Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast

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.

How To Get The Taliban To Let Girls Back Into School Apr 20, 2022

It's been 8 months since the United States withdrew from Afghanistan. Why hasn't the Taliban government allowed girls to return to the classroom, as they said they would? On today's show, Karen DeYoung, Washington Post associate editor and senior national security correspondent, talks about the latest in Afghanistan with girls' education and the economic impact of the country's frozen bank assets.

What If France Actually Elects Marine Le Pen As President This Weekend? Apr 19, 2022

French citizens in France and abroad will head to the polls for the presidential election this weekend. On the ballot: the current president, Emmanuel Macron, the far right, anti-immigrant nationalist Marine Le Pen. On today's show, Roger Cohen, Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, discusses what's at stake as French President Emmanuel Macron and far-right candidate Marine Le Pen head to the runoffs.

Possible GOP Prez Hopeful Will Hurd On Running As A 'Moderate' Apr 18, 2022

One of the few Black Republicans to serve in Congress discusses partisanship around the country, in his home state, and some of the GOP's policy agenda's including abortion bans and more. On today's show, Will Hurd, former member of Congress (R - TX 23rd), CIA undercover officer, and cybersecurity executive, now an officer at the private investment bank Allen & Company and the author of American Reboot: An Idealist’s Guide to Getting Big Things Done (Simon and Schuster, 2022), talks about his new book and the state of partisan politics in Texas and the nation.

Paul Krugman On The Inflation Blame Game Apr 15, 2022

We asked a Nobel laureate economist about one of the top issues on voters' minds as we go into this year's midterm elections: inflation. On today's show, Paul Krugman, Nobel laureate in economics, New York Times columnist, distinguished professor at the City University of New York Graduate Center, and the author of Arguing with Zombies: Economics, Politics, and the Fight for a Better Future (W. W. Norton & Company, 2020), discusses last month's Consumer Price Index, released Tuesday, and the politics of inflation as Democrats and Republicans play the blame game.

The Subway Shooter’s Glock Explained Apr 14, 2022

After a shooter injured several people on a NYC subway car, we discuss the weapon, and how it wound up in the hands of a violent individual. On today's show, Ann Givens, public safety editor for WNYC/Gothamist, and Paul Barrett, deputy director of the NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights and the author of Glock: The Rise of America's Gun (Broadway Books, 2013), talk about the gun used by the subway shooter, and how systems failed the alleged shooter and New Yorkers.

NY Gov. Kathy Hochul on Crime, the Indicted Lt. Gov and Stadium Subsidy Blowback Apr 13, 2022

NY Governor Kathy Hochul addresses the subway shooting, the arrest and resignation of Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin on bribery and campaign fraud charges, as well as the state budget and news from the state capitol.

Leana Wen: 'What is the Price You're Willing to Pay to Avoid Getting COVID?' Apr 12, 2022

With vaccines and treatments, is it time to start 'living with COVID'? On Today's Show: Leana Wen, MD, emergency physician, professor at George Washington University, contributing columnist for The Washington Post, and CNN medical analyst, suggests people should take the availability of vaccines and treatments into account when calculating their risks and not go back to masks mandates as long as hospitals are not strained.

Amb. Marie Yovanovitch to Putin (I Can’t Say It On The Radio) Apr 11, 2022

On today's show, Marie Yovanovitch, former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine and the author of Lessons From The Edge: A Memoir (Mariner Books, 2022), shares her view on the situation in Ukraine.

How The 'Liberal World Order' Needs To Be Strengthened After Ukraine Apr 08, 2022

How should the globe's neoliberal geopolitics adapt to Putin's aggression in Eastern Europe? On today's show, Anne Applebaum, staff writer for The Atlantic, senior fellow at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and the Agora Institute, and the author of many books including Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism (Doubleday, 2020), shares her prescription for how the world should nurture democracy before it's too late.

Why Politics and Personal Behavior Are Getting 'Weird' Apr 07, 2022

Violence at the airport or over mask mandates, rudeness, crime and reckless driving are all on the rise. How have the pandemic's upheavals made our behavior, stranger? On today's show, Olga Khazan, staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World (Hachette Go, 2020), explores the theories as to why people are behaving so badly.

Members Of 'The Trayvon Generation' Describe What That Means Apr 06, 2022

It's been a decade since Trayvon Martin was shot and killed. We asked Black listeners to reflect on growing up with visceral images of brutality against Black people. On today's show, Elizabeth Alexander, president of the Mellon Foundation, poet, educator, memoirist and scholar, examines the challenges of young Black Americans in her new book, The Trayvon Generation (Grand Central Publishing, 2022).

How Russia's Aggression Holds A Mirror To U.S. Foreign Policy Apr 05, 2022

What parallels are there between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and some of the United States' military activities over the past decades? On today's show, 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 (Simon & Schuster, 2010), explains why he thinks there are similarities between Russia's invasion in Ukraine and much of U.S. foreign policy and wars over the past few decades.

Listen To Organizers Of Amazon’s First Labor Union Who Called Our Show Apr 04, 2022

In a historic vote, New York City's warehouse Amazon workers become the first in the nation to unionize. What does it mean for workers, and the broader labor movement? On today's show, Jane McAlevey, organizer, senior policy fellow at the University of California at Berkeley’s Institute for Research on Labor and Employment, The Nation's strike correspondent and the author of A Collective Bargain: Unions, Organizing & the Fight for Democracy (Ecco, 2020), and Gwynne Hogan, reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, discuss the vote and what comes next.

Let’s Talk About The Word 'Inshallah' Apr 01, 2022

On the first day of Ramadan, we look at the word "inshallah," which literally means 'G-d willing,' but can be used to denote a wide range of sentiments. On today's show, Abdullah Shihipar, writer and public-health researcher based at Brown University, joins to discuss how the phrase "inshallah" — literally "G-d willing" — can take on many different meanings for Muslims. Plus, listeners call in to share their hopes for the month of Ramadan and the year ahead.

Putin And Ukraine As Seen By The Great-Granddaughter Of Soviet Leader Nikita Khrushchev Mar 31, 2022

When we can, we like to hear from experts with unique perspectives on the Russian war against Ukraine. On today's show, Nina Khrushcheva, professor of international affairs at The New School and the author of In Putin's Footsteps: Searching for the Soul of an Empire Across Russia's Eleven Time Zones (St. Martin's Press, 2019), shares her thoughts on Putin's approach to peace talks with Ukraine, and more as the war continues.

An Open Dialogue About Open Dialogue: Elie Mystal and Suzanne Nossel On How To Think About “Cancel Culture” Mar 30, 2022

The questions of free speech, racial equity and "cancel culture" are multilayered and complex. On today's show, Suzanne Nossel, PEN America chief executive officer, and 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), debate the state of free speech in America.

