Sidebar: The road to November

Need a primer for this year's midterm elections? We've got you covered.

We talk to reporters and experts about how former President Donald Trump is still shaping American politics after losing reelection almost two years ago.

The glue that binds Republicans together isn’t just "Stop the Steal" and other theories circulating about voter integrity: it’s a camaraderie built around identity and resistance to changing demographics.

How is the GOP changing its messaging in "purple" districts where voters may be less keen on Trump talk and more interested in their bottom lines?

We also look at the "Great Resignation." Spoiler alert: it's not just impacting your friends and family. So far, 53 members of Congress have announced they will not be running for reelection this year.

A quick warning before you jump in: this episode contains adult language. 

Special guests:

• Michael Rocca, political science professor at the University of New Mexico
• Gunner Ramer, political director at the Republican Accountability Project
• Jon Caldara, president of the Independence Institute
• Megan Burns, communications and digital director for the Colorado Democratic Party
• Kristi Burton Brown, chairwoman of the Colorado Republican Party
• Tyler Allcorn, candidate for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District

Sidebar tackles the top stories you need to know from the legal world. Join reporters Bianca Bruno, Daniel Jackson, Amanda Pampuro and Nina Pullano as they take you in and out of courtrooms in the U.S. and beyond and break down developments to help you understand how they affect your day-to-day life.

This episode was produced by Kirk McDaniel. Intro music by The Dead Pens. A transcript of this episode is available.

Editorial staff is Bill Dotinga, Sean Duffy and Jamie Ross. Big thanks to Michael McDaniel and Rose Wagner.

For more from Michael and Rose on the road to 2022's midterms:

-- Arizona state senators block a dozen GOP-sponsored election reform bills

-- Arizona GOP gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake holds Trump-inspired rally with Mike Lindell and Rep. Paul Gosar

-- In challenge to legal precedent, Arizona Republicans move to add ID check in federal elections

-- Trump is spending on 2024 like he’s already announced, spurring suit

-- Midterms will likely cost Democrats the majority. That’s normal.

-- Voting rights legislation fails to overcome filibuster despite rule change attempt

Follow Sidebar and Courthouse News on Twitter.

Read the Top 8

Sign up for the Top 8, a roundup of the day's top stories delivered directly to your inbox Monday through Friday.

Email *

Submit