

Apple News Today
Apple News
Join Shumita Basu every weekday morning as she guides you through some of the most fascinating stories in the news — and how the world’s best journalists are covering them.
Episodes
Mentioned books

23 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 14min
Six months in, how do Americans grade Trump?
Americans largely disapprove of Trump's deportation policies, raising questions about his support among his base. The new GOP tax-and-spending bill cuts Medicaid and SNAP spending, leaving states worried about the financial repercussions. A new investment account for kids, introduced in the same bill, is analyzed for its potential benefits. Current events include a call for peace after tragic violence in Gaza, WNBA players advocating for fair compensation, and fascinating research suggesting a link between Amish lifestyles and lower allergy rates.

14 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 15min
Why some of Trump’s big Supreme Court wins remain a mystery
The House has approved a controversial cut of $8 billion in foreign aid, raising eyebrows over the lack of evidence for claims of waste. The Supreme Court is delivering unexplained wins for Trump, leaving many baffled by their decision-making process. Immigration policies are under scrutiny as the administration pushes for faster deportations, complicating the legal landscape for detainees. Meanwhile, The Late Show announces its end, prompting reflections on its legacy and the changing media landscape.

15 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 13min
From Elmo to emergency alerts: The impact of public media cuts
Tensions rise as Trump wavers on firing Fed Chair Jerome Powell, exploring the legal landscape of presidential power over the Fed. PBS faces potential funding cuts, raising alarms about the future of local media. The challenges Los Angeles faces in rebuilding after devastating fires are highlighted, shedding light on broader community resilience issues. Trump’s controversial comments on the Epstein files and significant developments in IVF technology that could prevent disease are also discussed, offering a mix of political and scientific intrigue.

6 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 14min
Why Congress might claw back money it already approved
A severe flood warning led to a chaotic evacuation effort at a Texas girls' camp, drawing attention to systemic failures. The Trump administration's lack of transparency on federal spending has left Congress in the dark, impacting crucial funding. Advancements in women's health discussions are addressing the management of pain during IUD insertions, marking a shift in medical perspectives. The podcast also touches on military troop reductions in L.A., a theft involving Beyoncé's music, and an auction of Martian rock, blending serious news with entertainment.

8 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 16min
Bugs, heat, broken toilets: life inside “Alligator Alcatraz”
Delve into the unsettling conditions at an immigration detention facility in Florida, often dubbed ‘Alligator Alcatraz’. Hear about the mounting frustrations among Trump supporters regarding the administration's handling of the Epstein case. A firsthand account reveals the grueling challenges of food distribution in Gaza amidst crisis. Plus, the Supreme Court's recent rulings shake up education policies, and learn the quirky tips for selecting the perfect summer watermelon.

14 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 15min
How the Secret Service failed to prevent the Trump shooting
Reflecting on the anniversary of the assassination attempt on Trump, insiders reveal critical Secret Service failures and analyze the political fallout. A recent Senate report labels the incident a 'preventable tragedy.' The podcast also examines FEMA's sluggish response to Texas floods amid operational dilemmas. Additionally, new developments in the Scott Peterson case spark intrigue, as the Innocence Project challenges his conviction. Finally, hear about a tragic immigration raid and surprising results from the Wimbledon finals.

10 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 15min
ICE agents are hiding their faces during raids. Is that legal?
Trump's upcoming Texas visit raises questions about FEMA's future as communities struggle with disaster relief. Tensions escalate over Russia's war in Ukraine, as U.S. tactics are scrutinized. Federal immigration agents are increasingly using masks during raids, sparking concerns about safety and legitimacy. Activist Mahmoud Khalil is demanding $20 million after being detained, while young tennis star Amanda Anisimova makes headlines, reaching the Wimbledon final. The episode ties these threads together, addressing contemporary societal challenges.

9 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 15min
Trump’s birthright citizenship ban was blocked again. What to know.
The podcast delves into the deadly Texas floods, uncovering the geographical missteps and community responses that exacerbated the tragedy. It also investigates the cybercriminal group Scattered Spider, revealing their alarming tactics of infiltration and social engineering against corporations. Additionally, listeners learn about the surge in measles cases, significant shifts in corporate leadership, and the rise of an AI music group making waves in the industry.

5 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 13min
Trump promised 90 tariff deals in 90 days. We’ve got two. What happened?
Trump's tariff strategy is causing uncertainty as deadlines get pushed back and threats escalate. Meanwhile, Russia's controversial 'anti-woke' visa program is luring U.S. citizens seeking conservative values. On the home front, looming cuts to food assistance threaten millions, putting pressure on food banks. Additionally, a diplomatic scandal emerges with an imposter using AI to impersonate officials, while FIFA makes a surprising move by opening an office in Trump Tower. Finally, airport security is getting a long-awaited update, allowing travelers to keep their shoes on.

10 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 15min
Stories of survival and loss after the Texas floods
Texas faces a tragic aftermath as deadly floods have claimed over 100 lives, with heartbreaking rescue stories emerging. The Trump administration's funding freezes are sparking a budgetary showdown with Congress, impacting critical sectors. Abortion bans have led to alarming health risks for those facing miscarriages, with increased complications like blood transfusions. A personal account highlights the dire need for timely reproductive healthcare. Also discussed are updates on the Epstein case and unexpected Wimbledon results.