Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast

Sen. Gillibrand on Marriage Liberty vs. Religious Liberty Nov 29, 2022

With Republicans soon to take over as the majority in the House, what could Senate Democrats get done during this lame duck session, and beyond? On today's show, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D NY) talks about her work in Washington.

What To Expect When You’re Expecting A New Congress Nov 28, 2022

With a little over a month until Congress begins its next term, with a new GOP House majority, we look at what the political shifts will mean for federal policy going forward. On today's show, Susan Page, USA Today Washington bureau chief and the author of Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power (Twelve, 2021), talks about the latest national political news, including Nancy Pelosi's tenure as Speaker of the House coming to a close, the makeup of the next Congressional session, and how the 2024 presidential races are shaping up.

How A Newly Elected Democrat and Republican See The Next Congress Nov 25, 2022

With a spate of new representatives headed to Congress, we heard from two Congressmen-elect about the political landscape, and their agenda for the upcoming legislative term. On today's show, we speak with George Devolder-Santos, capital investment manager and US representative-elect (R, NY-3) and Dan Goldman, US representative-elect (D, NY-10), formerly lead counsel for the impeachment investigation of President Trump in 2019 and former assistant US attorney for the Southern District of NY.

How The Latest Student Debt News Might Affect You Nov 23, 2022

The White House plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student loans for millions of Americans hit a snag this month after legal challenges from conservative interest groups. On today's show, Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, national higher education reporter at the Washington Post, explains these court developments and what they mean for student debt holders.

Hakeem Jeffries On Preparing To Be House Democratic Leader Nov 22, 2022

With Nancy Pelosi stepping down as the leader of House Democrats, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries seems likely to take up the mantle. How does he plan to work with a GOP majority? On today's show, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D NY-8th, Brooklyn and Queens), the House Democrats' chairman, talks about his bid to be the next House minority leader, the big changes in leadership happening in Congress, and how he'd unite the fractured caucus.

Joan Walsh On Trump Special Counsel and Colorado Springs Nov 21, 2022

A progressive voice brings her analysis in the wake of fatal violence at a night club in Colorado Springs, and the announcement of a special counsel to investigate Trump's role in Jan. 6. On today's show Joan Walsh, The Nation's national affairs correspondent, talks about the latest national political news, including how GOP flips of Congressional seats in New York helped Democrats lose control of the House - and who is responsible for that in New York.

Pelosi Speech Excerpts and Leadership Stories Nov 18, 2022

On Thursday, Nancy Pelosi announced she will step aside as a House Democratic leader. On Today's Show: Steve Israel, former member of Congress, writer and director of the Institute of Politics and Global Affairs at Cornell University, and Molly Ball, national political correspondent for TIME and the author of Pelosi (Henry Holt and Co., 2020) talk about these big changes to the balance of power in Washington, D.C. leadership.

Should You Boycott Qatar's World Cup? Nov 17, 2022

Some soccer fans intend to boycott the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which begins next Sunday in the gulf state nation of Qatar, over concerns about the country's human rights and labor records. On today's show, Dan Friedman, writer, digital consultant and former Executive Editor of the Forward, tells us the history of this World Cup and why it matters.

Trump? Pence? DeSantis? How About Chris Christie? Nov 16, 2022

With Donald Trump officially kicking off his campaign last night, we look at what it means for the Republican party, the conservative movement, and the politics of the 2024 election.

On Today's Show:Eliana Johnson, editor-in-chief of the Washington Free Beacon, unpacks the announcement and the early reactions from within the Republican Party.

Kari Lake As The Last Election Denier Domino Nov 15, 2022

Election deniers — many endorsed by former President Trump — didn't do so well at the polls last week, and voting was relatively smooth nationwide. On today's show, Nick Corasaniti, domestic correspondent covering national politics for The New York Times, talks about the possibility that the threat they posed to democracy is waning or even over.

What Does The Dems' Narrow Control Mean For The Senate? Nov 14, 2022

With the Senate race in Arizona called, officially delivering control of at least one house of Congress to Democrats, by an extremely tight margin. On today's show, Molly Ball, national political correspondent for TIME and the author of Pelosi (Henry Holt and Co., 2020), talks about the weekend's big political news.

How Blue New York May Turn Congress Red Nov 11, 2022

Republicans won four congressional races in New York, even though a national 'red wave' never materialized.

On Today's Show: Larry Levy, vice president of Economic Development and Professional Studies and executive dean of the National Center for Suburban Studies at Hofstra University, and Nicholas Fandos reporter on the Metro desk of The New York Times talk about why Long Island and parts of the Hudson Valley are sending Republicans to Congress.

Two Coasts, Two Environmental Ballot Measures, And Why Only NY's Passed Nov 10, 2022

In the wake of the midterms, we explore why an ballot measure too fight climate change failed in California, and why a different one succeeded in New York. On Today's Show, voters in New York approved a $4.2 billion dollar environmental bond initiative while voters in California rejected a ballot measure that would have levied a tax on high earners to pay for electric vehicle infrastructure. Blanca Begert, reporting fellow at Grist, discusses what New Yorkers will be going into debt to pay for, and how Californians will now prepare for their EV future.

Democracy In The Wake Of The 'Red Ripple' Nov 09, 2022

With the 2022 midterm elections in our rearview mirror, we look ahead at what the next session of Congress will look like, and where our democracy goes from here. On today's show, Kai Wright, host of WNYC's Notes From America, Alexis Grenell, columnist for The Nation and the cofounder of Pythia Public, and Charlie Sykes, founder and editor-at-large and host of a podcast at The Bulwark, MSNBC contributor and author of How the Right Lost Its Mind (St. Martin's Press, 2017), deconstruct yesterday's results and how the democratic process has held up this election. PRODUCERS NOTE: This conversation took place the morning after Election Day 2022. Official vote tallies and other news have likely developed. Check WNYC or Gothamist.com for the latest updates, or listen to the next live Brian Lehrer Show, weekdays from 10 AM to noon.

How to Watch the Election Returns Nov 08, 2022

Happy Election Day! Listen to our conversation about what to expect tonight, tomorrow and further into the week as official ballot counts roll in. On today's show, Aaron Blake, senior political reporter, writing for The Fix at The Washington Post, joins to discuss the competitive races around the country, and which results might come as a surprise.

Election Day Information — And Disinformation — Are Upon Us Nov 07, 2022

What reforms have there been to curb election-impacting misinformation, and what does the information landscape look like ahead of the 2022 midterms? On today's show, Andrea Bernstein, who covers Democracy for ProPublica and contributes to NPR covering Trump legal matters, co-host of "Will Be Wild", and the author of American Oligarchs: The Kushners, the Trumps, and the Marriage of Money and Power, and Ilya Marritz, freelance reported for ProPublica, NPR, and co-host of the podcasts "Trump, Inc." and "Will be Wild", talk about how the Biden administration's actions to address disinformation hasn't been as strong as they initially indicated.

Health Care Takes a Back Seat in the Midterms Nov 04, 2022

On Today's Show: Julie Rovner, chief Washington correspondent for Kaiser Health News and host of KHN's What the Health podcast, discusses the politics of health care costs and the competing approaches by Democrats and Republicans this midterms season.

Is There A Democratic and Republican Way To Fight Inflation? Nov 03, 2022

How different are the two major political parties policy approaches to combatting inflation, one of the key issues in this midterm season? On today's show, Jim Tankersley, New York Times White House correspondent with a focus on economic policy, talks about how Democrats and Republicans say they will fight it, and historically, what has worked and what hasn't.

Is There A Democratic And Republican Way To Fight Poverty? Nov 02, 2022

What does each of the major political parties think is the right approach to combating poverty? On today's show, Chris Howard, Pamela C. Harriman Professor of Government and Public Policy at the College of William & Mary and the author of Who Cares: The Social Safety Net in America (Oxford University Press, 2022), discusses how Republicans and Democrats approach the issue of poverty and which party, if either, can eradicate it.

