DiscoverTrailblaze
Trailblaze
Claim Ownership

Trailblaze

Author: Trailblaze

Subscribed: 8Played: 131
Share

Description


Trailblaze: The Road to 2028 is your insider’s guide to the next great American political showdown. As both parties begin lining up their runners and riders for the 2028 presidential election, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the candidates, the strategists behind them, and the high-stakes decisions that will shape the race long before the first votes are cast. With sharp insight, behind-the-scenes reporting, and a healthy dose of fun, hosts Jamal Simmons and Matthew Butler explore the personalities, power plays, and pivotal moments that will define the road to the White House—making sense of the politics while never losing sight of the passion.



Jamal Simmons has spent years inside the rooms where presidential politics actually happen—and now he’s pulling back the curtain. A veteran strategist and former senior White House adviser, Jamal knows how campaigns are built, how messages break through, and how small decisions can change the course of history. He’s equal parts insider, storyteller, and straight-talker, bringing sharp insight, humor, and a deep love of the political game.



Matthew Butler lives at the intersection of politics, media, and strategy. He’s worked behind the scenes helping campaigns and political brands find their voice, build momentum, and survive the chaos of modern elections. With a knack for spotting patterns, personalities, and power plays, Matthew brings clarity to the decisions and dynamics that shape the road to the White House.



