605 episodes

David Axelrod, the founder and director of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics, and CNN bring you The Axe Files, a series of revealing interviews with key figures in the political world. Go beyond the soundbites and get to know some of the most interesting players in politics.

The Axe Files with David Axelrod The Institute of Politics & CNN

    • News
    • 4.5 • 7.4K Ratings

David Axelrod, the founder and director of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics, and CNN bring you The Axe Files, a series of revealing interviews with key figures in the political world. Go beyond the soundbites and get to know some of the most interesting players in politics.

    Ep. 573 — David Plouffe and Karl Rove

    Ep. 573 — David Plouffe and Karl Rove

    This episode is a little different from the normal Axe Files. David sat down at Arizona State University with two legendary political strategists: Karl Rove, the architect of George W. Bush’s campaigns, and David Plouffe, David’s old partner and the brilliant manager behind the 2008 Barack Obama campaign. You can find their personal stories in past episodes of The Axe Files (Karl Rove episode #80, and David Plouffe episodes #43 and #418), but in this conversation, they talked about the Biden-Trump rematch, which they all agreed is the most unusual campaign of their lifetimes.
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    • 1 hr 5 min
    Ep. 572 — Chris Christie

    Ep. 572 — Chris Christie

    Eight years ago, then-New Jersey Governor Chris Christie shook up the political world by dropping out of the race for president to endorse Donald Trump. Since the election of 2020 and the events that followed, including a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021, Christie has become one of Trump’s fiercest critics and unsuccessfully challenged him in this year’s primary elections. He talked with David about the arc of his journey from ally and advisor to outspoken foe. He discusses their ruptured relationship and offers fascinating insights into the now-thrice-nominated Trump and his capture of the Republican Party.
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    • 1 hr 5 min
    Best of The Axe Files: Alastair Campbell

    Best of The Axe Files: Alastair Campbell

    This week, we're revisiting a conversation from the early days of The Axe Files, way back in 2015, featuring Alastair Campbell. He served as the communications guru for former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Campbell, a prolific author and speaker, shares poignant insights into his own struggles with mental illness, in addition to delving into political matters. They explore various topics, including the emerging candidacy of Donald Trump, who was embarking on his unlikely journey to the presidency at the time.
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    • 1 hr 1 min
    Ep. 571 – Michael Crow

    Ep. 571 – Michael Crow

    Last week, David sat down with Arizona State University’s celebrated president, Michael Crow. During their discussion, the two talked about Crow's remarkable personal journey, ASU's pioneering model for the new American public university, which emphasizes inclusivity in admissions and academic excellence, as well as innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the 21st century. They also delved into ASU's deep commitment to addressing local and global challenges, highlighting the university's significant impact on Arizona and beyond.
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    • 1 hr
    Ep. 570 — Rep. Pete Aguilar

    Ep. 570 — Rep. Pete Aguilar

    Last week, David sat down with Congressman Pete Aguilar of California, who serves as the chairman of the Democratic House Caucus and holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking Hispanic member in the U.S. House. They delved into Aguilar's remarkable personal journey, emblematic of the American dream, and addressed the gridlock gripping Congress, exacerbated by mounting crises concerning the budget, the border, and funding for Ukraine and Israel.
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    • 1 hr 4 min
    Ep. 569 — Bill Bradley

    Ep. 569 — Bill Bradley

    Bill Bradley stands as a rare figure, achieving Hall of Fame status in both sports and politics. As a former New Jersey Senator and presidential candidate, Bradley's impact on public life spans decades. Before his esteemed political career, he left an enduring legacy in college basketball, the Olympics, and as a vital member of the historic early '70s New York Knicks. Throughout both careers Bill Bradley earned a reputation for thoughtful reflection. David sat down will Bill this week to talk about his documentary, his life, and lessons learned along the way.
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    • 1 hr

Customer Reviews

4.5 out of 5
7.4K Ratings

7.4K Ratings

JVivian ,

Michael Crow

David’s recent interview with Michael Crow was one of the most interesting and inspiring guests I’ve heard. I wish more university presidents would step up and follow his lead. Education is the key.

El tigress ,

Time is a Very precious essential part of life!

Mr. Friedman and Axe, I also have no connection to any platform, social media, etc. this is why I can listen to all my podcast, read the New York Times as well as Washington Post,Wall Street Journal, and the Financial Times.
So like you, I am unencumbered and I feel very healthy in my 70s and I’m thankful that we have a healthy democracy . For my mental health I watched two nights ago Jimmy Kimmel, interview with George Bush discuss his portrait book, which included a portrait of Madeline Albright, and all these lovely paintings of people who have immigrated here. I followed with watching his discussion with Barack Obama about his book followed by Michelle and it was wonderful to hear her talking about the girls. It was so essential to remembering that this time really did exist time when we all funded our wonderful politicians our statesman.
This happened to be the day that Angel Chao died the sister of Elaine Chao, our former secretary of transportation , wife of Senator McConnell. All these great American's, all these great immigrants., and it was all pre Trump, pre Citizens united.
Thank you for your weekly podcast. It helps me every week to keep on having faith in America.

amoi66 ,

Love the Podcast

Andrew Gillum’s life story is an inspiration to me. I was a fan before, I'm a bigger fan after listening especially because I’m also 1 of seven kids. I’m the compassionate sister who does the same as his only sister with the important dates in the family. David, you are awesome.

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