Top 27 Political Podcasts of 2023

I am not surprised you are on the search for the best political podcasts.

Because Aristotle once said:

“Man is by nature a political animal.”

Well, good news for you and Aristotle.

I have put together a list of my favorite political ramblers.

Be prepared to agree, disagree, love and hate these prominent political podders.

1

Take a dive into the witty and wild world of Political Gabfest, hosted by a feisty trio - David Plotz, Emily Bazelon, and John Dickerson. These feisty pundits share their riveting insights, blend humor, and discuss the week's political news. The podcast targets all you politicos, history buffs, or anyone longing to sound knowledgeable at cocktail parties. It's an ideal blend of informed debate, amusing banter, and the occasional wonky tangent. One memorable episode? “The ‘How Bad Could 2021 Be?’ Edition.” Prepare to chuckle as Emily Bazelon examines the downside of future predictions. After all, who said politics have to be dull and boring? Now go ahead and plug in - you're just a play button away from elevating your political prowess.

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2

Welcome to "The Political Scene by The New Yorker," a riotous romp through the sometimes tumultuous, always tantalizing world of politics, where facts are like family: messy, argumentative, but ultimately lovable. Hosted by two bright sparks of political journalism, Dorothy Wickenden and Ryan Lizza, they've swapped the silent halls of The New Yorker for the humbling echo of the podcast world. Here, they tackle every jab, jape, and jest of the political climate. Ideal for politically incisive minds, news junkies, or anyone who loves a good verbal tussle. Don't forget the popcorn as they navigate the circus of government absurdity! One riveting episode? "Democracy vs. Autocracy," where the age-old debate finally gets its podcast pants on. Dive in deeper, if you dare, and absorb the intellectual banquet. A feast your cerebellum can sink its teeth into.

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3

Welcome to "Dead End - A New Jersey Political Murder Mystery", a podcast that's as twisty as the infamous Jersey turnpike. This true-crime series throws you into the murky mix of New Jersey politics and a chilling cold case murder. Guided by affable detectives with keen wit, they're not quite Sopranos, but they've got moxie and tasty bagels. Can't tell your governor from your mob boss? No problem, this podcast covers the gamut for true crime enthusiasts or anyone with a soft spot for political scandals. In each gripping episode, be prepared for a wild Garden State ride, where the murder weapons could range from a .38 revolver to an aggressive property tax hike. It's "The Sopranos" meets "The West Wing", New Jersey style. Welcome to the party. Buckle up — it's a turnpike, not a highway.

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4

Welcome to the rabbit hole of rampant roguery, known as Political Scandals! Hosted by policy wonks and capitol connoisseurs, the series takes you on a wild romp through politics' greatest scandals. Got a penchant for nefarious negotiations or clandestine chicanery? This, dear listener, is your playground! From Watergate to Weinergate, our hosts, with the dexterity of a political acrobat, unravel the most clandestine Chronicles of Congress. Whether you're a couch activist or policy prodigy, this podcast is your passport to the underbelly of Parliament. Their episode, "Skullduggery in Suits," is a spicy stew of backdoor dealings, and trust us, it’s more mouth-watering than a lobbyist's expense account! So, buckle up for a thrilling ride through the political hall of shame with Political Scandals!

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5

Welcome to "This Day in Esoteric Political History," a podcast that dives deep into the weirdest corners of political past. The show's maverick historians, Jody Avirgan and Nicole Hemmer, have made it their mission to unearth and polish these hidden political gems - no shovel required! Serving up a smorgasbord of offbeat events and obscure figures, this show is a gold mine for history buffs and political aficionados looking for a quirky detour from the humdrum highway of typical politics. So, if politics usually give you a yawn-inducing headache, think of this show as the fun aspirin you never knew you needed. Featured episode, "Prohibition and the Punk Movement," will have you raising a glass to history's wacky rebellions. Start tuning in, and soon you'll be the one spouting off fun historical facts at parties!

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6

Listen up, armchair analysts, couch critics, and spinning office chair spinmeisters: Ken Rudin's Political Junkie on MPR News is just the fix you need. Ken, a veteran political journalist, hung up his press pass to host this weekly breakdown of Beltway drama and global politics. He's here to take you on a wild ride through the winding corridors of power, all from the comfort of your daily commute. Whether you're a seasoned policy wonk or a newbie naïf, you'll find clever commentary and expert guests. Prepare to scratch your head at episodes like "Endless Election Exhaustion" where Ken and guests dare to slay the goliath of democratic fatigue. More than politics, it’s a masterclass in informed banter. Tune in, turn up, and take sides- but remember, no throwing tomatoes (or policies)!

