Today, Explained

Leon Neyfakh, co-host of the Audible podcast "Backfired," dives into the tumultuous story of Juul, from its rise as a revolutionary smoking alternative to its downfall after regulatory crackdowns. He discusses how banning Juul unintentionally led to a surge in unregulated Chinese e-cigarettes, complicating the vaping landscape. Neyfakh also explores alarming youth vaping trends and the struggles of the FDA to balance regulations, shedding light on the unintended consequences of stricter policies and the shifting dynamics of a complex market.

C. Ryan Barber, a Wall Street Journal reporter specializing in the Justice Department, provides insightful analysis on the implications of a federal judge dismissing Trump's classified documents case. He discusses the details of Trump's legal battles and the potential impact on his future. Barber also delves into the controversies surrounding special counsel appointments and the judicial challenges faced by Trump-appointed judges, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of legal affairs that could shape political futures.

Ian Ward, a Politico reporter, dives into the fascinating transformation of Ohio Senator J.D. Vance from a self-proclaimed hillbilly to a key player in the Republican Party. He unpacks Vance's journey from writing about Appalachian struggles to embracing Trump’s populist agenda, highlighting his shifted views and political aspirations. The discussion touches on the implications of nationalist populism, critiques of liberal progressivism, and the socioeconomic challenges facing the American working class, all while addressing the evolving nature of conservative values.

In this discussion with Eric Nisbet, a Northwestern University professor studying public perceptions of political violence, they delve into the alarming rise of partisan political violence in the U.S. Nisbet examines the implications of these tensions on democracy, as seen in a recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump. They highlight the need for unity from leaders like Trump and Biden amidst the chaos and explore how this moment could prompt deeper societal reflections on civic engagement and the impacts of rising threats against diverse political figures.

Join music aficionados Charlie Harding, co-host of Switched On Pop, and Brittany Spanos, a music writer for Rolling Stone, as they challenge the very existence of the 'Song of the Summer.' They dive into the evolution of this cultural phenomenon, contrasting past hits with today’s fragmented music scene. From the effects of streaming on listener habits to the resurgence of long-time artists at the top of the charts, their discussion offers a fresh perspective on music's changing landscape and its connection to cultural moments.

Shelby Talcott, a reporter for Semafor covering the 2024 presidential election, dives deep into Project 2025—a strategic plan by the Heritage Foundation for a potential second Trump term. She reveals the agency's comprehensive agenda, featuring over 800 policy proposals aimed at reshaping governance. The discussion highlights the intricate relationship between the Trump campaign and Project 2025, including mixed feelings from previous officials. Talcott also touches on how social media is influencing public perception and the implications of this ambitious initiative.

Ian Millhiser, a Vox writer and expert on the Supreme Court, discusses the court's recent significant shifts. He analyzes how rulings are reshaping federal agency power, particularly the overruling of the Chevron doctrine. Millhiser raises alarms about the court's increasing involvement in trivial legal matters and its implications for governance. Additionally, he highlights the trend of citizens turning to the Supreme Court for disputes with federal agencies, stressing the need for informed voter influence over judicial decisions.

Nancy Solomon, a seasoned WNYC reporter known for her work on New Jersey politics and the Dead End podcast, dives into the murky waters of political corruption in the Garden State. She discusses the serious indictments against Senator Robert Menendez and power broker George Norcross. The conversation unveils shocking bribery allegations, curious gold bars, and a messy web of racketeering. With a blend of humor and insight, Solomon outlines the challenges facing New Jersey's political future in light of these scandals and the role of dark money.

In this engaging discussion, Christian Paz, a senior politics reporter at Vox, and Amy Walter, editor of the Cook Political Report, delve into the complexities of President Biden's re-election campaign. They explore the mounting doubts among Democrats about his candidacy and the evolving dynamics within the party. The conversation touches on Biden's strategic challenges, internal tensions regarding alternative candidates, and implications for the upcoming elections. With a mix of political insights and candid assessments, they shed light on the uncertain future of Democratic leadership.

Professor Sarah Morris, an English expert from West Virginia University and author focused on 'Country Roads,' teams up with Jason Jung, a Brooklyn-based writer who explores the song's appeal in Asia. They discuss how John Denver's classic resonates globally, particularly among Chinese students and its significance in U.S.-China relations. The song's themes of nostalgia and home connect people across cultures, while its emotional depth underscores a universal longing for belonging, transcending geographic and political boundaries.