Why “Don’t Say Gay” Is Also “Don’t Say Counseling” Mar 29, 2022

How could Florida's newly signed "Don't Say Gay" law could have ripple effects into other parts of education, including student support. On today's show, Dana Goldstein, national education correspondent at The New York Times and the author of The Teacher Wars: A History of America's Most Embattled Profession (Anchor, 2015), explains what the law actually says, and how that differs from what teachers and students can learn about and discuss in other states.

Cory Booker’s Remarkable Ketanji Brown Jackson Moment Mar 28, 2022

During Congress's SCOTUS confirmation hearings, N.J. Senator Cory Booker spoke about what it means for America that the nominee is Ketanji Brown Jackson. On today's show, we play extended excerpts of Sen. Booker's remarks, and hear from listeners about what a Black woman's nomination to the highest court in the land means to them.

The Kyrie Irving Exemption As Seen From San Francisco Mar 25, 2022

This week Mayor Adams announced he would drop the vaccine mandate for sports players in New York City. On today's show, Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, infectious-diseases specialist and professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, argues it's time to drop strict employee vaccine mandates for all employees, not just wealthy athletes, "there are other ways, as opposed to firing, to keep people safe."

Masha Gessen On Kharkiv and Whether Putin Will Be Deposed Mar 24, 2022

What's the situation on the ground in Ukraine? How is the world reacting? And might it push Russian officials to strip Putin of his power? On today's show, Masha Gessen, The New Yorker staff writer and the author of Surviving Autocracy (Riverhead Books, 2020), talks about their latest reporting on how Russians are reacting to Putin's war in Ukraine.

Amb. William Taylor On A Negotiated Settlement Scenario For Ukraine Mar 23, 2022

A seasoned diplomat explains the bargaining chips at play in the efforts to bring an end to Russia's hostilities in Ukraine. On today's show, William Taylor, diplomat, vice president for Russia and Europe at the U.S. Institute of Peace and former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, talks about the current situation in Ukraine and the prospects for ending the conflict.

Making Sense Of War Crimes Committed By Loved Ones Mar 22, 2022

When propaganda shapes our worldview, it makes it easier to commit atrocities under false pretenses. On today's show, listeners called in to talk about their family members who were lured into fighting wars, or committed wartime atrocities, because of lies their governments told them.

The Case Against A Gasoline Tax Holiday Mar 21, 2022

With Russian sanctions impacting the global price of oil, we look at what it means for drivers in the US, and why one idea to ease the burden, might not be a good idea. On today's show, Peter Coy, New York Times opinion writer covering economics, shares his analysis on the latest economic news including why he thinks a gas tax holiday is not a good solution for high gas prices and the effectiveness of sanctions on Russia.

Preet Bharara: 'Banned by Putin, Fired By Trump' Mar 18, 2022

Pressing issues like accountability for the Jan. 6 insurrection, and sanctions against Russia sit at the intersection of politics and the law. On today's show, Preet Bharara, Former United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York and host of the podcast "Stay Tuned with Preet," talks about the latest political news.

The Senate Votes Unanimously For Permanent Daylight Saving Time. Do You Want It? Mar 17, 2022

Whenever it's time for our clocks to spring forward or fall back, we wind up talking about whether daylight saving time should even exist anymore. On today's show, Luke Broadwater, congressional correspondent for The New York Times, talks about the surprise Senate passage of the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent next year and whether the House will follow suit, plus what the data, and history, have to say about making that change.

Can The Russia Oil Embargo Help Get Us Off Fossil Fuel? Mar 16, 2022

Last week, amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States announced it was banning all imports of Russian oil and gas. On today's show, Bill McKibben, educator, environmentalist, and co-founder of 350.org, and author of several books including Falter: Has the Human Game Begun to Play Itself Out? (Henry Holt and Co., 2020), talks about why climate activists are saying this is a good time to pivot to a clean energy replacement.

Questlove Talks About That 1969 Music Festival That Changed The World (Not Woodstock) Mar 15, 2022

A relatively obscure Harlem music festival in 1969 has been brought into the spotlight with a new documentary exploring its impact. On today's show, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, musician, songwriter, director of "Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)," talks about the Oscar nomination for his film, which was put together from long-forgotten footage of 1969's Harlem Cultural Festival.

Zelensky To Address Congress Wednesday. House Foreign Affairs Chair Gives Us His Thoughts. Mar 14, 2022

House Foreign Affairs Committee chair Rep. Gregory Meeks recently went to Poland's border with Ukraine. On today's show, Gregory Meeks, U.S. Representative (D, NY-5) and chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, talks about the latest news, especially the latest on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

State Department Reacts To Theoretical Ukraine Peace Plan Mar 11, 2022

After Fred Mogul suggested a potential off-ramp for Russia to end its aggression against Ukraine. Today, a State Department official weighed in on that suggestion. On today's show, Derek Chollet, counselor of the U.S. Department of State and senior policy advisor to the Secretary of State, talks about the U.S. State Department's view of the conflict in Ukraine.

An Actual Plan For Ending The War In Ukraine Mar 10, 2022

Its been 15 days since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine. What does the global community's roadmap to de-escalation? On today's show, Fred Kaplan, Slate's War Stories columnist and the author of many books, including The Bomb: Presidents, Generals, and the Secret History of Nuclear War (Simon & Schuster, 2020), outlines a potential pathway to ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

Senator Gillibrand On How To Help Ukraine Without Escalating The War Mar 09, 2022

An update from a member of the Senate Intelligence and Armed Services committees on the U.S. government's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. On today's show, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), talks about her work in Washington and the conflict in Ukraine.

Justice Stephen Breyer — Rare Radio Interview On The Supreme Court & Democracy Mar 08, 2022

How often do we hear from the judges on the nation's highest court? On today's show, today, a conversation from our archives, featuring the soon-to-retire Justice Stephen Breyer.

Margaret Atwood On Friendship, Dystopia and A Handmaid’s Tale 30 Years Later Mar 07, 2022

We spoke with a renowned author about the legacy of her dystopian work. On today's show, Margaret Atwood, author of short stories, essays, and novels, including The Handmaid's Tale, and her latest collection, Burning Questions: Essays and Occasional Pieces, 2004 to 2021 (Doubleday, 2022), talks about her response to Jennifer Senior's take on friendship in middle-age and how things change with friends as we get even older, plus her latest book.

David Remnick: Sanctions Might Actually Work This Time Mar 03, 2022

Economic sanctions don't always work. We hear from one long-term Russia-watcher why he thinks the latest sanctions placed on Russia could help end the conflict. On today's show, David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker and the host of The New Yorker Radio Hour, talks about the latest news from Ukraine as Russia continues its invasion.

