Post Reports

Mary Beth Sheridan, Mexico City bureau chief for The Washington Post, delves into President Trump's recent tariff announcements affecting Mexico, Canada, and China. She explains the potential economic consequences, including rising prices for everyday goods like cars and smartphones. The discussion highlights the complex interplay between trade policies and border security, as well as the urgent negotiations between Trump and foreign leaders. Listeners gain insights into how tariffs can shape international relations and impact consumer costs.

A Columbia professor faces a significant dilemma after voicing her thoughts during student protests about the Gaza conflict. Her comments lead to scrutiny and fears of punishment in an increasingly tense academic environment. With other professors already facing jobs at risk, she grapples with potential consequences and her future in academia. Ultimately, reflecting on 25 years of service, she must decide whether to fight the decision or step away, highlighting the complex interplay of free speech and personal sacrifice in a politically charged landscape.

In this discussion, Jeff Stein, an economics reporter for The Washington Post, and Liz Goodwin, a Congressional reporter, dissect the chaotic aftermath of a tragic plane crash linked to Trump’s narrative. They delve into Trump’s unverified claims regarding DEI and its connection to the crash. The duo also tackles the administration's abrupt changes in federal funding and the political drama surrounding the Senate hearings for controversial Cabinet nominees. Their insights highlight the tense intersection of politics, media response, and legislative challenges.

Lori Aratani, a seasoned Transportation reporter for The Washington Post, dives deep into the tragic midair collision between an American Airlines flight and an Army Black Hawk helicopter in D.C. She discusses eyewitness accounts, the immediate response, and the heart-wrenching aftermath. The conversation also unpacks safety concerns surrounding Reagan National Airport, including a rise in near-miss incidents and the implications for air traffic management. Aratani tackles misconceptions about aviation safety and the ongoing investigations by the NTSB.

Eva Dou, a tech policy reporter for The Washington Post and author of "House of Huawei," dives into the AI arms race sparked by the Chinese startup DeepSeek. This unexpected competitor is shaking up the U.S. tech market and raising alarms in San Francisco and Wall Street. Dou discusses the implications of DeepSeek's dominance, the scrappy startup's innovative low-cost AI, and how U.S. export controls are reshaping the landscape. The conversation highlights the urgent need for American companies to adapt or risk falling behind in this fierce technological rivalry.

Lauren Weber, a health reporter for The Washington Post, investigates the alarming vaccine claims made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. She highlights how RFK Jr.’s stances have raised red flags among public health experts. The discussion unpacks his unfounded ties of vaccines to autism and cancer, contrasting them with scientific consensus. Weber also touches on the political implications of his nomination for the Department of Health and Human Services and the chaotic public health landscape, including family disputes and policy changes affecting vaccine discourse.

Nick Miroff, an immigration reporter for The Washington Post, dives deep into the Trump administration's startling new deportation quotas, increasing daily removals to over 1,200. He discusses the potential for indiscriminate enforcement tactics and the civil rights concerns that may arise. The conversation also highlights the backlash from communities, the challenges of implementing such ambitious goals, and the impact on the immigrant population. Miroff examines the ethical dilemmas within the legal system and the political fallout from these intensified deportation campaigns.

Debora Cahn, the creative mind behind Netflix's "The Diplomat," shares insights into her experiences as a writer and producer. She discusses the show's focus on the often-untold stories of career diplomats and the concept of 'competency porn' in political dramas. Cahn explores the intricate balance between personal and professional lives of diplomats, highlighting authentic relationships amidst political pressures. The conversation also delves into the challenges female characters face in politics, with references to real-world dynamics and character complexities.

Isaac Arnsdorf, Senior White House reporter for The Washington Post, and Marianne LeVine, National political reporter covering immigration, discuss Trump's executive actions during his second term's first week. They explore the immediate effects on immigration policy, including troop deployments and mass deportations. The conversation highlights the muted Republican response to Trump's pardons of January 6 rioters, revealing rifts within the party and contrasting these actions with Biden's approach, shedding light on the implications for political accountability.

Hannah Ziegler, a business reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the evolving workforce landscape, spotlighting older women who are breaking barriers. She discusses how many women over 55 are embracing careers later in life for fulfillment and financial necessity. Personal stories highlight their resilience amid gender disparities. Ziegler also explores the financial pressures that keep older women working longer and the inspiring shifts in retirement perspectives, making a case for empathy and collaboration in leadership roles.