Affordable Housing On The Ballot In NY Nov 01, 2022

In New York, where the real estate industry represents a powerful interest group, how are the candidates for governor thinking about affordable housing, and addressing homelessness? On today's show, Kathryn Brenzel, senior reporter at The Real Deal, joins to discuss where Kathy Hochul and Lee Zeldin stand on the issue of affordable housing as Election Day looms.

After The Apparent Assassination Attempt On The Speaker Of The House Oct 31, 2022

As details have surfaced around the invasion of Nancy Pelosi's home by a violent intruder, we ask whether voters will be considering the risk of political violence at the ballot box. On today's show, Lisa Lerer, national political correspondent for The New York Times, and Philip Bump, national columnist for The Washington Post, talk about what the polls and reporting are saying as voting for the midterm elections has begun in most of the United States.

How the Left and the Right (but Mostly the Right) Want to Transform the Constitution Oct 28, 2022

What might updating the United States' Constitution do to our democracy? On today's show, Russ Feingold, former U.S. senator, president of the American Constitution Society, and co-author of The Constitution in Jeopardy: An Unprecedented Effort to Rewrite Our Fundamental Law and What We Can Do About It (Public Affairs, 2022), discusses the calls — coming from both the right and the left — to update the U.S. Constitution.

In The Midterm Election Campaigns, Corporations Are People Too Oct 27, 2022

Over a decade since the Supreme Court ruled that corporate political contributions constitute free speech, what has it meant for democracy? On today's show, Adam Winkler, UCLA professor of law and author of We the Corporations (Liveright, 2018) and Gunfight: The Battle Over the Right to Bear Arms in America (W. W. Norton & Company, 2011), delves into the impact of so-called "dark money" on our democracy.

Lincoln Expanded The Supreme Court. Should We? Oct 26, 2022

Today, we look at the structure and practices of the Supreme Court, and discuss whether reforms could reshape it in defense of democracy. On today's show, Emily Bazelon, staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, co-host of Slate's "Political Gabfest" podcast, Truman Capote fellow for creative writing and law at Yale Law School, and author of Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration (Random House, 2019), joins the show to discuss the history of the Supreme Court, its role in American democracy, and proposals to change it.

Threats Against Election Workers Could Sow Midterm 'Chaos' Oct 25, 2022

Election officials around the country have been resigning amid threats and intimidation. What does that mean for democracy? On today's show, Dana Milbank, columnist for The Washington Post, discusses the uptick in threats of violence against election official workers, intimidation of voters, and the potential for chaos at the polls on Election Day.

Legal Abortion, Legal Cannabis And The New GOP Attack On Referendums Oct 24, 2022

With the midterms fast approaching, we explore some of the ballot measures that voters around the country are being asked to decide on. On Today's Show, Zach Montellaro, state politics reporter at Politico, covering gubernatorial, legislative and other state-based elections, joins to discuss how Democrats and Republicans are using ballot initiatives and referendums to push policy proposals.

The House of Unrepresentatives Oct 21, 2022

How do we make the legislative branch more democratic?

On Today's Show: David Daley, senior fellow at FairVote and author of the books Ratf**ked: Why Your Vote Doesn't Count (Liveright 2016) and Unrigged: How Americans Are Battling Back to Save Democracy (Liveright 2020), discusses the undemocratic nature of the United States Senate and offers solutions to make it more representative of all Americans.

Why The Party With The Most Votes Won’t Necessarily Control Congress Oct 20, 2022

With election districts being redrawn around the country, how do changing electoral boundaries change the politics that come out of those elections? On today's show, Michael Li, senior counsel for the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program, talks about the process of redrawing district lines after the census every 10 years and how that process can favor parties and incumbency, or voters.

Four Candidates Who Might Upend Electoral Democracy Oct 19, 2022

In four swing states, some gubernatorial candidates have indicated that they would have refused to certify Biden's 2020 election win. What might those midterms mean for 2024? On today's show, Kira Lerner, democracy reporter at States Newsroom, talks about the four swing states with governors races that could upend the 2024 presidential election.

It’s Getting Easier (And Harder) To Vote Oct 18, 2022

How some jurisdictions are making it harder to vote, while others are expanding opportunities to ensure that everyone eligible has the chance to cast a ballot? On today's show, Ari Berman, senior reporter at Mother Jones, covering voting rights and author of Give Us the Ballot: The Modern Struggle for Voting Rights in America, joins our midterm election series to discuss the attack on democracy and the continued fight for voting rights in America.

Election Fraud and Election Fraud Fraud Oct 17, 2022

With the midterms approaching, how secure is our election system, non-withstanding the former president's lies about widespread election fraud in 2020? On today's show, William Adler, senior technologist in elections and democracy at the Center for Democracy and Technology, joins to discuss when and where election fraud actually takes place, and how it can be prevented and tracked.

The Jan 6th Committee Hearings End(?) with a Bombshell Oct 14, 2022

On Today's Show, NPR's Claudia Grisales recaps what was likely the final January 6 hearing by the House Select Committee, and explains where the investigation goes from here.

Sen. Gillibrand: Hooray For The Big Increase In Social Security Benefits! Oct 13, 2022

On today's show, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discusses some policy matters before Congress, and how the midterms could change things in Washington, D.C.

Your Nutrition, And The FDA's New Food Labeling Proposals Oct 12, 2022

The FDA might enact new policies around food labeling. Here's what you should know in order to understand the nutrition of the food you buy. On today's show, Marion Nestle, professor emerita of nutrition, food studies, and public health at NYU and the author of many books, including her latest, Slow Cooked: An Unexpected Life in Food Politics (University of California Press, 2022) talks about the changes, how the food industry is heavily invested, plus how food insecurity and access to healthy food play into these decisions.

Biden's Cannabis Pardons, And More Legal Weed News Oct 11, 2022

As President Biden announces the pardons for federal cannabis possession charges, we look at where the piecemeal process of legalization and decriminalization stands today. On today's show, Alyson Martin, co-founder of Cannabis Wire and adjunct professor at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, joins to discuss President Joe Biden's recent announcement to pardon convicted cannabis users and how states might follow his lead.

Does Either Party Have A Plan For Our COVID-Endemic Future? Oct 10, 2022

Joe Biden said last month that the pandemic era of COVID was over. Is there a public policy approach to the endemic future of the virus? On today's show, Eric Topol, physician, founder and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, professor of molecular medicine and executive VP at Scripps Research, talks about whether either Republicans or Democrats have a plan for the future of endemic COVID-19, and shares what he thinks needs to be done.

How Republicans Acknowledge Climate Change While Supporting Fossil Fuels Oct 07, 2022

With the midterms approaching, we look at some key races where climate policy has been an issue for the candidates and their campaigns. On today's show, Maxine Joselow, climate reporter at The Washington Post and author of The Climate 202 newsletter, discusses recent climate news and what a Republican-led or Democratic-led Congress would (or wouldn't) do about the climate crisis.

Maggie Haberman On How '80s NYC Created Trump Oct 06, 2022

One of the most prolific reporters to cover Donald Trump both before, and in the White House, discusses her new book about the 45th president's roots. On today's show, Maggie Haberman, senior political correspondent for The New York Times, political analyst for CNN and the author of Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America (Penguin Press, 2022), talks about her new book on the former president.

The Conservative-Led Supreme Court Takes on Racial Gerrymandering Oct 05, 2022

On Today's Show: Elie Mystal, justice correspondent for The Nation and author of Allow Me to Retort: A Black Guy's Guide to the Constitution (The New Press, 2022), discusses Merrill v. Milligan, the high-stakes Alabama case on racial gerrymandering that the Supreme Court will be hearing arguments for this term.

Florida’s Insurance Industry Is Factoring In Climate Change More Than Its Top Politicians Oct 04, 2022

As parts of Florida and other southern states begin to recover from Hurricane Ian, we look at how the insurance industry is, and isn't, keeping up with climate risks. On today's show, Leslie Scism, a news editor for the Wall Street Journal, covering life and property-casualty insurance, joins to discuss how climate change, and the catastrophic damage it's causing to coastal communities, is changing the way home insurance works.