This Time, Maybe Facebook and Twitter Aren’t Enabling Putin So Much (But Tik Tok…) Mar 02, 2022

We check in on the information landscape surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including the role of social media platforms in the spread (or not) of misinformation. On today's show, Sinan Aral, MIT professor of management, marketing, IT and data science, director of the MIT Initiative on the Digital Economy and the author of The Hype Machine (Currency, 2020), offers his perspective on why it appears that Ukraine is winning the information war through traditional and social media, despite Russia's historical success in controlling the narrative.

Do We Need A New Constitution To End Racism? Mar 01, 2022

Is the Bill of Rights strong enough to serve as the basis for reversing centuries of systemic racism? 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), talks about his new book, plus offers analysis of legal news.

Garry Kasparov Is, For Once, Encouraged By The West Feb 28, 2022

What does the chess Grandmaster-turned-human rights activist and Russia-critic have to say about Putin's geopolitical strategy as the invasion of Ukraine continues? On today's show, Garry Kasparov, chairman of the Human Rights Foundation and Renew Democracy Initiative and author of Winter Is Coming: Why Vladimir Putin and the Enemies of the Free World Must Be Stopped (PublicAffairs, 2015), joins with the latest analysis on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Autocrats Of The World Unite Feb 25, 2022

What does the invasion of Ukraine tell us about autocratic leaders like Putin, and about the broader trend toward autocracy around the globe? On today's show, Moisés Naím, a scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, former editor of Foreign Policy magazine and the author of The Revenge of Power: How Autocrats Are Reinventing Politics for the 21st Century (St. Martin's Press, 2022), talks about three tools autocrats use to strengthen their power, populism, polarization and post-truths.

What Does Ukraine Mean For Biden's State Of The Union? Feb 24, 2022

After Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine early this morning, what can the rest of the world, and particularly President Biden do? On today's show, Philip Bump, national correspondent for The Washington Post, talks about the invasion of Ukraine, next week's State of the Union, and other pressing matters facing the White House.

Why Putin Loves Stalin But Not So Much Lenin Feb 23, 2022

With Russia continuing its provocative actions on its border with Ukraine, we look to some of the history that Putin cited as a pretext for a possible invasion. On today's show, Julia Ioffe, founding partner and Washington correspondent of Puck, a new media company, joins to provide a historical context and breaks down the latest developments.

Would You Eat Bugs To Fight Climate Change? Feb 22, 2022

Could adding insects to our diets help slow climate change? On today's show, listeners called in to discuss ways they've changed their diet, with or without insect consumption, to help combat climate change.

Yes Today’s Crisis Is Related To Trump’s Ukraine Impeachment Feb 21, 2022

With Russian troops amassing at Ukraine's border over the past few weeks, a look at the domestic consequences of the conflict in Eastern Europe. On today's show, Susan Glasser, staff writer for The New Yorker, CNN global affairs analyst and co-author, with Peter Baker, of The Man Who Ran Washington: the Life and Times of Jim Baker III (Doubleday, 2020) and Kremlin Rising: Vladimir Putin's Russia and the End of Revolution (Simon & Schuster, 2005) talks about the latest developments between Putin, Ukraine, and the West.

We Launch A "Climate Story Of The Week" Series Feb 17, 2022

In our 24-hour news-cycle world, it can be a challenge to cover crucial issues like climate change, that occur over long periods of time. On today's show, we launch a series of weekly climate coverage, with Mark Hertsgaard, executive director of Covering Climate Now and enviro correspondent of The Nation. He discussed how certain aggressive public policies, if enacted right away, could help mitigate some of the most extreme climate disasters.

Getting Unhoused People The Psychiatric Help They Need Feb 16, 2022

What can NYC's efforts to address the mental health of homeless people tell us about this nationwide issue? On today's show, Andy Newman, reporter for the New York Times who writes about social services and poverty in New York City, and Dr. Anthony Carino, director of psychiatry at CUCS/Janian Medical Care, a healthcare program for people impacted by homelessness talk about the patchwork of psychiatric services available to homeless New Yorkers and why, in some cases, high-need individuals with documented violent histories fall through the cracks leading to dire outcomes, as was the case with Martial Simon, who pushed Michelle Alyssa Go onto the subway tracks.

Ana Marie Cox on Your Pandemic Drinking Habits Feb 15, 2022

The pandemic has been hard, and has changed a lot of people's relationships with alcohol. So today, we're talking about the benefits and challenges of getting sober. On today's show, Ana Marie Cox, writer, host of the science fiction podcast, "Space the Nation," and author of The Cut's new advice column about sobriety, answers listener questions about drinking and not drinking.

Everything About Superbowl Sunday (Mostly Not The Game) Feb 14, 2022

Sunday night's big game took place against a fraught backdrop of allegations of racism in coach and staff hiring, and the first hip-hop halftime show in history. On today's show, David Dennis Jr., Senior writer for The Undefeated, and Joel Anderson, staff writer at Slate and a host of the podcast "Slow Burn", talk about the political and cultural backdrop to this year's Super Bowl.

When Companies Raise Prices But Call It Inflation Feb 11, 2022

Inflation has been in the news, but how much is it really what's behind rising prices? On today's show, Lindsay Owens, the executive director of the Groundwork Collaborative, a progressive economic advocacy group, argues that some companies are hiking prices "while hiding behind inflation."

NY and NJ Show How Even Blue States Are All Over The Place On Masks Feb 10, 2022

New York and New Jersey have just lifted indoor mask mandates for private businesses. What can the reaction tell us about the polarization around COVID policy? On today's show, New York Times reporter Sharon Otterman, who covers health care and the pandemic for the paper's Metro desk, reviews what's changing and when.

He Told His Affirmative Action Story To A Supreme Court Justice Feb 09, 2022

Almost 20 years after the Supreme Court affirmed affirmative action, the policy has once again landed before the high court. On today's show, Paul Butler, professor at Georgetown Law, the author of Chokehold: Policing Black Men (The New Press, 2017) and a self-proclaimed beneficiary of affirmative action, joins to make his case on why it should be upheld and why others who have benefited from the law should rebut critique that it stigmatizes Black students.

ADL's Jonathan Greenblatt on Whoopi, Race and Jewish Identity Feb 08, 2022

After TV personality Whoopi Goldberg made a comment about whiteness and Jewish people, we wanted to unravel the complicated ideas around race, racism and Jewish identity. On today's show, Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the author of It Could Happen Here: Why America Is Tipping from Hate to the Unthinkable―And How We Can Stop It (Mariner Books, 2022), talks about antisemitism and hate crimes and the danger they pose to American democracy.

