The NPR Politics Podcast

The White House is tapping into TikTok creators to share key policies with young voters. They're providing briefings on significant issues like the Inflation Reduction Act and the war in Ukraine. Influencers offer a fresh way to engage youth, though reactions vary from enthusiasm to skepticism. This innovative approach highlights the shift toward digital communication in politics and the challenges of informing a skeptical audience. The aim is to build lasting connections with young voters on vital topics like climate change.

As the midterm elections approach, Republicans are gaining momentum in crucial Senate races. Financial challenges are hindering Democratic candidates, with super PACs playing a significant role. Polls reveal concerns about voter enthusiasm, particularly among young and Black voters. The intense Senate race in Georgia is heating up, marked by scandals and heavy party backing. Nevada's shifting political landscape reveals difficulties for the incumbent Democrat, emphasizing key voter issues like the economy and abortion rights.

Joshua Prager, journalist and author of "The Family Roe," dives deep into the life of Norma McCorvey, famously known as Jane Roe. He explores her complex journey from an advocate for abortion rights to a vocal opponent, revealing the emotional turmoil behind her identity struggles. The discussion also covers Texas's pivotal role in the abortion debate, highlighting socioeconomic factors affecting women's choices. Prager connects social issues like racism and misogyny to Supreme Court perspectives, emphasizing the need to understand diverse opinions in this ongoing fight.

Nina Totenberg, NPR's legal affairs correspondent, brings her expertise to discuss pivotal Supreme Court cases following Roe v. Wade's reversal. She highlights anticipated rulings on affirmative action, voting rights, and LGBTQ rights, stressing the importance of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's role. The conversation also addresses President Biden's marijuana pardon initiative and its broader implications on racial disparities and political engagement. Totenberg offers keen insights into the shifting dynamics of judicial authority in election administration.

Economics correspondent David Gura dives into the tangled web of today’s economy, where a stubborn inflation persists despite a strong dollar and a resilient job market. Gura discusses the political ramifications of global inflation and how OPEC's decisions affect U.S. consumer costs. He also unpacks the impact of a robust dollar, which benefits travelers but poses challenges for exporters. The chat explores housing market dynamics amid rising interest rates, painting a vivid picture of current economic challenges compared to the 2008 crisis.

Explore the ambitious $52 billion initiative aimed at revitalizing American semiconductor manufacturing. Learn how the CHIPS and Science Act seeks to reduce reliance on foreign production while boosting national security. Delve into the bipartisan support behind this legislation and its implications for job creation. Discover how semiconductors play a crucial role not only in technology but also in national defense systems. The podcast reveals the economic challenges posed by global competition and the need for collaboration to address these pressing issues.

Wisconsin's Senate race heats up as crime becomes a key issue. Ron Johnson's ads target suburban voters, linking them to rising crime. As political narratives shift, suburban voter perspectives on safety and crime messaging are evolving. The discussion also covers pressing concerns about abortion rights and inflation affecting voter anxiety. With inflation influencing political strategies, the dynamics of this close race reveal how interconnected these issues are in shaping election outcomes.

Cory Turner, NPR's education correspondent, joins the conversation to unpack the U.S. Department of Education's recent decision altering eligibility for student debt relief. He reveals that around 4 million borrowers could be left in the lurch, no longer qualifying for forgiveness. The discussion navigates the political fallout and strategic hurdles the Biden administration faces amidst ongoing legal pressures. Turner highlights the discontent among borrowers while dissecting the broader implications for upcoming elections.

Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc in Florida, leaving communities grappling with destruction and rising costs. The contrasting leadership styles of Ron DeSantis during the crisis raise questions for upcoming elections. As pandemic relief programs sunset, President Biden convened a summit to address food insecurity, highlighting deep political divides. The podcast also shines a light on local journalism’s vital role in exposing scandals like Brett Favre's misuse of funds, and even touches on fun sports moments, from the pickleball craze to Lizzo's unique performance.

As Brazil gears up for its presidential vote, echoing claims from past U.S. elections, misleading narratives take center stage. The discussion highlights the tactics used by leaders to undermine election integrity, and how social media fuels such disinformation. It delves into the public's growing skepticism towards trusted news sources and the lasting impact of misinformation on political trust. By drawing parallels with the January 6th insurrection, it sheds light on the challenges both nations face in navigating a polarized electoral landscape.