Today, Explained

Ian Millhiser, a legal expert on constitutional issues, dives into the heated debate over Donald Trump's eligibility for the 2024 ballot due to his actions on January 6, 2021. He discusses the implications of the 14th Amendment and highlights significant court rulings from states like Colorado and Maine. The conversation emphasizes the Supreme Court's unprecedented role in shaping the electoral landscape as it faces legal challenges and the potential chaos of differing state decisions. It's a pivotal moment for American democracy!

Tia Goldenberg, an AP reporter based in Israel, and Hussein Ibish, a scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, dive into the complexities of the ongoing conflict. They discuss the implications of a drone strike that killed a top Hamas official in Lebanon, raising concerns of escalating tensions. They unpack public sentiment in Israel, revealing a mix of military pride and anxiety over hostage negotiations. Lastly, they explore the political turmoil facing Netanyahu, highlighting shifts in public opinion and judicial challenges amidst ongoing unrest.

Alana Semuels, Senior economics correspondent at Time, dives into the pitfalls of the solar industry, sharing alarming stories about deceptive practices in solar panel leases. Andrew Moseman, Editor at Caltech, discusses the complexities of solar energy distribution, highlighting excess production and the struggles to transmit energy across states. The conversation reveals the hidden risks for homeowners and the unexpected challenges amid the solar adoption boom, including financial implications and the pressing need for infrastructure reform.

Dr. Tim Naimi, Director of the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, dives into the rising trend of dry January and the significant drop in young adults' alcohol consumption over the past two decades. He discusses new health guidelines suggesting risks start with just three drinks a week, challenging long-held beliefs about moderate drinking. The conversation explores the intersection of loneliness and drinking, the cultural shift towards sobriety, and the growing popularity of non-alcoholic options, highlighting a shift in societal attitudes.

Kristen Kobes-Dumay, historian and author of "Jesus and John Wayne," dives deep into the roots of the Joshua Generation, a group molded by evangelical ideals. Christina Beal, a former member, and stay-at-home mom shares her firsthand struggles with indoctrination and evolving parenting philosophies. Meanwhile, her husband Aaron Beal, a software engineer, offers a unique perspective on the political ambitions this generation has harbored. Together, they reflect on the challenges of stepping away from strict religious ideologies towards more open-minded practices.

Join Chris van Tulleken, an infectious disease specialist and author of Ultra-Processed People, as he shares his month-long adventure consuming ultra-processed foods. He discusses how these foods disrupt our biology and contribute to childhood obesity, revealing shocking marketing strategies. Chris highlights the addictive nature of these products and the challenges of breaking free from them. He advocates for food regulation and emphasizes the urgent need to address food inequality, particularly for marginalized communities.

Hilary Milnes, Executive Editor at Vogue Business, shares her insights on Shein, the Chinese fast-fashion giant poised to go public in 2024. She unpacks the ethical controversies surrounding its supply chain, including concerns over forced labor and environmental impact. Milnes highlights the clash between Shein’s appeal to Gen Z and their growing desire for sustainability. Additionally, the episode touches on the challenges faced by original designers against fast fashion's rampant imitation, raising critical questions about intellectual property in the industry.

Data analyst Jeff Asher sheds light on alarming trends in crime clearance rates, revealing that murder solve rates have plummeted from over 60% to 52% since 2019. Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia shares the pressing challenges faced by law enforcement, including staffing shortages and eroding community trust. They explore innovative solutions, such as integrating civilians into police roles, to improve effectiveness. The conversation highlights the need for strong leadership and better engagement to restore public confidence in policing.

Nilay Patel, Editor-in-chief of The Verge, reveals how Barnes & Noble transformed from a struggling giant into a community hub and bright spot in retail. Brendan Ballou, author of "Plunder," discusses the dual role of private equity, highlighting both revitalization and ethical concerns in American industries. They dive into the lessons learned from failures like the Nook e-reader, emphasizing the importance of local engagement in today’s book market. The conversation uncovers the intricate dance between profit and genuine literary passion.

Jess Weatherbed, a news writer at The Verge, discusses the EU's trailblazing AI Act and its potential impact on global standards. Anu Bradford, a professor at Columbia University and author of 'The Brussels Effect,' delves into how the EU's regulatory power shapes international policies. They explore the complexities of regulating AI amid rapid advancements, the balance between compliance and innovation, and the challenges of categorizing AI risks. Together, they highlight the EU's significant role in redefining tech regulations across the globe.