Today, Explained

In this discussion, Olivia Beavers, a Politico reporter covering House Republicans, unpacks the political balancing act of Speaker Mike Johnson. She highlights his surprising move to collaborate with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown while hinting at upcoming conflicts within his party. The conversation digs into Johnson's controversial views on LGBTQ and women's rights and his historical ties to the Alliance Defending Freedom. Beavers also examines the complexities of leading amidst internal party strife as the 2024 elections approach.

Ana Lankes, Latin America correspondent for The Economist, dives into Argentina's alarming inflation crisis at 143%. She discusses the upcoming presidential runoff featuring Peronist insider Sergio Massa and the radical economist Javier Milei. Lankes explains how economic woes shape voter sentiment, highlighting Milei's anarcho-capitalism appeal and flamboyant style that captivates younger voters. The complexities of governance amid rampant inflation and deep-seated political challenges are also examined, painting a vivid picture of Argentina's uncertain future.

Mohammed Ghalaieny, a Palestinian British atmospheric scientist, shares his compelling reasons for staying in Gaza during the ongoing siege, highlighting themes of belonging and community. Mohanad Sabri, an independent journalist, adds insight into the complexities of the Rafah crossing and the struggles many face trying to escape the violence. The conversation touches on the harrowing realities of displacement, the emotional toll on civilians, and the dire humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the personal stories behind the statistics.

Ian Johnson, a Senior Fellow for China Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, shares insights into the complex dynamics of U.S.-China relations. He discusses the fading charm of panda diplomacy, once a symbol of goodwill, and its historical context dating back to Nixon's visit. The conversation also touches on critical issues like Taiwan and the fentanyl crisis as the leaders prepare for an important meeting. Johnson emphasizes the current challenges both nations face, particularly in economic stability and public sentiment.

Devin Friedman, a writer with a long-held dream of owning a pool, shares his cautionary tale of falling victim to a pool contractor scam that cost him over $31,000. He discusses the emotional toll of being misled by a quirky contractor and highlights the challenges of navigating digital payments like Zelle, where the lack of consumer protections complicates recovery. Through his story, Devin sheds light on the alarming ease of being scammed in today's digital age and the need for greater accountability in financial transactions.

Andrew Hawkins, Transportation editor at The Verge, and William Michael Lynn, Professor at Cornell's Hotel School, dive into the evolving world of tipping, sparked by DoorDash's new policy that rewards tippers. They discuss the phenomenon of 'tip fatigue,' especially among younger consumers, and question the fairness of tipping versus living wages. The conversation sheds light on how technology and politics shape our tipping habits, along with anecdotes revealing tipping's complex emotional landscape in today’s digital age.

Join Vox's Jonathan Guyer, who covers U.S. foreign policy, and Jon B. Alterman, a Middle East expert, as they dissect the urgent calls for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. They explore the complex dynamics of the hostage situation and the challenges of balancing military objectives with humanitarian needs. The discussion highlights the shifting stance of the U.S. government and the potential for regional escalation involving Iran and Hezbollah, all while advocating for a path toward sustainable peace amidst the chaos.

McKay Coppins, author of "Romney: A Reckoning," provides an insider's view of Mitt Romney's political journey, revealing insights from unprecedented access to his emails and texts. He discusses Romney's disillusionment with the Senate, highlighting the moral struggles during impeachment. The conversation dives into Romney's fears for personal safety amid rising political extremism and his reflections on the January 6 Capitol riots. Coppins also explores the former senator's concerns about the Republican Party's shift toward authoritarianism and social media's impact on political discourse.

Caroline Love, a KERA reporter, and Eric Rubin, a law professor, dive deep into the Supreme Court case of Zackey Rahimi, accused of domestic violence. They discuss the legal intricacies of gun rights in the context of protective orders, highlighting troubling cases where abusers retain firearms despite restrictions. The conversation also explores the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings on public safety and domestic violence victims, questioning the balance between Second Amendment rights and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Mirtha Donastorg, a business reporter at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and Dominic-Madori Davis, a senior reporter at TechCrunch, dive into the escalating backlash against diversity efforts. They discuss a lawsuit targeting the Fearless Fund, which supports Black women entrepreneurs, and examine the implications of such legal challenges on funding equity. The conversation highlights the obstacles faced by underrepresented founders in a changing political landscape, underscoring the urgency of financial support and the fight for inclusivity in venture capital.