room, conditions aboard USS Lincoln, and Trump’s Truth Social 8/13 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander and MS Now host of “The Briefing” Jen Psaki talk about how communication between the President and the press has changed in Donald Trump’s second term. Plus, exclusive MS Now reporting reveals the shocking conditions aboard the USS Lincoln that are prompting sailors and their families to speak out. Retired U.S. Army Lt. General Mark Hertling weighs in, sharing his own experience aboard military ships. Also, President Donald Trump is being sued for his new subscription service charging $100,000 for early access to his Truth Social posts. The plaintiffs in the suit call the President’s plan “blatantly corrupt” and “unconstitutional.” Peter also speaks with Kieran Ramsey, whose organization helped with the release of former American Marine Robert Gilman, who was held by Russia for more than four years.

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]]> Thu, 13 Aug 2026 17:08:57 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER, Jen Psaki, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, Brendan Ballou, Kieran Ramsey, PRIYA SRIDHAR, BEN RHODES, Kristin McCudden) https://www.ms.now/ 8/13 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander and MS Now host of “The Briefing” Jen Psaki talk about how communication between the President and the press has changed in Donald Trump’s second term. Plus, exclusive MS Now reporting reveals the shocking conditions aboard the USS Lincoln that are prompting sailors and their families to speak out. Retired U.S. Army Lt. General Mark Hertling weighs in, sharing his own experience aboard military ships. Also, President Donald Trump is being sued for his new subscription service charging $100,000 for early access to his Truth Social posts. The plaintiffs in the suit call the President’s plan “blatantly corrupt” and “unconstitutional.” Peter also speaks with Kieran Ramsey, whose organization helped with the release of former American Marine Robert Gilman, who was held by Russia for more than four years.

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]]> Inside the Briefing Room, conditions aboard USS Lincoln, and Trump’s Truth Social PETER ALEXANDER, Jen Psaki, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, Brendan Ballou, Kieran Ramsey, PRIYA SRIDHAR, BEN RHODES, Kristin McCudden 00:41:23 Peter Alexander is joined by Jen Psaki, MS Now host of “The Briefing” and former White House Press Secretary. They discuss being inside the White House briefing room, Trump’s secret plane swap, and the White House’s multi-million dollar renovations. Peter Alexander is joined by Jen Psaki, MS Now host of “The Briefing” and former White House Press Secretary. They discuss being inside the White House briefing room, Trump’s secret plane swap, and the White House’s multi-million dollar renovations. white house, ice, iran, air force one, donald trump, russia, truth social false full 20260813 554d6f9b-b04f-47f8-89f9-c8316f92f9a7 Primary Takeaways & Trump’s Plane Controversy 8/12 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander breaks down the latest results from Tuesday’s Primary races with Connecticut’s new Democratic congressional nominee. They discuss what his win means for the Democratic establishment and November’s key midterm races. And former Defense Secretary Mark Esper joins Peter to discuss the Iranian threat that led to President Trump secretly switching planes via a catering truck. Plus, more primary takeaways: Peter is joined by South Carolina’s Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrew, who is set to face-off against the winner of the Republican runoff to fill the late Senator Lindsey Graham’s seat. Also, D.C.’s top prosecutor, Jeanine Pirro, is convening a special grand jury according to The Washington Post. The reporter with that exclusive reporting helps us break it all down, and what it could mean for President Trump's biggest targets.

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]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:36:07 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER, Luke Bronin, Shawna Thomas, Tom Malinowski, Mark Esper, Perry Stein, Annie Andrews) https://www.ms.now/ 8/12 11:00 a.m. ET: Peter Alexander breaks down the latest results from Tuesday’s Primary races with Connecticut’s new Democratic congressional nominee. They discuss what his win means for the Democratic establishment and November’s key midterm races. And former Defense Secretary Mark Esper joins Peter to discuss the Iranian threat that led to President Trump secretly switching planes via a catering truck. Plus, more primary takeaways: Peter is joined by South Carolina’s Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrew, who is set to face-off against the winner of the Republican runoff to fill the late Senator Lindsey Graham’s seat. Also, D.C.’s top prosecutor, Jeanine Pirro, is convening a special grand jury according to The Washington Post. The reporter with that exclusive reporting helps us break it all down, and what it could mean for President Trump's biggest targets.

