The Briefing with Jen Psaki

Kathy Hochul, the New York Governor, joins to discuss the alarming rise in ICE arrests, especially the recent detention of Comptroller Brad Lander. She emphasizes the public's outcry against these aggressive tactics that target immigrants attending legal hearings. Hochul reflects on the fear in communities like Little Haiti and advocates for urgent legal reforms. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of these enforcement actions for civil liberties and the need for compassion towards law-abiding families caught in the crossfire.

The discussion dives into how Donald Trump's attempts at tough-guy theatrics are seen through by world leaders. Controversies arise over military involvements in domestic politics, especially a recent civilian detainment by U.S. Marines. There’s concern about taxpayer-funded military parades being politicized for self-promotion. Grassroots protests against Trump emerge as genuine actions reflecting civic engagement, highlighting the ongoing fight against authoritarianism. Global leaders navigate diplomatic tensions amidst these political theatrics.

Adam Schiff, a Democratic Senator from California and national security expert, discusses the recent Israeli airstrikes on Iran, highlighting their regional implications and how they complicate U.S.-Iran relations. Ben Rhodes, former deputy national security advisor, provides insights on the political aftermath of these strikes and the Trump administration’s approach. They also analyze a federal judge's ruling that shifts control of the National Guard back to California’s governor, emphasizing its significance for democratic governance and military oversight.

Mikey Sherrill, a Democratic Congresswoman from New Jersey and a veteran, dives into the controversial use of military troops in Los Angeles and their implications for civil liberties. She discusses the legal justifications behind deploying National Guard members to assist ICE, emphasizing the tension between military and civilian roles. Sherrill shares poignant stories from affected families, highlighting the emotional toll of aggressive immigration enforcement. The conversation reveals ongoing protests and the urgent need for community solidarity amid rising discontent with these tactics.

Rob Bonta, California's Attorney General, discusses the tense protests in Los Angeles and their portrayal as chaotic by some media and political figures. He critiques the Trump administration's use of military force, emphasizing the real impact on immigrant families and local communities. Bonta highlights the importance of peaceful demonstrations and civic engagement as vital responses to authoritarianism. The conversation tackles the manipulation of language in politics and the necessity of local control over federal intervention in times of unrest.

In this thought-provoking discussion, investigative reporter Ronan Farrow, known for his deep dives into power dynamics, joins Senator Alyssa Slotkin, who addresses national security concerns. They tackle the alarming Supreme Court decision allowing DOGE access to Social Security data, raising red flags over data privacy and corporate influence. The talk also highlights the chaotic rivalry between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, emphasizing the urgent need for greater oversight in an age where personal data is at stake. Tune in for insights on modern governance and tech's role in democracy.

This week, Norm Eisen, former ethics czar in the Obama White House and head of the Democracy Defender Fund, joins the conversation. He delves into the fiery feud between Elon Musk and Donald Trump, highlighting Musk's admission of a transactional relationship with Trump regarding elections. They explore how this power struggle could impact governmental functions and business practices. Eisen also raises ethical concerns surrounding regulatory dynamics and political retaliation, offering critical insights into the intertwining of tech influence and governance.

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.

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.