The Brian Lehrer Show

Anne Applebaum, staff writer at The Atlantic, historian and author of Autocracy Inc. (Penguin, 2024), argues the checks on presidential power, put in place by the founders, have so far failed in the second Trump administration, and talks about what causes authoritarian governments to fail.

Elizabeth Kim, a reporter from Gothamist and WNYC, dives into the fierce competition among progressives in the Democratic mayoral race, spotlighting Zohran Mamdani and Comptroller Brad Lander. They discuss the impact of endorsements from the Working Families Party and the challenges in uniting progressive support. Key issues like healthcare access and rent stabilization also come to the forefront, revealing the nuanced strategies candidates use to engage voters. The episode expertly navigates the complexities of outreach to the Latino community and the importance of authenticity in campaigning.

Lauren Weber, reporter at The Wall Street Journal, talks about why certain high-demand, upwardly mobile jobs remain hard to fill as we continue our series about workers skilled through alternative routes. → They Are Hot, Upwardly Mobile Jobs. Here’s Why They Are So Hard to Fill. | Wall Street Journal

In this engaging discussion, Sam Barzilay, creative director and co-founder of Photoville, explores the evolution of street photography over the last century. He reflects on the impact of the Leica camera, which revolutionized capturing life's decisive moments. The conversation delves into the significance of iconic photographers like Diane Arbus and the narratives of marginalized communities in New York. Barzilay also examines how smartphone technology is reshaping the art form, addressing both its accessibility and challenges, while promoting upcoming exhibitions celebrating this vibrant genre.

As the National Institute of Health is set to cut funding for climate research, Maggie Astor, New York Times reporter covering the intersection between health and politics, explains the broader impact these cuts may have on our public health. 

Coral Davenport, New York Times reporter covering the de-regulation of the federal government, talks about the hundreds of rules and regulations the Trump administration plans to do away with.

New York State will award three coveted casino licenses by the end of this year. Nick Garber, politics reporter at Crain's New York Business, reports on where the process stands, including news on environmental reviews, a big player dropping out and where the Mets owner Steve Cohen's bid stands.

James Martin, a Jesuit priest and founder of Outreach, shares profound insights on the legacy of Pope Francis following his passing. He discusses Pope Francis's evolving views on immigration and how they contrast with political figures like Biden and Trump. Martin highlights the Jesuit background that shaped Francis's inclusive leadership, particularly outreach to marginalized communities, including LGBTQ individuals. The conversation also explores possible future directions for the Vatican and personal reflections on the Pope’s impactful teachings during Easter.

Harold Hongju Koh, a professor of international law and former legal advisor to the U.S. Department of State, dives into the tumultuous relationship between the Trump administration and major law firms. He discusses the executive orders aimed at firms representing the president's critics, raising alarms about constitutional rights and due process. Koh highlights the chilling effects these orders have on legal representation and explores the negotiation pressures law firms faced when caught between political influence and their ethical obligations.

Stephen Nessen, a transportation reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, dives into the surprising federal takeover of the Penn Station reconstruction project under the Trump administration. He discusses the complexities sparked by the MTA's exit and the political motivations driving Trump's interest. Nessen addresses concerns about commuter services and community impacts, alongside debates over environmental considerations and infrastructure revitalization. The dynamics of local versus federal control in transit projects reveal the intricate layers of New York's future transportation landscape.