The Lead with Jake Tapper
CNN Podcasts
CNN's lead DC anchor and chief Washington correspondent, Jake Tapper, hosts this two-hour long weekday afternoon program, with headlines from around the country and the world, the top stories in national and international news, politics, health, money, the environment, sports and popular culture. The Lead also concentrates on bringing stories that aren't found on front pages—buried leads—to the forefront.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 13, 2025 • 1h 23min
Utah Officials Urge Political Restraint After Kirk Killing
A 22-year-old has been captured and charged with the murder of Charlie Kirk. How a dinner conversation, a Discord group chat, and a dad help zero in on his arrest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 27min
Manhunt Underway For Suspect In Charlie Kirk’s Killing
FBI Director Kash Patel is now headed to Utah to help investigate the assassination of Trump ally Charlie Kirk as the manhunt for the suspect intensifies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 51min
Trump: Charlie Kirk Is Dead
Trump ally, conservative activist, founder of Turing Point USA, Charlie Kirk, 31, has been shot and killed in an apparent assassination. We bring you the latest details of this breaking news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 10, 2025 • 1h 24min
WH: Israeli Strike In Qatar Runs Counter To Trump’s Objectives
President Trump is trying to distance himself from an Israeli strike in Qatar, which Israel claims targeted Hamas leaders. Qatar has been a key mediator in the Gaza ceasefire talks so what does this mean for any hope for a ceasefire deal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 24min
House Cmte. Gets “Birthday Book,” Other Docs From Epstein Estate
The infamous Epstein birthday book is now in the hands of Congress and the page allegedly from President Trump is now public. Plus, the United States Supreme Court is allowing roving immigration patrols to continue in Los Angeles as the Trump administration launches a new operation in Chicago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 6, 2025 • 1h 24min
America’s Weak Jobs Report Flashes Warning Signs About The Economy
The Wall Street Journal is reporting RFK Jr.’s plans to announce a link of Tylenol use during pregnancy to children with autism. Plus, the Trump administration's finger pointing begins after the latest jobs report painted a rather bleak picture of the economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 24min
Kennedy Struggles To Account For His Promise On Vaccine Access
From shouting matches to RFK Jr. lying to senators, a look at key moments from today’s Capitol Hill hearing. Plus, a look at The Smithsonian exhibits that the White House has says they have issues with. Also, sources tell CNN Trump’s DOJ is weighing banning transgender Americans from owning guns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 24min
Trump Accuses Xi, Putin, Kim Of Conspiring Against U.S.
Jeffrey Epstein trafficking and rape survivors have strong messages as they appear on Capitol Hill detailing what the pedophile did to ruin their lives for a time and why the Justice Department needs to reveal much more. Plus, what Trump is saying about a show of force from other world leaders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 22min
Congress Returns To Renewed Fight Over Epstein Files
The Epstein files are back front and center as House Republicans invite survivors of the dead pedophile to Capitol Hill. Plus, when weather is at the extreme, how big cities are trying to make big changes to keep with the growing force of nature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 2, 2025 • 1h 23min
Sources: Immigration Operation In Chicago Could Start This Week
Officials in Chicago are warning Trump against a major immigration enforcement operation which sources say is set as soon as this week. Plus, is Congress about to get its hands on more Epstein records? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
