Inside Washington: How Power Works

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked world of think tanks and their influence on policy making in Washington D.C. We explore how these organizations, often funded by special interests, shape the political landscape by providing research, policy recommendations, and even personnel for government roles. Through interviews with think tank insiders and policy experts, we uncover the subtle ways these organizations impact the decisions made in the corridors of power.

In this episode, we delve into the often murky waters of campaign financing, exploring how money influences politics in Washington D.C. We'll examine the role of Super PACs, dark money, and the impact of landmark court cases like Citizens United. Through interviews with campaign finance experts and political insiders, we'll shed light on how money flows in the capital and shapes the American political landscape.

In this episode, we delve into the world of campaign financing, exploring how money influences policy making in Washington. We'll examine the sources of campaign funds, the role of Super PACs, and how elected officials may be swayed by their financial backers. Through interviews with campaign finance experts and insiders, we'll shed light on this often overlooked aspect of power in Washington D.C.

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked but influential world of political consultants. These behind-the-scenes strategists shape campaigns, influence public opinion, and ultimately, affect policy-making. We'll explore their tactics, their impact, and their role in the complex power dynamics of Washington D.C.

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked world of think tanks and their profound influence on American policy. Through interviews with policy experts and former think tank employees, we explore how these organizations shape legislation, influence elected officials, and impact the lives of everyday Americans.

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked world of think tanks and their influence on policy making in Washington D.C. We explore how these organizations, often funded by special interests, shape the political landscape by providing research, policy recommendations, and even personnel for government roles. Through interviews with think tank insiders and policy experts, we uncover the subtle ways these organizations impact the decisions made in the corridors of power.

In this episode, we delve into the often murky waters of campaign financing, exploring how money influences politics in Washington D.C. We'll examine the role of Super PACs, dark money, and the impact of landmark court cases like Citizens United. Through interviews with campaign finance experts and political insiders, we'll shed light on how money flows in the capital and shapes the American political landscape.

The season finale examines how Washington's power dynamics transform during national emergencies, from financial crises to pandemics. Through detailed analysis of the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 response, we reveal how normal procedural rules get suspended, power shifts to the executive branch, and decisions affecting millions are made by a handful of key players. The episode explores the tension between emergency powers and democratic accountability, questioning whether crisis governance has become the new normal.

Explore the vast administrative state that writes and enforces most of the rules governing American life. We investigate how agencies like the EPA and FDA transform broad congressional mandates into specific regulations, and how industry groups influence this process. Through case studies of controversial rules, including net neutrality and environmental regulations, we reveal how bureaucrats exercise enormous power through interpretation and enforcement of laws.

This episode unveils the sophisticated vote-counting operations run by party leadership in Congress. Through interviews with former whips and their deputies, we explore the delicate art of vote trading, arm-twisting, and coalition building. The episode examines specific cases where critical legislation hung by a thread, including the dramatic passage of the Affordable Care Act and the nail-biting debt ceiling votes, revealing the intense behind-the-scenes negotiations that secured victory.