The Supreme Court vs. The Courts Themselves? Oct 03, 2022

We look ahead at some of the cases that the Supreme Court will hear in its upcoming session, plus a look at the state of the federal judiciary as an institution. On today's show, as the new Supreme Court term gets underway, Dahlia Lithwick, senior legal correspondent at Slate, host of their podcast Amicus, and the author of Lady Justice: Women, the Law, and the Battle to Save America (Penguin Press, 2022), talks about her new book on the women who fought back on the Trump administration's policies and on the major cases before the Court between now and next June.

Why Democrats Continue to Struggle on Immigration Policy Sep 30, 2022

Years after the Trump administration's family separation policy at the border, Democrats continue to struggle to come up with a detailed immigration plan. On today's show, Caitlin Dickerson, staff writer at The Atlantic, spent 18 months investigating the Trump administration's family separation policy at the border. She joins to discuss her reporting and how immigration, political asylum and the border are playing out as issues today as midterm elections loom.

Iranian-Americans Call In On The Protests And The ‘Morality Police’ Sep 29, 2022

In the weeks after a woman died in the custody of Iran's 'morality police,' women across the country and around the world have taken to the streets in protest. On today's show, Pardis Mahdavi, provost of the University of Montana and the author of Passionate Uprisings: Iran’s Sexual Revolution (Stanford University Press, 2008), who had her own run in with the morality police in Iran, shares her analysis of the protests happening now and what may come of them.

Lindsey Graham’s 15 Week Abortion Plan Does Not Guarantee 15 Weeks Of Rights Sep 28, 2022

Today, we look at how abortion policy is playing in midterms around the country, and whether the next congress might pursue a nationwide abortion policy, one way or the other. On today's show, Leigh Ann Caldwell, Early 202 newsletter co-author and Washington Post Live anchor, joins to break down how candidates for Congress are talking about abortion on the campaign trail.

Will Kentucky Be The New Kansas On Abortion Rights? Sep 27, 2022

With abortion up for a referendum in Kentucky, we look at how the politics of abortion in red states has played out since SCOTUS's Dobbs decision. On today's show, Al Cross, director of the Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues at the University of Kentucky and publisher of The Rural Blog and Kentucky Health News, and Caroline Kitchener, national political reporter covering abortion at The Washington Post, discuss how "trigger abortion bans" are playing out across conservative states and how the issue might impact the midterm elections in those states.

Spending Bill In The Senate & Jan. 6 Hearings In The House Sep 26, 2022

With a big week ahead in Washington D.C., we look at a few of the most important things coming up in national politics. On today's show, Susan Page, USA Today Washington bureau chief and the author of Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power (Twelve, 2021), talks about the latest news from Washington, including a spending bill that might be held up by West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin and the upcoming January 6th hearing.

Chronicling the Trump Presidency and His Current Legal Challenges With Two Washington Insiders Sep 23, 2022

Now that he’s no longer in office, there have been a lot of stories coming out about Trump’s presidency. A new book offers a detailed account – more than 650 pages – of the four years of the Trump’s administration, and it’s written by two of the most respected journalists in Washington.

Peter Baker, the chief White House correspondent for The New York Times and a political analyst for MSNBC, and Susan Glasser, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of its weekly "Letter from Trump's Washington," as well as a CNN global affairs analyst, talk about their new book The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021 (Doubleday, 2022), as well as some of the latest developments in the former president's legal challenges.

Anti-War Protests In Russia, Anti-Misogyny Protests In Iran During UN Debate Week Sep 22, 2022

As the UN General Assembly deliberates over a number of issues facing the international community, we look at some recent global events. On today's show, Nahal Toosi, senior correspondent for foreign affairs and national security for Politico, and Gideon Rose, distinguished fellow in U.S. Foreign Policy at the Council on Foreign Relations, the former editor of Foreign Affairs and author of How Wars End: Why We Always Fight the Last Battle (Simon & Schuster, 2010), recap the major themes so far, which include the war in Ukraine, China's relationship to the US and others and the many looming conflicts happening around the world.

Sarah Koenig From “Serial” On The Prosecutorial Misconduct Shocker Sep 21, 2022

The incarcerated man at the center of a groundbreaking True Crime podcast has been released from prison, following new details uncovered in part by the podcast's listening community. On today's show, Sarah Koenig, host and co-creator of "Serial," joins us to discuss the news that the subject of Serial's first season, Adnan Syed, has been released from prison after 20 years.

U.S. Surgeon General Decodes Biden’s 'Pandemic Is Over' Remark Sep 20, 2022

The nation's chief medical advisor makes sense of this moment in the trajectory of COVID-19, plus, what's needed to address youth mental health. On today's show, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy talks about why he is prioritizing the nation's mental health, especially among young people, plus talks about the latest news on the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Independent” Voters Seeing Country More On The Right Track Sep 19, 2022

With about 8 weeks left before this year's midterm elections, we look at what public opinion polling has to say about the state of the races, and the direction of the country. On today's show, Steven Shepard, senior campaign and elections editor and chief polling analyst for Politico, shares his analysis on the state of the midterm elections, including a recent New York Times/Siena poll where Democrats appeared stronger than some thought they would, and how the issue of migrants seeking asylum is playing out in campaigns.

Fake Electors Front and Center Sep 16, 2022

On today's show: CNN national security reporter Zachary Cohen brings updates on investigations into January 6th and the Big Lie.

Nina Totenberg On Sexism Under The Law And Her Friendship with RGB Sep 15, 2022

A legendary Supreme Court reporter's new book describes her relationship with the late Justice Ginsberg, and the common experiences of misogyny that they shared. On today's show, Nina Totenberg, NPR legal correspondent and the author of Dinners with Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendships (Simon & Schuster, 2022), looks back on her 50-year friendship with the woman who would become a Supreme Court Justice and how they each fought to overcome barriers and face personal challenges.

Obama And Biden's Different Approaches And Ongoing Partnership Sep 14, 2022

Former president Obama is back out on the campaign trail, stumping for midterm candidates. We look at what he's been up to, and take a closer look at his relationship with President Biden.

On Today's Show: Gabriel Debenedetti, national correspondent at New York Magazine and author of The Long Alliance: The Imperfect Union of Joe Biden and Barack Obama (Henry Holt and Co., 2022), joins to discuss his latest book on the unlikely partnership between former president Barack Obama and President Joe Biden and how it has transformed American politics.

Underlying Biden’s “Moonshot”: Who Gets Cancer In America? Sep 13, 2022

On the 60th anniversary of JFK's 'moonshot' speech, Joe Biden outlined a similarly aspirational plan to invest in cancer cures and treatment. On today's show, Sarah Owermohle, Washington correspondent at STAT News, and Barrett Rollins, MD, PhD, chief scientific officer emeritus at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and author of the forthcoming book In Sickness: A Memoir (Post Hill Press, November 2022), discuss the details of the president's initiative.

Lin-Manuel Miranda On Politics, Art and Mentorship Sep 09, 2022

The famed artist behind Broadway's Hamilton dropped by to talk about his relationship with politics, and the importance of helping the next generation raise themselves up. On today's show, Songwriter, actor, director and producer Lin-Manuel Miranda and the filmmaker Agustina San Martín talk about their mentor/mentee relationship, the art, music and films they are working on and more.

Bannon Indicted, Alleged Victims Were Trump Supporters Sep 08, 2022

With the news today that Steve Bannon has been indicted on conspiracy and money laundering charges, we check in on the case against him.

On Today's Show: Devlin Barrett, Washington Post reporter focusing on national security and law enforcement, talks about his reporting, which found that at least one of the documents seized from Mar-a-Lago by the FBI contained highly-sensitive information on the nuclear capabilities of other countries. Plus, what to make of the news that Steve Bannon turned himself in to the authorities.

California’s Coming Gas-Powered Car Ban Sparks Debate Nationwide Sep 07, 2022

What would it mean for climate change if California can phase out gas-powered vehicles by 2035, an ambitious target set recently by state regulators? On today's show, Dan Gearino, reporter covering clean energy and the Midwest for Inside Climate News, discusses California's move to phase out the sale of gas-powered cars, which other states now look to emulate.

