The NPR Politics Podcast

Josh Rogers, a senior political reporter at New Hampshire Public Radio, dives into the chaotic landscape of the New Hampshire Democratic primary. He discusses the implications of President Biden potentially skipping the ballot, allowing fringe candidates like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. a chance to capitalize. The conversation also navigates the strategies of GOP contenders vying for attention in a crowded field while underscoring the significance of this unsanctioned primary in shaping voter sentiment and party dynamics.

Clay Masters, the lead political reporter for Iowa Public Radio, dives into the critical dynamics leading up to the Iowa caucuses. He discusses how candidates like Mike Pence and Ron DeSantis are engaging with voters and the significance of evangelical support. The podcast explores the political landscape shaped by a proposed six-week abortion ban and its impact on Republican voter sentiment. Masters highlights how Trump's moderate stance might resonate amidst shifting views on abortion among GOP candidates.

Michael Copley, NPR's climate and corporations correspondent, dives into the contentious relationship between businesses and politics regarding climate change. He discusses how companies are increasingly embracing ESG factors, but face pushback from Republican leaders wary of these environmental initiatives. Copley also highlights a steel mill's journey towards sustainable practices and the delicate balance between fulfilling production demands and environmental responsibilities. The conversation reveals the complexities of corporate lobbying and the evolving definition of corporate accountability in today's climate crisis.

Shannon Bond, NPR's disinformation correspondent, dives deep into the government's recent legal setback in tackling online misinformation. She discusses how a federal ruling may hinder communication between federal agencies and social media giants like Facebook. The conversation addresses the chilling effects on public trust, especially regarding COVID-19 information and election integrity. The need for responsible government-tech dialogue is emphasized, alongside the complexities of free speech in our polarized media landscape.

House Republicans are ramping up investigations into President Biden and Hunter Biden, fueled by pressure from their base. The podcast delves into Hunter's recent plea deal over tax evasion and gun charges, sparking claims of preferential treatment from officials. Allegations of political interference in legal proceedings raise eyebrows, particularly with new whistleblower testimonies. It questions the motivations behind these probes and their potential impact on voters, amidst growing tensions within the party and ongoing discussions about accountability.

Activists in Atlanta are facing domestic terrorism charges for protesting a new police training facility, sparking alarm among civil rights groups. The controversy highlights a clash over public safety versus environmental concerns and political dissent. Georgia's Attorney General claims violent actions aimed at changing policy warrant such charges. This raises critical questions about the political narrative around crime and its use against Democratic leadership, while activists contend they're being unfairly targeted.

Mitch Landrieu, former mayor of New Orleans, is at the forefront of implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, a $1.2 trillion initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation's infrastructure. In this discussion, he emphasizes the Affordable Connectivity Program, providing vital internet subsidies to low-income families, positioning internet access as essential rather than a luxury. The conversation touches on the political stakes of expanding broadband access and its transformative potential for underserved communities, drawing parallels to historical milestones like the New Deal.

Vice President Kamala Harris discusses her voter engagement efforts in New Orleans, focusing on the anniversary of the Dobbs decision and the need to combat misinformation. The conversation highlights the administration's strategies in response to recent Republican Supreme Court victories, particularly regarding abortion rights and student loan forgiveness. Harris emphasizes the importance of voting to reclaim citizens' rights while also addressing her evolving role as a potential presidential candidate alongside President Biden. The overall message is one of empowerment and engagement.

Corey Turner, a dedicated reporter on NPR's education team, dives into the recent Supreme Court rulings impacting LGBTQ rights and student debt. He discusses the controversial decision allowing a web designer to refuse service to same-sex couples, emphasizing its implications for public accommodation laws. Turner also addresses the court's rejection of Biden's student loan forgiveness plan, affecting millions of borrowers. The conversation balances legal analysis with the political ramifications, highlighting the ideological divide within the court.

The podcast dives into the Supreme Court's significant ruling declaring affirmative action policies unconstitutional at Harvard and UNC. It discusses the stark ideological divide in the court's decision and reflects on the future impact on college admissions, particularly for Black and Hispanic students. The political fallout for Democrats and insights from Michelle Obama on privilege are explored. Additionally, Republican views framing the ruling as a victory for colorblind policies hint at its implications for the upcoming elections.