The Excerpt

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.

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.