The Tent artwork

The Tent

247 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago - ★★★★★ - 49 ratings

Politics. Policy. Progress. All under one big tent.

Produced by The Center for American Progress Action Fund, The Tent is a weekly news and politics podcast hosted by Daniella Gibbs Léger and Colin Seeberger. Listen in on each Thursday for new episodes diving into the world that progressives are focused on.

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Episodes

Earth Day Special: Trevor Higgins on Combating Climate Change

April 25, 2024 10:00 - 29 minutes - 40.1 MB

Trevor Higgins, senior vice president of Energy and Environment at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss Earth Day, recent climate policy wins from the Biden administration, and how to save our planet. Daniella and Colin also talk about two sets of oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court this week and speak with Akua Amaning, director of Criminal Justice Reform at CAP Action, about Second Chance Month.

Rob Wilcox on the Gun Safety Movement 25 Years After Columbine

April 18, 2024 10:00 - 32 minutes - 45 MB

Rob Wilcox, deputy director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, joins the show to discuss the 25th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting, recent wins for the gun violence prevention movement, and how to honor the victims and survivors of mass shootings. Daniella and Colin also talk about what Donald Trump’s economic proposals would cost middle-class Americans, as well as MAGA chaos in the House following Iran’s recent attack on Israel.

Michael Pollan and Melissa Robledo on ‘Food, Inc. 2’

April 11, 2024 10:00 - 31 minutes - 43.7 MB

Author Michael Pollan and film producer Melissa Robledo join the show to discuss the sequel to their groundbreaking 2008 documentary, "Food, Inc." They talk about what’s changed in the food industry, the dangers of extreme attacks on regulation, and what progressive leaders are doing to strengthen our food system. Daniella and Colin also speak about the Biden administration’s new student debt relief plan and Donald Trump’s dangerous and ever-changing positions on abortion.

S. Leo Chiang on 'Island in Between' and Taiwan’s Story

April 04, 2024 09:31 - 32 minutes - 44.7 MB

Filmmaker S. Leo Chiang joins the show to discuss his Oscar-nominated New York Times opinion documentary, "Island in Between," and Taiwanese relations with the United States. and China. Daniella and lead producer Erin also talk about lowering health care costs and speak with Cait Smith, Director of LGBTQI+ Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about Transgender Day of Visibility.

Imani Gandy on the fight for Reproductive Rights

March 28, 2024 09:30 - 38 minutes - 53 MB

Rewire News Group Editor-at-Large Imani Gandy joins the show to discuss U.S. Supreme Court arguments on medication abortion, attacks on reproductive rights, and how progressives can fight back. Daniella and Colin also discuss the economic ramifications of Donald Trump’s proposed 10 percent tariff and the Republican Study Committee’s disastrous budget plan.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan on Progressive Leadership

March 21, 2024 10:00 - 41 minutes - 57.2 MB

Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan (D) joins the show to discuss progressive wins in her state and the fight for popular policies such as reproductive rights and gun reforms. Daniella and Colin also talk about Donald Trump’s encouragement of political violence and speak with Andrea Ducas of the Center for American Progress Action Fund about the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act.

Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan on Progressive Leadership

March 21, 2024 10:00 - 41 minutes - 57.2 MB

Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan (D) joins the show to discuss progressive wins in her state and the fight for popular policies like reproductive rights and gun reforms. Daniella and Colin also talk about Donald Trump’s encouragement of political violence and speak with Andrea Ducas of the Center for American Progress Action Fund about the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act.

Dan Pfeiffer on the 2024 Election

March 14, 2024 10:00 - 31 minutes - 43.8 MB

Dan Pfeiffer joins the show to discuss the State of the Union, distrust in institutions and the impact the changing media landscape will have on the 2024 race. Colin and lead producer Erin also talk about President Biden’s budget and speak with CAP Action’s Rose Khattar about a new playbook for women’s economic advancement.

Karen Finney on the State of the Union

March 07, 2024 11:00 - 35 minutes - 48.3 MB

Karen Finney joins the show to discuss Super Tuesday primary results, President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, and what it all means for the 2024 election. Daniella and Colin also talk about the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the 14th Amendment and presidential disqualification, as well as MAGA extremists’ attacks on reproductive health care, including IVF treatment.

