

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

May 8, 2023 • 15min
White House Message To Migrants: "The Border Is Not Open"
As Title 42 ends, the Biden administration clarifies its stance: the border is not open. New regulations encourage migrants to apply for asylum through official channels. The political landscape in Arizona reflects contrasting local and national views on immigration. The U.S. faces increasing migrant flows amid complex international relations, with aid organizations struggling at the border. Finally, the podcast delves into the shifting dynamics of immigration policy and the political ramifications for both parties.

May 5, 2023 • 19min
Jan. 6 Militia Leader Convicted Of Seditious Conspiracy
A significant conviction of former Proud Boys leaders marks a legal triumph in the Jan. 6 insurrection case. The podcast dissects the defense strategies arguing for Donald Trump's accountability. Amid job market resilience and rising wages, public perception suggests a looming recession. The discussion also touches on inflation in essential services, spiced up with cultural reflections from the Netflix series 'The Diplomat,' and a lighthearted look at royal family scandals and quirky news involving cooked pasta.

May 4, 2023 • 13min
Republican Statehouses Are Flexing Their Muscles To Rein In Cities
Statehouses are increasingly flexing their muscles to limit local governments, pushing over 600 bills primarily in Republican-led states. This trend raises questions about the evolving stance on states' rights as authorities leverage preemption laws to override local policies. Conflicts over police control highlight tensions in cities like St. Louis, where state intervention impacts accountability and community safety. Amidst a divided political landscape, the struggle for local control could alienate voters and intensify the political divide.

May 3, 2023 • 13min
Title 42 Is Set To End. What Happens Next?
The ending of a controversial public health policy could significantly impact U.S. immigration. The Biden administration grapples with a potential surge in migrants and political pressures from both sides. Key challenges, like poverty and violence in migrants' home countries, are scrutinized. Efforts to reshape immigration strategies and manage perceptions of chaos at the border are discussed. As the clock ticks toward the 2024 elections, the complexities of policy reform muddy the waters even further.

May 2, 2023 • 14min
Kids' Leading Cause Of Death? Guns.
Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR's health policy correspondent, dives deep into the startling epidemic of gun violence in America. She reveals that a significant portion of gun deaths stems from domestic violence and suicides, rather than only mass shootings. The podcast highlights alarming statistics about gun fatalities among children and underscores the racial disparities in this crisis. Additionally, they discuss innovative approaches to gun safety, including smart gun technology designed to increase security at home.

May 1, 2023 • 12min
Who Funds 'No Labels' Push For More 2024 Choices? They Won't Say.
Join KJZZ reporter Ben Giles as he dives into the intriguing world of the No Labels group, which is stirring the pot ahead of the 2024 elections. With half the nation dissatisfied with Biden and Trump, No Labels is positioning itself as a third-party contender. Ben sheds light on their mysterious financing and the challenges they face in a two-party-dominated landscape, including worries about vote-splitting in key states. Discover the group's strategies and their potential to reshape American politics!

Apr 28, 2023 • 27min
Unlike Trump, Folks Who Don't Like Biden May Vote For Him Anyway
Explore the surprising unpopularity of both Biden and Trump in American politics. Discover how independent voters might still support Biden despite their reservations. Delve into the GOP primary challenges and the fallout from a major media figure's departure from Fox News. The conversation takes a humorous turn, discussing how failure can lead to unexpected growth and the nostalgic impact of music on political sentiments. Tune in for insights and laughs as the hosts reflect on the interplay between politics, media, and personal triumphs.

Apr 27, 2023 • 14min
House Republicans Have Passed a Debt Limit Bill. Now What?
House Republicans have passed a controversial bill to raise the debt limit, tied to spending cuts that face opposition in the Senate. Tensions rise as the bill targets social programs, stirring debate about fiscal responsibility. The hosts dive into the stalemate caused by a refusal to negotiate, exploring the strategic messaging both parties are employing. They also analyze how this impasse may shape the political landscape as the 2024 elections loom, revealing complexities that resonate with today's concerns.

Apr 26, 2023 • 21min
President Biden's Push to Make Things In America Again
President Biden's focus on revitalizing American manufacturing is a central theme, linking economic policy to national security. Surprisingly, he shares common ground with former President Trump on 'buy American' initiatives. The podcast dives into evolving trade policies with China and how both parties are adjusting their stances on industrial policy. There's a compelling look at how public opinion is shifting towards supporting government intervention in manufacturing, reflecting the complexities of political discourse today.

Apr 25, 2023 • 13min
What To Expect From Biden's 2024 Reelection Campaign
President Biden kicks off his reelection bid by emphasizing freedom and America's identity, taking on contrasting Republican narratives. The discussion highlights his campaign strategies focused on infrastructure and legislative wins, despite low approval ratings. There's a keen look at the implications of his age and the pivotal role of Vice President Harris. Abortion rights emerge as a galvanizing issue for voters, framing the election in a starkly polarized environment compared to Biden’s usual optimistic messaging.