

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

Jan 31, 2020 • 15min
Questions of Foreign Interference Continue as Trial Moves Closer to Vote on Witnesses
The podcast dives into the intense Senate impeachment trial, highlighting the gripping interactions between senators and the president's legal team. It tackles the controversial notion of presidential powers in seeking foreign aid to investigate rivals, raising significant legal questions. With tensions rising, notable moments include pointed inquiries from Senators Rand Paul and Elizabeth Warren. Additionally, the Chief Justice's impartial role in managing witness testimonies is scrutinized, setting the stage for an unpredictable legislative battle ahead.

Jan 30, 2020 • 12min
Trump Legal Team Says Quid Pro Quo In Pursuit Of Reelection Isn't Impeachable
Legal arguments surrounding impeachment take center stage, with claims that actions benefiting reelection cannot justify impeachment. Adam Schiff's skeptical response highlights the tension in interpreting quid pro quo. The potential inclusion of witnesses like John Bolton adds complexity to the Senate's proceedings. Senators are grappling with personal versus public motives, creating a charged atmosphere as they engage more actively. Political dynamics among vulnerable Democratic senators further complicate party unity and strategy.

Jan 28, 2020 • 13min
President's Defense Team Concludes Arguments in Impeachment Trial
The defense team's concluding arguments assert that the impeachment charges don't meet constitutional standards. They argue that impeachment undermines the 2016 election results and assert the legality of the president's actions. Tension builds as Democrats push for witness testimonies, particularly from John Bolton, whose upcoming book could be pivotal. Senate Republicans face political pressure to balance party loyalty and transparency amidst a complex question-and-answer session in the trial.

Jan 28, 2020 • 14min
John Bolton Casts Shadow Over Trump Impeachment Defense
The podcast dives into the controversial implications of John Bolton's forthcoming book on Trump's impeachment trial. It discusses the potential impact of Bolton's testimony and the political reactions it sparked among undecided senators. The narratives around Rudy Giuliani’s actions in Ukraine and Joe Biden’s ties to Burisma are examined, revealing contrasting arguments. Additionally, the defense strategy is analyzed, particularly its effects on Iowa caucus voters and the intricate dance of witness trade discussions across party lines.

Jan 25, 2020 • 14min
Trump's Legal Team Begins Impeachment Defense, Says The President Did 'Nothing Wrong'
The legal team for the president argues he did nothing wrong amid impeachment proceedings. They claim House managers selectively presented evidence to undermine the 2016 election results. The discussion dives into the complexities of Republican party dynamics and the challenges of influencing moderate senators. The podcast also addresses the potential implications of new witnesses and foreign policy decisions, particularly concerning Ukraine. Tensions are high as the impeachment trial plays out as a political battlefield.

Jan 25, 2020 • 27min
Weekly Roundup: Friday, January 24
The podcast dives into the tense impeachment trial of President Trump, analyzing the Democratic arguments and the president's defense strategies. It highlights a fierce exchange over Ukraine and discusses significant advancements in election security ahead of the primaries. As new voting methods, like smartphone ballots, are explored, the conversation shifts to nostalgic moments in sports, such as Eli Manning's retirement and Derek Jeter's Hall of Fame induction. The blend of political drama and sports excitement creates a unique and entertaining dialogue.

Jan 24, 2020 • 14min
A Few Republicans And The American Public: Democrats Target Their Impeachment Message
The podcast delves into the Senate impeachment trial, focusing on the Democrats’ strategic arguments aimed at persuading key Republican senators. It emphasizes the tension between personal gain and official policy in determining impeachable actions. Listeners hear insights on public opinion's role in shaping legislative strategies and the dynamics of bipartisan dialogue amidst the ongoing trial. Notably, there are concerns voiced by some Republicans about the White House's defense approach as the trial unfolds.

Jan 23, 2020 • 27min
NPR Politics Live From Drew University: The Road To 2020
A live discussion from Drew University dives into the impeachment trial's influence on the 2020 election landscape. The panel contrasts the campaign strategies of Democrats and Trump, delving into voter priorities and innovative digital tactics. The importance of the Iowa caucuses is highlighted, alongside insights into candidate standings and undecided voters. The conversation also navigates the complexities of gender dynamics among Democratic candidates, revealing contrasting views on electability among different generations of women voters.

Jan 23, 2020 • 14min
Senate Trial Opens With Democrats' Appeal to Remove Trump
The impeachment trial of a sitting president is underway, with Democrats arguing for removal based on allegations of foreign interference. Key players like Adam Schiff outline the constitutional grounds for impeachment. Tensions rise over the debate on whether to call witnesses, with demands for transparency clashing against political maneuvering. The stakes are high as discussions around witness deals unfold, with figures like Mitch McConnell and John Bolton at the forefront. The trial brings drama and intense scrutiny, reminiscent of pivotal moments from history.

Jan 22, 2020 • 15min
Senate Impeachment Trial Begins With Partisan Rules Fight
The podcast dives into the heated atmosphere of the Senate impeachment trial, showcasing intense partisan clashes over trial rules. It reveals Mitch McConnell's roadmap for the proceedings as Democrats call for fair play, demanding more evidence and witnesses. Tension is palpable as senators' body language speaks volumes amidst mounting political stakes. The contrasting approaches of the prosecution and defense are highlighted, with engaging multimedia presentations meeting a more spontaneous style. These dynamics set the stage for a gripping political showdown.


