On this episode of "Deseret Voices," host McKay Coppins delves into the extraordinary life and legacy of Sen. Harry Reid, lawyer and former Majority Leader of the US Senate. In a conversation with Jon Ralston, author of “The Game Changer,” a new political biography about Reid, we discover how Reid rose from his humble beginnings in Searchlight, Nevada, to become one of the most influential political figures in America. Ralston gives an unmatched look at Reid's indomitable spirit, strategic prowess, and how he reshaped the Democratic party, leaving a lasting impact on American politics. He shares insights into Reid's controversial decisions, including invoking the nuclear option and his memorable entanglements with fellow Latter-day Saint Mitt Romney.
“Deseret Voices” is hosted by award-winning journalists McKay Coppins and Jane Clayson Johnson, who go beyond the headlines to explore the stories, people, and ideas shaping our world today. Through thoughtful, in-depth conversations, the “Deseret Voices” podcast brings clarity and common ground to the complex issues defining our time.
“Deseret Voices” is a Deseret News podcast, produced by Keira Farrimond, Creative Director - Video & Podcasts.
Episodes of “Deseret Voices” drop every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and join the conversation on YouTube (@deseretnews), Instagram (@deseretnews), Facebook (@deseretnews) and X (@deseret).
January 15th, 2026, 02:00 pm
Deseret Voices
Harry Reid’s Legacy: Fighter or Ruthless Politician?
00:00
47m
Published January 15th, 2026, 02:00 pm
Description
On this episode of "Deseret Voices," host McKay Coppins delves into the extraordinary life and legacy of Sen. Harry Reid, lawyer and former Majority Leader of the US Senate. In a conversation with Jon Ralston, author of “The Game Changer,” a new political biography about Reid, we discover how Reid rose from his humble beginnings in Searchlight, Nevada, to become one of the most influential political figures in America. Ralston gives an unmatched look at Reid's indomitable spirit, strategic prowess, and how he reshaped the Democratic party, leaving a lasting impact on American politics. He shares insights into Reid's controversial decisions, including invoking the nuclear option and his memorable entanglements with fellow Latter-day Saint Mitt Romney.
“Deseret Voices” is hosted by award-winning journalists McKay Coppins and Jane Clayson Johnson, who go beyond the headlines to explore the stories, people, and ideas shaping our world today. Through thoughtful, in-depth conversations, the “Deseret Voices” podcast brings clarity and common ground to the complex issues defining our time.
“Deseret Voices” is a Deseret News podcast, produced by Keira Farrimond, Creative Director - Video & Podcasts.
Episodes of “Deseret Voices” drop every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and join the conversation on YouTube (@deseretnews), Instagram (@deseretnews), Facebook (@deseretnews) and X (@deseret).
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Deseret Voices
Welcome to Deseret Voices, a weekly podcast from the Deseret News (https://deseret.com) that brings depth, nuance and respect to conversations about today’s complex topics and current events. Join our hosts, award-winning journalists McKay Coppins and Jane Clayson Johnson, every Thursday as they go beyond news headlines by talking with newsmakers and thought leaders to find common ground and uncover unique perspectives on today’s critical issues in politics, faith, sports, and more.