The Puzzling Land of Oz and Other Midterm Updates Sep 06, 2022

Now that primaries have mostly wrapped up, we turn to some congressional and gubernatorial races that are heating up around the country. On today's show, Steven Shepard, senior campaigns and elections editor and chief polling analyst for Politico, joins to break down the most hotly contested congressional and gubernatorial races in the country ahead of the midterm elections.

Raising Antiracists: Advice For Parents And Caregivers Sep 02, 2022

Understanding race and racism is an important step toward helping children make sense of their world, and to try to make it better. On today's show, Ibram X. Kendi, professor in the Humanities and the founding director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research and the author of How to Raise an Antiracist (One World, 2022) talks about his new book offering guidance to parents and caregivers.

Humanitarian Aid, Refugees, and More Updates From Afghanistan Sep 01, 2022

Over a year since the United States withdrew from Afghanistan, we check in on the Taliban government, the status of Afghan refugees and the US posture toward the region. On today's show, Najib Aminy, reporter and producer at Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting, talks about his recent work that explores the question of whether the U.S. should recognize the Taliban, as well as why so few applications for humanitarian parole have been approved by the U.S. after its departure from Afghanistan.

Live Shows Are Back. Why Aren’t Live Audiences Back As Much? Aug 31, 2022

With COVID still weighing on people's minds, and inflation on people's wallets, has the allure of staying in kept audiences away from the return of live performances? On today's show, live performers have been back on stage for over a year, but attendance remains below pre-pandemic numbers. Javier C. Hernández, culture reporter for The New York Times, discusses why show-goers are staying home and what the live entertainment industry is doing to bring them back.

Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, And Merrick Garland’s Really Hard Decision Aug 30, 2022

The ball is in the Attorney General's court after the release of an affidavit that outlines why the FBI executed a search warrant for presidential documents held at Trump's residence. On today's show, Katie Benner, Justice Department reporter at The New York Times, joins with takeaways and the latest news from the release of the affidavit in the FBI search of former President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.

Bellweather Win For Democrats? Meet Congressman-Elect Pat Ryan Aug 29, 2022

After winning a special election in a purple-ish district, we speak with a Congress-bound freshman about what his win means for Democrats' prospects in the midterms. On today's show, after defeating his Republican opponent in a special election in New York, Ulster County executive and Congressman-elect Pat Ryan (D NY-19th), joins to discuss.

Why Some On The Left Are Abandoning The Word 'Progressive' Aug 26, 2022

Over time, political labels come into and out of fashion. So between liberal, progressive, socialist, leftist and more, what are Democrats calling themselves these days? On today's show, Blake Hounshell, editor of The New York Times' On Politics newsletter, discussed his latest article on how some Democrats, who once ran away from the "liberal" label in the 1990s, are now also moving away from the term "progressive."

Your Student Loan Forgiveness Questions Answered Aug 25, 2022

President Biden announced a measure to forgive up to $20,000 in student loan debt for many borrowers. On today's show, Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, national higher education reporter at The Washington Post, explains the ins and outs of the president's loan forgiveness plan.

Meet The Impeachment Lawyer-Turned Congressional Nominee Aug 24, 2022

New York's primaries have wrapped up, and odds are good that Empire State voters will send former impeachment lawyer Dan Goldman to Congress. On today's show, Democratic nominee Dan Goldman joined us to take a "victory lap on the air," after winning yesterday's primary ballot. Plus, Elizabeth Kim, reporter for the People and Power team at Gothamist and WNYC, and Ben Max, executive editor of Gotham Gazette and the host of the “Max Politics” podcast, discuss the latest results in the NY-10 and NY-12 races in Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Today’s Florida Primary: A Battle Over How To Beat DeSantis Aug 23, 2022

What do today's congressional primaries in the Sunshine State tell us about what the next Congress could look like? On today's show, Lori Rozsa, who covers Florida for The Washington Post, drops in to give an overview on the midterm primary races underway in Florida.

Why Democracy Tops Inflation As #1 Midterms Issue Aug 22, 2022

A new poll on voters' midterm priorities lists "threats against democracy" as the top issue, behind things like inflation, and even abortion. On today's show:Amy Walter, publisher and editor-in-chief of Cook Political Report, joins to discuss the latest political headlines, including that poll,and Mitch McConnell's less-than-rosy assessment of the GOP's midterm prospects.

Post-Roe, The Rise in Tubal Ligations Aug 19, 2022

There is a rise in the number of Americans seeking tubal sterilizations. Today: Meena Venkataramanan, staff writer at The Washington Post, discusses her reporting on the rise in the number of Americans seeking tubal sterilizations — and the challenges they face along the way.

Cheney Speaks, Rudy Testifies Aug 18, 2022

From Liz Cheney's primary loss to Rudy Giuliani's testimony in the Georgia election interference probe to the investigations into former president Donald Trump, it's been another week of high drama. Today: Susan Page, USA Today Washington bureau chief and the author of Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power (Twelve, 2021), discusses the latest national politics headlines.

Different Generations On Midterm Election Priorities Aug 17, 2022

This week, our weekly live show is inviting listeners across generations call in with their top political concerns ahead of the midterm elections. Today: people in their 50s and 60s share their top issues.

Reforming the Number One Climate Polluter In Major Cities Aug 16, 2022

In 2019, New York City passed a law aimed at dramatically limiting pollution emitted from buildings. On Today's Show: Pete Sikora, climate and inequality campaigns director at New York Communities for Change (NYCC), says this law could see New York become a leader among American cities in the fight against climate change.

The Investigations of Former President Trump Aug 15, 2022

In Louisville, Ky., a detective is expected to plead guilty to "conspiring to mislead a judge" in order to obtain a search warrant for Breonna Taylor’s home. Meanwhile, at Mar-a-Lago, a search warrant for former President Donald Trump's home revealed a trove of classified documents. On Today's Show:Elie Honig, senior legal analyst at CNN, author of the national bestseller, Hatchet Man: How Bill Barr Broke the Prosecutor’s Code and corrupted the Justice Department (HarperCollins, 2021), and former New Jersey and federal prosecutor, shares legal analysis of the outstanding investigations into former President Trump and draws the throughline between the two stories.

National Issues For Dems In An NYC Congressional Race Aug 11, 2022

We heard a number of national issues come to bear in a primary debate over a congressional race to represent an NYC district. On today's show, Brigid Bergin, WNYC's senior political correspondent, recaps the debate she moderated for the Democratic candidates in New York's 10th Congressional district, and explains how the national conversation has trickled down to this local race.

Climate Story Of The Week: New Law Makes Going Solar Cheaper Aug 10, 2022

The Inflation Reduction Act promises tax incentives for people to install solar panels on their homes. On today's show, Noah Ginsburg, co-director of programs at Solar One, explains the benefits of solar, and how to access it.

A Mueller Probe Lawyer Explains The Mar-a-Lago Search Warrant Aug 09, 2022

We asked a lawyer who's very familiar with Trump-world to explain what it means that the FBI recovered presidential records from the former president's private residence.

On Today's Show:Andrew Weissmann, professor of criminal and national security law at NYU School of Law, lead prosecutor in Robert Mueller’s Special Counsel's Office and the author of Where Law Ends: Inside the Mueller Investigation (Random House, 2020), shares his analysis of the FBI's surprise search of former President Trump's Florida estate, and what it signifies about Federal investigations of the former president.

Texas Buses Asylum-Seekers To NY To Make A Political Point Aug 08, 2022

Some Republican governors are sending migrants to blue states, which are now struggling to provide them with the services and housing they need. On today's show, Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director at the New York Immigration Coalition, and Maryann Tharappel, Special Projects Director of Immigrant and Refugee Services at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, discuss this news and how their organizations are responding to the needs of new arrivals.

Kyrsten Sinema Signs On. Kirsten Gillibrand Reacts Aug 05, 2022

After a big week in Congress, we asked our New York State senator for some updates and analysis on the policies on the table, including a landmark climate bill, and a bill to support veterans' healthcare. On today's show, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) talks about her work in Washington and this week's passage of burn pits legislation, and more.

