The Brian Lehrer Show

Harold Solis, legal director at Make the Road New York, offers legal analysis of President Donald Trump's executive order ending birthright citizenship for those born to undocumented parents and the lawsuit brought forth by his organization, the ACLU, and other Civil and Immigration Rights advocacy groups.

On Inauguration Day, Philip Bump, national columnist for The Washington Post and the author of The Aftermath: The Last Days of the Baby Boom and the Future of Power in America (Viking, 2023), talks about the final moves by President Biden, and what President-elect Trump may do in his first days in office. 

For the centennial series "100 Years of 100 Things," Jacqueline Lewis, senior minister and public theologian at the Middle Collegiate Church, and author of Fierce Love: A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness that Can Heal the World (Harmony, 2021), and Jeanne Theoharis, professor of political science at Brooklyn College, and the author of many books on the civil rights and Black Power movements and the contemporary politics of race, reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and legacy, on the day that honors him.  Their conversation was part of the WNYC event, "A Burning House" — MLK and the American Experiment at The Apollo Theater, on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.100 Years of 100 Things: Partisanship & Inaugural Addresses (First) | 100 Years of 100 Things: The Great Gatsby (Starts at 42:23) | Dry January Amid a New Cancer Risk Report (Starts at 1:22:50)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here. 

Zellnor Myrie, a New York state senator and Codes Committee chair, is campaigning for mayor with a focus on Brooklyn's neighborhoods. He discusses the pressing challenges of affordability and the need for fresh leadership in a competitive primary race. Myrie emphasizes the impact of 2019 rent laws on tenants and property owners, advocating for government intervention in housing. He also addresses the need for universal after-school programs, and touches on corruption in the NYPD, calling for integrity and community engagement to restore public trust.

Elise Hu, a Los Angeles-based journalist and former NPR correspondent, discusses the aftermath of the recent fires in LA and how communities are coming together to support one another. She highlights crucial roles played by organizations like the Red Cross and the rise of mutual aid groups. Elise also warns against charity scams, emphasizing the need for donors to verify organizations before giving. She touches on the complexities of using platforms like GoFundMe for disaster relief and the importance of ensuring proper support for those affected.

Sylvia Varnham O'Regan is a tech reporter for The Information, specializing in social media dynamics. Emily Bazelon, a NY Times Magazine writer and Yale law fellow, provides insight into legal aspects around TikTok. They discuss the Supreme Court's ban and what it means for users and creators. The conversation dives into First Amendment rights versus national security concerns. They also explore emotional impacts on TikTok's community, data privacy issues, and the broader implications for social media regulation.

Jonathan Lemire, co-host of MSNBC's Morning Joe and contributing writer for The Atlantic, dives into the political landscape as Biden exits and Trump prepares for his return. He discusses the implications of the Supreme Court’s TikTok ruling and how it affects young voters. Lemire reflects on Biden's mixed legacy, highlighting his achievements and challenges as he departs. The conversation also touches on Trump's meeting with Mayor Adams, exploring their political dynamics and legal hurdles. The episode offers insightful commentary on the evolving state of American politics.

Listeners dive into the challenges and benefits of participating in Dry January, sharing personal stories and motivations. The discussion is sparked by a new surgeon general's report outlining the health risks associated with alcohol consumption. Callers reflect on how the findings influence their choices and experiences during the month of sobriety. The conversation highlights both the social dynamics and individual journeys of those attempting to abstain from alcohol.

Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General, shares insights on the alarming cancer risks associated with even moderate alcohol consumption. He emphasizes the need for clear health warnings on alcohol labels. Murthy also discusses the complexities around alcohol, addiction, and public health, urging informed discourse on topics like cannabis legalization. Furthermore, he highlights the transformative power of arts in combating loneliness among the elderly and advocates for community engagement to tackle mental health challenges in a post-pandemic world.