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7

"Ken Rudin's Political Junkie is your one-stop shop for fun-filled fodder on the mad world of politics. Heading the helm is Ken Rudin himself, an aficionado of all things political. He's swapped his time in the newsroom to dish out his wisdom to political junkies across the globe via a podcast. If C-SPAN had a sitcom, this would be it! Featuring interviews, trivia, and banter about political history, current events and everything in between, this show is a must for anyone fascinated by the endlessly amusing game of politics. Expect plenty of laughs, facts, and intriguing insights. For instance, in the episode 'Spin Cycle', Rudin introduces how to read between the lines of political spin. Trust us, politics has never been this enjoyable!"

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8

Welcome to the fabulously geeky world of LSE Public Lectures and Events. Your professors for this grand adventure? A cadre of academic stars from the illustrious London School of Economics. This podcast is basically a cheeky crash course in everything from politics to philosophy and social science, minus the student loans. It's filler-free edu-tainment designed for aspiring brainiacs and seasoned thought connoisseurs. Fancy a deep dive discussion on economic inequality? It's got you covered. Yearn for a debate on climate change? This is your jam. Essential listening for those who want schoolyard bragging rights for being the most erudite at the water cooler. Just imagine, the LSE delivered directly to your eardrums - it's like Hogwarts for grownups, but the magic is real academics. So press play and heed your intellectual curiosity.

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9

Get ready for the "It's All Political" podcast - where politics becomes as entertaining as a circus, but with less popcorn and more jaw-dropping revelations! With sassy host, Joe Garofoli (Senior Political Writer for the San Francisco Chronicle) at the helm, expect no less than a rollicking political rollercoaster! Go deep into the belly of US politics, while trading in the usual boredom for rousing debates and candid discussions. Are you an eager beaver wanting to make sense of the dizzying world of politics? Then this politi-coaster is your ride! Highlights include the can't-miss episode 'Future of the Republican Party.' So buckle up, future political analysts, policy makers, and everyone else who enjoys some witty sass sprinkled onto serious matters - your political enlightenment is just a play button away!

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10

The CNN Political Briefing podcast, it's politics for all you policy wonks on the go! Fast paced yet insightful, our whip-smart host, David Chalian, previously a bingo caller, now fashions himself a political Paul Revere, keeping us alert on all things Washington. Combining CNN's clout with Chalian’s wit, it's a masterclass in making political news palatable. An undeniable treat for news junkies and the politically curious, this podcast is an informal briefing from the political news empire themselves. It’s like a daily espresso shot of politics – quick, potent, leaves you a lot more keyed up! Highlight? Their episode on election heat - like the pentathlon, but for electoral districts. So, if you fancy a Capitol binge, tune in. More exciting than watching the filibuster, we promise!

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11

"The Political Orphanage" is a wry romp through the wilderness of today's polarised politics, hosted by the seemingly weird, yet incisively witty, Andrew Heaton. Bidding adieu to his career as a talking head, Heaton crafted this podcast as a refuge for rationally thinking individuals frustrated with partisan antics. He gathers a cavalcade of sharp minds on the show to ruminate on politics, philosophy, and the meaning of life. Ideal for political misfits and curious minds, the show is a smorgasbord of thought-provoking discussions, cheeky banter, and principled eye-rolling at political theatrics. An exemplar on this rollercoaster is the episode "Tyranny by Emoji", offering a satirical look at digital communication. Saddle up, misfits, this podcast's your sanctuary from pint-sized politics.

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12

Buckle up, politics junkies! The wild ride that is Political Rewind is hosted by the irrepressible Bill Nigut, who decided hanging around Georgia's policymakers was more fun than any ordinary job. His merry band of pundits, journalists, and academics join him to dish out saucy political titbits that you just won't find anywhere else. This is not just a podcast; it's a ringside seat to the circus of politics for anyone whose nose is always buried in a newspaper. One hot episode is ‘The Eye of the Storm’, where they desperately try to unravel the political confusion of our times. If political banter is music to your ears, then be prepared, because this tango between power and policy never misses a beat!

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13

Welcome to the intellectual circus that's 'New Books in Political Science'! Hosted by illustrious politico-nerds, dynamic discussions are their weapon of choice, disarming the world of poli-science one book at a time. With a weekly chat-line packed with egghead authors, it's a beacon for political enthusiasts and knowledge-hunters. Elect to listen and you'll unravel the Gordian knots of global governance, decipher democratic dilemmas, and perhaps, just perhaps, develop an understanding of Brexit! Whether you're a policy pundit or a casual Obama fan, come peer behind the political curtain. Who knows, you might even find Waldo! So buckle up, politicos, this podcast is more thrilling than a filibuster! Remember: government may sleep, but political science never does!