Should Feminism Empower Women, Or Question Power Itself? Aug 04, 2022

As we continue to cover the ways that SCOTUS's Dobbs decision is changing our social landscape, we discuss the aims of feminism in a post-Roe nation. On today's show, Lux Alptraum, podcaster and the author of Faking It: The Lies Women Tell about Sex--And the Truths They Reveal (Seal Press 2018), discusses her guest essay in The New York Times, "Women, the Game Is Rigged. It’s Time We Stop Playing by the Rules," which argues for a new type of feminism that rejects the approval and validation of an unjust system.

Highlights And Blindspots In The Dems' Climate Deal Aug 03, 2022

As congress appears poised to vote soon on landmark climate legislation, we take a close look at the bill in question. On today's show, Bill McKibben, environmental activist, founder of Third Act and author of many books, most recently, The Flag, the Cross, and the Station Wagon: A Graying American Looks Back at His Suburban Boyhood and Wonders What the Hell Happened (Henry Holt and Co., 2022), talks about the climate bill that Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) now supports: what's in it and its impact.

How Today’s Kansas Abortion Referendum Is Built To Confuse Aug 02, 2022

In Kansas, voters faced a ballot referendum over whether or not to remove abortion rights from the state's constitution. On today's show, Shefali Luthra, health reporter covering the intersection of gender and health care for The 19th, discusses the implications of the referendum for both Kansas and the rest of the country as the fallout from the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade continues.

Here’s What Got Lost In The Compromise With Joe Manchin Aug 01, 2022

Democrats made a deal in the Senate on a number of climate change provisions, as well as some other "Build Back Better" agenda items. On today's show, Susan Page, Washington bureau chief of USA Today, discusses the latest from Washington, D.C., including the Democrats' climate deal, and the Biden administration's messaging on the threat of a potential recession.

What Do We Know About DOJ's Jan. 6 Investigation Of Trump? Jul 28, 2022

Now that the January 6th House committee has wrapped up public hearings for the summer, what's the Department of Justice doing to secure accountability for the Capitol riot?

On Today's Show:Devlin Barrett, reporter focusing on national security and law enforcement for The Washington Post, discusses the news that the Department of Justice is investigating former President Donald Trump's actions leading up to the January 6th insurrection.

How Did Nearly-Eradicated Polio Wind Up In Rockland County? Jul 27, 2022

We use the appearance of a case of polio, which had been nearly eradicated in the US, as a lens to explore public health, and the relationship between tiny pathogens and broader society. On today's show, Alan Dove, science journalist, virologist and co-host of the This Week in Virology (TWIV) podcast, answers questions about the case of polio in Rockland County - after apparently having been eliminated -- and what needs to happen to prevent further infections.

Manhattan’s Progressive DA on Navigating Public Backlash Jul 26, 2022

With crime apparently on the rise, Manhattan's progressive district attorney is taking heat for some of his reformist policies. On today's show, Alvin Bragg, Manhattan district attorney, talks about his approach to criminal justice, and how his positions have evolved in the face of current public sentiment about crime.

Are We Entering An Abortion Rights Civil Disobedience Era? Jul 25, 2022

With abortion policy now in the hands of individual states, what shape will abortion rights activism take as statehouses and governors weigh the politics of reproductive rights? On today's show, U.S. Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (D, NJ-12), vice chair at large of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, talks about her arrest, along with several other members of Congress, at an abortion rights rally, plus other national news.

Trump Treated January 6th As A 'Celebratory Occasion' Jul 22, 2022

At the final public hearing of the Jan. 6 committee, we heard testimony about Trump's behavior and attitude while he knew that the Capitol was under violent attack. On today's show, Quinta Jurecic, fellow in Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution, senior editor at Lawfare and contributing writer at The Atlantic, recaps Thursday evening's January 6th committee hearing, which laid out what the president was doing (or not doing) during the attack on the Capitol.

Pregnant People, Women, And The Language Of Reproductive Rights Jul 21, 2022

The phrase 'pregnant people' has caused divisions within reproductive rights conversations. On today's show, Kate Manne, associate professor of philosophy at Cornell University and the author of Entitled: How Male Privilege Hurts Women (Crown, 2020) explains why using it doesn't mean she never says "women," and why she thinks it's both "inclusive and accurate."

Fighting Right Wing Disinformation In The Spanish Speaking Community Jul 20, 2022

A new company recently purchased eighteen Spanish-language stations that will serve ten of the largest Latinx-populated cities in the country. On today's show, Graciela Mochkofsky, dean-elect at the Craig Newmark School of Journalism and contributing writer for The New Yorker, joins to talk about what this means for the fight against misinformation in the Spanish speaking community.

Climate Story Of The Week: It’s Britain’s Hottest Day Ever Jul 19, 2022

Europe is going through an intense heatwave, and the region's infrastructure isn't enough to keep people cool through it. The U.K. has declared a national emergency due to unprecedented heat and Spain and Portugal have recorded hundreds of heat-related deaths. On today's show, Andrew Freedman, energy and climate reporter at Axios, discusses the hellish weather sweeping across the continent, including areas unaccustomed to high temps.

Malcolm Nance: U.S. Extremist Groups Are Merging Into A "Trump Insurgency" Jul 18, 2022

Violent militia groups like the Proud Boys, Oath Keepers and Three Percenters have coalesced around a number of hateful conspiracy theories, and around Donald Trump.

On Today's Show:Malcolm Nance, national security and counterterrorism analyst and the author of They Want to Kill Americans: The Militias, Terrorists, and Deranged Ideology of the Trump Insurgency (St. Martin’s Press, 2022), sounds the alarm about what he calls 'TITUS' (Trump Insurgency in the United States) and discusses other issues related to national security.

Millennial Rep. Torres On Overcoming Democratic Disillusionment Jul 15, 2022

A progressive congressman gives his analysis of the political landscape as it stands today. On today's show, U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres (D-NY15) talks about what the federal government can do to support abortion rights in the wake of Dobbs, what it means that Sen. Joe Manchin is opposing new climate change legislation, and more on Democrats' agenda in the nation's capitol.

Corporate 'Greenwashing' Goes To Court Jul 14, 2022

An airline that implored climate-conscious fliers to 'fly responsibly" has been taken to court, claiming that the ad campaign misleads the public. On today's show, Sara Kiley Watson, news editor who leads sustainability coverage at Popular Science, talks about the impact of the lawsuit filed against KLM Airlines.

Trump Was Warned He Might Cause A Riot. He Ignored The Warning Jul 13, 2022

Yesterday's hearing covered connections between certain Trump allies and violent extremist groups, as well as warnings about possibly inciting violence that the president ignored. On today's show, Philip Bump, national correspondent for The Washington Post, offers analysis of Tuesday afternoon's hearing of the January 6th committee.

What Was Going On In Giuliani's War Room On Jan. 5? Jul 12, 2022

We look ahead to today's January 6th hearing, which will explore whether Trump allies were coordinating with extremist groups ahead of the insurrection. On today's show, Roger Parloff, journalist and senior editor at Lawfare, previews Tuesday's January 6 hearing, which will focus on the connection between former President Trump and extremist groups involved in storming the Capitol, like the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers.

Elie Mystal: What Biden Isn’t Doing About Abortion Rights Jul 11, 2022

The left wants President Biden to take stronger action on abortion rights in the face of SCOTUS's decision to overturn Roe. But what can the White House actually do? On today's show, Elie Mystal, justice correspondent for The Nation and the author of Allow Me to Retort: A Black Guy’s Guide to the Constitution (The New Press, 2022), joins to discuss the latest political news, including President Joe Biden's executive order to protect abortion rights

Will Brittney Griner’s Guilty Plea Help Her Be Set Free? Jul 08, 2022

We check in on the status of WNBA star Brittney Gringer, who is currently incarcerated in Russia on charges to which she just pleaded guilty. On today's show, Terri Jackson, executive director of the Women's National Basketball Players Association and Kavitha Davidson, sportswriter and correspondent for HBO’s “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel” join to discuss the trial of WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was detained in Russia on drug smuggling charges for the possession of two cannabis-derived vape cartridges.

