The Brian Lehrer Show

David Graham, staff writer at The Atlantic and author of The Project: How Project 2025 Is Reshaping America, discusses President Trump's controversial decision to deploy federal troops in D.C. amid reducing crime rates. He delves into the implications for local safety and democracy, questioning whether this move signals a power grab. Graham highlights the historical context of militarized policing in urban areas, especially in black communities, and critiques the lack of local leadership in addressing underlying social issues like homelessness and mental health.

Michael Osterholm, Director of CIDRAP and author of The Big One, shares insights on recent cuts to mRNA vaccine funding and their implications for public health. He emphasizes the critical role of mRNA technology beyond COVID-19, discusses the troubling impact of misinformation on vaccine perceptions, and highlights the need for scientific integrity in vaccination efforts. Osterholm also initiates the Vaccine Integrity Project to enhance public understanding of vaccine efficacy, analyzing extensive research data to combat skepticism.

Myles Ehrlich, a WNBA senior writer for Winsidr.com and co-host of "Pull Up with Myles and Owen," dives into the pressing issues of player compensation in the WNBA. He discusses how players are advocating for their fair share amidst claims from owners that the league isn't profitable, despite recent growth. Highlights include a powerful protest during All-Star Weekend and the growing frustration over stalled negotiations. Ehrlich also sheds light on the historical financial disparities in women's sports, underscoring the need for change.

Adam Gopnik, a staff writer for The New Yorker and author of The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery, dives into the captivating history of gambling in New York City. He discusses iconic figures like Arnold Rothstein and his innovative role in shaping organized crime. Listeners hear about thrilling underground poker games and the deep-rooted impact of gambling on families and communities. Gopnik also explores the darker legacies of addiction and the complex consequences of casinos, revealing the intertwined fate of gambling culture and society.

Caroline Lewis, a healthcare reporter, and Joe Hong, an investigative data reporter, dive into the ongoing Legionnaires' outbreak in Central Harlem. They illuminate why this area has become a hot spot, discussing the alarming rise in cases and related health impacts. The duo highlights the worrying decline in cooling tower inspections and how this could jeopardize public safety. Additionally, they tackle the challenges city health departments face, especially after the pandemic, and the critical need for transparency and effective communication with the community.

Eric Levitz, senior correspondent at Vox, dives into the repercussions of Trump's tariffs, which recently went into effect, and their lasting impact on American consumers. He discusses how these tariffs might be challenging to reverse, despite their negative effects on local businesses and inflation. Levitz also addresses the burdens small enterprises face due to rising costs and the complexities surrounding public trust in government and taxation. The conversation culminates in a consideration of how economic dissatisfaction could alter political loyalties.

Tad Friend, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'In the Early Times: A Life Reframed', dives into the intriguing longevity industry. He discusses the booming market focused on defeating death and the billionaires fueling this quest. The dialogue explores biohacking trends, the skepticism around health supplements, and the need for balanced nutrition. Friend also tackles the philosophical implications of digital immortality, raising questions about identity in the race for eternal life.

Arun Venugopal, a senior reporter for WNYC's race & justice unit, dives into the impact of President Trump’s tariffs on NYC tourism. He reveals how these policies are projected to cause a drop of 3 million visitors, hitting local businesses hard. The discussion spans the economic significance of tourism, the decline in visitors from key countries, and the effects of political rhetoric on travel perceptions. Venugopal also contrasts the struggles of hotels with the success stories of Airbnb hosts adapting to changing trends.

Martha Barnette, co-host of A Way with Words and author of Friends with Words: Adventures in Languageland, dives into the fascinating histories behind words like 'spam' and 'cocktail.' She explains how cultural influences, like a Monty Python sketch, shape language use. Martha shares intriguing origins, such as how 'cocktail' relates to horses with docked tails. The conversation also explores regional phrases in America and highlights the fluidity of grammar, celebrating the ever-evolving nature of language.

Robert Reich, former U.S. Labor Secretary and public policy professor, discusses the economic ramifications of political decisions, offering insights from his memoir. William Sharp delves into ARFID, an eating disorder, sharing a poignant case study that highlights its psychological impact. Carter Sherman addresses Gen Z's 'intimacy recession,' exploring how social media and the Me Too movement shape modern relationships. Together, they unpack critical issues from personal experiences to significant societal trends.