State of Disunion - pucks-the-powers-that-be Recap
Podcast: pucks-the-powers-that-be
Published: 2026-02-24
Duration: 28 minutes
Guests: Leanne Caldwell, Dr. Margaret Mary Wilson
Summary
Peter Hamby and Leigh Ann Caldwell discuss the political tensions leading up to Trump's State of the Union, highlighting both Democratic and Republican challenges. They also delve into the recent National Governors Association meeting marked by partisan divides.
What Happened
Donald Trump's approval rating is at 41% with a disapproval nearing 56%, according to Nate Silver. These numbers set the stage for the upcoming State of the Union address, which is anticipated to focus on foreign policy, border issues, and the Working Families Tax Cut Act.
Democrats are split on how to respond to Trump's State of the Union, with some opting for protests and others attending to show opposition. Notably, Democrats plan to bring Epstein survivors as guests to increase discomfort for Trump during the event.
The recent National Governors Association meeting was filled with tension, as Republican governors voiced concerns about Trump, while some Democratic governors began strategizing their 2028 presidential runs. Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma is working to keep the NGA relevant amid these political challenges.
Jared Polis, governor of Colorado, speculates that Trump's disdain for him may stem from his effectiveness. Trump has specifically targeted Colorado, expressing disapproval of the state's mail-in ballots and advocating for the release of Tina Peters, a convicted election denier.
At a White House meeting, Trump was unusually pleasant to Kathy Hochul of New York but ended the session abruptly due to an unexpected Supreme Court tariff decision. This meeting highlighted ongoing tensions within the political landscape.
Gavin Newsom was notably absent from the governors' meeting due to a book tour and dissatisfaction with the NGA's support for Blue States. This absence underscores the growing divide between state leaders.
The episode also touches on healthcare trends from United Health Foundation's America's Health Rankings report, noting a 6% increase in multiple chronic conditions among younger adults, emphasizing the need for accessible preventive care.
Key Insights
- Democrats are strategically using guest invitations as a form of protest during Trump's State of the Union by bringing Epstein survivors to the event, aiming to create discomfort and spotlight issues Trump may prefer to avoid.
- Kevin Stitt, governor of Oklahoma, faces the challenge of keeping the National Governors Association (NGA) relevant amid political tensions, as Republican governors express concerns about Trump and Democrats eye future presidential runs.
- Colorado Governor Jared Polis speculates that Trump's animosity towards him is linked to Polis's effective governance, particularly as Trump criticizes Colorado's mail-in voting system and supports controversial figures like Tina Peters.
- The United Health Foundation's America's Health Rankings report shows a 6% rise in multiple chronic conditions among younger adults, emphasizing an urgent need for accessible preventive healthcare to address this growing health concern.
Key Questions Answered
What is Donald Trump's current approval rating according to Nate Silver?
Donald Trump's current approval rating is at 41% with a disapproval rating approaching 56%, reflecting the public's divided opinion as he prepares for the State of the Union.
How are Democrats responding to Trump's State of the Union?
Democrats are divided on responding to Trump's State of the Union, with some planning to protest outside while others attend to visibly oppose him. They are also bringing Epstein survivors as guests to create discomfort for Trump.
Why is Jared Polis speculating about Trump's dislike for him?
Jared Polis speculates that Trump's dislike may be due to his effectiveness as a governor, highlighting the political tensions between Trump and state leaders, particularly with Colorado.