The Brian Lehrer Show

In this engaging discussion, Robin Wright, a seasoned journalist and expert on Iran, unpacks Israel's ongoing military actions against Iran and the dire humanitarian consequences. She sheds light on Prime Minister Netanyahu's ambitions for regime change and the complex U.S.-Israel-Iran relationship. Wright also explores the historical context of U.S. interventions in the Middle East and the impact on Iranian civilians. The conversation touches on the intricate dynamics of nuclear negotiations and the geopolitical challenges faced by global powers in the region.

Kate Shaw, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, dives into recent Supreme Court rulings. She unpacks the Tennessee case on gender-affirming care for minors, examining its implications for the Equal Protection Clause. The discussion also touches on parental rights, debates surrounding intersex individuals, and the legality of the National Guard's deployment under presidential orders. Additionally, Shaw addresses the chilling trend of courthouse arrests impacting migrants.

Join Elizabeth Kim, a WNYC and Gothamist political reporter, as she dives into the chaotic New York City mayoral race. She discusses the arrest of Comptroller Brad Lander during an immigration protest and its political fallout. The conversation shifts to Assemblymember Mamdani's heightened security measures amidst rising threats. Kim also explores how these events impact voter sentiment and the ever-changing landscape of endorsements, revealing the challenges candidates face as they navigate public perception in a heated primary.

As early voting approaches, listeners voice their top three mayoral election issues, highlighting affordability, public safety, and healthcare equity. Participants share personal anecdotes about education access and the need for reliable transportation. The challenges of housing, including poor conditions and struggles with public transit, are also critical topics. Additionally, urban management concerns, like inadequate street cleaning and e-bike regulations, emphasize the community's desire for candidates who truly understand their priorities.

Wafaa El-Sadr, a professor at Columbia University and global health expert, joins Jon Cohen, a senior correspondent at Science, to discuss the implications of dwindling U.S. aid for HIV/AIDS treatment. They dive into how Lesotho and other countries are adapting to diminished support. The conversation highlights the urgent need for community resources and transportation for pregnant women in treatment. They also explore the overall impact of policy changes on global health, stressing the importance of local capacity building amidst shifting U.S. contributions.

Marisa Donnelly, an epidemiologist and New York correspondent for Your Local Epidemiologist, delves into the public health policies put forth by mayoral candidates. She emphasizes the mayor's significant role in shaping health initiatives, touching on issues from maternal health to chronic disease management. Donnelly also confronts the alarming maternal mortality rates among black women and the need for actionable solutions. Additionally, she critiques the transition from traditional Medicare to Medicare Advantage for retirees and discusses the candidates' approaches to tackling obesity and sugary drink regulations.

Keanu Arpels-Josiah, a climate justice organizer with Fridays for Future NYC and a Swarthmore College student, joins Julie Tighe, president of the New York League of Conservation Voters. They dive into mayoral candidates' stances on climate change, linking environmental policies to public health concerns. The duo discusses the urgency of youth activism in the climate movement and the need for addressing inequalities faced by marginalized communities. They highlight critical perspectives on candidates' records and the importance of informed voter engagement in the upcoming election.

Errol Louis, a seasoned political anchor and columnist, teams up with Zeran Mamdani, State Assemblyman from Queens, to dissect the current mayoral primary campaign. They dive into the recent debates, focusing on candidates' integrity and the importance of authentic community engagement. Louis and Mamdani discuss voter sentiments amid early voting, the intricacies of ranked choice voting, and missed opportunities to address key issues like public health and climate change. Their insights shine a light on the evolving dynamics of local politics and the challenges candidates face.

Robert Macfarlane, a nature writer and author of 'Underland' and 'Is a River Alive?', delves into the fascinating concept of rivers as living entities deserving legal rights. He discusses the declining health of English rivers and shares compelling recovery stories from Ecuador, India, and Canada. The conversation highlights a shift in environmental law that recognizes nature's intrinsic rights and the spiritual connections we form with rivers. Macfarlane emphasizes the hopeful potential for global guardianship, inviting listeners to rethink our relationship with these vital waterways.

Susan Glasser, a staff writer at The New Yorker and co-host of the Political Scene podcast, dives into the latest in national politics. She discusses the tragic shooting of lawmakers in Minnesota and the implications for political dissent. Glasser highlights the mixed public reaction to President Trump's military parade and its impact on democracy. The conversation also touches on the shifting landscape of immigration policy and the diverse demographics at the No Kings Day rally, showcasing the evolving political affiliations across the country.