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]]> Primary Takeaways & Trump’s Plane Controversy PETER ALEXANDER, Luke Bronin, Shawna Thomas, Tom Malinowski, Mark Esper, Perry Stein, Annie Andrews 00:40:37 Progressives had a big-win summer, but the Democratic establishment strikes back, bringing upsets across Tuesday’s primary races. Connecticut’s new Democrat congressional nominee Luke Bronin joins Peter Alexander fresh off his win. Progressives had a big-win summer, but the Democratic establishment strikes back, bringing upsets across Tuesday’s primary races. Connecticut’s new Democrat congressional nominee Luke Bronin joins Peter Alexander fresh off his win. lindsey graham, iran, primary day, air force one, jeanine pirro, democratic establishment false full 20260812 c530e69f-7072-46be-aead-e4bca73a965b Air Force One, the DOJ’s New Memo and the Primary Races to Watch August 11, 2026; 11am:  Shuttled off in a catering truck, President Trump secretly switched planes amid Iranian threats after the NATO summit in Turkey. Peter shares his own experience on Air Force One while Washington Post reporter John Hudson and former CIA Director John Brennan discuss the details of the swap. The DOJ releases a new memo that expands the president’s executive privilege on Todd Blanche’s first day as Attorney General. Plus, voters hit the polls today as primaries are happening across six states. Former Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party Ben Wikler and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison join to talk about the races in their states. Peter breaks down the newest executive order issued by President Trump to reshape childhood vaccine schedules.

For more, follow us on Instagram @stateofplaymsnow.

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]]> Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:53:16 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (Peter Alexander, John Hudson, John Brennan, Paul Butler, Will McDuffie, Ben Wikler, Keith Ellison) https://www.ms.now/ August 11, 2026; 11am:  Shuttled off in a catering truck, President Trump secretly switched planes amid Iranian threats after the NATO summit in Turkey. Peter shares his own experience on Air Force One while Washington Post reporter John Hudson and former CIA Director John Brennan discuss the details of the swap. The DOJ releases a new memo that expands the president’s executive privilege on Todd Blanche’s first day as Attorney General. Plus, voters hit the polls today as primaries are happening across six states. Former Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party Ben Wikler and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison join to talk about the races in their states. Peter breaks down the newest executive order issued by President Trump to reshape childhood vaccine schedules.

For more, follow us on Instagram @stateofplaymsnow.

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]]> Air Force One, the DOJ’s New Memo and the Primary Races to Watch Peter Alexander, John Hudson, John Brennan, Paul Butler, Will McDuffie, Ben Wikler, Keith Ellison 00:40:54 On episode two of “State of Play with Peter Alexander,” the show dives into the president's secret plane switch after a NATO summit and the newest DOJ memo expanding Trump’s executive privileges. On episode two of “State of Play with Peter Alexander,” the show dives into the president's secret plane switch after a NATO summit and the newest DOJ memo expanding Trump’s executive privileges. primary elections, todd blanche, department of justice, air force one, vaccines, president donald trump false full 20260811 6fcf2620-f2e2-4cc4-b5e4-bda57ddbc426 Todd Blanche’s DOJ, the Iran latest, and a look-ahead to Wisconsin primary day Ahead of Todd Blanche’s swearing in as Attorney General today, former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales addresses concerns about how Blanche will run the Justice Department and shares what he would like to see from his leadership.

Iran maintains the Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until the U.S. meets certain demands, as President Trump appears to be shifting his tone. In an interview with Axios, the president said quote "we are low-keying it" with Iran, while talking up economic pressure.
Former White House National Security Communications Advisor and MS NOW National Security Analyst retired Rear Admiral John Kirby, and Jamil Jaffer, former House Intelligence Committee, Senior Counsel and Executive Director of the National Security Institute, weigh in.