Strange Bedfellow-ship Breaks Out In Washington Feb 07, 2022

In our hyper-partisan times, it's unusual to see the U.S.'s two main political parties come together. But on a few recent issues, they've done just that. On today's show, Grace Segers, staff writer at The New Republic, talks about the latest political news including the diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Olympics, the U.S. response to Russia's aggression toward Ukraine, and the latest on the January 6th investigations.

Myths About Race On Both Sides Of The Mason-Dixon Line Feb 04, 2022

The American south plays host to a patchwork of political, ideological, demographic and historical complexities. Complexities that common, simplified 'north/south' narratives fail to grasp. On today's show, Imani Perry, professor of African American Studies at Princeton University and the author of South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation (Ecco, 2022), shares the insights she gleaned about U.S. history and culture from her travels in the South.

Lawsuit Alleges: #FootballSoWhite Feb 03, 2022

A lawsuit filed by former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores claims that the NFL's hiring practices are discriminatory. On today's show, William Rhoden, columnist for The Undefeated and former longtime sports columnist at The New York Times, discusses the lawsuit of former head coach Brian Flores against the NFL and three teams including the New York Giants alleging racism in hiring practices.

Does The Neil Young Joni Mitchell Joe Rogan Spotify Showdown Matter? Feb 02, 2022

What does it mean for free speech and misinformation that Neil Young is leaving Spotify over its support of Joe Rogan's proudly un-fact checked podcast? On today's show, Ashley Carman, senior reporter at The Verge and writer of the Hot Pod newsletter, talks about the latest controversy surrounding Spotify and podcaster Joe Rogan, and hears from listeners who have recently left the platform in protest.

Why The U.S. Cares (Sort Of) About Ukraine Feb 01, 2022

With geopolitical tension again flaring up between Russia and Ukraine, we look at the role of the United States and NATO allies in the conflict. On today's show, Fred Kaplan, Slate's War Stories columnist and the author of many books, including The Bomb: Presidents, Generals, and the Secret History of Nuclear War (Simon & Schuster, 2020), discusses the history of NATO and why Russia may go to war over its potential expansion.

Sen. Gillibrand Wants To Make Illegally Transporting Guns Even More Illegal Jan 31, 2022

We were surprised to learn that illegally transporting guns from one state to another isn't as illegal is it sounds.

On Today's Show:U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D NY) talks about the latest issues facing the senate and her recent proposals for combating gun violence, expanding community health care, and more.

Will SCOTUS Overturn Its Own Affirmative Action Precedents? Jan 28, 2022

Elie Mystal, justice correspondent for The Nation and author of the forthcoming book Allow Me To Retort: A Black Guy's Guide To The Constitution (The New Press, 2022), discusses the news that the Court will revisit the question of affirmative action.

From The Archive: How Justice Breyer Worried About January 6th To Me In 2011 Jan 27, 2022

Justice Breyer has announced that he will step down from his Supreme Court seat, paving the way for President Biden to make his first SCOTUS nomination. On today's show, WNYC's legal analyst Jami Floyd talks about his legacy on the court and looks ahead to the process to replace him, including her pick for the seat, and discusses implications for the rest of this Supreme Court session that will be Justice Breyer's last.

Republican Governor Actually Tries Banning A Theory Jan 26, 2022

The new Virginia Governor Glen Youngkin is working to ban so-called "divisive concepts" including 'Critical Race Theory' in the state's schools. On today's show, Brian Jones, director of the Center for Educators and Schools at New York Public Library and contributor to Black Lives Matter at School: An Uprising for Educational Justice (Haymarket Books, 2020) discusses how such a ban might impact curricula, why some misunderstand and reject CRT and the value of including race in school lessons.

Ginni and Clarence Thomas: Conflict of Interest On The Supreme Court? Jan 25, 2022

What does it mean for the impartiality of the Supreme Court that the spouse of one of its Justices is a conservative activist? On today's show, Jane Mayer, chief Washington correspondent for The New Yorker, talks about her new piece on Ginni Thomas, a vocal right-wing activist and the wife of Justice Clarence Thomas, and whether her work with interest groups threatens Supreme Court impartiality.

NY 'Fashion Act' Could Change Your Wardrobe Nationwide Jan 24, 2022

On Today's Show: New York State Senator Alessandra Biaggi (D-34) and Maxine Bédat, founder and director of The New Standard Institute, discuss the Fashion Sustainability and Social Accountability Act, a new bill in the state legislature that would require large apparel and footwear brands to disclose their environmental impact.

The Robots Are Taking (More and Better) Jobs Jan 21, 2022

On Today's Show: Steve Lohr, New York Times technology and economics reporter, talks about recent economic research that points to artificial intelligence as a reason for widening economic disparity.

Biden At One Year Special Edition: Civil Left-Right Dialogue Jan 20, 2022

On the one-year anniversary of Biden's inauguration, we brought together two commentators from both ends of the political spectrum to assess his presidency so far. On today's show, Amanda Carpenter, columnist at The Bulwark, director of Republicans for Voting Rights, author of Gaslighting America: Why We Love It When Trump Lies to Us (Broadside Books, 2018), and Jamil Smith, senior correspondent at Vox and co-host of the podcast Vox Conversations, discuss the president's accomplishments, challenges and successes, and what comes next.

Laurence Tribe Says Justice Gorsuch Is A 'Jerk,' And A Whole Lot More Jan 19, 2022

We asked one of the nation's most influential legal scholars for his insight into the current Supreme Court bench, and some of the other constitutional issues facing this country. On today's show, Laurence Tribe, University Professor and professor of constitutional law emeritus at Harvard Law School, discusses the Supreme Court and U.S. democracy.

The Top Political Risks Of 2022 According To Ian Bremmer Jan 18, 2022

Just because there's one particular global threat -- COVID-19 -- that's got our attention in the U.S., it doesn't mean the other global threats have gone away. On today's show, Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group and GZero Media and the author of Us vs. Them: The Failure of Globalism (Portfolio, 2018) and the forthcoming The Power of Crisis: How Three Threats – and Our Response – Will Change the World (Simon & Schuster, 2022), offers his analysis of the biggest geopolitical risks likely to play out in 2022.

MLK's Other 1963 Speech As Important As "I Have A Dream" Jan 17, 2022

On MLK Day, we wanted to look at how Dr. King's legacy of civil rights, and particularly voting rights, has evolved since his efforts toward equality. On today's show, Kai Wright, host of the WNYC podcast The United States of Anxiety, talks about the push for voting rights in the United States today and in history.

