<![CDATA[The Arena: The Insiders]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/s/the-insidershttps://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!0NuN!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F20b3a6b0-6671-4936-af7d-5f40fd65c4db_1280x1280.pngThe Arena: The Insidershttps://www.thearenasc.com/s/the-insidersSubstackSat, 11 Apr 2026 01:35:38 GMT<![CDATA[The Insiders Election Preview]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-election-previewhttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-election-previewThu, 24 Oct 2024 16:22:38 GMTThe Insiders discuss the current political climate as the election approaches, focusing on the excitement and anxiety surrounding voter turnout, the implications of early voting numbers, and the dynamics of recent debates. They highlight the importance of endorsements and the need for grassroots activism to ensure a successful election outcome. The conversation emphasizes the stakes involved, particularly for down-ballot races, and concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in the electoral process.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Episode 13 - "I Am Not A Nancy Mace Fan."]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-13-i-am-nothttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-13-i-am-notFri, 20 Sep 2024 15:57:14 GMTIn this episode of The Insiders, hosts Emily Mayer, Dr. Annie Andrews, and Melissa Watson Ward discuss a range of pressing political issues, including a controversial event at the University of South Carolina, the hypocrisy surrounding IVF legislation, the implications for women without children, and the influence of PragerU on education. They also delve into the dysfunction in government regarding immigration issues and critique Nancy Mace's recent legislation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the need for women to unite in the upcoming elections.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Episode 12 - Debate Recap]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-12-debate-recaphttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-12-debate-recapWed, 11 Sep 2024 15:54:03 GMTIn the latest episode, the Insiders discuss the aftermath of the recent presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. They highlight Kamala Harris's strong performance and her ability to connect with the American people. They also criticize Trump's lies and xenophobic comments during the debate. The hosts discuss the reactions from Democrats and Republicans, with Democrats feeling energized and Republicans making excuses for Trump's poor performance. They also analyze the impact of Taylor Swift's endorsement of Kamala Harris and the inappropriate comments made by Elon Musk.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Episode 11 - SC House Candidate Shauna Johnson]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-11-sc-househttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-11-sc-houseFri, 06 Sep 2024 13:45:28 GMTIn this episode of The Insiders, the hosts discuss local races in South Carolina that they believe are important for voters to pay attention to. They highlight the races for Heather Bauer for House District 75, Jeffrey Graham for Senate race in District 35, and Dr. Octavia Amaechi in Senate District 12. The hosts encourage listeners to get involved in these races by donating, volunteering, and spreading the word.

Plus! Democratic candidate for SC House District 24 joins the show. Johnson shares her background and emphasizes the need for more medical providers in politics and the importance of listening to healthcare professionals. Johnson discusses the issues of reproductive rights and gun safety, highlighting the impact on women's health and the need for common ground.

To learn more and donate to Shauna Johnson, click here.

To learn more and donate to SC House candidate Rep. Heather Bauer, click here.

To learn more and donate to SC Senate candidate Jeffrey Graham, click here.

To learn more and donate to SC Senate candidate Dr. Octavia Amaechi, click here.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Episode 10 - Kamala Harris' Georgia Tour]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-10-kamala-harrishttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-episode-10-kamala-harrisFri, 30 Aug 2024 17:22:52 GMTIn the latest episode of The Insiders, the crew discusses Kamala Harris' rally in Savannah, Georgia, and her messaging in the CNN interview. They also talk about the upcoming debate between Harris and Donald Trump, the post-convention bump in the polls, and tie it back to the Palmetto State by highlighting the Harris impact on democrats morale and the moves of Republican legislators.

For more information on the ACLU lawsuit, click here. To learn more about the Trans Youth Emergency Project, utilize their resources, or get involved, click here.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders on Location at the DNC]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-on-location-at-the-dnchttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-on-location-at-the-dncThu, 22 Aug 2024 19:43:39 GMTAnnie Andrews, Melissa Watson Ward, Emily Mayer, and Tyler Jones sit down to recap the week at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois. The Insiders talk about their highlights of the convention so far and what to expect for the final night.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Podcast Episode 8 - SC Senate Candidate Russell Ott]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-8-schttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-8-scFri, 09 Aug 2024 19:20:55 GMTThe Insiders discuss the selection of Tim Walz as the official vice presidential candidate. Representative Jermaine Johnson and Melissa Watson Ward share their initial reactions and praise Walls for his energy, relatability, and accomplishments as governor of Minnesota. They also discuss his stance on issues such as marijuana legalization and abortion rights. The conversation then shifts to Trump's press conference, the upcoming debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, and the importance of voter registration and getting out the vote.

Plus! Representative Russell Ott discusses his primary campaign and his plans for the state Senate. He credits the success of his primary campaign to the support of his team and the attention drawn to Calhoun County. He also talks about his motivation for running for the Senate and his desire to bring pragmatism and results-oriented thinking to the legislative process. Representative Ott addresses the challenge of serving in a Republican-leaning Senate and emphasizes the importance of building relationships and finding common ground. He also addresses the topic of abortion and expresses his belief in the need for a nuanced approach that considers different perspectives.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Podcast Episode 7 - SC Senate Candidate Ed Sutton]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-7-schttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-7-scFri, 02 Aug 2024 16:13:08 GMTThe Insiders discuss Donald Trump's controversial speech at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention, the impact of Trump's remarks on black voters and the Democratic Party, the ACLU's lawsuit against South Carolina over partisan gerrymandering of congressional district lines, and the potential vice presidential pick for Kamala Harris.

