The NPR Politics Podcast

Alina Selyukh, NPR's business correspondent, dives into the economic implications of President Trump's aggressive tariff policies during his first 100 days. She discusses how these tariffs aim to reduce the trade deficit but stir uncertainty among U.S. businesses regarding pricing and supply chains, especially amid tensions with China. The conversation also touches on the impact of tariffs on consumer behavior and the disconnect between public sentiment and economic realities, all framed by real-world examples from American retailers struggling with rising costs.

Susan Davis, a political correspondent for NPR, and Domenico Montanaro, NPR's senior political editor, dive into the tumultuous first 100 days of Donald Trump's presidency. They discuss his aggressive use of executive power and its implications for American governance. The duo examines the Supreme Court's ruling on presidential immunity and how Trump's strategies shifted the balance of power with Congress. They also highlight the fears of executive overreach amidst rising political polarization, setting the stage for a contentious relationship between the president and legislators.

Sarah McCammon, an NPR political correspondent, and Domenico Montanaro, NPR's senior political editor, dive into the intense cultural battles of Trump's first 100 days. They discuss the administration's push against 'woke' policies and the impacts on diversity and inclusion programs. The guest experts analyze the contentious debates around transgender rights in sports, highlighting political strategies and shifting public opinions. Emotions run high as they navigate the polarized reactions and challenges of discussing these heated issues in today's political landscape.

Franco Ordoñez, a seasoned White House correspondent for NPR, joins to dissect the influence of Project 2025 on Trump's policies. They discuss how this conservative framework has shaped Trump's approach to immigration, budget cuts, and executive power since the beginning of his second term. The conversation also delves into the evolution of the Heritage Foundation and its ongoing debates, highlighting Trump’s strategic shifts in governance and public perception as he implements these initiatives.

In a fiery discussion, President Trump criticizes the Federal Reserve chair, demanding more aggressive interest rate cuts. The podcast dives into Harvard's battle against federal funding cuts amidst legal disputes. A lighter note comes with Jeff Bezos' star-studded space voyage featuring an all-female crew. Pop culture highlights, including memes and a classic film re-release, spark lively exchanges among the hosts. The unexpected journeys of individuals pursuing their passions also add depth to the conversation, blending politics with personal stories.

Ximena Bustillo, an NPR immigration policy reporter, and Danielle Kurtzleben, a White House correspondent, tackle the latest legal challenges surrounding Trump's deportation plans. They discuss a federal judge's ruling on the administration's compliance with deportation pauses and the emotional rhetoric often used in immigration debates. Additionally, they delve into the procedural differences in immigration courts and highlight the pressing backlog of asylum cases, emphasizing the stark political divide on these policies.

A whistleblower raises alarms about DOGE's alleged unauthorized access to sensitive data from the National Labor Relations Board. Concerns swirl about potential misuse and cover-ups related to labor rights and privacy. Investigations are underway, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of government task forces and their motives. The implications for cybersecurity and accountability could be significant, spurring urgent congressional inquiries. This discussion dives deep into the intersection of corporate interests and public trust.

A man wrongfully deported to El Salvador is caught in a legal tangle as U.S. immigration policies collide with international law. The podcast dives into the historical context of U.S. deportations to El Salvador and the motivations behind these controversial agreements. Key questions arise about the ethics of such deportations and the challenges of navigating immigration courts. As the ACLU challenges these practices, the complexities of this case highlight the broader implications for U.S.-Central America relations.

College campuses are buzzing with anxiety as the Trump administration intensifies scrutiny on activism, especially regarding the Gaza conflict. International students face deportation fears due to their pro-Palestinian protests. New executive orders are creating a chilling effect, raising concerns about civil rights and free speech. Universities are caught in a bind, risking federal funding while trying to protect student rights. This climate of uncertainty and fear is shaping the future of activism and emotional well-being among students.

The Supreme Court's recent ruling brings a deported man back to the spotlight, raising questions about the White House's next steps. Immigration relations with El Salvador face scrutiny, especially with the upcoming presidential visit. Meanwhile, the controversial use of Social Security data by DOGE sparks discussions on data privacy and voter fraud accusations. Light-hearted anecdotes about tech leaders' influence and pop culture add an entertaining twist to the serious political commentary!