Sedition! Most Serious Charges Filed So Far Over January 6th Jan 14, 2022

The leader of the white supremacist militia the Oath Keepers has been charged with sedition. What does that tell us about what Jan. 6 could have looked like if they succeeded? On today's show, Devlin Barrett, reporter focusing on national security and law enforcement for The Washington Post, discusses the Justice Department's response to last January's attack on the US capitol, including news that the founder of the right-wing extremist group Oath Keepers was arrested and charged with seditious conspiracy for his role in the riot.

Why Is Biden Focusing So Much On Filibuster Reform That’s Likely To Fail? Jan 13, 2022

The president has thrown his support behind a Senate rule change that would allow Democrats to pass voting rights reforms by ending the filibuster. Senators Manchin and Sinema support the reforms, but oppose the repeal of the filibuster, without which, the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act are unlikely to pass. On today's show, Theodoric Meyer, national political reporter and co-author of the Power Up newsletter at The Washington Post, discusses the latest news from Washington, including ongoing reactions to Biden's speech on voting rights and the filibuster as the MLK day deadline approaches.

Rev. Al Sharpton Is Not Giving Up On Joe Manchin Jan 12, 2022

As President Biden urges Senate rule changes to secure voting rights reforms, a conversation about the intersection of voting rights and civil rights. On today's show, Rev. Al Sharpton, civil rights leader, host of MSNBC’s PoliticsNation, founder and president of the National Action Network (NAN) and the author of Righteous Troublemakers: Untold Stories of the Social Justice Movement in America (Hanover Square Press, 2022), talks about his new book and civil rights in NYC and the country today.

Hospitalized “With” Covid vs. Hospitalized “For" Explained Jan 11, 2022

There are some confounding stats coming out about COVID hospitalizations amid the omicron surge. On today's show, Craig Spencer, New York City emergency medicine physician and director of global health in emergency medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, describes the landscape of omicron infection in New York City hospitals, from "incidental infections" to staff shortages caused by doctors and nurses having to isolate after testing positive.

Schumer Sets An MLK Day Votings Rights Deadline Jan 10, 2022

The Senate could vote soon on a key voting rights bill ahead of the 2022 midterms. What changes are proposed, and what could the political impacts be? On today's show, Mara Liasson, NPR national political correspondent, talks about the latest national political news.

What Crime Could Merrick Garland Charge Trump With? Jan 07, 2022

It's been a year since the Jan. 6 insurrection. What does it mean that thusfar, the Justice Department has focused on rioters, and not those who allegedly incited them? On today's show, Jason Johnson, MSNBC contributor, author, professor of Politics and Journalism at Morgan State University and host of the Slate political podcast 'A Word … with Jason Johnson,' rounds up this week's political news and reacts to speeches from Pres. Biden and Atty Gen. Garland on the anniversary of the attack on the Capitol.

Trump Aide Peter Navarro Admits The Real January 6th Plot Jan 06, 2022

On the anniversary of the Capitol insurrection, we take a look at how the Republican party has been reshaped over the past year, and what it means for the midterms. On today's show, Amanda Carpenter, columnist at The Bulwark, director of Republicans for Voting Rights, author of Gaslighting America: Why We Love It When Trump Lies to Us (Broadside Books, 2018), and former communications director to Texas Senator Ted Cruz, explains the potential future of the Republican party as various actors defending Trump or conservatism or democracy remain divided.

How The Insurrectionists Are Showing Up In Local Politics Jan 05, 2022

One year ago tomorrow, extremists stormed the Capitol Building. How have militant groups changed their tactics since then? On today's show, Brandy Zadrozny, senior reporter for NBC News where she covers misinformation, extremism and the internet, talks about the landscape of extremism since January 6th and her new investigation that finds some militia and white supremacist groups have shifted tactics, going from protesting to putting energy into local politics and school boards.

It Worked To Beat Inflation In The 1980s. They’re Not Considering It Now. Jan 04, 2022

As we move into the new year, we wanted to check in on a persistent economic condition that's likely to impact the U.S. and the globe: inflation. On today's show, Neil Irwin, chief economic correspondent at Axios, discusses how Reagan era Fed chairman Paul Volcker reduced high inflation 40 years ago by jacking up interest rates and muddling through a recession. With an almost opposite economic landscape leading into 2022, current Fed chair Jerome Powell might need to pull off a tricky reverse of that strategy.

More Republicans Open To Violence Against The Government Jan 03, 2022

What can we look forward to in the political realm in 2022, and what do trends in the parties' directions say about the future of governing the U.S.? On today's show, Amber Phillips, Washington Post political reporter and author for The 5-Minute Fix, takes listeners through her burning political questions in the new year like whether the Jan. 6 committee focuses too much on Trump, how voters will likely approach the 2022 midterm elections and how redrawn congressional maps could define political power for the next 10 years.

News Quiz: We’re You Paying Attention In 2021? Dec 30, 2021

As we close out 2021, we wanted to check in on how closely our listeners have been listening to the news. On today's show, Kai Wright, host of The United States of Anxiety, joins Brian to test your 2021 knowledge. NOTE: This segment was taken from Brian's 12/29 live show, and will be our last Daily Politics Podcast of the year. See you in 2022!

The New Words We Needed For 2021 (And Some Old Ones) Dec 29, 2021

One way to look back on a year is by taking a close look at the words that were called to occasion by, this year, an attempt to overturn an election, and a pandemic. On today's show, Ben Zimmer, linguist, a lexicographer, the language columnist for The Wall Street Journal, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, co-host of the Slate podcast ‘Spectacular Vernacular,’ and chair of the American Dialect Society New Words Committee and oversees their word-of-the-year selection process, talks about some of the words with special significance in 2021. Merriam-Webster picked “Vaccine”, Oxford Languages picked “Vax” and dictionary.com went with “Allyship." NOTE: This segment was taken from Brian's 12/28 live show. As part of our year-end coverage, we're approaching politics from some fun angles, including tomorrow's 'New Quiz.'

How Long Should You Quarantine Or Isolate, And What's The Difference? Dec 28, 2021

The CDC recently issued new guidance about how long to isolate following a close COVID contact or positive test. What does the science say, and how should risk factor into our behaviors now? On today's show, Daniel Griffin, MD, PhD, infectious disease clinician and researcher at Columbia, ProHEALTH chief of the division of Infectious Disease, senior fellow for Infectious Disease at UHG Research and Development, and president of Parasites Without Borders, discusses the latest on the Omicron surge, isolation, and quarantine protocols.

Airport Stories, Biden’s Omicron Dilemmas Dec 27, 2021

President Biden has the ability to set pandemic-related policies related to air travel. What is he weighing as the omicron variant surges, just in time for the holidays? On today's show, Jonathan Lemire, White House Bureau Chief at Politico, host of Way Too Early on MSNBC and an NBCNews analyst, discusses the latest national political developments and listeners report back on the holiday impacted by omicron.