Plus! The Insiders are joined by special guest Ed Sutton, candidate for South Carolina’s newest state Senate seat in Charleston. Ed shares his background, his journey to becoming a Democratic nominee for the Senate seat, and what he’s doing to help other Democratic candidates.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Podcast Episode 6 - Kathryn Harvey and Kamalamentum]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-6-excitementhttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-6-excitementFri, 26 Jul 2024 15:31:14 GMTThe Insiders discuss the recent political news, including President Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential election and endorse Kamala Harris. They explore the excitement and hope among Democrats, particularly black women, and the need for unity within the party.

PLUS! Upstate Congressional candidate Kathryn Harvey joins the pod to share her experience as a federal candidate running in a challenging political climate and emphasizes the importance of building trust and advocating for working families.

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Podcast Episode 5 - What's next for Biden?]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-5-whatshttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-podcast-episode-5-whatsFri, 19 Jul 2024 15:52:57 GMTThe Insiders discuss the recent announcement of JD Vance as a potential vice president for President Trump and the ongoing speculation about Joe Biden's candidacy. They analyze the political implications of these developments and the potential impact on the upcoming election.

The conversation also touches on the grifting mentality within the Republican Party and the importance of calling out Trump's lies.

]]><![CDATA[Where Do We Go From Here?]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/where-do-we-go-from-herehttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/where-do-we-go-from-hereMon, 15 Jul 2024 15:35:52 GMTThe Insiders discuss the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, the current state of the race, and where Democrats go from here.

]]><![CDATA[Debate Recap with SCDP Chair Christale Spain]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/debate-recaphttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/debate-recapFri, 28 Jun 2024 14:50:52 GMTThe Insiders went live to discuss the first presidential debate on Thursday, June 27th. They were joined by special guest SC Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain.

]]><![CDATA[Video: The Insiders Podcast - Episode 03 - LIVE Debate Recap ]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/video-the-insiders-podcast-episodehttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/video-the-insiders-podcast-episodeFri, 28 Jun 2024 14:33:39 GMT Read more

]]><![CDATA[JOIN NOW: The Insiders Podcast LIVE - Debate Recap and Analysis]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/join-now-the-insiders-podcast-livehttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/join-now-the-insiders-podcast-liveFri, 28 Jun 2024 02:42:22 GMT

JOIN NOW: The Insiders podcast is *LIVE* as our political experts and contributors give instant analysis and opinions on the presidential debate. 

The Insiders are joined by special guest South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain!

JOIN NOW

Read more

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders to Host Live Post-Debate Podcast on YouTube Tonight]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-to-host-live-post-debatehttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/the-insiders-to-host-live-post-debateThu, 27 Jun 2024 17:21:37 GMT

TONIGHT: Join The Insiders for a special LIVE post-debate podcast to give immediate analysis and opinions on the first presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Donald Trump. 

Dr. Annie Andrews, Rep. Jermaine Johnson, Emily Mayer, and Melissa Watson Ward with join The Arena publisher Tyler Jones and special guest SC Democratic Party Chair Chris…

Read more

]]><![CDATA[The Insiders Episode 2 Video: Looking Ahead to the General Election with Michael B. Moore]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/video-the-insiders-episode-2https://www.thearenasc.com/p/video-the-insiders-episode-2Fri, 21 Jun 2024 15:02:59 GMT Read more

]]><![CDATA[Looking Ahead to the General Election with Michael B. Moore]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/looking-ahead-to-the-general-electionhttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/looking-ahead-to-the-general-electionFri, 21 Jun 2024 14:55:24 GMTOn this week's episode of The Insiders Podcast, we interviewed the Democratic nominee of the First Congressional District, Michael B. Moore. Michael discussed his recent primary win and his plans to defeat Nancy Mace in November. Learn more about his campaign at www.michaelbmoore.com

The contributors also discussed the upcoming primary runoffs and the upcoming presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump.

]]><![CDATA[South Carolina Primary Recap]]>https://www.thearenasc.com/p/south-carolina-primary-recaphttps://www.thearenasc.com/p/south-carolina-primary-recapTue, 18 Jun 2024 13:55:45 GMT

The Arena is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Introducing The Insiders Podcast! The Insiders is a weekly podcast diving into the headlines on South Carolina politics, with insights from pundits, consultants, former candidates, and current legislators.

This week, Tyler Jones, Dr. Annie Andrews, Melissa Watson Ward, Dr. Jermaine Johnson, and Emily Mayer recapped the recent South Carolina Primary.

Make sure to subscribe to The Arena on Substack! If you're able, consider a paid purchase to support our work as progressive voices in South Carolina and unlock a collection of new content.

While you're at it, make sure to like and subscribe to ‪@TheArenaSC‬ on YouTube so we can reach a bigger audience and continue our work.

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