The Excerpt

A family's harrowing struggle to recover seven hostages from Hamas unfolds, highlighting their relentless fight for media attention and political support. The impact of a temporary ceasefire reveals both hope and lingering trauma among the released, especially children. Meanwhile, the political landscape shakes as mass federal layoffs loom amid a government shutdown, with Trump announcing a steep tariff on Chinese imports. In Tennessee, a devastating explosion leaves 19 workers missing, intensifying concerns about safety practices.

New York Attorney General Letitia James faces serious federal charges of bank fraud and making false statements. As Israeli troops begin pulling back from Gaza, the implications of the ceasefire agreement unfold. A breaking report highlights the legal battles surrounding Trump’s National Guard deployments and reactions from Chicago. Meanwhile, a Texas court halts an execution due to troubling questions about shaken baby syndrome, as advocates rally for justice and new evidence comes to light. Tensions rise over political claims connecting the government shutdown to Democrats.

Clare Mulroy, a USA TODAY books reporter specializing in censorship issues, dives into the world of book bans and their implications. She reveals the history and purpose of Banned Books Week, highlighting challenges and removals that restrict access. Clare discusses the rise of organized movements pushing these bans, while also examining geographic trends and targeted titles—particularly those involving marginalized voices. Teachers and librarians share their struggles, facing threats and mandates, urging a deeper understanding of censorship's real impact.

A significant ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas is on the table, involving Trump's peace plan and possible hostage releases. In Chicago, residents express concerns over aggressive immigration crackdowns, with armored vehicles on the streets. The podcast also dives into the Palisades fire arrest and James Comey's plea of not guilty to false statements, while exploring the controversial choices surrounding the prosecution. Legal strategies and community reactions are discussed, highlighting the tension simmering in both political and local affairs.

Bart Jansen, a USA TODAY White House reporter, breaks down the current federal government shutdown's implications. He discusses the House's stalled short-term funding bill and why the Senate's 60-vote rule is a gridlock problem. Public opinion is explored, highlighting potential electoral impacts. Jansen reveals key negotiation points centered around Medicaid changes and expiring Obamacare subsidies. He also brings light to Trump's threats affecting federal jobs and outlines what could reopen the government—essentially, a bipartisan compromise.

The podcast dives into Trump’s controversial remarks about furloughed federal workers, discussing the potential implications on back pay and legal challenges ahead. It also features an analysis of Pam Bondi’s heated Senate hearing, revealing divisions between party lines. Additionally, the complexities of a Supreme Court case on Colorado's ban on conversion therapy are unpacked, highlighting medical consensus on its harms. Lastly, MLB postseason action is recapped, keeping sports fans in the loop with the latest updates.

USA TODAY National Security & World Affairs Reporter Cybele Mayes-Osterman discusses the Trump administration's approach on deploying National Guard troops to U.S. cities.It's been two years since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, and the start of the latest subsequent Israeli onslaught in Gaza. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says the government shutdown is adding stress to air traffic controllers.USA TODAY National News Reporter Karissa Waddick takes a look at the Virginia's governor's race and the potential impact of the ongoing shutdown.The Supreme Court rejects an appeal from Ghislaine Maxwell.President Trump says Sean 'Diddy' Combs asked him for a pardon.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A federal judge has put a hold on Trump's plan to deploy Oregon National Guard troops to Portland, igniting further legal debates. The Supreme Court's upcoming term is highlighted with major cases concerning presidential control over agencies and voting rights. Trump warns Hamas of severe consequences if they maintain power in Gaza, alongside discussions about government attempts to regulate media agencies like the FCC. Finally, a delightful story unfolds about a rescued goat named Lil, who finds companionship and care with sheepdogs.

Michael Oren, a former Israeli ambassador and military historian, shares insights on the aftermath of the October 7 attacks and the complexities of Israel's ongoing conflicts. He discusses the unprecedented hostage crisis, the challenges of Gaza's tunnel warfare, and the moral dilemmas of reconstruction. Oren evaluates a proposed 20-point peace plan by President Trump, advocating for regional cooperation while critiquing current narratives around casualties and antisemitism. He expresses cautious optimism about the potential for stability in the region.

Trump is urging Israel to halt airstrikes in Gaza for hostage recovery after Hamas tentatively accepted parts of his peace initiative. The ongoing government shutdown is complicating key job reports and could lead to significant federal cuts, especially hitting Chicago. Meanwhile, Diddy faces a 50-month prison sentence due to serious charges. This episode dives into the political maneuvering behind funding freezes and contentious relationships between the Trump administration and blue cities.