The Excerpt

For 75 years, Charles Schultz’s Peanuts gang has reflected our humor and hope, as well as our struggle to navigate some of life’s everyday curveballs. How is it that the characters he created so poignantly reflect how we experience other people and the world around us? And why do a ragtag group of comic strip kids who debuted in newspapers in 1950 post-war America, still resonate with children and adults around the world? Andrew Blauner, author of “THE PEANUTS PAPERS: Writers and Cartoonists on Charlie Brown, Snoopy & the Gang, and the Meaning of Life,” sat down with USA TODAY’s The Excerpt to discuss the 75th anniversary of the Peanuts gang and its enduring impact.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Donald Trump's approval ratings are historically low compared to other presidents, but have mostly plateaued in recent months.USA TODAY First Amendment Reporter BrieAnna Frank breaks down a ruling against the Trump administration that found Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem misused their authority to target non-citizen pro-Palestinians for deportation.The White House is encouraging leaders at nine universities to sign a compact committing their schools to adopt President Donald Trump's policy agenda for higher education in exchange for preferential access to federal funds.The Pentagon tells Congress Trump has determined the U.S. is in 'armed conflict' with cartels.USA TODAY National Music Writer Melissa Ruggieri chats about Taylor Swift's new album - "The Life of a Showgirl" - out today.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.

Jay Stahl, USA TODAY politics reporter, shares insights from his enlightening interview with Charlamagne tha God, who has transformed from gossip guru to a significant political voice. They delve into Charlamagne's critiques of Democratic messaging, emphasizing a need for relatable communication. Stahl highlights Charlamagne's belief in engaging opposing viewpoints to foster dialogue and his admiration for Jon Stewart's reach. They also discuss Charlamagne's personal growth, his impactful Black Effect Network, and the authenticity that resonates with listeners.

Francesca Chambers delves into the political fallout of the looming federal government shutdown and discusses how it affects everyday Americans. Kash Patel stirs controversy by ending the FBI's partnership with the Anti-Defamation League. Bart Jansen reveals the impact of tariffs on industries like farming and their potential influence on the 2026 elections. Meanwhile, a tribute to the legacy of Jane Goodall highlights her monumental contributions to conservation and chimpanzee research.

In the wake of the controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's week-long suspension from "Jimmy Kimmel Live," FCC Chairman Brendan Carr issued a not-so-veiled threat on a podcast saying "we can do this the easy way or we can do this the hard way." David Inserra, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and an expert on First Amendment issues, joins The Excerpt to talk through the First Amendment and where the Constitutional line is for those in power.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The federal government shut down at midnight. USA TODAY Senior National Political Correspondent Sarah D. Wire gives us a better sense of one of the key issues at play - a fight over extending insurance subsidies.A judge rules President Donald Trump's deportation moves against pro-Palestinian students are unconstitutional.USA TODAY National Security & World Affairs Reporter Cybele Mayes-Osterman recaps a controversial meeting of top military commanders in Virginia.President Trump announces a deal with Pfizer to lower drug prices.The MLB Playoffs are underway.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.

President Donald Trump said he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have reached a deal for peace in Gaza. But how do leaders in the enclave see the deal? USA TODAY White House Correspondent Francesca Chambers has the latest.Several people - including U.S. citizens - are seeking millions in damages after violent ICE arrests.USA TODAY Congressional Reporter Zach Schermele has the latest as the clock ticks toward a government shutdown.Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal is being considered at the Supreme Court.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.

An assailant killed at least four people at a Michigan church during Sunday service. Plus, a suspect has been charged in a Saturday shooting in North Carolina.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit Washington Monday.USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes discusses how some who grew up under authoritarian regimes are worried about what's happening stateside.The FBI has fired agents who were photographed kneeling with protesters during 2020 racial justice protests.USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn tells us about Costco - and other retail - superfans.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.

Former FBI Director James Comey has now been indicted. Who might be next? Is the Trump administration now weaponizing the Department of Justice in order to seek retribution from his political foes? USA TODAY Chief Political Correspondent Phillip M. Bailey joins The Excerpt to dig into this explosive story.Have feedback on the show? Please send us an email at podcasts@usatoday.com. Episode transcript available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Victim detainees shot by a sniper at a Dallas ICE facility have been identified.USA TODAY White House Correspondent Zac Anderson takes a look at the Epstein documents released this week by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee.The Supreme Court Friday said President Donald Trump, for now, doesn’t have to spend billions in foreign aid approved by Congress.USA TODAY Government Accountability Reporter Erin Mansfield breaks down the Department of Justice lawsuits involving six states over voter rolls.Golf's Ryder Cup rolls on after a rough start for Team USA.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.