UAW’S David Green on Championing Labor

March 01, 2024 11:00 - 28 minutes - 39.3 MB

United Auto Workers Region 2B Director David Green joins the show to talk about the Trump and Biden administrations' approaches to labor and the closure of an auto plant in Ohio under former President Trump. Daniella also revisits a November 2023 interview with CAP Action’s Brendan Duke on the need to fund the government.

Devon Gray on Fighting Poverty

February 22, 2024 11:00 - 35 minutes - 48.6 MB

Devon Gray joins the show to discuss the fight against poverty and how to grow the middle class. Colin and Daniella also talk about Alexei Navalny's death and the state of reproductive rights in the U.S. with the Center for American Progress Action Fund's Maggie Jo Buchanan.

Max Bergmann on the War in Ukraine

February 15, 2024 11:00 - 35 minutes - 49.3 MB

Max Bergmann joins the show to discuss the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine, the need to pass defense aid for Ukraine and other allies, and NATO’s critical role in countering Russian aggression. Daniella and Colin also talk about former President Donald Trump's efforts to pause his 2020 election case and special counsel Robert Hur’s report on President Joe Biden.

Preston Mitchum on Advocacy, Representation, and Black History Month

February 08, 2024 11:00 - 44 minutes - 61.7 MB

Preston Mitchum joins the show to discuss Black History Month, intersectional advocacy, and the importance of representation in entertainment. Colin and Daniella also talk about President Joe Biden’s efforts to relieve student debt and are joined by Allison McManus, managing director for National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, for a conversation on the growing conflict in the Middle East.

Rep. Jamie Raskin on Protecting Democracy

February 01, 2024 11:00 - 36 minutes - 50.5 MB

U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) joins the show to discuss MAGA extremism, legal accountability for former President Donald Trump, and the need to protect American democracy. Daniella and Colin also talk about immigration negotiations and the good news about the U.S. economy.

Jennifer Palmieri on the New Hampshire Primaries and 2024

January 25, 2024 11:00 - 42 minutes - 58.1 MB

Jennifer Palmieri joins the show to talk about the New Hampshire primaries, the state of the 2024 race, and the issues that will matter on the campaign trail. Daniella and Colin also discuss former President Donald Trump and the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade.

Melinda Maerker on “We Live Here” and LGBTQI+ Equality

January 18, 2024 11:00 - 33 minutes - 46.1 MB

Filmmaker Melinda Maerker joins the show to talk about her new Hulu documentary, “We Live Here” and LGBTQI+ rights in the Midwest. Colin and lead producer Erin also discuss the Iowa caucuses and hear from Devon Ombres, Senior Director of Courts and Legal Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, about two Supreme Court cases that could undermine the basic functions of government.

Joyce Vance on Accountability for January 6

January 11, 2024 11:00 - 26 minutes - 37.1 MB

Joyce Vance joins the show to discuss the three-year anniversary of the January 6th insurrection, legal accountability for Donald Trump and his allies, and how to combat growing political violence and threats to democracy. Daniella and Colin also talk about the potential new government funding deal and record job growth in 2023.

CAP Action’s Mike Sozan on the State of Our Democracy

January 04, 2024 12:12 - 32 minutes - 44.4 MB

Mike Sozan, Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss how to protect American democracy and the steps some states have taken to remove former President Trump from their ballots. Daniella and Colin also discuss MAGA Republican threats to shut down the government and progressive policies going into effect this year.

Christina Reynolds of EMILYs List on Abortion and 2024

December 21, 2023 11:00 - 28 minutes - 39.6 MB

Christina Reynolds, Senior Vice President of Communications and Content at EMILYs List, joins the show to discuss the state of abortion, the Supreme Court, and the impact that reproductive rights could have in 2024.  Daniella and Colin also talk about their favorite moments on the pod this year.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett on Fighting Extremism and Inspiring Change

December 14, 2023 11:00 - 41 minutes - 57 MB

Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) joins the show to discuss MAGA extremism, attacks on voting and abortion rights, and the progressive movement. Daniella and Colin also talk about former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s (R-CA) resignation and the state of the economy.

Megan Shahi on Digital Democracy Threats in 2024

December 08, 2023 11:00 - 40 minutes - 55.6 MB

Megan Shahi, Director of Technology Policy at CAP Action, joins the show to discuss how social media and artificial intelligence could impact the 2024 elections, and what tech companies and policymakers can do to combat misinformation. Daniella and Colin also talk about COP28 with CAP Action’s Frances Colón, and Donald Trump’s extreme policy proposals.

Rep. Maxwell Frost on Progressive Leadership and Energizing Young Voters

November 30, 2023 10:29 - 37 minutes - 51.9 MB

Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL) joins the show to discuss MAGA extremism, progressive policymaking, and energizing young voters heading into 2024. Daniella and Colin also talk about the state of the economy and the need for Congress to pass the Biden administration's supplemental aid request.

CAP Action’s Allison McManus on the Israel-Hamas Conflict

November 23, 2023 11:00 - 29 minutes - 40.2 MB

Allison McManus, Senior Director for National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss a new temporary ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, the implications for the region, and the U.S. response to the conflict.  Daniella and Colin also talk about a recent House ethics report on Rep. George Santos (R-NY) and an 8th Circuit ruling that could gut the Voting Rights Act.

CAP Action's Brendan Duke on Why We Need to Fund the Government

November 16, 2023 11:00 - 29 minutes - 40.7 MB

Brendan Duke, Senior Director of Economic Policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss government funding, MAGA Republican chaos and the risks of relying on short-term continuing resolutions. Daniella and Colin also talk about labor victories and Donald Trump’s extreme rhetoric and policies.

Rep. Tom Perriello on the 2023 Elections

November 09, 2023 11:59 - 44 minutes - 61.3 MB

Former Rep. Tom Perriello (D-VA) joins the show to discuss Tuesday’s elections, what they portend for 2024, and the future of artificial intelligence. Daniella and Colin also talk about the war in Israel and Gaza, and they speak with Sabrina Talukder from CAP Action about the Supreme Court case United States v. Rahimi.

Laura Meckler on ‘Dream Town’ and Equity in Schools

November 02, 2023 10:00 - 35 minutes - 49.1 MB

The Washington Post education writer Laura Meckler joins the show to discuss her new book, “Dream Town;” the impact of racial integration in Shaker Heights, Ohio, schools; and the challenges facing the education system nationwide. Colin and Erin also talk about newly elected Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and the mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine.

Patrick Gaspard on 20 Years of American Progress

October 27, 2023 10:00 - 35 minutes - 48.2 MB

Center for American Progress CEO Patrick Gaspard joins the show to discuss the 20th anniversary of CAP, the organization’s impact on American lives and his experience leading the think tank. Colin and Daniella also talk about major milestones in CAP'S history.

Leah Litman on the MAGA Supreme Court

October 20, 2023 10:00 - 32 minutes - 44.9 MB

Michigan Law Professor and Strict Scrutiny podcast co-host Leah Litman joins the show to discuss the upcoming Supreme Court term, the high court’s far-right extremism and the legal jeopardy former President Trump faces. Colin and Daniella also discuss the MAGA House crisis and the conflict in Israel.

How Bidenomics is Helping Latinos in America

October 12, 2023 10:00 - 53 minutes - 73.5 MB

This episode features audio from a Center for American Progress (CAP) event about how the Biden administration's economic policies are helping Latinos achieve more equitable outcomes. It features Laura Rodriguez, CAP’s Vice President of Government Affairs; Frances Colón, CAP’s senior director of International Climate Policy; and Emmy Ruiz, White House Director of Political Strategy and Outreach. Daniella and Colin also talk about the war in Israel and MAGA chaos in the House during an intern...

Rep. Andy Levin on the Labor Movement and MAGA Republican Disarray

October 05, 2023 10:00 - 35 minutes - 48.3 MB

Former Representative Andy Levin (D-MI), a distinguished senior fellow at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss the historic removal of Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) as speaker of the House, the policy agenda of the far right, and the labor movement. Daniella and Colin also discuss MAGA extremist chaos in the House and the appointment of Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-CA) after the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA).

CAP Action’s Navin Nayak on the Looming Government Shutdown and MAGA Extremism

September 28, 2023 13:24 - 31 minutes - 44 MB

Navin Nayak, president and executive director of the Center for American Progress Action Fund, joins the show to discuss this week’s Republican presidential debates and the threat of a government shutdown. Colin and Daniella also talk about the United Auto Workers strike and calls for Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) to resign.

CAP Action’s Mike Williams on the UAW Strike and the Labor Movement

September 21, 2023 10:00 - 33 minutes - 45.9 MB

CAP Action Senior Fellow Mike Williams joins the show to discuss the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike, climate change and the power of the labor movement. Colin and Erin also talk about a looming government shutdown and recent reporting on former President Donald Trump’s new economic plan.

Barbara McQuade on Justice and Accountability for January 6

September 15, 2023 10:00 - 32 minutes - 44.1 MB

Former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade joins the show to discuss Donald Trump’s legal jeopardy, whether the 14th Amendment could bar him from running for office, and the need to protect U.S. democracy. Daniella and lead producer Erin also talk about MAGA Republicans’ bogus impeachment inquiry attempts and why Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas should resign.

Politico’s Alice Ollstein on Abortion, Government Funding, and Health Care

September 07, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 41.8 MB

Politico health reporter Alice Ollstein joins the show to discuss growing health concerns as kids head back to school, the impact of a government shutdown on health care, abortion policy, and Medicare drug price negotiations. Colin and Daniella also talk about House Republicans’ 2024 appropriations bills and whether former President Donald Trump is disqualified from running for office under the 14th amendment.

Sara Nelson on Why 'Every Day Should Be Labor Day'

September 01, 2023 10:00 - 31 minutes - 43.8 MB

Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants, joins the show to discuss the labor movement, what workers are fighting for, and the significance of Labor Day. Colin and Daniella also talk about the recent shootings in Jacksonville, Florida, and at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as well as Medicare drug pricing negotiations.

Maya Wiley on the 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington

August 24, 2023 09:39 - 40 minutes - 55.4 MB

Maya Wiley, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, joins the show to discuss the March on Washington, the need for economic justice and voting rights, and the recent indictments of former President Donald Trump and his allies. Colin and lead producer Erin Phillips also talk about the wildfires in Maui with Center for American Progress Action Fund Senior Fellow Angelo Villagomez, as well as about the extreme policies discussed during the first Republican pre...

OMB Director Shalanda Young on Making Government Work for Everyday Americans

August 17, 2023 10:00 - 27 minutes - 37.4 MB

Shalanda Young, director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB), joins the show to discuss her role at the OMB, how MAGA Republicans are using dangerous brinkmanship to try to cut programs that Americans rely on, and how Bidenomics is helping real people and communities. Daniella and Colin also talk about Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis’ indictment of former President Donald Trump, as well as the wildfires in Maui. 

Happy Birthday to the Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS and Science Act

August 10, 2023 10:00 - 28 minutes - 39.4 MB

Daniella and Colin discuss the Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS and Science Act, two landmark Bidenomics bills that were signed into law one year ago. Daniella also talks to two everyday Americans, Robin Craycroft and Paul Sarzoza, about how these laws are transforming their lives.

Kendra Cotton on Reaching New Voters

August 03, 2023 10:00 - 39 minutes - 54 MB

Kendra Davenport Cotton of New Georgia Project joins the show to discuss her organization’s work engaging with historically marginalized voters; the importance of holding people accountable for attempts to overturn the 2020 election results; and how to fight efforts to curb voting rights. Colin and Daniella also talk about former President Donald Trump’s indictment by special counsel Jack Smith and the extreme voting records of Republican leaders.

Taifa Smith Butler on Black Women’s Equal Pay Day

July 27, 2023 09:27 - 24 minutes - 34.1 MB

Demos President Taifa Smith Butler joins the podcast to discuss the significance of Black Women’s Equal Pay Day; how President Joe Biden’s economic agenda is helping to address longstanding inequities; and how extremist attacks on education set the country back. Colin and Erin also talk about Bidenomics and what Barbie can teach us about the gender wage gap with the Center for American Progress Action Fund’s Rose Khattar.