62 Episodes
Reverse
Will Jon Stewart run for President? That’s the big question as Jamal Simmons & Matthew Butler analyze the dynamics of the Democratic Party, they explore the contrasting strategies between establishment candidates and progressive voices, highlighting the challenges faced by candidates like Bernie Sanders. The discussion extends to the importance of addressing pressing issues such as wealth inequality, student debt, and the role of unconventional candidates in the political arena. The episode concludes with a light-hearted take on the quirks of vice presidential vetting and the unique challenges faced by candidates in today's political climate.CHAPTERS:00:00 The 2028 Presidential Campaign Begins01:39 The Importance of the Primaries04:11 Shifting State Dynamics in Nominating Process07:56 The Ideological Divide: Moderates vs. Progressives13:20 Addressing Student Debt and Economic Inequality17:08 The Role of Key States in the Primaries20:18 Candidate Spotlight: Josh Shapiro25:22 Unconventional Candidates and Future Prospects
Jamal Simmons and Matthew Butler discuss the upcoming 2028 presidential election, exploring potential candidates, the dynamics between governors and senators, and the importance of early campaigning and political connections. They emphasize the significance of the current political landscape and how it shapes future elections, particularly focusing on the strategies that candidates must adopt to succeed. They discuss the current landscape of presidential candidates, the qualities that make a credible candidate, and the importance of campaign infrastructure. They reflect on the challenges faced during the 2020 presidential campaign, particularly regarding Kamala Harris and Joe Biden, and consider the future of Democratic leadership as they look ahead to the next election cycle.Chapters00:00 Introduction to 2028 Presidential Election01:09 Candidates for 2028: Who's in the Running?03:10 The Role of Governors vs. Senators in Presidential Elections06:06 The Impact of Current Elections on Future Campaigns10:04 Building Political Connections: The Invisible Primary14:10 Lessons from Past Campaigns: The Importance of Engagement18:10 Emerging Candidates in the Presidential Race21:13 Qualities of a Credible Presidential Candidate24:16 The Importance of Campaign Infrastructure27:58 Reflections on the 2020 Presidential Campaign32:01 Looking Ahead: Future of Democratic Leadership
Jamal Simmons and Sabrina Singh discuss significant political events, including the anniversary of January 6th, military operations, and the implications of U.S. foreign policy. They reflect on the challenges of government transparency, the perception of the U.S. military, and the internal dynamics within the Department of Defense. Sabrina shares insights from her experience in the Biden administration, emphasizing the importance of accountability and the need for a diverse military.
Jamal Simmons and Amie Parnes discuss the current state of the Democratic Party following the 2024 elections, the challenges they face in formulating a cohesive message, and the implications of potential impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump. They also speculate on the 2028 presidential race, highlighting Gavin Newsom's prominent position and the challenges faced by other Democratic leaders. The discussion touches on the dynamics within the Republican Party, particularly regarding JD Vance and Trump's influence.
Jamal Simmons and Antoine Seawright discuss the current landscape of Democratic politics, focusing on the Texas Senate race and the qualities needed in candidates to connect with voters. They explore the dynamics of the MAGA movement, the importance of bridging divides in American politics, and the necessity of diverse voices within the Democratic Party. The discussion emphasizes the need for candidates to be relatable and to learn from their mistakes in order to succeed in future campaigns. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Antoine Seawright 01:56 Texas Senate Race Dynamics 06:19 Candidate Qualities and Voter Expectations 11:01 Broader Political Landscape and MAGA Movement 15:49 Democratic Party's Future and Coalition Building 20:27 The Importance of Experience and Mentorship
Jamal and Nayyera Haq discuss the recent military actions taken by the Trump administration, particularly focusing on drone strikes against suspected drug boats in the Caribbean. They explore the ethical implications of these actions, the lack of accountability within the military chain of command, and the legal ramifications of using military force in this context. The conversation also touches on America's declining global standing and the potential consequences of these policies on international relations. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction to Foreign Policy 01:12 Analyzing Recent Military Actions in Latin America 03:48 The Legal and Ethical Implications of Military Strikes 07:01 Leadership Changes and Accountability in the Military 10:22 The Role of Legal Advisors in Military Operations 12:19 The Impact of Current Policies on America's Global Standing
Jamal Simmons is joined by his CNN colleague SE Cupp to discuss the evolving political landscape, particularly focusing on Marjorie Taylor Greene's recent shift towards more rational rhetoric. The dialogue explores the internal conflicts within the MAGA movement, the future of conservatism in America, and the need for a coherent agenda from both the right and left to address pressing issues. Cupp emphasizes the importance of ideas over personalities in shaping political discourse and the challenges faced by traditional conservatives in the current political climate.Chapters00:00 Introduction to SE Cupp01:09 Marjorie Taylor Greene's Shift in Rhetoric06:13 The Dynamics of MAGA Politics12:09 The Right-Wing Media Landscape18:07 The Future of Conservatism24:05 Conclusion and Reflections24:11 16x9 JAML.mp4
Jamal is joined this week by Ashley Allison discusses her journey from working in the Obama White House to becoming a media entrepreneur with the acquisition of The Root. She shares insights on the challenges of being a CEO, the importance of independent media, and her personal mission to amplify black stories. The discussion highlights the significance of ownership in media and the role of storytelling in shaping narratives.
Jamal Simmons and Chuck Rocha discuss the recent election results, emphasizing the importance of celebrating victories while remaining cautious about future challenges. They explore the significance of affordability in political messaging, particularly for the Latino community, and the need for Democrats to adapt their strategies for upcoming elections. The discussion also touches on the changing landscape of Democratic leadership and the necessity for authenticity in political communication.
Jamal is joined this week by Ofirah Yheskel to discuss the critical stakes of the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey, emphasizing the importance of Democratic candidates Abigail Spanberger and Mikey Sherrill. They highlight the significance of women in leadership roles, particularly those with national security backgrounds, and the vital role governors play in addressing local issues amidst federal dysfunction. Jamal and Ofirah also touch on polling dynamics, voter protection strategies, and the future of Democratic leadership as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
Nayyera & Jamal explore the current political landscape, focusing on the Trump administration's impact on foreign policy, economic policies, and the erosion of trust in American institutions. It highlights the tensions in Europe, particularly with Russia, and discusses the implications of corporate transparency and environmental regulations. The discussion also touches on the future of the U.S. dollar and the potential shift in global economic power towards China. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Add your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky
Nayyera Haq & Jamal Simmons delve into the political landscape surrounding the Federal Reserve, the implications of government control over economic policies, and the militarization of D.C. It highlights the racial dynamics at play and the potential consequences for democracy and elections in America. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Add your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky
Nayyera and Jamal discuss Gavin Newsom's evolving political strategy, the generational differences in political engagement, the importance of authenticity in leadership, and the trends in voter registration among young people. They explore how Newsom's approach resonates with younger voters and the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in maintaining relevance. The dialogue emphasizes the need for substance in political discourse while acknowledging the role of theater in politics. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Add your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky
49: Martial Law In DC