Biggest Pinocchios of 2021 With WaPo's Fact Checker Dec 22, 2021

This has been a big year for misinformation, disinformation, and all-around wrong information. On today's show, Glenn Kessler, editor and chief writer of The Fact Checker for The Washington Post, takes listeners through the biggest lies told this year by politicians and figures in authority.

Can “Build Back Better?” Be Built Back Differently? Dec 21, 2021

Are there any configurations of the policies in the Build Back Better agenda that could pass the Senate? On today's show, U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman (D-NY16) talks about the torpedoed Build Back Better bill, the Biden Administration's shifting focus to voting rights, and where the progressive agenda goes from here.

Bernie and AOC Propose Dem Strategies Post-Manchin Dec 20, 2021

With the future of Biden's Build Back Better bill in question, how are progressive politicians responding to Joe Manchin break with the rest of Democratic party? On today's show, Anita Kumar, Senior Editor, Standards & Ethics at Politico, talks about the latest national political news, including Biden's response to the surging omicron variant of COVID-19, and the future of the initiatives in the Build Back Better bill.

Omicron Choices For Society And For You Dec 17, 2021

The rapid surge in COVID cases over just the past few days presents new challenges in navigating another pandemic holiday season. On today's show, Ed Yong, staff writer at The Atlantic, where he covers science, joins to discuss the news on the Omicron variant and why he believes it "poses a far graver threat" to American society than previous variants.

Sen. Murphy Says Republicans Protect Children — Until They’re Born Dec 16, 2021

Given the tragic frequency of school shootings, is the GOP's position on gun control at odds with its "pro-life" position on abortion rights? On today's show, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), member of the Foreign Relations committee and author of The Violence Inside Us: A Brief History of an Ongoing American Tragedy (Random House, 2020), talks about his long-time work on gun regulations, plus the latest developments with the pandemic and Senate partisanship.

All Kirsten Gillibrand Wants For Christmas Is To Get Joe Manchin To Yes Dec 14, 2021

Democrats aim to pass the 'Build Back Better' bill by Christmas. New York's junior senator discusses what might be in the final version, including paid family leave. On today's show, Kirsten Gillibrand, U.S. Senator (D NY), talks about her work in the Senate, and more of the latest from Congress.

What Does Texas's Abortion Law Have To Do With Violent Trumpism? Dec 13, 2021

On Friday, the Supreme Court ruled on a section of Texas's anti-abortion law. What does that have to do with the streak of violent Trumpism at the heart of Congress's Jan. 6 probe? On today's show, Dahlia Lithwick, who covers courts and the law for Slate and hosts the podcast Amicus, and Jim Newell, senior political writer for Slate, break down the latest news from the Supreme Court and national politics.

Conservative Group Opposes Discrimination (Against Fossil Fuel Companies) Dec 10, 2021

The conservative group ALEC is taking aim at laws aimed at addressing climate change, calling them 'energy discrimination.' On today's show, Kate Aronoff, staff writer at The New Republic and author of Overheated: How Capitalism Broke the Planet - And How We Fight Back (Bold Type Books April 20, 2021), talks about her latest piece, "Conservatives Have a New Bogeyman: Critical Energy Theory," which found some conservative interest groups are trying to stop climate policy from being implemented around the country by claiming it unfairly discriminates against fossil fuel companies.

Is The Press Treating Biden As The Moral Equivalent of Trump? Dec 09, 2021

A new analysis suggests that the press is treating Biden similarly to how it treated Trump, despite the stark contrasts in these two presidencies. On today's show, Dana Milbank, columnist for The Washington Post, talks about his recent column, which found that the press coverage of President Biden has been as negative, or even more negative, than press coverage of Trump through most of 2020.

Would Russia Invading Uklraine Matter To American Democracy? Dec 08, 2021

President Biden recently had a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as tensions flare along the Ukrainian border. What does a conflict halfway around the globe have to do with U.S. politics? On today's show, Susan Glasser, staff writer for The New Yorker, CNN global affairs analyst, joins to talk about the latest in national politics headlines, including the latest on Russia, as it mobilizes its military at the Ukrainian border.

How Democrats “Betrayed” Roe vs. Wade and What To Do Now Dec 06, 2021

With the possibility that SCOTUS overturn Roe v. Wade, we discuss the Democrats approach to judicial appointments, and whether they could have fought harder to safeguard abortion rights. On today's show, Rebecca Traister, writer at New York Magazine and author of Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women's Anger (Simon & Schuster, 2018), discusses how the current Supreme Court case is just the latest in a decades-long weakening of Roe v. Wade, with Democratic leadership partially to blame.

Hospital Staffing Shortage Meets Weird Marketplace For Nurses Dec 03, 2021

Nurses are leaving the profession in droves, driven by extremely difficult pandemic-related working conditions. We invited nurses to call in and talk about the state of their profession. On today's show, Pat Kane, executive director of the New York State Nurses Association, discusses some of the reasons why nurses are quitting and what can be done to retain, and recruit, more.

Being An Anti-Vax Talk Show Host Appears To Be A Risk Factor Dec 02, 2021

In the current phase of the COVID pandemic, marked by the omicron variant and still-rampant misinformation, we wanted to take stock of where we are, and what the science tells us. On today's show, following World AIDS Day Wafaa El-Sadr, Columbia University professor of epidemiology and medicine and director Columbia World Projects and International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Programs, draws connections between work tracing and treating HIV and research on coronavirus, including the omicron variant which was discovered in part because of robust sequencing systems in southern Africa.

Five Key Clips From The Abortion Rights Arguments Before SCOTUS Dec 01, 2021

Today, lawyers argued before the Supreme Court in a case that casts uncertainty on the right to have an abortion. If you missed the arguments, we've picked out some important exchanges.

Child Sex Trafficking And Self-Defense In A Murder Case Nov 30, 2021

The acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse shines a light on how 'self defense' defenses work in cases like his, compared to the case of Chrystul Kizer, who faces homicide charges for killing her adult sex abuser when she was 17 years old. On today's show, Kami Chavis, director of the criminal justice program at Wake Forest Law, and Jessica Contrera, reporter for The Washington Post, talk about why some claims of self-defense work better than others in court and in the media.

Your Questions Answered About Omicron and Travel Bans Nov 29, 2021

A lot of questions are swirling about a newly detected COVID-19 variant, dubbed, 'omicron.' What do we know about it at this early stage, and what policies can address it? On today's show, Apoorva Mandavilli, reporter for The New York Times, focusing on science and global health, explains the latest news and what's known so far about the omicron variant.