The EU Declares Gas Green. Is It? Jul 07, 2022

Amid an energy crisis brought on by sanctions on Russian oil the European Union has designated gas — a fossil fuel — as 'green'. What does it mean for climate change? On today's show, Somini Sengupta, international climate reporter for The New York Times and lead writer for the Climate Forward newsletter, explains the decision and talks about why critics think this move will prolong Europe's reliance on fossil fuels.

Pat Cipollone Agrees To Testify! Jul 06, 2022

Trump's White House Counsel on January 6th, Pat Cipollone, has agreed to testify before the congressional committee investigating the insurrection. On today's show, Kyle Cheney, senior legal affairs reporter for Politico, discusses what testimony the committee could hear from Mr. Cipollone, and how his testimony could shape the investigation going forward.

Checking On Biden's Agenda, Abroad And At Home Jul 05, 2022

After visiting world leaders abroad, President Biden returns home to a number of political challenges, including the looming midterm elections this November. On today's show, Jonathan Lemire, host of “Way Too Early" on MSNBC, Politico White House bureau chief, and the author of the forthcoming The Big Lie: Election Chaos, Political Opportunism, and the State of American Politics After 2020 (Flatiron Books, 2022) talks about the latest political news, including President Joe Biden's political wins during the G7 and NATO Summits and the challenges he's facing back at home, like his perceived inaction towards protecting abortion rights.

Today's Climate News: SCOTUS & The EPA, Plus Curbing Emissions In Europe Jun 30, 2022

When the Supreme Court released its opinion limiting the power of the EPA this morning, we were in the midst of speaking with a prominent environmentalist. On today's show, Bill McKibben, environmental activist, founder of Third Act and author of many books, most recently, The Flag, the Cross, and the Station Wagon: A Graying American Looks Back at His Suburban Boyhood and Wonders What the Hell Happened (Henry Holt and Co., 2022), joins to talk about the news from Europe, where the E.U. reached a deal to phase out fossil fuels by 2035, in contrast to the breaking news that the Supreme Court in the United States has with conservative states and fossil fuel companies in curtailing the power of the Environmental Protection Agency.

White House Wunderkind Becomes January 6th Truth-Teller Jun 29, 2022

In yesterday's Jan. 6 hearing, we heard vivid testimony from a former aide to Trump's chief of staff that detailed his behavior before, and during, the Capitol riot. On today's show, Michael Kranish, national political investigative reporter for The Washington Post, co-author of Trump Revealed: An American Journey of Ambition, Ego, Money, and Power (Scribner, 2016), joins to recap Tuesday's January 6th hearing, in which Cassidy Hutchinson, then-principal assistant to White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, testified about what President Trump's inner circle knew.

Ways That The Fight For Abortion Rights Isn't Over Jun 28, 2022

In the wake of SCOTUS's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, what does the future of abortion rights activism look like? On today's show, Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights, the lead litigator in the case, discusses her latest law case which delayed Louisiana's trigger abortion law and how people can get involved locally in advocating for the protection of abortion rights.

The Religious Liberty Case For Abortion Rights - And Praying On The 50-Yard Line Jun 27, 2022

The Supreme Court ruled today on a case about prayer in public schools. So what does that, and other recent judicial opinions, mean for "freedom of religion"? On today's show, a series of recent Supreme Court cases, including the right to abortion, privileges the religious freedoms of Christians. Micah Schwartzman, professor and the director of the Karsh Center for Law and Democracy at the University of Virginia School of Law, joins to discuss his recent article asking if the same protection applies to people of the Jewish faith.

SCOTUS Overturns Roe: Legal Analysis & Listener Reactions Jun 24, 2022

Today, the Supreme Court overturned the landmark case Roe v. Wade, meaning that the right to an abortion is no longer constitutionally protected. On today's show, Emily Bazelon, staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, co-host of Slate's "Political Gabfest" podcast, Truman Capote fellow for creative writing and law at Yale Law School and author of Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration (Random House, 2019), offers analysis of today's Supreme Court decision to upend abortion rights and takes listener calls.

How SCOTUS Could Change The EPA's Climate Change Posture Jun 23, 2022

A forthcoming Supreme Court decision could hamper some of the EPA's authority to curtail carbon emissions. On today's show, Michael Gerrard, professor of law at Columbia Law School and the founder and faculty director of the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, previews what the case is about and the implications for combating climate change, especially if the court rules against the EPA.

The Little January 6ths The Select Committee Is Bringing To Light Jun 22, 2022

At yesterday's Jan. 6 hearing in Congress, we heard evidence around Trump's efforts to target election workers, from secretaries of state to poll workers. On today's show, Quinta Jurecic, fellow in Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution, senior editor at Lawfare and contributing writer at The Atlantic, recaps Tuesday's January 6th House hearing that laid out former President Trump's involvement in the plot to overturn the election by enlisting local state officials.

How SCOTUS Redefined 'Religious Freedom' This Morning Jun 21, 2022

Today, the Supreme Court handed down an opinion about public money and religious schools. On today's show, Emily Bazelon staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, co-host of Slate's "Political Gabfest" podcast, Truman Capote fellow for creative writing and law at Yale Law School and author of Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration (Random House, 2019) offers analysis of today's Supreme Court news, including the opinion in the case of Maine education vouchers.

Ibram X. Kendi on How To Raise An Anti-Racist Child Jun 20, 2022

In honor of Juneteenth yesterday, we present a conversation about teaching children the history of race in America, and raising them to be anti-racist. On today's show, Ibram X. Kendi, professor in the Humanities and the founding director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research and the author of How to Raise an Antiracist (One World, 2022) talks about his new book offering guidance to parents and caregivers.

Trump's Lawyer Claimed Historical Precedent For Jan. 6 Violence Jun 17, 2022

The Jan. 6 committee laid out their argument yesterday, that Trump pressured his vice president to overturn the election, which he was not legally empowered to do. On today's show, Ilya Marritz is co-host of the podcast "Will Be Wild," and covers Trump legal matters for NPR. He joined to recap what the committee presented and what it means.

The SF Progressive Prosecutor Recall Means A Lot (Or Not) Jun 16, 2022

How much should the recall of San Francisco's progressive district attorney be seen as a bellwether for progressivism around the country? On today's show:John Pfaff, professor at the Fordham University School of Law, shares his analysis of what the recall of San Francisco DA Chesa Boudin means for progressive prosecutors.

The New Standards For Gender Affirming Care Jun 15, 2022

Amid discourse about whether gender affirming care should be available to kids who identify as trans, we wanted to hear what trans health advocacy organizations are actually advocating for. On today's show, the World Professional Transgender Health Association is releasing new standards of care for the first time in a decade. Emily Bazelon, staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, co-host of Slate's "Political Gabfest" podcast, Truman Capote fellow for creative writing and law at Yale Law School and author of Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration (Random House, 2019), and Scott Leibowitz, child and adolescent psychiatrist and co-lead on the adolescent chapter for the Standards of Care from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), discuss how the medical community is split on the best treatment for transgender teenagers, and how politics has complicated the situation for doctors, families and transgender Americans.

Why The Head of Trump’s 'Team Normal' Might Really Be On 'Team Both Sides' Jun 14, 2022

We dive a little bit deeper on some of the testimony presented at yesterday's Jan. 6 hearing in Congress. On today's show, Andrea Bernstein, investigative journalist, "Will Be Wild" podcast co-host and the author of American Oligarchs: The Kushners, the Trumps, and the Marriage of Money and Power (W.W. Norton and Co, 2020), recaps the second day of hearings held by the House Select Committee investigating the January 6th attack on the Capitol.