49: Martial Law In DC

2025-08-1235:12

Nayyera and Jamal discuss various pressing issues facing Washington D.C., including the recent drop in crime rates, the role of the National Guard, economic concerns such as inflation, and the complexities of D.C.'s governance under home rule. They also explore the implications of federal oversight on local governance and the impact of militarization on communities. The conversation features insights from Courtney Snowden, a former deputy mayor, who emphasizes the importance of local control and community engagement in addressing crime and public safety. #trailblazepodcast #nayyerahaq #jamalsimmons #podcasts #politics YouTube Playlist:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIMaYVqnSs68GCxNMKu2m-V5sxq6jaoNR Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trailblaze-with-nayyera-haq-jamal-simmons/id1769130829 Subscribe on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1RpQudz5q7cLrIF7D541m2?si=0c1949d44ed54e23 Visit the website: politicon.com/podcast-title/trailblaze More Politicon videos and podcasts on our YouTube channel:  https://youtu.be/_fMB2FfR6uU politicon Visit Politicon:http://politicon.com Follow Politicon on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/politicon.com
Jamal Simmons and Karen Finney, former communications director for the Democratic National Committee, discuss the evolution of politics over the decades. They discuss challenges, changes in political dynamics, coalition building, and their personal journeys into public service. Finney shares her experiences in the Clinton administration and the complexities of American society and the diverse interpretations of the American dream. They also discuss the evolving role of women in politics, the challenges they face, and the importance of representation and accountability. They explore the impact of recent events on women’s political aspirations and the need for a movement to reclaim political power, particularly in redistricting and the balance between local and national issues.
Nayyera Haq and Jamal Simmons discuss the political landscape surrounding Kamala Harris's decision not to run for governor of California, the implications of fear in politics, the impact of AI on the workforce, and the potential for universal basic income in the future. They explore how political decisions are influenced by past experiences and the current economic climate, emphasizing the need for leaders to adapt to changing circumstances. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Add your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky
Nayyera Haq and Jamal Simmons discuss the current state of American politics, focusing on issues such as press freedom, cultural diplomacy, and the distractions created by political figures. They explore the implications of Trump's leadership style and the erosion of trust in government, while also addressing the broader societal impacts of these dynamics.
Nayyera Haq & Jamal Simmons are joined this week by their friend Anthony Coley, Attorney General Merrick Garland’s chief spokesman, to  explore the media’s role in shaping narratives and public perception, focusing on the Epstein files. We’ll examine how media outlets craft stories and public affairs professionals sway opinions. We’ll also discuss the impact of media on society, the power of storytelling, and narrative construction. Finally, we’ll examine the public’s reaction to the Epstein files and how media coverage influenced public discourse. 
In MAGA world. Anger over last night’s U-turn is already starting to flow. Trump’s repeated pledges to end America’s involvement in overseas wars were a big part of his appeal to the MAGA base, and so his decision to start rearming Ukraine — even with purely defensive weapons — is not landing well. At all. You can expect MAGA anger to swell throughout the day. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Add your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky
43: BORED BILLIONAIRES

43: BORED BILLIONAIRES

2025-07-0124:06

Nayyera and Jamal discuss the implications of the recent economic bill, its impact on the working class, and the broader societal issues surrounding wealth distribution and federal programs. They explore the challenges faced by the working poor, the need for national service, and the threats to democracy and citizenship in the current political climate. The discussion emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the responsibility of individuals to contribute to societal change. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe on Spotify Add your other favorite Politicon podcast hosts on Bluesky
loading
Comments