Have the Democrats Figured Out How to Win Again?

The New Yorker staff writer Benjamin Wallace-Wells joins Tyler Foggatt to discuss Democrats’ sweeping victories in the first major elections of Donald Trump’s second term. They talk about what the results—from Zohran Mamdani’s record-turnout win in New York City to victories in the Virginia and New Jersey gubernatorial races—reveal about Trump’s weakening hold on voters and a generational shift inside the Democratic Party. They also explore how a focus on affordability and economic anxiety fuelled Democrats’ success, and how these outcomes may shape the strategies of both parties heading into next year’s midterms. 

This week’s reading:

• “A Next-Generation Victory for Democrats,” by Benjamin Wallace-Wells
• “What the Democrats’ Good Night Means for 2026 and Beyond,” by Isaac Chotiner
• “California Strikes Back in the Redistricting War,” by Jon Allsop
• “The Mamdani Era Begins,” by Eric Lach
• “The N.Y.C. Mayoral Election, as Processed in Therapy,” by Tyler Foggatt

Tune in to The Political Scene wherever you get your podcasts. 

The Political Scene draws on the reporting and analysis found in The New Yorker for lively conversations about the big questions in American politics. Join the magazine’s writers and editors as they put into context the latest news—about elections, the economy, the White House, the Supreme Court, and much more. New episodes are available three times a week.