CAP Action's Mara Rudman on the War in Ukraine

July 20, 2023 10:00 - 32 minutes - 45.4 MB

Mara Rudman, executive vice president of policy at the Center for American Progress Action Fund, discusses Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia, why continued international support matters, and the war’s impact on supply chains. Colin and Erin also talk about Meta’s new platform, Threads, and labor strikes across the country.  

Former Education Sec. John B. King Jr. on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Higher Education

July 13, 2023 10:00 - 27 minutes - 38.2 MB

Dr. John B. King Jr., chancellor of the State University of New York and former secretary of education, joins the podcast to discuss the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decisions to restrict affirmative action and strike down the Biden administration’s student debt forgiveness plans; the ramifications for marginalized students; and how to address the inequities these rulings will exacerbate. Colin and Erin also talk about extreme heat and MAGA Republicans taking credit for Biden administration e...

Sen. Debbie Stabenow on Making Government Work

July 06, 2023 10:00 - 43 minutes - 59.7 MB

Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) joins the podcast to discuss President Joe Biden’s economic agenda, how Michigan is investing in workers and families, and voting rights reforms that are making the state a leader in strengthening democracy. Colin and Erin also talk about last week’s rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court.

Michael Waldman on the ‘The Supermajority’ and the Supreme Court

June 29, 2023 10:00 - 35 minutes - 48.4 MB

Michael Waldman joins Colin to discuss his new book, "The Supermajority: How the Supreme Court Divided America," this Supreme Court term, and the need for a binding code of ethics. Colin and Erin also talk about a near-mutiny in Russia and Bidenomics.

BONUS: Brandon Wolf and Chasten Buttigieg on Pride, Activism and ‘A Place for Us’

June 26, 2023 18:38 - 30 minutes - 42.1 MB

In this bonus episode of "The Tent," we bring you a live interview between Chasten Buttigieg and activist and Pulse Nightclub shooting survivor Brandon Wolf on his new book, ‘A Place for Us.’ They discuss the meaning of Pride, finding community, and the fight for LGBTQI+ rights and freedoms.

Dawn Porter on ‘Deadlocked’ and Today’s Activist Supreme Court

June 23, 2023 09:26 - 33 minutes - 46.2 MB

Filmmaker Dawn Porter joins Colin to discuss her forthcoming Showtime series, "Deadlocked;" how the U.S. Supreme Court was overtaken by an extremist far-right supermajority; and how this shift has led to catastrophic decisions such as overturning Roe v. Wade. Colin and Erin also talk about alleged Supreme Court ethics scandals and the state of abortion one year into a post-Roe America.

Sen. Chris Murphy on Winning the Fight for Gun Safety

June 15, 2023 10:00 - 26 minutes - 36.7 MB

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) joins Colin to discuss the one-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the critical role of advocacy groups in achieving gun violence prevention wins, and realistic, bipartisan paths forward on commonsense gun reform. Colin and Erin also talk about former President Donald Trump’s federal indictment and encouraging economic trends.

Dr. Kellan Baker on Protecting LGBTQI+ Rights and Health

June 09, 2023 10:00 - 46 minutes - 64.6 MB

Dr. Kellan Baker, Executive Director of the Whitman-Walker Institute, joins Colin to discuss Pride Month; attacks on transgender rights and access to healthcare; and policy issues that impact broader LGBTQI+ health. Daniella and Colin also talk about extremism from Republican presidential candidates and why violent crime and murder rates are falling.

Arlene Gibbs on the Writers Guild of America Strike and What It Means for American Workers

June 01, 2023 10:00 - 42 minutes - 59 MB

Daniella’s sister, screenwriter and decorator Arlene Gibbs, joins the podcast to discuss the Writers Guild of America strike, trends in screenwriters’ pay and working conditions, and what other industries can learn from these negotiations. Daniella and Colin also talk about the upcoming Supreme Court decisions and the bill to raise the debt limit.

Gov. Lujan Grisham on Fighting for New Mexico’s Children and Families

May 25, 2023 10:00 - 41 minutes - 56.8 MB

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D) joins Colin to discuss the need for commonsense gun reform, policies her state has passed to protect and empower children and families, and how state leaders are implementing President Joe Biden’s historic economic investments. Daniella and Colin also discuss the third anniversary of George Floyd’s murder and how MAGA policies are shaping the 2024 presidential race and the impending default crisis.

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