Climate change expert Andrew Freedman discusses the link between extreme heat and climate change, highlighting the vulnerability we face. The podcast also covers Israel's limitation of the Supreme Court's power, the resulting protests, and examines House Speaker McCarthy's winning streak and its impact on Democrats.
Extreme heat waves are directly linked to climate change, indicating the need for resilience strategies.
Israeli Parliament's limitations on the Supreme Court have sparked protests, destabilizing the country.
Deep dives
Link Between Extreme Heat and Climate Change
A new study has found a definitive link between extreme heat waves in the US, Europe, and China and climate change. The study quantified three specific heat waves and determined that they would have been virtually impossible without the warming effects caused by climate change. This indicates that future heat events are likely to become hotter and more severe. The report emphasizes the need for society to address resilience and develop strategies to cope with increasing temperatures.
Israeli Parliament Passes Judicial Overhaul Plan
The Israeli Parliament has passed a bill that significantly limits the Supreme Court's ability to review government decisions, policies, and appointments. This curtails the court's role as a checks and balances mechanism for the executive branch. The passing of the law, which was done unilaterally and without broad consensus, has sparked widespread protests in Israel. Despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's willingness to negotiate a compromise, the opposition is hesitant to engage, fueling further destabilization in the country.
Kevin McCarthy's Winning Streak
House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy has been successful in passing bills that garner bipartisan support on issues such as crime, immigration, energy policy, and Israel. McCarthy has displayed political acumen by identifying issues where moderate Democrats diverge from their progressive counterparts. This strategic approach has resulted in dividing the Democratic Party on contentious matters. McCarthy's ability to maintain unity within the GOP while winning bipartisan backing disrupts the Democrats' position and puts them on the defensive.
More than 1,500 record-high temperatures have been recorded in the U.S. this month, according to NOAA. And a new study finds a definitive link between this extreme heat and climate change. But the biggest discovery may be just how vulnerable we are to the warming of the planet.
Plus, Israel curbs the power of its Supreme Court, and tens of thousands protest.
And, Speaker McCarthy’s quiet winning streak.
Guests: Axios' Andrew Freedman, Barak Ravid and Josh Kraushaar.
Credits: Axios Today is produced by Niala Boodhoo, Alexandra Botti, Fonda Mwangi, Robin Linn and Alex Sugiura. Music is composed by Evan Viola. You can reach us at podcasts@axios.com. You can text questions, comments and story ideas to Niala as a text or voice memo to 202-918-4893.