Special Edition: First Look with the Post's Jonathan Capehart

·1 hr 28 min·5 clips

Senator Tim Kaine reveals why Joe Biden's decision to drop out was an 'incredible act of patriotism' few presidents have ever made.

The episode opens with host Jonathan Capehart introducing a special 90-minute live edition of Washington Post Live's 'First Look,' featuring conversations adapted from a July 26th event. The first segment is an interview with Senator Tim Kaine, Democrat from Virginia and Hillary Clinton's 2016 running mate. Kaine discusses President Biden's Oval Office address ending his campaign, calling it an emotional and patriotic act. He analyzes the Democratic Party's shift from post-debate angst to energy and unity around Kamala Harris. Kaine explains Harris's 'unrealized upside' as a newer nominee and how she can frame the race as 'yesterday versus tomorrow.' He shares personal anecdotes about receiving Clinton's VP call and the importance of chemistry in selecting a running mate. Kaine also reflects on a childhood drawing of JFK's funeral and connects it to young voters' potential for engagement. The second segment features Washington Post reporters Dan Balz, Leanne Caldwell, and Tyler Pager. They discuss the 'crystallizing yet opaque' moment in the election, with Harris consolidating support faster than expected. Caldwell details how Harris's 'perfect 48 hours' washed away Democratic dissent, while Pager explains the polling and pressure that led Biden to withdraw. Balz analyzes swing-state voter reactions and whether Harris brings new states into play. They examine Republican attacks on Harris, Trump's potential debate participation, and J.D. Vance's rocky introduction as VP pick. The third segment brings in Post opinion columnists Eugene Robinson, Robin Givhan, and Jim Garrity. They debate the composition of Harris's coalition, her appeal beyond coastal liberalism, and the impact of racist and sexist rhetoric from Republicans. Givhan shares observations from a massive Black men's phone call supporting Harris. The panel evaluates potential VP picks like Josh Shapiro, Mark Kelly, and Andy Beshear, weighing electoral and narrative considerations. They conclude by discussing what viewers should watch as the campaign progresses.

As heard by us

A live First Look tracks Biden's withdrawal, the Democratic pressure around it, and Harris's path into the next phase.

Washington Post Live's First Look expands its usual 30-minute shape into a nearly 90-minute live conversation, anchored by Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia and President Biden's Oval Office address ending his re-election campaign.

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Why you'd press play

You want the room where Biden's exit, Harris's surge, and the VP guessing game get unpacked? Press play.

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