Discover the controversy surrounding USAID as elite figures aim to dismantle a crucial global development agency. Delve into Trump's take on tariffs, drawing parallels with McKinley's era, yet historians challenge his grasp of history. The alarming rise of bird flu is dissected, revealing its impact on poultry supplies and food prices. Human transmission risks are also discussed, highlighting the importance of safe cooking practices. Plus, catch up on political meetings and a high-profile sports trial that has captured attention.
The recent alarm raised over the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) highlights political tensions and a push against foreign aid programs.
Despite the low risk of human transmission, bird flu outbreaks disrupt poultry production significantly, triggering price hikes and raising public health concerns.
Deep dives
Elon Musk's Maneuvering at USAID
Recent developments at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have raised alarm, particularly after Elon Musk's team attempted to shut down the agency. Employees were informed via late-night emails to work remotely, and access was blocked for some lawmakers trying to investigate the situation. Assertions about corruption and wastefulness have created a narrative against USAID, despite its critical role in funding programs like disaster relief and medical services. The actions taken against USAID illustrate a broader attack on foreign aid programs and highlight a growing power dynamic involving Musk within the political landscape.
Tariffs and Historical Comparisons
The recently implemented 10% tariffs on Chinese goods have triggered a series of retaliatory measures from Beijing, and Trump's frequent references to President William McKinley frame his tariff strategy. While Trump credits McKinley for creating economic prosperity through tariffs, historians argue that the success of that era cannot be solely attributed to tariff policies, as numerous other factors also contributed. Comparisons drawn between Trump's and McKinley’s approaches reveal distinct differences: Trump's tariffs are often used as negotiation tools, whereas McKinley favored reciprocal agreements to foster economic relationships. This imbalance in strategy underscores the complex nature of trade policies and the historical context surrounding them.
The Impact of Bird Flu on Poultry and Public Health
A significant outbreak of bird flu has disrupted poultry production across the United States, affecting over 13 million birds and leading to substantial price increases for eggs. Farmers facing infection risks must euthanize exposed birds, which adds to the urgency of managing the outbreak effectively. Although the risk of bird flu transmission to humans remains low, recent cases have heightened concern, including a deadly incident involving an infected individual in Louisiana. Experts recommend routine precautions, such as proper cooking and handling of animal products, while acknowledging challenges posed by skepticism among some farmers about the virus.
On today’s show: What is USAID, the U.S. Agency for International Development? And why do Trump and Elon Musk want to gut it? NPR has more.
Trump says President McKinley made the U.S. prosperous through tariffs and cites him as inspiration for his own tariff plan. Historians told the Washington Post that Trump has an incomplete understanding of our 25th president.
How worried should you be about bird flu, and what could it mean for your health? Vox’s Jess Craig explains.
Plus, the future of the Gaza ceasefire deal hinges on Trump and Netanyahu’s meeting today, former Spain football chief Luis Rubiales is on trial for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without consent after the team won the 2023 World Cup, and how a former NBA coach could cash in big if the Chiefs win the Super Bowl.
Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode