The Lead with Jake Tapper U.S. Says New Year’s Eve Strike On Alleged Drug Boats Killed 5
Jan 2, 2026
Olivia Reingold, a staff writer covering New York politics, delves into Zohran Mamdani's inauguration as NYC mayor and his ambitious focus on housing affordability. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a Democratic Congresswoman from Florida, shares insights on the implications of the Affordable Care Act premium subsidy lapse for her constituents. They discuss coalition-building in politics and the potential national impact of Mamdani's progressive agenda amidst economic challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
U.S. Maritime Campaign Is Escalating
- The U.S. has repeatedly struck alleged drug-trafficking boats in international waters since September.
- Those strikes signal a sustained escalation linking counterdrug operations to broader pressure on Venezuela and Maduro.
Survivor Treatment Evolved Under Scrutiny
- Handling of survivors has changed after political pressure, moving from 'double-tap' strikes to search-and-rescue attempts.
- That procedural shift shows lawmakers' scrutiny can alter military post-strike conduct.
Sparklers Likely Ignited Swiss Resort Fire
- Witnesses said a champagne bottle with sparklers ignited the wooden ceiling and the fire spread within about 10 seconds.
- The bar's narrow staircase and enclosed basement worsened the death toll and hampered escape.