The NPR Politics Podcast

Andrea Hsu, NPR's labor and workplace correspondent, joins the conversation to discuss the Supreme Court's green light for President Trump's mass layoffs of federal workers, raising concerns over job security and government restructuring. The panel also dives into the implications of Trump's newly announced tariffs, exploring their impact on the economy and trade dynamics. Additionally, they touch on the evolving political landscape and the challenges faced by emerging parties amid voter dissatisfaction.

The discussion unveils President Trump's evolving stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting his struggle to fulfill campaign promises for a swift resolution. Insightful analysis reveals Congress's fluctuating support for Ukraine, along with bipartisan efforts in military aid and sanctions. The podcast explores the chaos of Trump's foreign policy, contrasting his approaches to Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas situation. As Russian aggression escalates, the challenges facing Ukraine intensify, prompting a reevaluation of U.S. political strategies and national security.

The Justice Department has launched a rare lawsuit against federal judges in Maryland, challenging a pause on migrant deportations. This clash raises questions about judicial authority and immigration enforcement. Tensions escalate as the Trump administration's relationship with the judiciary becomes increasingly strained. Insights from a retired judge reveal the risk to judicial integrity amid these conflicts. The discussion also highlights the ongoing legal battles and potential consequences for the balance of power in government.

Join health correspondent Katia Riddle as she breaks down the impact of Trump's new tax and spending law, which threatens to strip health insurance from nearly 12 million Americans. Discover how new Medicaid work requirements could affect vulnerable populations and challenge healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Riddle discusses the political fallout, with Democrats gearing up to target Republicans over these cuts, and elaborates on how the legislation might indirectly impose restrictions on abortion services. A compelling look at health policy and its electoral repercussions!

Scott Horsley, NPR's chief economics correspondent, brings his expertise to dissect President Trump's tax and spending law. He reveals how the legislation offers limited savings for middle-income families amidst growing federal debt. The discussion also highlights the political maneuvers surrounding tax cuts, including potential impacts on Social Security and Medicaid. Furthermore, Horsley addresses rising interest rates and how tariffs could counteract any tax relief. Tune in for a lively exploration of how these changes could shake up Americans' financial futures!

Cuts to the U.S. President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) could have dire consequences for communities in Southern Africa. Journalist Jon Cohen shares firsthand insights from Eswatini and Lesotho, where the struggle for HIV/AIDS treatment intensifies. The discussion also emphasizes the historical successes of antiretroviral therapy in wealthier nations compared to the ongoing challenges in low-income areas. The potential impact on global stability and the urgent need for sustained health funding are explored, highlighting the broader implications for international peace.

Congress has passed a major tax and spending bill, stirring discussions about its implications for the 2026 midterms. The episode explores the controversial Medicaid cuts within the legislation and how they may impact public opinion on healthcare. There’s also a look into the mixed reactions to Trump’s immigration policies and recent U.S. military actions abroad, highlighting a divide in generational perspectives. The podcast emphasizes the complexity of navigating domestic and international issues amid public scrutiny.

Americans are increasingly worried about democracy, with many believing it's under serious threat. There's a stark divide in political perceptions, notably between Democrats and Republicans. Concerns mount over the political climate, including fears of violence and low trust in leaders. Immigration policy reveals conflicting opinions, especially regarding Trump's actions. Meanwhile, the impact of Trump's approval ratings looms over GOP prospects as they gear up for the midterms, highlighting a challenging landscape for future candidates.

The Senate narrowly passed a significant tax cut and spending bill, with Vice President JD Vance breaking a tie. The legislation renews 2017 tax cuts and introduces temporary tax breaks, marking a win for the Trump administration. However, divisions among Republicans emerged, particularly over Medicaid cuts, raising questions about the bill's reception in the House. The potential political fallout could complicate messaging as the GOP approaches upcoming elections. Key amendments and Senator Lisa Murkowski’s influence played a critical role in this legislative drama.

The Trump administration's plan to create a national citizenship data system aims to verify voter eligibility. This proposal raises concerns among voting officials and privacy advocates about potential disenfranchisement and data security. The podcast delves into the historical context and the implications of such data collection efforts, highlighting state officials' skepticism and the challenges of federal data sharing. Additionally, discussions touch on the recent cuts to public media funding and their risks to local stations.