The Briefing with Jen Psaki

This week, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, a staunch advocate for gun control and healthcare reform, joins former DHS Chief of Staff Miles Taylor, a vocal Trump critic. They dive into Elon Musk's dramatic backlash against a Republican budget bill that leaves his interests hanging. The discussion also reveals rifts within the GOP over this contentious legislation, examines the urgent need for grassroots activism, and critiques how political maneuvering shapes the future of Medicaid and civil rights.

The podcast dives into the striking incompetence of various Trump administration officials, like the acting FEMA chief's obliviousness to hurricane season. It reveals how career public servants are struggling under burdensome bureaucracy. Leadership during this era has shifted from trust to skepticism, impacting national security engagement. Furthermore, it discusses the growing influence of billionaires on American politics, hinting at the importance of grassroots movements in countering this trend.

Dive into a captivating exploration of the people who inspire us in their fields. A featured guest, actor Jason Bateman, shares his podcasting journey and how the current political climate fuels his discussions. The unpredictability of political life is compared to thrilling storytelling, shedding light on the chaos that shapes narratives. This engaging dialogue promises to offer enriching insights from influential voices.

Join Don Lemon, a seasoned journalist and anchor, alongside Nathan Sage, a passionate Democratic challenger from Iowa, as they tackle pressing issues around addiction and hypocrisy in political discourse. They reflect on contrasting attitudes towards substance use, especially in the wake of recent revelations about Elon Musk. Their conversation digs deep into how drug addiction affects families, highlights the ongoing healthcare battles, and reveals grassroots efforts to reclaim political representation, underscoring the need for accountability and empathy in leadership.

Dan Goldman, a New York Congressman known for confronting ICE agents in Manhattan, joins the discussion about the stark realities of governing. They dive into the complexities Trump faces with his administration's legal challenges and the intricacies of global issues like the Ukraine war. The chat reveals how Trump's political rhetoric doesn't align with actual governance, showcasing community responses to immigration policies and the fallout from controversial figures like Elon Musk. Personal stories highlight the fears of those impacted by aggressive immigration enforcement.

On her new podcast, “The Best People,” Nicolle Wallace sits down with the smartest, funniest, wisest people she knows. These are the people who are the best at what they do and use their success to help others.  Hear from some of the biggest names in politics, sports, and entertainment; people such as Jason Bateman, Rachel Maddow, Sarah Jessica Parker, Doc Rivers, and Kara Swisher.  New episodes drop on Mondays, beginning June 2nd. And you can sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts to get early access, ad-free listening, and bonus content.

Kris Mayes, Arizona Attorney General and co-leader of the lawsuit against Trump’s tariffs, discusses a pivotal ruling where the U.S. Court of International Trade deemed these tariffs illegal. She explores the implications of this decision on American consumers and small businesses, including potential refunds for tariff payments. The conversation also dives into the balance of power between presidential authority and judicial oversight in trade policies, revealing the critical role of Congress in tariff decisions.

Jen Psaki pairs Donald Trump's political rhetoric about crimes like fraud against his abusive use of the presidency's pardon power to absolve criminals convicted of those very same crimes.

James Comey, former FBI director and author, dives into the controversial dinner hosted by Donald Trump for cryptocurrency investors, raising alarm over the ethical implications and political influence at play. They discuss the widening economic inequality stemming from recent budget policies, highlighting how the wealthy benefit while low-income families struggle. Comey also shares insights on the challenges of maintaining institutional integrity amid political pressures and the growth of right-wing extremism, reflecting on how these issues shape the current political landscape.

Jack Lew, former White House Chief of Staff and Treasury Secretary, and Dan Goldman, Democratic Congressman and ex-assistant U.S. attorney, delve into the Republican budget bill's pitfalls. They explore the backlash from constituents who are outraged over cuts to healthcare that benefit the wealthy. The discussion also critiques ethical issues surrounding political funding and highlights the discontent in swing districts. Insights into the political consequences of current financial misadventures, along with corruption allegations, paint a vivid picture of today's political landscape.