Post Reports

Fenit Nirappil, a National health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the heated debates surrounding fluoride in drinking water. Exploring Oregon's unique stance, he reveals how Portland has become the largest U.S. city without fluoride. The conversation touches on the historical significance of fluoride for dental health, recent concerns about its safety, and the political ripple effects of community-driven decisions. Nirappil’s on-the-ground insights showcase the passionate activism and contrasting opinions shaping this public health issue.

Guest host Ava Wallace, a sports writer for The Washington Post, chats with soccer experts Steve Goff and Ella Brockway about the explosive growth of the NWSL. They discuss how the league transformed from a struggling entity to a financial powerhouse. The trio highlights the evolution of women's soccer in the U.S., the resilience of the Washington Spirit, and the impact of significant investments. They also celebrate key players like Marta and examine the cultural shift towards embracing women's sports.

Laura Meckler, a national education reporter for The Washington Post, shares insights on Trump's controversial pledge to abolish the Education Department. They discuss the historical context of these efforts, dating back to 1979, and the political challenges involved in such a move. Meckler highlights the implications for funding and federal oversight if the department were eliminated. She also explores the responses from educators and parents, revealing a mix of concern and indifference towards potential cuts to education funding.

Nick Miroff, an immigration enforcement reporter from The Washington Post, dives into the implications of Trump's immigration policies and his promise of mass deportations. He discusses the significance of key appointees like Stephen Miller and Tom Homan in shaping these policies. Miroff details the contrasting immigration landscape under the Biden administration versus Trump's era, exploring the challenges and logistics of implementing mass deportation strategies. He also highlights the fears facing immigrant communities amid these proposed changes.

Liz Goodwin, a Congress reporter for The Washington Post, dives deep into Trump's eyebrow-raising Cabinet choices, including the controversial Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services. The discussion reveals how these picks might face opposition from Senate Republicans and explores the dynamics of bypassing traditional confirmation processes. Goodwin also highlights the political fallout around nominations like Matt Gaetz for Justice and Tulsi Gabbard's role in intelligence, emphasizing the shifting power within the GOP and its implications for Congress.

Marianna Sotomayor, a Congressional reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the shocking nomination of Matt Gaetz as attorney general by Donald Trump. She discusses the serious allegations surrounding Gaetz, including sexual misconduct and illegal drug use, and how these controversies have polarized his standing within the Republican Party. The conversation also touches on the implications of Gaetz’s fervent loyalty to Trump, potential political retribution, and the tension it creates for Senate Republicans while hinting at broader party dynamics.

Trisha Thadani, a tech reporter for The Washington Post, delves into Elon Musk's surprising political rise, highlighting his substantial financial backing of Donald Trump's campaign. They discuss Musk's active role in the America PAC and his ambitious goal of leading a new Department of Government Efficiency, which seeks to drastically cut government spending. The conversation also explores the implications of billionaire influence on politics, particularly how Musk's strategies challenge traditional norms and reshape voter engagement.

Molly Hennessy-Fiske, a Post reporter specializing in abortion coverage, joins to analyze the mixed election results regarding abortion access. She discusses how new protections were established in several states but others, like Florida, faced setbacks. The conversation delves into the potential impacts of a forthcoming Republican administration and speculates on federal abortion bans. Personal stories highlight the emotional struggles influenced by restrictive laws, emphasizing the ongoing fight for reproductive rights amid shifting political landscapes.

Foreign affairs columnist Ishaan Tharoor discusses the global implications of Donald Trump's electoral victory. He highlights how foreign leaders, from Western allies to Russia, are reacting to the prospect of a second Trump presidency. The conversation touches on concerns regarding U.S. military aid to Ukraine, shifting dynamics within NATO, and the potential impact on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Tharoor explores how Trump's foreign policy might reshape international alliances and address pressing global issues.

Cleve Wootson, a White House reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the aftermath of Kamala Harris's presidential campaign. He discusses the emotional toll of the loss and the questions early voters are asking. The conversation reveals the challenges Harris faced, including a fragmented messaging strategy and insufficient outreach to diverse demographics. They delve into the impact of gender and race on voting behavior, exploring how biases may have influenced the election outcomes and the future hopes for female and minority candidates in politics.