Trailblaze
Trailblaze: The Road to 2028 is your insider’s guide to the next great American political showdown. As both parties begin lining up their runners and riders for the 2028 presidential election, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the candidates, the strategists behind them, and the high-stakes decisions that will shape the race long before the first votes are cast. With sharp insight, behind-the-scenes reporting, and a healthy dose of fun, hosts Jamal Simmons and Matthew Butler explore the personalities, power plays, and pivotal moments that will define the road to the White House—making sense of the politics while never losing sight of the passion. Jamal Simmons has spent years inside the rooms where presidential politics actually happen—and now he’s pulling back the curtain. A veteran strategist and former senior White House adviser, Jamal knows how campaigns are built, how messages break through, and how small decisions can change the course of history. He’s equal parts insider, storyteller, and straight-talker, bringing sharp insight, humor, and a deep love of the political game. Matthew Butler lives at the intersection of politics, media, and strategy. He’s worked behind the scenes helping campaigns and political brands find their voice, build momentum, and survive the chaos of modern elections. With a knack for spotting patterns, personalities, and power plays, Matthew brings clarity to the decisions and dynamics that shape the road to the White House.
Episodes
Jamal and Matthew discuss the current political landscape as it pertains to the 2028 campaign. They delve into the fundraising disparities between the Republican and Democratic parties, the importance of infrastructure spending, and the role of individual candidates in shaping the political narrative. The conversation also touches on Westmore's redistricting efforts in Maryland and the challenges he faces, as well as the sign...
Jamal and Matthew discuss Gavin Newsom's recent appearance at Davos, his political strategies, and the implications for the Democratic Party. They then zoom into the Republican responses to current events, particularly in light of the protests in Minnesota, and the potential candidates for the 2028 election. The discussion highlights the evolving political landscape and the importance of authenticity and leadership in the upc...
Will Jon Stewart run for President? That’s the big question as Jamal Simmons & Matthew Butler analyze the dynamics of the Democratic Party, they explore the contrasting strategies between establishment candidates and progressive voices, highlighting the challenges faced by candidates like Bernie Sanders. The discussion extends to the importance of addressing pressing issues such as wealth inequality, student debt, and the...
Jamal Simmons and Matthew Butler discuss the upcoming 2028 presidential election, exploring potential candidates, the dynamics between governors and senators, and the importance of early campaigning and political connections. They emphasize the significance of the current political landscape and how it shapes future elections, particularly focusing on the strategies that candidates must adopt to succeed. They discuss the curr...
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