Listen Ad-free

State of the Union

CNN

Hosted by CNN's Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, State of the Union features interviews with top newsmakers on politics and policy—covering Washington, the country, and the world. read less

Our Editor's Take

The State of the Union podcast interviews people who influence the world's trajectory. Hosts Dana Bash and Jake Tapper of CNN question politicians about White House agendas. The hosts also talk to global policymakers and leaders. Their conversations provide answers most listeners won't get from leaders. This is the podcast version of their TV show.

US presidents give one State of the Union address per year. This podcast, though, addresses the nation every Sunday. Fans of shows like NBC Meet the Press may like this program. The hosts talk to newsworthy individuals as newsworthy events happen. A leaked joke about a beloved politician caused a presidential staffer to quit. The podcast implores listeners to question-was the leak or the joke worse?

State of the Union explores topics like weaponizing race and hate rallies. Episodes discuss security threats, like three objects shot down in North American airspace. Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee Rep. Mike Turner gives listeners intel. He references Chinese spy balloons and talks about America declaring air sovereignty. Turner tells the podcast America needs better radar and integrative missile defense systems.

President Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan joins the podcast. In his episode, he and Bash discuss billions of dollars in aid provided to Ukraine. Bash asks Sullivan whether Biden will supply Ukraine with fighter jets. Listeners will learn how the White House will react if China gives lethal aid to Russia.

Senator Susan Collins' interview explains her conflicted vote for Brett Kavanaugh. Her decision helped him become a Supreme Court Justice. She explains on the show how she feels now.

Elections are a frequent topic on State of the Union. The hosts conduct interviews about who will be running for the presidency-and who won't be. State of the Union is timely and factual. But it's also a public service. When audiences don't know all the facts or what to think, this episode provides context.

read less
NewsNews

Episodes