China has sent surveillance balloons over more than 40 countries across five continents and the Biden administration is in touch with other countries about the scope of the program, according to information provided by the Biden administration. And voting officials in Pennsylvania continue to deal with election misinformation and advocates hope some election reforms could help fend off any disruptions in 2024.This episode: White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political correspondent Susan Davis, China correspondent John Ruwitch, voting correspondent Hansi Lo Wang, and voting correspondent Miles Parks.This episode was produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. It was edited by Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Research and fact-checking by Devin Speak.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

In this captivating discussion, NPR correspondent John Ruwitch interviews Peng Haïtao, a Wuhan-based pianist known for his poignant performances of "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence". They delve into the deep emotional impact of playing in significant locations like earthquake sites and during the COVID lockdown. The conversation uncovers how Peng's music articulates unexpressed grief and resonates with a culture that often prioritizes positivity. They explore art's role in healing and social commentary amidst China's complex relationship with loss.

John Ruwitch, NPR’s correspondent in China, discusses the cautious reaction to Trump's re-election, particularly regarding trade tariffs. Eyder Peralta, reporting from Mexico City, highlights the widespread apprehension among Mexican citizens about the implications of Trump’s return and his unpredictable nature. Together, they unpack the potential economic impacts and rising tensions in U.S.-China relations, providing a compelling look at how Trump's presidency could reshape international dynamics.

The U.S. has dispatched billions in military aid to Ukraine to support its territorial defense after Russia invaded at the beginning of the year and joined with allies to issue stringent sanctions against Vladimir Putin's government. And a dust-up over U.S. support for Taiwan, an independent democracy which China considers part of its territory, was a recent point of tension with China — though Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping recently met for several hours of diplomatic talks.This episode: political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, China correspondent John Ruwitch, and national political correspondent Mara Liasson.This episode was produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. It was edited by Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Research and fact-checking by Juma Sei.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

Tensions appear lower between the U.S. and China following a meeting between the leaders of the two nations. Both described the talks as frank and productive. And Democrats held the Senate over the weekend and Republicans appear on track to have a slight majority in the House.This episode: political reporter Deepa Shivaram, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, China correspondent John Ruwitch, congressional correspondent Claudia Grisales, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.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