Hillary Clinton is launching a new podcast series titled “High Stakes” ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The weekly episodes, co-hosted by technology journalist Kara Swisher, will analyze the political battles for control of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The series begins this Wednesday and will continue through mid-November.
Clinton, who has remained a prominent public figure since her 2016 presidential campaign, said in a recent interview that the stakes are particularly high this election cycle. She warned that without addressing what she described as “chaos and corruption and cruelty” under the current administration, the country’s identity could be at risk.
The podcast is produced in partnership with Vox Media, which also produces Swisher’s other programs, including “Pivot” and “On With Kara Swisher.” “High Stakes” will be distributed through the same feed as Swisher’s “On” podcast, with advertising revenue shared among the three parties.
The concept for the podcast originated at a gathering in the Washington, D.C. neighborhood of Kalorama, hosted by former Atlantic owner David Bradley. Swisher approached Clinton with questions spanning from the midterms to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, impressed by Clinton’s clear and concise responses. After filling in as a co-host on Swisher’s “Pivot” podcast in August, Clinton and Swisher decided to collaborate on this new project.
Swisher described Clinton as having a sharp and humorous side that is not often seen publicly and expressed an intention to convey that personality more fully to listeners. However, advertising political podcasts can be challenging due to marketers’ concerns about associating with partisan content. Vox Media CEO Jim Bankoff expressed confidence that the existing audience for Swisher’s podcasts and the quality of the content will help “High Stakes” find success.
Clinton will record the podcast from her home in Chappaqua, New York, using equipment provided by Vox Media. She indicated that if the show garners sufficient interest, it could continue beyond the midterm elections. While willing to read promotional messages, Clinton stated she would avoid endorsing certain products, referencing the wireless network promoted by the Trump family as an example of what she would not support.
The initiative arrives amid ongoing divisions within the Democratic Party, of which Clinton remains a prominent figure. When asked if her established political identity might limit appeal among some listeners, Clinton responded with humor and noted that many Democratic candidates are actively seeking her support for campaign efforts and policy advice. She acknowledged party disagreements but emphasized that debate and discussion are natural and healthy elements of politics.
“High Stakes” seeks to offer in-depth political analysis during a critical election season, combining Clinton’s experience with Swisher’s media expertise to engage an audience closely following the evolving U.S. political landscape.