Apple News Today

A health reporter uncovers troubling cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services, highlighting their impact on public health and vulnerable communities. Tensions rise as Israel escalates military operations in Gaza, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. The looming threat of tariffs on international film production causes unrest in Hollywood, with many fearing job losses. Finally, the podcast touches on the latest Pulitzer Prize winners and travel updates, including looming deadlines for Real ID requirements.

The trial of Sean Combs opens with serious federal charges, spotlighting his principled defense attorney, Brian Steele. Warren Buffett announces his step down as CEO, reflecting on economic challenges and his legacy as an investor. Meanwhile, the Trump administration faces scrutiny over policies impacting family expansion amidst a push for a baby boom. From thwarted bomb threats at a Lady Gaga concert in Brazil to the cultural significance of Black dandyism at the Met Gala, this discussion captures critical current events and their broader implications.

The podcast dives into the Democratic Party's strategies to regain voter support amid the turbulent political landscape. It discusses internal debates over aggressive versus passive tactics in response to Trump. Generative AI's role in creating non-consensual deepfake porn is also a hot topic, highlighting significant societal implications. Additionally, it addresses recent judicial decisions affecting immigration and global press freedom. The conversation is timely and sheds light on the complexities of modern political challenges.

Kamala Harris makes waves with her first speech after leaving the White House, directly addressing Trump. The discussion dives into Trump's tariff strategy and its economic fallout, despite looming recession. The complexities of automating shoe manufacturing are explored, highlighting Nike's challenges. Additionally, the podcast examines Republican divisions over Medicaid cuts alongside looming budget bills, while also touching on the impact of recent political events in Michigan and Mississippi. The need for greater female political representation is also a key theme.

A look at the first 100 days of DOGE. Wired’s Makena Kelly has the details.  Israel has prevented almost all aid from reaching Gaza for close to two months. This week, the International Court of Justice began to weigh in. The Washington Post reports. Reuters also finds that community kitchens in Gaza may close due to dwindling supplies. The Trump administration’s deportations and detainments have left families shattered. Time looks at some of the more prominent cases. Plus, Trump scales back auto tariffs, a detained Columbia University student speaks, and Bob Ross gets his own museum exhibition. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Voters share their mixed feelings about Trump's second term, highlighting concerns over trade and healthcare. Economic turbulence sees a downturn in the stock market while businesses grapple with uncertainty. The Supreme Court hears a pivotal case on public funding for religious schools, sparking debate over church and state. Meanwhile, the DOJ faces a wave of lawyer departures, and a massive power outage disrupts Spain and Portugal's grid. Exciting discussions also touch on intriguing claims about non-speaking individuals with autism.

CNN's Harry Enten dives into why public opinion of Trump shifted quickly after an initial honeymoon. Immigrant enforcement actions spark debates, highlighted by a judge's controversial arrest. As Canadians head to the polls, the political stakes are examined amid significant public disapproval of Trump's policies. The impact of economic issues like inflation on voter sentiment is scrutinized, alongside international incidents including a meeting with Zelensky and a tragic event at a Filipino festival in Vancouver.

In a recent pulse-check on the health of our democracy by Bright Line Watch, hundreds of scholars warned that the U.S. is heading swiftly toward authoritarianism. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a professor of history at New York University who specializes in the subject, explains how we got here. Plus, setbacks for Trump in court, pregnant people in states with abortion bans are almost twice as likely to die during pregnancy or soon after giving birth, and the hidden costs of being polite to a chatbot. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

The decline in international tourism to the U.S. poses significant economic challenges, fueled by political tensions and strict immigration policies. Pope Francis demonstrates resilience as he continues to support Palestinian Christians amid crises. An investigation into a sports-gambling scheme reveals troubling incidents of game manipulation involving NBA players. Additionally, insights on U.S. diplomatic tensions over Crimea and concerns about wealth disparity highlight ongoing economic issues affecting the nation.

Exploring the growing anxiety around digital privacy, the podcast discusses the urgent need to delete personal data from the internet to guard against identity theft. Educators face new challenges amid evolving government policies on diversity and inclusion. Current events, including a letter from a college president and a measles outbreak, highlight ongoing societal concerns. Practical tips for shrinking your digital footprint are provided, alongside insights into navigating the complex landscape of online safety.