The Opinions

The podcast dives into the challenges facing the Democratic Party, echoing struggles from the late 80s. Three strategists reflect on Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign, emphasizing the need for a strong, adaptable agenda. They discuss the importance of engaging with working-class voters and crafting a resonant cultural message. Key issues like immigration and inflation highlight the party's internal conflicts. Lessons from history reveal the need for fresh leadership to connect with today's diverse electorate, leaving listeners hopeful for the party's future.

Jessica Grose, a writer who explores family, education, and culture, joins Meher Ahmad to discuss the 'MAGA beauty aesthetic' and its political implications. They highlight how conservative women like Kristi Noem embody a hyperfeminine look that challenges traditional power norms. The conversation dives into the intersection of social media influence and political identity, examining how women navigate expectations in a male-dominated landscape. They also analyze the aesthetic divides between left and right, especially in the context of social media trends.

Joining the conversation are Bret Stephens, a Conservative columnist known for his analytical takes on politics, and Gail Collins, a Liberal columnist famed for her humor and insight. They reflect on their eight-year journey of civil dialogue, sharing hilarious anecdotes and the keys to respectful discussions. The duo tackles the evolution of the Republican Party and the impact of social media on polarization. With a tennis analogy, they emphasize engaging in political arguments rather than just winning, making the case for humor as a bridge in discourse.

In a live event recorded at the Brooklyn Public Library on Tuesday, Opinion’s deputy editor, Patrick Healy, was joined by the columnists Michelle Goldberg, M. Gessen and Bret Stephens to discuss how President Trump’s second term has reshaped America in just 100 days.Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Alison Bruzek. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishkaha Darbha. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Aman Sahota and Pat McCusker. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Special thanks to Gregg Richards and the staff of the Brooklyn Public Library.

Maureen Dowd, a renowned columnist for The New York Times, and fellow columnist Carlos Lozada delve into the chaotic first 100 days of President Trump’s second term. They discuss his populist leadership style and the confusion it has sparked among civil servants and the public. The duo reflects on the implications of Trump’s actions for American values and global standing, while also exploring the resilience of fundamental principles amidst political strife. Their insights offer a thought-provoking examination of hope in turbulent times.

Yair Reiner, entrepreneur and inventor of the Frywall, shares his insights on the challenges faced by small businesses in today's turbulent economy. He discusses the detrimental impact of tariffs imposed during the U.S.-China trade war, emphasizing how rising production costs threaten innovation and sustainability. Reiner illustrates the difficulties of managing overseas partnerships and highlights the risks these economic shifts pose to family-run businesses. His passionate defense of entrepreneurship paints a vivid picture of the struggles innovators face.

In this episode, the deputy Opinion editor Patrick Healy talks to the columnist Lydia Polgreen about the global panic around migration, and what President Trump’s efforts to curb it mean for the United States and its position in the world.Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger. It was edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. The rest of the show's production team includes Derek Arthur and Vishakha Darbha. Mixing by Sonia Herrero. Original music by Carole Sabouraud, Aman Sahota and Isaac Jones. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker, Michelle Harris and Kate Sinclair. Audience strategy by Shannon Busta and Kristina Samulewski. The director of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

David Gibson, a respected director at Fordham University's Center on Religion and Culture, and Leah Libresco Sargeant, a writer focused on the dignity of dependence, dive into Pope Francis's impactful leadership. They discuss his empathetic approach to modern challenges and the perception of his authority in a divided world. The duo reflects on Francis's pastoral legacy, his advocacy for social justice, and the complexities surrounding accountability in the Church. They also touch on the anticipation for the upcoming papal conclave and the dynamics among the Cardinals.

The podcast delves into Trump's administration resembling a mafia state, pressuring universities like Harvard with intimidation tactics. It highlights the financial burdens and illegal demands faced by institutions, particularly Columbia's negotiations. The discussion stretches beyond the U.S., comparing the impacts of autocracy on academic integrity in regimes like Russia and Hungary while showcasing innovative solutions to uphold educational values. Tune in for an insightful look at the intersection of politics and academia.

Jamelle Bouie, a New York Times Opinion columnist with a knack for historical analysis, joins former attorney David French to discuss significant legal challenges during the Trump administration. They dive into the alarming defiance of a Supreme Court ruling concerning the wrongful deportation of a Maryland man. The conversation highlights the implications for the judicial system, the historical context of legal rights, and the importance of civil protections for all individuals. They advocate for active civic engagement in defending democracy and individual rights.