The Press Box The FBI Seizes a Reporter’s Laptop, and National Championship Storylines. Plus: CNN’s Abby Phillip!
Jan 16, 2026
CNN anchor Abby Phillip joins to discuss her new book on Rev. Jesse Jackson, reflecting on his significant political influence and mentorship under Martin Luther King Jr. She explores Jackson's legacy and its ties to modern figures like Bernie Sanders and AOC. Abby shares insights on her transition from reporter to anchor, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of each role. The conversation also delves into the evolving landscape of cable news and the importance of authentic dialogue in journalism.
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Episode notes
Protect Reporting Data Proactively
- Use encrypted communication and disable biometric unlocks on devices to protect reporting materials.
- Prepare legal and newsroom protocols for subpoenas and unexpected search warrants to buy time and contest seizures.
Jackson's Campaigns Prefigured Modern Populism
- Abby Phillip realized Jesse Jackson's presidential campaigns mattered to understanding modern populism.
- She saw his 1988 run as a precursor to later insurgent campaigns and worth revisiting for younger readers.
Balance Over Hagiography
- Treating complex figures without lionizing them lets readers judge legacy fairly.
- Abby wanted a balanced book that acknowledged flaws while evaluating real political impact.