Team "Normal's" Word Against Team Giuliani's Jun 13, 2022

This morning, Congress held the second session of open hearings in an investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. On today's show, Quinta Jurecic, a fellow in Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution and a senior editor at Lawfare, discusses the evidence presented by the committee, including testimony from former Attorney General William Barr, an elections expert for FOX News, senior Trump campaign officials, and more, about the 'Big Lie' that the former president used to attempt to overturn the 2020 election.

What Does Congress Consider 'Common Sense' Gun Control? Jun 09, 2022

When anti-firearm activists call for "common sense" gun reform, what do they mean? And what measures does Congress consider 'common sense'? On today's show, Jennifer Mascia, news writer and a founding staffer at The Trace, joins to discuss what sets assault rifles apart from other guns and the latest on gun control negotiations in Congress.

The Border Patrol Context For The Uvalde Shooting Jun 08, 2022

What does the US Border Patrol have to do with the shooting in Uvalde, Texas? On today's show, Michelle Garcia, journalist, essayist, Soros Equality Fellow and Dobie Paisano writer-in-residence, and Monica Muñoz Martinez, associate professor of history at the University of Texas-Austin, talk about the border security apparatus at Uvalde, and the history of violence and discrimination at the South Texas and Mexican border.

How Much Is Oprah Responsible For The Rise Of Dr. Oz? Jun 07, 2022

The daytime talkshow star has always been a driver of cultural trends. But now as Dr. Oz campaigns for the Senate, we look at her politics, and how she wields her political influence. On today's show, Kellie Jackson, historian, associate professor of African Studies, Wellesley College and host and executive producer of the Oprahdemics podcast, and Leah Wright Rigueur, associate professor of history, Johns Hopkins University and co-host of the Oprahdemics podcast, talk about Oprah's role in giving Dr. Oz a platform, what he became and if she has any responsibility to speak out.

Can’t People Have Decent Raises Without Inflation Cancelling Them Out? Jun 06, 2022

Questions about the state of the economy are dominating the news, and conversations about voters' priorities heading into the midterms. On today's show, Jeanna Smialek, reporter covering the Federal Reserve and the economy for The New York Times, joins to break down the latest jobs numbers, the state of the economy and why some experts are warning that the U.S. is heading towards a recession.

Putin vs. Your Attention Span Jun 03, 2022

On the 100th day of Russia's war in Ukraine, we take a look at the status of the conflict, and what impact western support for Ukraine has had. On today's show, Julia Ioffe, founding partner and Washington correspondent of Puck, a new media company, discusses the latest news from Ukraine as Russia's invasion drags on, plus what the United States is doing to respond, and how that's landing politically here.

Mass Shooting Victim Sues Glock. Could That Matter More Than Congress? Jun 02, 2022

Advocates for gun control reforms might see more progress by pursuing their agenda through the court system, rather than in Congress or state legislatures.

On Today's Show:Jake Charles, lecturing fellow and executive director of the Center for Firearms Law at Duke University, joins to discuss the lawsuit against the Glock manufacturer and an impending Supreme Court ruling on whether to expand New Yorkers' rights to carry guns.

How Fearmongers Turn 'Disgust' Into Trans- And Homophobia Jun 01, 2022

The push for anti-LGBTQ+ policies, like Florida's "Don't Say Gay" law, is gaining traction around the country. On today's show, William Eskridge, Yale Law School professor and author of many books, including Marriage Equality: From Outlaws to In-Laws (Yale University Press, 2020), reflects on how transphobia has replaced homophobia as the most common form of hate and fearmongering directed toward LGBTQ folks, as well as the combination of hate and fear that the term "phobia" suggests.

McConnell’s Small Steps On Gun Reform: How Real, How Fake? May 31, 2022

Some Republicans are showing an appetite for gun law reforms in the wake of last week's school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. On today's show, Tamara Keith, NPR White House correspondent and co-host of the NPR Politics podcast, talks about the latest national political news, including what's happening with gun control after several devastating mass shootings.

The Meaning Of Memorial Day May 30, 2022

On this holiday episode of the podcast, we wanted to explore the roots of Memorial Day.

On Today's Show:More than the start of summer, Memorial Day is about honoring those who died in service to the country. Kenneth C. Davis, author of the "Don't Know Much About History" series and most recently, Strongman: The Rise of Five Dictators and the Fall of Democracy (Henry Holt and Company, 2020) talks about the holiday's post-Civil War origin and America's contested history in general.

Abortion Before Roe Shows Us What It Could Mean If It's Struck Down May 27, 2022

We can't go back to before Roe v. Wade. The country is too different. So where are we going? On today's show, we present a national evening special call-in show that Brian hosted a few weeks ago, with Errin Haines, editor-at-large at The 19th, an independent newsroom with a lens on gender, politics, and policy; and Jessica Bruder, author of Nomadland, and the recent Atlantic cover story about “the abortion underground.”

What Gun Control Policies Could State Lawmakers Pursue? May 26, 2022

We check in on how lawmakers in one state capitol are looking at the school shooting in Texas, and asking how to better prevent gun violence. On today's show, Jon Campbell, Albany reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, talks about renewed calls for regulating guns in the wake of two mass shootings. Plus, New York State Senator Zellnor Myrie (D-20th, Brooklyn), Elections Committee chair, joins the conversation to talk about the just-upheld law he sponsored to hold manufacturers liable for gun violence and Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon (D-52nd, Brooklyn) calls in to talk about the red flag bill she sponsored.

Politics Aside, Who Are The People Of Uvalde, Texas? May 25, 2022

The small town of Uvalde Texas now joins Newtown Connecticut and Parkland Florida, as a community grieving in the wake of a school shooting. On today's show, Sergio Martínez-Beltrán, Texas Capitol Reporter at The Texas Newsroom, talks about the community of Uvalde, Texas and the victims of yesterday's mass shooting at an elementary school.

Republican Primary Voters May Be “Happy To Leave Trump In The Dust” May 24, 2022

How is the electoral map shaping up for Republicans amid primary season, and how are candidates relating themselves to former president Donald Trump? On today's show, Henry Olsen, Washington Post columnist and a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, previews today's key races and discusses results in Georgia and other states, so far.

Poll: Nearly Half Of Republicans Think It’s Not Important To Condemn White Nationalism May 23, 2022

We check in on some recent national political polling ahead of this year's midterm elections, and on Biden's policy on supporting. On today's show, Susan Page, USA Today Washington bureau chief and the author of Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power (Twelve, 2021), now in paperback, talks about the latest in national politics, including recent polling on midterm issues and President Biden's statement on Taiwan.

American Conservatives Drawn To Orban’s Autocracy May 19, 2022

The American conservative movement is heading to Victor Orban's Hungary. Why do they want to hold CPAC there? On today's show, Mara Liasson, NPR national political correspondent, talks about why CPAC, the Conservative Political Action Conference, is taking place in Hungary this week, and what that says about the movement. Plus, she shares her analysis of this week's primary elections.

How 'Eliminationist' Language Spurs Hate Violence May 18, 2022

How does political rhetoric contribute to violent bigotry and hate crimes, and how does that violence impact communities, beyond the direct victims? On today's show, Brian Levin, criminologist, civil rights attorney and professor of criminal justice and director of the Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, talks about the hate crime investigation, and the motivation of the suspect who shot 13 people in a Buffalo supermarket this weekend.

We’re Sending Troops To Somalia? We Ask Fareed Zakaria Why May 17, 2022

With the ongoing war in Ukraine and the leaked news that President Biden is sending some troops to Somalia, we asked an international affairs expert to explain the latest geopolitics. On today's show, Fareed Zakaria, Washington Post columnist, host of CNN’s "Fareed Zakaria GPS," and the author of Ten Lessons for a Post-Pandemic World (W. W. Norton & Company, 2020), offers his analysis of the Biden Administration's decision to send troops to Somalia, new members looking to join NATO and the latest on the war in Ukraine. His new CNN special is "Inside the Mind of Vladimir Putin."

How Liking and Retweeting Made The Buffalo Massacre More Likely May 16, 2022

How has social media shaped society, and particularly, how has it contributed to some of the violence and bigotry we see in our culture today? On today's show, it may have begun with promise, but Jonathan Haidt, social psychologist for New York University's Stern School of Business, argues that social media has ripped apart the fabric of society over the past decade. He offers his analysis, and thoughts on how to overcome the major problems it has created.

