Today, Explained

Join political reporter David Weigel from Semafor as he unpacks the squatting crisis rattling America. He discusses the surge in squatting incidents and the complex dance between homeowners, squatters, and the law. Weigel highlights the emotional toll on homeowners and the role of media in shaping perceptions about squatting. The conversation dives into legislative responses, explores the connections to the housing crisis, and touches on how social media has amplified these narratives, impacting property laws and public opinion.

Marin Cogan, a Vox correspondent specializing in auto issues, dives deep into the skyrocketing costs of car ownership. She discusses how new vehicle prices have soared to an average of $48,000, fueled by trends toward luxury models and rising insurance rates. The conversation also covers the consequences of pandemic-era driving behaviors, which have led to increased risks and costs. Personal stories reveal the burdens of auto loans, shedding light on systemic issues and the push for greater transparency in financing.

Andrew Prokop, a Vox journalist, breaks down the legal stakes in Donald Trump's trial, highlighting the implications of hush money payments and falsified records. Abdallah Fayyad, a Vox policy editor, discusses Trump’s substantial financial woes, including mounting legal debts and the nosedive of Truth Social’s stock. The conversation dives into how these financial challenges could impact Trump’s political future and campaign strategies, all while revealing the complex interplay between law, finance, and politics in today's world.

Gregg Carlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, teams up with Noga Tarnopolsky, a journalist based in Jerusalem, to dissect the recent Iranian attacks on Israel. They delve into how the unprecedented drone and missile strikes could shift regional dynamics. The conversation reveals Iran's strategic miscalculation and examines the implications for Israeli politics, especially regarding Netanyahu's declining popularity. Listeners gain insight into the volatile geopolitics of the Middle East and the delicate balance of military responses.

Mark Olsen, a movie critic for the LA Times, and Nathan Blake, a film theory professor at Northeastern University, dive into the gripping film 'Civil War.' They discuss how this apocalyptic narrative mirrors America's current political divide and raises unsettling questions about violence in society. The conversation explores how cinema reflects collective fears and the moral complexities surrounding conflict. They also examine the evolution of horror films, revealing how they capture societal anxieties across different eras.

David Kirkpatrick, a Staff writer for The New Yorker known for his insightful political analysis, discusses Speaker Mike Johnson's ascent to power and the tumultuous political landscape he navigates. The conversation highlights Johnson's struggle to secure funding for Ukraine against internal party dissent. Kirkpatrick explores Johnson's conservative roots, his evolving political stance influenced by personal values, and his potential for future leadership. The dynamic relationship with Trump and the quest for bipartisanship are also key themes.

Quinn Kleinfelter, a senior news editor at WDET, shares insights on the historic prosecution of the parents of the Oxford High School shooter, the first of its kind in the U.S. Echo Iyanka, a law and philosophy professor, discusses the ethical complexities surrounding parental responsibility in violent incidents. They delve into the ramifications of this case on Michigan's gun laws and explore broader issues of accountability when parents fail to address their children's mental health and secure firearms. The conversation raises critical questions about justice and societal responsibilities.

In this discussion, Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent at Vox and author of "Why I Gave My Kidney to a Stranger and Why You Should Consider Doing It Too," delves into the groundbreaking transplant of a pig kidney into a human. He highlights the ethical concerns about using animal organs and advocates for human kidney donations instead. Matthews shares his personal journey of living with one kidney, emphasizing the emotional and physical aspects of donation, and exploring alternatives to alleviate organ shortages.

Liam Knox, a Reporter at Inside Higher Ed, and Miles Bryan, Philadelphia Bureau Chief, dive into the evolving landscape of higher education. They discuss growing disillusionment with traditional college paths sparked by soaring costs and lower enrollment, especially after the pandemic. Minnesota’s innovative funding strategies for public colleges emerge as a beacon of hope. They share personal stories, like that of Jorge Vargas, who faces the tough choice between college and the military, highlighting broader issues of accessibility and socio-economic barriers.

Joining the discussion are Rebecca Jennings, a Vox correspondent specializing in internet culture, and Jessica Cruel, the editor-in-chief of Allure. They explore the rising obsession of Gen Alpha with high-end skincare, revealing how social media shapes their beauty ideals. Concerns over aging are prominent, with Gen Z questioning youthful beauty standards. The duo also critiques the beauty industry's impact on body positivity movements and the pressures young people face to look flawless. It's a deep dive into today's skincare craze and its societal implications.