

The NPR Politics Podcast
NPR
Every weekday, NPR's best political reporters are there to explain the big news coming out of Washington and the campaign trail. They don't just tell you what happened. They tell you why it matters. Every afternoon.Political wonks - get wonkier with The NPR Politics Podcast+. Your subscription supports the podcast and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/politics
Episodes
Mentioned books

18 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 11min
He Has A Purple Heart & Is A Convicted Felon. ICE Wants To Deport Him
An Iraq War veteran faces the daunting prospect of deportation after a felony conviction. The podcast dives into the intersection of military service, mental health struggles, and convoluted immigration policies. It highlights the bureaucratic challenges of the deportation process and the complexities faced by veterans who have served their country. Listeners will explore the emotional toll of being a Purple Heart recipient at risk of losing his place in a society he fought to protect.

112 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 25min
Roundup: Tariffs, HHS Cuts & Bodega Cats
President Trump's new tariff plan could shake up the global economy and divide the Republican Party's stance on free trade. The podcast also discusses alarming cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services, threatening critical public health functions. Listeners are treated to a charming story about a photobomb by Barack Obama during cherry blossom season, adding a dose of light-heartedness. Lastly, the beloved bodega cats of NYC spark a lively debate, highlighting local regulations and delightful anecdotes about faith and misunderstandings.

106 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 17min
Trump's Tariffs Take Shape — How Will They Impact You?
President Trump's sweeping tariffs on imports have sparked significant debate. How will these tariffs affect consumer prices and American manufacturing? The discussion dives into potential cost increases for everyday goods and the complexities facing farmers and businesses. Economic nationalism and the uncertainty surrounding these policies raise questions about job security and international trade dynamics. Tune in for insights on the implications of this controversial trade strategy and its unpredictable nature.

69 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 19min
What Happened In Tuesday's Elections
Special elections in Florida and Wisconsin revealed shifting voter sentiments, with Republicans holding onto House seats by narrower margins. A pivotal Wisconsin Supreme Court race saw a liberal judge maintaining a majority despite over $20 million in backing for the Republican candidate from Elon Musk. The discussion also focused on how these outcomes may challenge Trump's agenda and the significance of energizing voters for future Democratic success. Moreover, a historic speech by a New Jersey senator sparked dialogue about the current state of Democratic leadership.

45 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 13min
Trump & Presidential Term Limits
Delve into the tantalizing debate around presidential term limits as former President Trump hints at a third term. Supporters and experts scrutinize the 22nd amendment, pondering alternate interpretations. The discussion extends to the competitive landscape of special elections in Florida, revealing the fundraising battle between parties and its impact on voter engagement. Political dynamics in Virginia and Florida are examined, highlighting the Democratic Party's challenges in rallying enthusiasm amid fluctuating public sentiment.

21 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 14min
A Look At This Week's Special House Elections In Florida
Florida's special elections for two congressional seats are heating up. Despite the Republican stronghold, Democrats see a rare opportunity for potential upsets. The discussion dives into candidate profiles, political endorsements, and the stark financial disparities shaping the elections. Voter sentiment towards the current administration may be reflected in these races, revealing deeper political dynamics. Finally, the significance of grassroots efforts and voter turnout takes center stage, adding a light-hearted moment to the serious discourse.

29 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 22min
Weekly Roundup: Tariffs, Texts & Turtles
This week, the discussion dives into President Trump's anticipated tariffs and their implications for the economy, especially the auto industry. A comical story about a turtle attempting to sneak through airport security sparks laughter among the hosts. They also analyze the political consequences of withdrawing a U.N. ambassador nomination and dive into the contentious topic of election integrity, highlighting claims of non-citizen voting. The podcast captures a mix of serious political analysis and lighthearted anecdotes.

68 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 15min
Why Does Donald Trump Want Greenland?
Delve into Trump's intriguing desire to acquire Greenland, driven by resources and strategic military interests. Discover the geopolitical stakes amid U.S.-China dynamics and the surprising shift from cultural diplomacy to military focus in official visits. Explore contradictions in America's foreign policy, caught between expansionism and isolationism, as well as the complex feelings of Greenlanders towards these overtures. The podcast unpacks the historical context and implications for national security and international relations.

18 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 14min
DOGE's Potential Impact On Social Security & The VA
The Trump administration's proposed reforms could reshape the Social Security Administration and VA, leaving many vulnerable. Budget cuts threaten service quality, leading to longer wait times for those in need. The discussion highlights potential impacts on veteran healthcare, especially concerning claims and care under the new PACT Act. Political dynamics surrounding these benefits reveal a complex landscape, shedding light on public sentiment about Social Security's critical role for millions. Overall, the implications are far-reaching, necessitating urgent Congressional attention.

36 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 16min
Defense Officials Used Group Text To Plan Missile Strikes
A group text meant for military planning accidentally included a journalist, raising alarms about national security protocols. Officials scramble to assess the fallout and implications of this breach. The podcast delves into Senate Intelligence Committee hearings focusing on accountability and the risks of classified information leaks. Additionally, it highlights political tensions and the scrutiny of communication standards among government officials. How will this impact personnel decisions and the broader political landscape?