The Brian Lehrer Show

Liam Knox, an admissions and enrollment reporter for Inside Higher Ed, shares vital insights on international students in the U.S. He discusses the Trump administration's aggressive stance on revoking student visas, particularly affecting Chinese students. Knox highlights the growing tension between universities and government policies over foreign student admissions. He also addresses the financial contributions of these students and the safety concerns they face amidst a challenging political climate, illustrating the significant role they play in American higher education.

Listeners share their hilarious experiences waiting in line across New York City. From a caller’s epic four-hour quest for celebrity-endorsed pizza to the joy of bonding with strangers while lining up for Broadway tickets, the stories are both entertaining and eye-opening. Each tale highlights the unique culture of waiting, revealing the anticipation and camaraderie that turn mundane moments into cherished memories.

Madina Touré, a New York education policy reporter for Politico New York, dives deep into the child care crisis influencing the mayoral primary race. She discusses how high child care costs are pushing families to reconsider living in the city. Touré breaks down candidates' proposals, including '2K for All,' and highlights the urgent need for better wages in the childcare sector. The conversation also addresses the critical role of infant care and its impact on family inequality, especially for families of color and immigrants.

Danny Nguyen, a Politico reporter focused on national politics, discusses the ongoing efforts of DOGE after Elon Musk's exit from Washington. He delves into the implications of budget cuts on essential services, particularly in health and research. Personal stories highlight the emotional toll on federal workers facing job insecurity. Nguyen also explores the impact of a toxic work environment on public service morale, revealing the struggles employees endure amidst policy-driven changes.

Natalie Wynn, the creative force behind the YouTube channel ContraPoints, dives deep into the world of conspiracies and their impact on democracy. She explores the psychological allure of conspiratorial thinking and its historical roots in American politics. As a former philosophy PhD, Natalie shares insights on navigating the evolving YouTube landscape and discusses strategies for addressing conspiracy beliefs within families. The power of authenticity in content creation and fostering critical thinking are key themes, making for a thought-provoking conversation.

In the latest discussion, John Avlon, journalist and former congressional candidate, teams up with Grace Rauh, the new executive director of Citizens Union and a former political reporter. They highlight the importance of open primary elections and propose shifting local elections to even-numbered years to boost voter turnout. They delve into the need for greater accountability in NYC politics and how reforms can engage independent voters. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of endorsements in local races, emphasizing the push for reform-oriented candidates.

Andrew Lautz, Associate Director for the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Economic Policy Program, dives into the complex world of the SALT deduction. He unpacks the implications of raising the cap on SALT deductions, especially for taxpayers in New York and New Jersey. Discussions reveal the historical roots of the current cap and the bipartisan divide surrounding it. Lautz also explores the potential consequences of proposed tax reforms, particularly how they affect high-income earners and seniors, sparking a need for more bipartisan dialogue on tax equity.

Gerry Shih, Jerusalem bureau chief for The Washington Post, shares insights on the escalating conflict in Gaza. He discusses the worsening humanitarian crisis and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy. Shih highlights shifting public opinions in Israel regarding military actions, showcasing internal dissent and a desire for peace. The impact of President Trump's visit and the redefinition of U.S.-Israel relations are explored, along with evolving international perspectives on the conflict and the inconsistent support from European allies.

Graduation season sparks inspiring stories as listeners share wisdom from recent commencement speeches. Themes of dreaming big and overcoming challenges shine through. The importance of local news in fostering community and democracy is discussed, alongside powerful messages about collaboration and self-worth. Notable reflections highlight the call to defend democracy, connecting past and present societal challenges. Each insight offers motivation for graduates as they step into the future.

Brigid Bergin and Elizabeth Kim, both seasoned political reporters for WNYC and Gothamist, dive into the hot topics shaking New York City politics. They discuss the fallout from ICE's controversial arrest of a student and Mayor Adams' sanctuary city policies. The conversation shifts to the political legacy of Andrew Cuomo, exploring nursing home fatalities during the pandemic and the scrutiny he faces. They wrap up with insights on the competitive climate within the Working Families Party, revealing how endorsements and funding impact campaign strategies.