

The Lead with Jake Tapper
CNN
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

Aug 14, 2024 • 43min
UAW Files Federal Labor Charges Against Trump & Musk
Donald Trump faces federal labor charges from a major union, sparking intense debate about his campaign strategies. An investigation opens into a break-in at his campaign offices, hinting at cyber vulnerabilities linked to Iranian hackers. Meanwhile, Biden prepares for a pivotal speech at the Democratic National Convention, signaling shifts in the election landscape. With worker hardships on the rise, the intricate ties between labor unions and political dynamics come into sharp focus as the 2024 race heats up.

5 snips
Aug 13, 2024 • 42min
Trump: Harris Has “Flip-Flopped” On Border Policies, Fracking
Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, faces Donald Trump's dubious accusations regarding crowd sizes and his tactical approach for 2024. She discusses her campaign alongside Biden, addressing evolving economic policies amidst Republican critiques. Elon Musk's influence on the presidential race is also dissected, highlighting the interplay of tech and politics. The conversation shifts to the implications of controversial statements made by Republican candidates and their effects on voter sentiment in key states.

Aug 10, 2024 • 42min
Brazil’s President: 62 People Killed In Place Crash
Vice President Kamala Harris discusses her campaign efforts in Arizona, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and community involvement. Gov. Tim Walz outlines the impact of immigration issues in battleground states. Former President Donald Trump shares insights on his campaign strategies in reliably red states, highlighting tensions within the GOP. The podcast also covers the tragic plane crash in Brazil that claimed 62 lives, intertwining discussions of national tragedies with political narratives and voter sentiments.

6 snips
Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 22min
Trump Holds Lengthy New Conference At Mar-a-Lago
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris bring their insights on a recent press conference by Donald Trump, highlighting his declining communication skills and ongoing campaign challenges. They discuss the dynamics of rising political competition and concern surrounding an alleged ISIS-inspired attack. Kamala shares her plans for upcoming debates, while the duo reflects on the importance of transparency in political communication amid troubling developments in security and veterans' rights.

Aug 8, 2024 • 1h 20min
Harris-Walz, Vance Hold Competing Campaign Events In Wisconsin
Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz discuss their campaign strategies aimed at winning over crucial Wisconsin voters. They delve into challenges posed by opponents like Senator J.D. Vance, highlighting fundraising successes and the importance of connecting with diverse electorates. The conversation also touches on recent geopolitical tensions, including missile attacks and their implications for international relations, making for a compelling mix of local campaigning and global issues.

Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 7min
Soon: Harris & Walz To Speak At First Rally Together
Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz join forces in a pivotal campaign event in Philadelphia. They discuss their political alliance and the strategic importance of Pennsylvania in the 2024 race. Walz's progressive background and ability to connect with Midwestern voters are examined, alongside the challenges they face from Republican narratives. The duo reveals their plans to unify Democrats and engage independent voters, highlighting the excitement surrounding their inaugural rally.

Aug 6, 2024 • 1h 24min
Markets Close After Worst Open Since March 2020
The market faces a dramatic downturn, with the Dow dropping over a thousand points due to rising unemployment fears, sparking recession discussions. Amid the chaos, Vice President Kamala Harris races against the clock to finalize her running mate, navigating complex political dynamics. The emotional reunions from recent prisoner swaps add to the narrative, underscoring themes of resilience and freedom amidst international negotiations. Additional insights delve into storm impacts and ongoing political tensions, painting a vivid picture of today's landscape.

Aug 3, 2024 • 1h 23min
Source: Harris To Meet With Top VP Contenders This Weekend
Kamala Harris, a key player in American politics and the Democratic presidential nominee, discusses the implications of recent economic shifts on her campaign. She outlines her evolving economic agenda while navigating the turbulent waters of a declining stock market. With rumors swirling about potential running mates, Harris also shares insights into her strategic decisions ahead of the election. The conversation is a deep dive into the intersection of economic policy and political maneuvering, showcasing the stakes for the upcoming election.

Aug 2, 2024 • 43min
Americans Released From Russia To Land In U.S. Tonight
Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, recently released from Russian detention, share their emotional journey back to the U.S. They discuss the historic nature of the largest prisoner swap since the Cold War, involving 24 people from 7 nations. The duo reflects on the intense negotiations and family support that played crucial roles in their freedom. Additionally, they explore the implications of their release on U.S.-Russia relations and the impact on domestic politics as their case highlights ongoing diplomatic challenges.

Aug 1, 2024 • 1h 25min
Trump Falsely Suggests Harris “Happened To Turn Black”
Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, discusses Donald Trump's provocative comments questioning her racial identity during a recent journalist convention. The backlash from Black journalists highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding race in politics. The conversation shifts to international affairs as the assassination of a Hamas leader raises concerns over Middle Eastern stability. Harris reflects on her connection with Black voters and the implications of Trump's remarks on her leadership and political strategy.