Journalist Brian Mann explores Portugal's successful model of decriminalizing drugs and providing addiction services, which has led to a drastic drop in overdose deaths. Contrasting the US approach, Portugal treats addiction as a health issue, not a crime. Could this approach help the US combat its opioid epidemic?

NRA CEO LaPierre resigns amidst accusations of misappropriation. Civil trial could determine NRA's future. Lawsuit filed by NY AG could lead to stricter oversight and loss of influence. NRA's legal battle, influence, and loss of bipartisan support discussed. Resignation's impact on NRA's role in American politics and controversy surrounding LaPierre explored.

Addiction deaths remain a major problem in the U.S. as the public health focus has shifted to COVID-19. But as midterm voting continues, Republican candidates have spent millions trying to link migrants with crime and opioid smuggling.This episode: White House correspondent Tamara Keith, addiction correspondent Brian Mann, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.Learn more about upcoming live shows of The NPR Politics Podcast at nprpresents.org.Support the show and unlock sponsor-free listening with a subscription to The NPR Politics Podcast Plus. Learn more at plus.npr.org/politics Connect:Email the show at nprpolitics@npr.orgJoin the NPR Politics Podcast Facebook Group.Subscribe to the NPR Politics Newsletter.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

GOP candidates there embraced "bipartisan" messaging and capitalized on redrawn maps to flip four House seats from Democratic control in New York. Democratic hopefuls also didn't benefit as much as candidates elsewhere from an enthusiasm boost among voters concerned about access to abortion because of the strong protections enshrined in state law. Coupled with Gov. Kathy Hochul's struggling top-of-the-ticket bid, Republicans found a perfect opportunity to secure narrow victories in the deep blue state.This episode: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, national correspondent Brian Mann, and political correspondent Susan Davis.This episode was produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. It was edited by Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Fact-checking by Katherine Swartz.Unlock access to this and other bonus content by supporting The NPR Politics Podcast+. Sign up via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Connect:Email the show at nprpolitics@npr.orgJoin the NPR Politics Podcast Facebook Group.Subscribe to the NPR Politics Newsletter.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Joining the discussion are Bill Chappell and Brian Mann, both NPR correspondents with deep expertise in sports coverage. They dive into the intriguing debate surrounding the 2024 Paris Olympic pool's performance. Was it truly 'slow'? Factors like pool design, turbulence, and even touch pad height come under scrutiny. They also address the psychological pressures swimmers face, exploring how perceptions of speed affect mental resilience. This conversation merges science and sports in an entertaining analysis of Olympic competition.