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14

Welcome to 'Political Breakdown', a hot-podium hosted by two political nerds who traded their reading lamps for mics with the aim to decode the ironically colorful world of politics. Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos are your saviors from political jargon, making ABCs out of government bills and candidly interviewing political figures. Their target? All you housewives to CEO's, simply anyone with a tickle for politics. Their content? A sizzling potpourri of policy chats, bipartisan talk, and the occasional bout of political gossip (guilty pleasure, anyone?). Ever wondered what ignited Trump's latest tweet or why Biden adores aviators? Don't worry, our dynamic duo's got you covered. 'Political Breakdown'- politics served hotter than your morning cuppa Joe!

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15

Join the Political Fix crew, a group of genuine politicos who'd rather dissect policy than watch a rom-com. These savvy chatterboxes deep-dive into the heart of legislature, bureaucracy, and democracy. With a target audience of armchair politicians and discerning voters, they invite big-shot names from the arena to drill down into complicated issues. Not unlike that friend who manages to make tax policy sound like a thriller novel! The usual fodder of this meaty talk show ranges from current affairs to historical reviews. Break out your bow tie, grab your mug of caffeine, and get ready for a mind-bending ride through an intellectual circus. One of our favorite episodes? "Spin Doctors: Do They Really Manipulate Us?" Binge-watch if you dare, but don't say we didn't warn you!

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16

'Political Beats: when ear candy meets mind candy. Hosting this brain-tickling extravaganza are two MASSIVE nerds, Scot Bertram and Jeff Blehar. Despite their day jobs as respected political analysts, these guys decided to moonlight as podcast hosts. Why, you ask? To share their love for music and politics simultaneously, of course! Perfect for audiophiles and politicos alike, Political Beats walks you through the discography of the greatest music stars while cleverly weaving in political commentary. Fancy an episode where they dissect The Beatles’ White Album while drawing parallels to the Nixon Administration? It's just another day on Political Beats! So, tune in for your double dose of melody and policy. It's the podcast version of moshing at a Parliament meeting!'

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17

'Political Climate' is the brainchild of dueling hosts, 'I-can't-believe-it's-not-butter-smooth' conservative, Brandon Hurlbut, and merrily liberal, 'Leaping-off-the-edge' Julian Spector. Why settle for heated Twitter arguments when you can yak it out on a podcast? The show whips up a political storm as it ruefully navigates the uncharted waters of climate policy and energy issues. Whether you're a tree-hugging environmentalist, an oil lobbyist, or somewhere in between, 'Political Climate' has enough sizzling content to kindle your curiosity. Trending episodes like 'Climate Change Politics of the Presidential Election' make coffee table discussions seem as exciting as watching paint dry. So tune in, arm yourself with a good sense of humor and a pinch of salt for a riveting dissection of global climate affairs!

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18

Prepare to trip on ideas, not conventional wisdom, with Political Economy hosted by the high-energy, erudite Jim Pethokoukis! Geared towards savvy news junkies and policy-wonks craving an intellectual adrenaline rush, this podcast lives in the intersection of public policy and economics. Visualize Jim as a policy pied piper, enticing economists, political pundits, and mocha-sipping martians to drop their arcane jargon and talk shop in plain English. Dive headlong into discussions about everything from digital currencies to flying scooters - all with a healthy (and occasionally snarky) regard for economic principles. The episode 'Inside the Wacky Tax World' is a hoot for its twist on fiscal policy, evoking chuckles as broad as the economic spectrum. So, hitch a ride on this podcast bandwagon to liven up your economics input! It's policy talk, turned on its head.

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19

Get fired up for "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown," a brazen dive into the tangled web of politics. The show is gingerly helmed by none other than Jerry Brown himself, who's traded in his Governor title for podcasting headphones. This funny, feisty show is all about plunging into juicy political discussions, making it the perfect listen for politically inclined intellects. The cerebral banter is no mere political puddle, it's an ocean of wise witticisms, spicy debates and thoughtful bursts of introspection. With episodes like 'Reforming to the Power of 10,' you'll be belly-deep in political nuances faster than a legislature passing an easy law. So, if you're ready to challenge your civic sensibilities, join Jerry - he's got the knowledge, the wit and the political punchline!

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20

Political Breakfast by WABE is a breakfast buffet for news junkies who don't fear intellectual indigestion. Hosted by the trio of journalists Lisa Rayam, Denis O'Hayer and Jim Galloway, surely they form an unholy trinity of political insight and wit. These rogue raconteurs are fearless in going beyond the headlines. Discussed with a wry smile, the heated topics of the socio-political landscape might just leave you slightly scorched. Its hearty servings of insight appeal to political enthusiasts craving more than just the black and white of the morning paper. If you fancy a side of controversy with your coffee, tune in. You'll love episodes like 'Velvet Rope Democracy'. It's like a reality TV show, only it's real life...and has actual intelligent conversations! So, pull up a chair and come get your fill of Political Breakfast.

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21

Swan dive into the balmy lagoon of politics with the Political Theater podcast, your stage for all things political. Led by the charismatic maestro, Jason Dick, who's more into political spectacle than a Phantom at an opera. He's like a theatrical director turned tour guide through the twisted alleys of D.C. Using interviews, analysis, and a generous dash of wit, this podcast is your backstage pass to the greatest show on earth - politics! Whether you’re an aspiring policy wonk, or just someone craving a bellyful of politics with a side of humor, this podcast will give your understanding of political narratives an encore-worthy performance. Tune in, chuckle, cringe - do it in whichever order, but do it! Get ready, folks, as the curtain rises on the Political Theater.

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22

"The Political Party Podcast, your unanticipated path to guffaw-induced enlightenment. Hosted by the hilariously smart Matt Forde, a comedian with an unhealthy obsession for politics. Matt's too serious for stand-up comedy, but too funny for dry political speeches, so he did what any rational person would do, he fused them. Boasting interviews with politicians, he's turned humourless political discourse into something even your party-pooping Aunt Susan would enjoy. Our pick? 'Brexit Uncensored' with the elusive Nigel Farage. Expect to grasp politics and chuckle, all in one go. Aimed at those who fancy a giggle, while simultaneously enhancing their political prowess. The Political Party, making politics funnier than your uncle's dad jokes at a family BBQ."

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23

Here's a podcast so riveting it'll make C-Span seem like a Saturday Night Live marathon. 'Political Persuasions' is hosted by ace commentators Chris and Mike, who've found a way to hash out America's political melee without throwing any punches (or chairs). Blending a witty banter and profound understanding, they dive into the political labyrinth, serving hot takes with a side of, 'can't make coffee while listening because you might spill from laughing.' This bipartisan bonanza is perfect for the everyday citizens, political junkies and those elusive undecided voters. One hot-hit episode, "News-flash: Politicians aren’t Perfect," unspools the idea of flawless politicians. Insider tip: prepare for more intrigue than a White House press dinner. So, ready to zone into the 'Political Persuasions' terrain?

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24

Get ready to plug into the heady banter that is 'Political Thinking with Nick Robinson'! Every week, Nick, a seasoned BBC political journalist, uncannily manages to convince heavyweights of the political sphere to spill their guts, brains and yes, very often, their secret heartaches. Perfect for politicos, news junkies, and nosey parkers with a love for strategic social drama. This is not just dry news and stiff views; it’s a rich mash-up of ideological tug-of-war, intellectual jousting, and behind-the-curtain revelations. Not your cup of tea? Hold up! Nick sneaks in plenty of pudding wit that would shame an Oxford debate and leaves you chuckling or, at least smirking. All this, while vacuuming your brain clean of misinformation or ignorance. Perfect brain-diets don’t exi... Wait, they actually do! Give it a listen, you won't regret the politics of it!

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25

Brace yourself for 'Your Political Playlist', the podcast you didn't know your ears were yearning for! Fed up with dry political speak? The host, Emily Tisch Sussman - a seasoned political strategist, entertains with her sharp wit, turning complex politics into lively chat.Emily's genius power of engaging experts and explaining election-time chaos is pure magic.True to its name, it lines up your personalized political menu straight into your auditory buffet. Perfect for the nuanced political aficionado or the rookie looking to dive into the deep end. Tune in for episodes like 'What’s Next for Roe v. Wade?' - a thrilling session with Professor Mary Ziegler whispering whispered secrets of American law. Grab your proverbial fork, your auditory feast awaits!

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26

Dive into the thrilling world of politics with 'Context And Clarity - A Political History Podcast.' Our hosts, sagacious historians with a knack for being hilarious, crack open politics' ancient dusty tome. They've got a zeal for dissecting hot political topics and bringing history to life, rivalling Indiana Jones' passion for uncovering lost treasures! If your veins throb with history, or you've ever wondered why your government operates the way it does, you're in the right place. They delve into fascinating stories from yesteryears, enabling us to better understand our global society today. For an electrifying ride, listen to 'The Great Political Switcheroo' episode. Our hosts unveil the incredible story about two parties' switcheroo. Always expect a dash of wit and a giggle fit when dealing with even the densest political lore!

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27

"Two Beers In: A Tipsy Political Round Table" is more than just a couple of chilled brews, it's an atmospherically lighthearted dive into the somewhat stormy sea of politics. Hosted by comedians Cody Lindquist and Charlie Todd, they decided to spice up dry political discourse with beer-inspired banter. Why keep politics sober when you can have it tipsy, right? Huddled with their guests, they navigate through political complexities, all while slightly inebriated. Their wit as sharp as a hoppy IPA, they dissect policy changes and current affairs ensuring you'll chuckle while you groan at the state of world affairs. So gather 'round, politicos and laughing philosophers! It's less 'House of Cards' and more 'Cheers' to politics!"

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