Alexander Vindman, former NSC Director of European Affairs and whistleblower on Trump's Ukraine policy, shares insights from his book, "The Folly of Realism," discussing the critical need for consistent U.S. support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. Mary T. Bassett highlights alarming vaccination skepticism in the U.S. and calls for urgent public health reform. Marc Short offers an inside perspective on trade policies during the Trump administration, while J.D. Vance weighs in on the controversial Ukraine policy, complicating the discussion on U.S. foreign relations.

Political commentator Daniella Diaz, political analyst Chuck Rocha, and political strategist Marc Short join the discussion on recent events like Michael Cohen's trial, the Iran helicopter crash, and the halted Guantanamo detainee transfer. They also explore the political turmoil in Israel, the succession for Iran's next Supreme Leader, and the border security bill debates in Congress.

Guests Betsy Woodruff Swan, Marc Short, and Faiz Shakir discuss tensions at Columbia University, Trump's violation of a gag order, and Florida's abortion ban. Topics include anti-Semitism on campuses, diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, legal proceedings against Trump, and the implications of Florida's new abortion law.

Criminal defense attorney and former assistant district attorney in Fulton County, Darryl Cohen, discusses District Attorney Fani Willis' request for Trump's trial. Marc Short analyzes Mike Pence's debate performance. Topics include Trump's surrender, upcoming trials, doubts about a speedy trial, and divided opinions on Vivek Ramaswami in the recent debate. Strategies of Democratic primary candidates and Chris Christie's performance are also discussed.

The Department of Justice's investigation into the events of January 6 has expanded to include testimony from more members of then-President Trump and then-Vice President Pence's inner circles, like former Pence chief of staff Marc Short. But does this investigation have any impact on how Republican voters say they plan to vote in the 2024 presidential primaries?Listen to our special report on the January 6th attacks.This episode: White House correspondent Tamara Keith, justice correspondent Ryan Lucas, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.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