Let’s Call This 'Be Nice To Retail Workers Day' Nov 26, 2021

On today's Black Friday show, listeners who work in retail call in to talk about what this holiday shopping season looks like from their perspective.

They Didn’t Call Themselves Pilgrims and Other Actual Thanksgiving Stories Nov 25, 2021

This Thanksgiving, we wanted to bust some of the myths surrounding the holiday's origin, and the lessons we can learn from the real story. On today's show, Kenneth C. Davis, author of Don't Know Much About History: Everything You Need to Know About American History but Never Learned talks about the myths and realities of the 1621 first Thanksgiving.

Are High Gas Prices The Cost Of Fighting Climate Change? Nov 24, 2021

Gas prices are running fairly high these days. Can the Biden administration address it while still keeping an eye on its climate priorities? On today's show, Timothy Gardner, climate and energy correspondent at Reuters, breaks down why the price of oil is so high and what, if anything, the Biden administration can do to fix it while also meeting climate goals.

Here’s A Thanksgiving “Filter Bubbles” Experiment You Can Try At Home Nov 23, 2021

If two people search broad terms like "patriot" or "vaccine" in YouTube, they might get very different results. On today's show, Kai Wright, host of the WNYC's The United States of Anxiety, and Kousha Navidar, senior digital producer for WNYC's The United States of Anxiety, offer an experiment to get past the filter bubbles that define what information gets to us.

Race, Rittenhouse, And The Birth Of The Second Amendment Nov 22, 2021

What does Friday's "not guilty" verdict in the case of Kyle Rittenhouse, mean for the justice system, Black Lives Matter, and white supremacist violence? On today's show, Carol Anderson, professor of African American Studies at Emory University and the author of The Second: Race and Guns in a Fatally Unequal America (Bloomsbury Publishing, 2021), discusses the verdict and what comes next.

Rapid COVID Tests And Your Family Thanksgiving Nov 19, 2021

This year, with vaccinations still climbing and public health pros telling us it's relatively safe to gather for the holidays, we explore just how "relative" that safety is, and how to minimize the (still present) risk. On today's show, Daniel Griffin, MD, PhD, infectious disease clinician and researcher at Columbia, ProHEALTH chief of the division of Infectious Disease, senior fellow for Infectious Disease at UHG Research and Development, and president of Parasites Without Borders, shares the latest guidance on balancing risks and rewards of holiday gatherings at this phase of the pandemic.

Inflation Explained And How It Might Be Solved Nov 18, 2021

The annual inflation rate in the United States is running at a three decade high. So what's behind the inflation we're seeing throughout the economy? How is it landing on business owners and consumers, and what can be done about it? On today's show, Wendy Edelberg, director of The Hamilton Project and senior fellow, economic studies at The Brookings Institution, discusses the underpinning factors mostly related to the pandemic and weighs in on concern over long-term impact.

Nikole Hannah-Jones: Pushback to the 1619 Project Shows It's Necessary Nov 17, 2021

Nikole Hannah-Jones, a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter covering racial injustice for The New York Times Magazine, creator of the 1619 Project, now a book, The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story (One World, 2021), and Knight Chair in Race and Journalism at Howard University, talks about the book based on the New York Times 1619 Project, why it's become a hot-button issue, and where we go from here.

The Jan. 6th Subpoenas and Democracy Itself Nov 16, 2021

The Jan. 6 insurrection was an attack on the democratic process. How is the investigation into the events that day a defense of that same process? On today's show, Kimberly Wehle, law professor at the University of Baltimore, former U.S. Attorney, author of What You Need to Know About Voting--and Why (Harper Collins, 2020) and an opinion writer for many publications including Politico and The Atlantic, discusses the latest developments in the House Select Committee's investigation of the January 6th Attack.

More People Are Going On Hunger Strikes. Why Now? Nov 15, 2021

Many activist movements today are leaning on an old protest method: the hunger strike. So why is this tactic seeing a resurgence, and what makes these demonstrations effective? On today's show, Sharman Apt Russell, author of several books including Hunger: An Unnatural History (Basic Books, 2006) and Within Our Grasp: Childhood Malnutrition Worldwide and the Revolution Taking Place to End It (Deckle Edge, 2021), discusses the history of hunger strikes and explains how they work.

Congressman Ritchie Torres Takes On Gosar, Boebert and Democratic Losses Nov 12, 2021

What does a progressive freshman member of Congress have to say about the politics of this past election, and the process of passing Democrats' agenda? On today's show, U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres (D-NY15, South Bronx) talks about the postponed vote on Build Back Better, and about the just-passed infrastructure bill.

COP26 End Game Nov 11, 2021

COP26 is wrapping up, and some last-minute commitments from the U.S. and China could help push the world toward its emissions reduction targets. On today's show, Mark Hertsgaard, executive director of Covering Climate Now and environmental correspondent of The Nation, has the latest key developments from the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland.

Help Rename Build Back Better So People Get It Nov 10, 2021

The Democrats don't have one single name for the legislative agenda that's working through Congress. They have many. Could more focused messaging help pass it more easily? On today's show, Anat Shenker-Osorio, strategic communications consultant and host of the "Words To Win By" podcast, discusses the Democratic party's messaging around the Build Back Better (or human infrastructure or reconciliation or $3.5 trillion social spending) bill and what she thinks they could do better, and listeners call in with their own suggestions.

Why It’s Not Legal (But It Really Is) To Exclude Black People From Juries Nov 09, 2021

The trials of Kyle Rittenhouse, accused of shooting Black Lives Matter protesters, and of Ahmaud Arbery's alleged killers are both in jury selection. On today's show, Elie Mystal, justice correspondent for The Nation, joins to discuss the jury selection process, and how technicalities invite the possibility of racial bias into the courtroom.

COP26 and Climate Refugees Nov 08, 2021

As the climate changes, and famine, drought and other displacing forces get more frequent & more severe, how will the world deal with those forced to flee their homes for safer ground? On today's show, David Miliband, president and chief executive officer of the International Rescue Committee, discuss how climate change is fueling conflicts all over the world, and what solutions are being discussed at COP26 -- the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

Jamelle Bouie On Moral Panic Before And After The Election Nov 05, 2021

Race and racism were key factors in this past week's elections, which centered largely around the debate over teaching kids about the history of racism in America. On today's show, Jamelle Bouie, New York Times opinion columnist and CBS News analyst, reflects on electoral strategy following state and local Republican wins including what he calls "moral panic" over race in education as well as the role of progressive messaging for future Democrat campaigns.

Talking About Race So People Can Hear Each Other Nov 04, 2021

It's not always easy to have conversations about race and racism. Why is it important to do it anyway, and how can we most effectively talk about it? On today's show, Celeste Headlee, author of Speaking of Race: Why Everybody Needs to Talk About Racism―and How to Do It (Harper Wave, 2021) draws on science and her own experience to offer guidance for having good conversations around issues of racial identity.

What The NJ & VA Governors Elections Mean For The Midterms Nov 03, 2021

Two incumbent Democratic governors have not had the success they expected against GOP challengers. What can we glean from yesterday's election about politics going forward? On today's show, Nancy Solomon, reporter and editor in the WNYC newsroom, and Elena Schneider, national political reporter at POLITICO, break down preliminary results from New Jersey, where the governor's race is too close to call, and races across the nation, including the victory by Republican Glenn Youngkin as governor in Virginia.

The Boomers Inside The Climate Summit, And The Zoomers Protesting Outside Nov 01, 2021

As the UN gathers in Glasgow to discuss global climate policy, the older lawmakers inside the summit, and the younger activists demonstrating outside have different priorities. On today's show, Marcela Mulholland, Political Director at Data for Progress, discusses their dissonant agendas.

What Will Voting Against Human Infrastructure Mean For Republicans? Oct 29, 2021

As Congress inches closer to a human infrastructure deal, which contains a number of extremely popular programs, how could it change the political calculus if it's passed? 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 "framework" introduced by President Biden and the attempts to forge a compromise in Congress.

Paid Family Leave Is Popular. Why Is It Reportedly Getting Dumped? Oct 28, 2021

One of the most popular elements of Biden's 'Build Back Better' agenda, paid family leave, has been dropped from the bill. On today's show, Helaine Olen, Washington Post opinion columnist focusing on politics and economics, breaks down what's been going on in negotiations on the Hill, whether Democrats are close to a deal, and how the government would pay for it.

Hate and Lies On Facebook: They’re Even Worse In India Oct 27, 2021

We've been hearing about revelations from the leaked 'Facebook Papers.' What has the social media giant has been doing, and what they haven't been doing, around the world? On today's show, Sheera Frenkel, New York Times technology reporter and author of, with Cecilia Kang, An Ugly Truth: Inside Facebook's Battle for Domination, joins to discuss her latest reporting on Facebook's influence in India and across the globe.

Top Dems vs. Their Own Nominee For Mayor (She’s A Democratic Socialist) Oct 26, 2021

What can the mayoral election in Buffalo, NY tell us about the current rifts between the center and the left in the Democratic party nationwide? On today's show, Robert McCarthy, political reporter at The Buffalo News, discusses the mayoral race in Buffalo, in which the incumbent Byron Brown is running a write-in campaign urging voters to support him, despite his loss to India Walton in the Democratic primary.

Here’s What’s Still In The Biden-Manchin Compromise Bill Oct 25, 2021

After months of negotiations, the legislation that makes up Biden's "Build Back Better" agenda looks much thinner than how it started. Here's the latest on what's left. On today's show, John Nichols, national-affairs correspondent for The Nation magazine and the author, most recently, of The Fight for the Soul of the Democratic Party (Verso, 2020), discusses the latest news on the "Build Back Better" bill in Washington, plus the bellwether governor's races in Virginia and New Jersey.

Five Military Veterans Resign From Kyrsten Sinema, Write Scathing Letter Oct 22, 2021

There appears to be movement from Sen. Sinema on certain budget reconciliation measures, but her changing position has lost her some of the support she had. On today's show, Luke Broadwater, congressional reporter in the Washington bureau of the New York Times, breaks down the latest on the budget reconciliation bill talks and how the House has voted to find Stephen Bannon in criminal contempt of Congress for obstructing the investigation into the January 6th insurrection.

Sean Ono Lennon on “Imagine” At 50 Years Old Oct 21, 2021

Politics is about how we as a society come together to hash out what's important to us. Instead of politics, we talk about a 50-year old piece of music that does the same. On today's show, Sean Ono Lennon, musician and son of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, discusses how John Lennon's 1971 song "Imagine" was shaped by its time and has influenced music for generations to come.

The Great Resignation Meets The Upcoming Climate Summit Oct 20, 2021

The past year or so of the COVID pandemic has reshaped the global economy. An international update on that, plus, a preview of the upcoming UN Climate Summit in Glasgow. On today's show, Ishaan Tharoor, Washington Post columnist and author of Today's WorldView and the Post's international affairs newsletter joins to talk about the latest in world news, including a preview of the global COP26 summit on climate change.

What Trump And Bannon Might Be Hiding Oct 19, 2021

Trump is suing a Congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, as well as the National Archive, over whether he can exert executive privilege after leaving office. On today's show, Claudia Grisales, congressional reporter at NPR, brings the latest national political news, including Trump's lawsuit against the Jan. 6 Select Committee and the National Archives, and Biden's efforts to convince Congress to move on his legislative priorities.

Adam Schiff On Colin Powell, Trump For House Speaker(?), Vote Nullification Oct 18, 2021

Today, a conversation about protecting democratic norms like voting rights in the face of attempts by Trump and his allies to rewrite them. On today's show, U.S. Representative Adam Schiff (D, CA-28), who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, talks about his new book Midnight in Washington: How We Almost Lost Our Democracy and Still Could (Random House, 2021), in which he looks back at his experience as chief prosecutor in President Donald Trump's impeachment trial. Plus, the latest news on Capitol Hill as negotiations continue over the Build Back Better agenda.

NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe on Biden, Branding, and Seeing The Pope Oct 15, 2021

How does Joe Biden's Catholicism square with his agenda? We talk about that, and other ways the President's beliefs intersect with his political "brand." On today's show, Ayesha Rascoe, White House correspondent for NPR, brings the latest national political news, including a preview of President Joe Biden's trip to the Vatican and updates on the infrastructure deal.

Paul Krugman (Of All People) Sees Things Getting Better Oct 14, 2021

The economy isn't in good shape right now, but this Nobel laureate in economics thinks a post-pandemic upturn is just on the way. On today's show, Paul Krugman, New York Times columnist, distinguished professor at the City University of New York Graduate Center, and the author of (now in paperback) Arguing with Zombies: Economics, Politics, and the Fight for a Better Future (W. W. Norton & Company, 2020) talks about the debt ceiling, the long-term economic picture and more.

White Privilege, Trump, Police Unions At NJ Guv Debate Oct 13, 2021

Last night was the second debate in the race for New Jersey governor, but the issues at play aren't unique to the Garden State. On today's show, Michael Hill, WNYC Morning Edition host and Nancy Solomon, reporter and editor in the WNYC newsroom talk about the second gubernatorial debate in New Jersey (which Michael moderated), between incumbent Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat, and former Assembly member Jack Ciattarelli, a Republican.

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