On The Gist, if an eleventh Democratic candidate makes the next debate in Houston, we’ll hear more from all of them (because they’ll be split across two nights!).

In the interview, it’s part II of Mike’s discussion with Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley. They talk about the filibuster (this junior senator says “it has to go”) and the daunting task that is healing the upper chamber of Congress. Merkley is the author of America Is Better Than This: Trump's War Against Migrant Families.

In the Spiel, the David Koch obituaries are in. But are they fair?

Slate Plus members get bonus segments and ad-free podcast feeds. Sign up now.

Want to see a special episode of The Gist live in New York? Get your tickets here!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices