Zolan Kanno-Youngs, a White House Correspondent for the New York Times and CNN analyst, joins Jill Lepore, a Harvard history professor and New Yorker staff writer, to dissect the modern political convention. They explore how these once serious gatherings have morphed into choreographed media events. The duo discusses the media's evolving role in politics, the challenges of connecting with younger voters, and the impact of social media on narratives. Their witty banter and insights spark questions about authenticity and democracy in today's spectacle-driven landscape.

Journalists from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal discuss immigration policies and national security issues on the border. They also touch on the recruitment of military pilots by China, espionage in the Alps, and America's preparations for space warfare.

Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Homeland Security correspondent for The New York Times, sheds light on the rising tide of unaccompanied minors at the U.S.-Mexico border. He discusses the factors driving this surge, such as poverty and violence, while comparing the Biden administration's approach to previous policies. The conversation highlights the complexities of balancing humane treatment with systemic challenges, particularly in the context of the pandemic. Kanno-Youngs also touches on how these issues intersect with broader political dynamics.

Sheera Frenkel, a cybersecurity reporter at The New York Times, provides keen insights into how online radicalization fueled the Capitol storming. Zolan Kanno-Youngs, the Homeland security correspondent, discusses the glaring security failures that allowed chaos to unfold. They delve into the preparations of the pro-Trump mob, revealing their strategic use of social media to coordinate actions. The conversation exposes the dangerous consequences of misinformation and highlights the political and security ramifications of January 6.

This episode contains strong language. Federal agents dressed in camouflage and tactical gear have taken to the streets of Portland, Ore., unleashing tear gas, bloodying protesters and pulling some people into unmarked vans. Today, we go behind protest lines to ask why militarized federal authorities are being deployed to an American city. Guests: Zolan Kanno-Youngs, The New York Times’s homeland security correspondent, and Mike Baker, a Pacific Northwest correspondent for The Times.For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily Background reading: The federal authorities said they would bring order to Portland, after weeks of protests. But local leaders believe the federal presence is making things worse, and a backlash has grown since the deployment began.Protesters have used everyday home items, including pool noodles, to try to fight the militarized force. This is what our reporter saw on the streets of Portland. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.