Bill de Blasio Has Some Popularity Advice For Joe Biden May 13, 2022

In politics, popularity is about selling a policy agenda to the public. On today's show, Bill de Blasio, former mayor of New York City, draws from his experience and offers advice to President Biden and the Democratic Party on messaging.

Climate Story Of The Week: Eco-Anxiety And Whether To Have Kids May 12, 2022

As the changing climate continues to shape the planet, and some of the crises that humanity faces while living on it, we explore mental health, and the ethics of having kids. On today's show, Britt Wray, Human and Planetary Health Fellow at Stanford University and author of the new book Generation Dread, talks about how climate anxiety can affect people's decisions on whether to have children, or not.

Pizza, Eggs and Baby Formula Meet The Midterm Elections May 11, 2022

With baby formula shortages and rising grocery costs, we explore the economic situation in the US and around the world. On today's show, Greg Ip, chief economics commentator at The Wall Street Journal, talks about the latest news on the economy, including the persistent high prices, the stock market sell-off and more as President Biden insists inflation is the administration's highest priority.

Eric Holder: Abortion Rights and Voting Rights Cases Are Linked May 10, 2022

President Obama's attorney general has a new book out about voting rights. On today's show, Eric Holder, former U.S. attorney general under Pres. Obama, chairman of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, and Sam Koppelman, author and director of surrogate speech-writing on the Biden-Harris presidential campaign, talk about their new book, Our Unfinished March: The Violent Past and Imperiled Future of the Vote-A History, a Crisis, a Plan (One World, 2022), plus the current redistricting picture.

Rep: Jeffries Wants To See How Susan Collins Votes On Abortion Rights May 09, 2022

With SCOTUS likely to overturn Roe v. Wade, a Congressman explained what Dems in Congress could do to enshrine reproductive rights into federal law. On today's show, U.S. Representative Hakeem Jeffries (D NY-8th, Brooklyn and Queens), House Democrats chairman, talks about the Alito draft opinion overturning Roe, and the Democrats' outlook for the midterms.

Top Lawyer In Mississippi Abortion Case: 'Not Locked Out Of Court' May 06, 2022

If the Supreme Court overturns Roe, it still won't mean the end of lower court battles over abortion rights. On today's show, Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights, which is the lead litigator in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case, discusses the status of abortion rights today, and what a Supreme Court ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade would mean.

How January 6th and The Roe vs. Wade Draft Ruling Connect May 05, 2022

A new book details previously unreported events from the January 6th insurrection. In light of the Supreme Court possibly overturning Roe, we look at the state of the political right, now. On today's show, Alexander Burns, national political correspondent for The New York Times, political analyst for CNN, and the co-author (with Jonathan Martin) of This Will Not Pass: Trump, Biden, and the Battle for America's Future (Simon & Schuster, 2022), talks about his new book, an account of the 2020 election and first year of the Biden administration, plus offers an analysis of current politics.

Nomadland Author On The New “Abortion Diaspora” And More May 04, 2022

Abortions won't stop if Roe is overturned, but the future of abortion access would certainly look different than it does today. On today's show, Jessica Bruder, Brooklyn-based journalist and author of Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century (W. W. Norton & Company, 2017), talks about her reporting for The Atlantic on the underground network of activists who have been preparing for the potential that the Supreme Court might overturn Roe v. Wade and the right to legal abortion.

The Leaked SCOTUS Opinion That Could Overturn Roe, Explained May 03, 2022

A leaked draft of a Supreme Court opinion overturning Roe v. Wade's abortion precedent casts uncertainty over the future of reproductive rights. On today's show, Mary Ziegler, professor at Florida State University College of Law, currently a visiting professor of constitutional law at Harvard and the author of Abortion and the Law in America: A Legal History, Roe v. Wade to the Present (Cambridge University Press, 2020), talks about what this means and what comes next for abortion rights in America.

Who Got Roasted At The Correspondents' Dinner May 02, 2022

Over the weekend, the D.C. press and President Biden's White House gathered for an evening of good-natured political jest. So who joked about whom? And more Monday morning politics. On today's show, Jonathan Lemire, White House bureau chief at Politico, host of Way Too Early on MSNBC and NBCNews analyst and Darlene Superville, White House reporter for The Associated Press and the co-author (with Julie Pace) of Jill: A Biography of the First Lady (Little, Brown and Company, 2022), discuss the latest national political developments and Saturday's White House Correspondents Dinner.

Republicans Find A COVID Rule They Like: Keeping Immigrants Out Apr 29, 2022

One of the central issues at the upcoming Summit Of The Americas is migration, and how to address deportation and asylum cases. On today's show, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, former Congresswoman from Florida, now special advisor on the Summit of the Americas to the U.S. Department of State, discusses the State Department's priorities at the upcoming Summit of the Americas gathering related to climate change, migration and more.

Court Throws Out NY’s Congressional Map. Control Of The House Is At Stake Apr 28, 2022

A judge in New York State just shot down the Democrats' proposed new map of electoral districts. On today's show, Jon Campbell, Albany reporter for WNYC/Gothamist, explains what this means for the upcoming primary elections and eventually the midterms and the makeup of the House of Representatives.

Sen. Gillibrand On Helping Ukraine Win The War, Not Just Defend Apr 27, 2022

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand dropped by to talk about her international trip to sure up global support for Ukraine. On today's show, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), talks about her recent overseas trip and and speaks with constituents about issues closer to home. Plus, a preview of a new true crime podcast from WNYC. New Jersey politics is not for the faint of heart. But the brutal killing of John and Joyce Sheridan, a prominent couple with personal ties to three governors, shocks even the most cynical operatives. The mystery surrounding the crime sends their son on a quest for truth. Dead End is a story of crime and corruption at the highest levels of society in the Garden State. Click here to listen.

Trump Has Contempt For The Court. The Court Agrees. Apr 26, 2022

It's been over a year since President Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol to overturn the election of Joe Biden. Since then, he's worked to block investigations into the event. On today's show, Andrea Bernstein, investigative journalist, and the author of American Oligarchs: The Kushners, the Trumps, and the Marriage of Money and Power (W.W. Norton and Co, 2020) and Ilya Marritz, who covers Trump's legal matters for NPR, talk about their new podcast from Pineapple Media, "Will Be Wild," about what led up to the Jan. 6th insurrection, plus the latest on the former president's legal issues.

SCOTUS Denies Puerto Ricans Disability Benefits. Modern Day Colonialism? Apr 25, 2022

The Supreme Court recently that Puerto Ricans were ineligible for some disability benefits. What does it mean for boricuas, and their relationship with the mainland US? On today's show, Yarimar Bonilla, professor of Puerto Rican Studies and Anthropology at the City University of New York, monthly columnist at El Nuevo Dia, and incoming director of the Center for Puerto Rican Studies at Hunter College, talks about the implications of that ruling and what it might mean for the future of statehood for the island.

Easter For The Eastern Orthodox: A Church Divided Over Russia and Ukraine Apr 22, 2022

The geopolitical and cultural drivers behind Russia's invasion of Ukraine have a religious dimension, and the conflict is causing tension within the Eastern Orthodox Church.

On Today's Show:With Eastern Orthodox Easter this weekend, Ishaan Tharoor, Washington Post columnist and author of Today's WorldView, the Post's international affairs newsletter, examines the Russian church's support of the invasion of Ukraine -- even as many of the church's congregants and holiest sites are in Ukraine.

When You Can Get Fired For Using Legal Cannabis Off The Job Apr 21, 2022

With states around the nation moving to legalize weed, it's worth considering how employers might test for impairment on the job. On today's show, as legal recreational cannabis sales roll out in New Jersey, Alyson Martin, co-founder of Cannabis Wire and adjunct professor at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, discusses the complicated laws behind testing for the drug for professions that bar its use, and how legal states are approaching the issue differently.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected