Tom Bowman

Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, and Lauren Hodges, producer for NPR's Embedded podcasts, dive into the troubling intersection of military service and political extremism. They explore the profound implications of military participation in the January 6th Capitol riot, scrutinizing cases like that of an active-duty Marine involved in the chaos. The conversation unveils how the military grapples with addressing internal threats while balancing freedom of speech and the integrity of armed forces in a politically charged landscape.

Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, and Anthony Kuhn, an international correspondent based in Seoul, delve into the Trump administration's military strategies against South American drug cartels. They discuss a recent Navy strike linked to drug trafficking, questioning its impact on U.S.-Venezuela relations. Kuhn shares insights on China's military showcase, revealing the broader geopolitical implications and advanced capabilities that challenge U.S. dominance, while addressing shifting power dynamics involving Russia and North Korea.

In this discussion, Greg Myre, an NPR correspondent in Tel Aviv, sheds light on the complex aftermath of the Gaza ceasefire, highlighting the interplay of local and international dynamics. Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, dives into the legalities of National Guard deployments and the implications for domestic security. They explore the challenges of disarming Hamas and the future governance of Gaza, along with the potential for federalizing National Guard troops amid civilian crises. Both guests provide a rich analysis of these pressing issues.

In this insightful discussion, Tom Bowman, NPR's national security correspondent who extensively reported on the January 6th Capitol attack, and producer Lauren Hodges examine the troubling intersection of military service and political insurrection. They delve into the compelling case of Marine Sgt. Joshua Abate, who admits to participating in the Capitol riots before a polygraph test. The conversation uncovers the psychological aftermath of that day, the challenges of accountability, and the military's response to extremism among its ranks.

Tom Bowman, a seasoned Pentagon reporter for NPR with 28 years of military coverage, delves into the controversial tenure of Pete Hegseth. He discusses Hegseth's inexperience, the chaos unfolding at the Pentagon, and how he prioritizes 'fighting wokeness' over military effectiveness. The conversation highlights issues like contentious firings of military leaders, biases in decision-making, and concerns over Hegseth's handling of sensitive information. Bowman's insights reveal the profound implications of Hegseth's leadership on military readiness and policy.

Ryan Lucas and Tom Bowman join to discuss Trump's controversial plans for military strikes in Venezuela. Lucas explores the legal justifications, such as claims of self-defense against drug cartels. Bowman adds insights into the Pentagon press's mass walkout in protest of restrictive credentialing agreements, highlighting challenges in reporting without direct access. They consider the implications of shifting strikes from sea to land and whether the actions will truly impact drug trafficking or just serve broader geopolitical goals.

In this engaging discussion, Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, shares a gripping narrative of an Afghan family's perilous quest for safety in the U.S. Their journey from Afghanistan to Mexico and across the U.S. border reveals the harrowing challenges faced by refugees and the intricacies of immigration policy. The conversation also highlights Wisconsin's evolving political landscape, emphasizing how shifting demographics and abortion politics are reshaping the state's role as a crucial presidential battleground.

Tom Bowman, a Pentagon correspondent, offers a deep dive into the complexities of U.S. missile policy regarding Ukraine's requests for long-range missiles against Russia. He sheds light on the Biden administration's cautious stance and its implications for the ongoing conflict. The discussion also touches on the anniversary of the UAW strike, where workers express concerns over job security. Additionally, the podcast highlights a groundbreaking moment in civilian space tourism, featuring a non-NASA astronaut's spacewalk, underlining the industry's challenges and potential.

Tom Bowman, an experienced Pentagon reporter for NPR, breaks down the complexities surrounding U.S. military aid to Ukraine. He discusses Ukraine's push for long-range missiles and the potential risks of escalating tensions with Russia. Bowman highlights how cautious the Biden administration is in balancing support without provoking direct conflict. They explore the strategic implications of these advanced weapons and the ongoing logistical challenges faced in the war, shedding light on a critical moment in international relations.

Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, provides keen insights on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent visit to Washington. He highlights Zelenskyy's urgent pleas for increased U.S. funding amidst dwindling support and a stalled conflict with Russia. They discuss the strategic military needs of Ukraine as winter approaches and the complex political dynamics influencing Congress. Bowman stresses the challenges of achieving military success, emphasizing that a resolution may hinge on critical decisions from Russian leadership.