New York Times White House Correspondent and co-author of "Regime Change" Maggie Haberman discusses the latest updates coming out of the Trump administration, including Will Scharf being named the new White House Counsel, President Trump's relationship with the GOP, and the latest on the $400m White House ballroom project.

Tomorrow is another primary day. In Wisconsin, gubernatorial hopeful, Democratic socialist Francesca Hong, is the front runner in the primary there... up against three establishment Democrats who are mounting an all-out effort to stop her in the final hours. While in South Carolina - ten Republicans are competing in the special primary to replace late senator Lindsey Graham.

The primary elections in Michigan and Wisconsin are highlighting the divisions within the Democratic party ahead of November's midterms. Michigan's Democratic Attorney General, Dana Nessel, shares what she'd like to hear from Abdul El-Sayed after his victory in the Democratic Senate primary and explain why she won't be attending the party's nominating convention out of fear for her safety.

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]]> Mon, 10 Aug 2026 20:30:43 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER) https://www.ms.now/ Ahead of Todd Blanche’s swearing in as Attorney General today, former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales addresses concerns about how Blanche will run the Justice Department and shares what he would like to see from his leadership.

Iran maintains the Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until the U.S. meets certain demands, as President Trump appears to be shifting his tone. In an interview with Axios, the president said quote "we are low-keying it" with Iran, while talking up economic pressure.
Former White House National Security Communications Advisor and MS NOW National Security Analyst retired Rear Admiral John Kirby, and Jamil Jaffer, former House Intelligence Committee, Senior Counsel and Executive Director of the National Security Institute, weigh in.

New York Times White House Correspondent and co-author of "Regime Change" Maggie Haberman discusses the latest updates coming out of the Trump administration, including Will Scharf being named the new White House Counsel, President Trump's relationship with the GOP, and the latest on the $400m White House ballroom project.

Tomorrow is another primary day. In Wisconsin, gubernatorial hopeful, Democratic socialist Francesca Hong, is the front runner in the primary there... up against three establishment Democrats who are mounting an all-out effort to stop her in the final hours. While in South Carolina - ten Republicans are competing in the special primary to replace late senator Lindsey Graham.

The primary elections in Michigan and Wisconsin are highlighting the divisions within the Democratic party ahead of November's midterms. Michigan's Democratic Attorney General, Dana Nessel, shares what she'd like to hear from Abdul El-Sayed after his victory in the Democratic Senate primary and explain why she won't be attending the party's nominating convention out of fear for her safety.

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]]> Todd Blanche’s DOJ, the Iran latest, and a look-ahead to Wisconsin primary day PETER ALEXANDER 00:42:41 On the inaugural episode of “State of Play with Peter Alexander,” the show looks at Todd Blanche’s role as Attorney General and covers the latest in Iran. On the inaugural episode of “State of Play with Peter Alexander,” the show looks at Todd Blanche’s role as Attorney General and covers the latest in Iran. false full 20260810 316eea40-e108-481b-bb62-e806e2c2f28a Introducing State of Play with Peter Alexander Catch every episode of your favorite MS NOW shows as podcasts, including "State of Play with Peter Alexander," starting August 10th.

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]]> Mon, 3 Aug 2026 09:00:00 +0000 pods@versantmedia.com (PETER ALEXANDER) https://www.ms.now/ Catch every episode of your favorite MS NOW shows as podcasts, including "State of Play with Peter Alexander," starting August 10th.

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]]> Introducing State of Play with Peter Alexander PETER ALEXANDER 00:00:30 Catch every episode of your favorite MS NOW shows as podcasts, including "State of Play with Peter Alexander," starting August 10th. Catch every episode of your favorite MS NOW shows as podcasts, including "State of Play with Peter Alexander," starting August 10th. politics, news, state of play, msnbc, ms now false trailer