The Opinions

Tom Friedman, a seasoned foreign affairs columnist at The New York Times, candidly critiques President Trump’s disregard for American institutions. He discusses the implications of misleading economic policies and their effects on voters and international relations. Friedman explores how Trump's approach has reshaped global dynamics, particularly with China and Russia. He highlights the dangers of leadership prioritizing loyalty over reason, urging for a diplomatic strategy to restore unity in a deeply divided political landscape.

Nicholas Kristof, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times known for his humanitarian focus, visits South Sudan to witness the devastating effects of cuts to American foreign aid. He shares harrowing stories of children suffering from treatable conditions and discusses the severe health implications stemming from reduced assistance. Kristof emphasizes the ethical obligation of wealthier nations to support vulnerable populations while arguing that cutting foreign aid undermines U.S. global leadership and public health efforts.

A measles outbreak in West Texas has sparked dire concerns, revealing the dangers of complacency around vaccinations. Discussions highlight the shift in public health leadership during the Trump era, with skepticism towards vaccines becoming mainstream. Emotional drivers fuel misinformation, making it difficult to counter established beliefs in a digital age. The podcast also delves into historical ties of alternative health movements and the pressing need to rebuild parental trust in public health agencies amidst rising vaccine hesitancy.

Dive into the intriguing world of inspectors general, the unsung heroes battling corruption in government. Discover how their sudden firings under the Trump administration jeopardized taxpayer interests and transparency. Hear firsthand accounts from those dismissed and explore their significant contributions to accountability, including a startling investigation into fraudulent disability claims. Learn about the alarming $75 billion savings they've generated and the ongoing fight for their reinstatement, illuminating fears for the future of democracy.

Michelle Goldberg, a New York Times opinion columnist, and Frank Bruni, an opinion contributor, dissect the implications of Trump's early presidency. They delve into the spectacle of power and its impact on free speech, raising questions about intentional destruction. The pair discusses the erosion of rights, particularly for green card holders, and critiques Elon Musk's disruptive influence on politics. They reflect on the complexities of defining Trump's leadership style amidst fluctuating public perceptions, emphasizing the need for authentic governance.

Time is running out for transgender service members in the U.S. military. The Trump administration has put in motion plans to identify and remove transgender troops, with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth saying they are unfit to serve.In this episode with the Opinion editor Sarah Wildman, Col. Bree Fram, one of the highest-ranking transgender members of the military, speaks about her journey and her uncertain future.Note: The views presented are Colonel Fram’s and do not reflect the official guidance or position of the U.S. government or the Department of Defense.Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.comYou can find transcripts (posted midday) and more episodes of “The Opinions” at nytimes.com/column/the-opinions.This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Derek Arthur. Edited by Kaari Pitkin and Alison Bruzek. Fact-checking by Mary Marge Locker and Kate Sinclair. Mixing by Pat McCusker. Original music by Sonia Herrero, Pat McCusker and Carole Sabouraud. The show’s production team also includes Vishakha Darbha and Jillian Weinberger. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The Director of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

David Brooks, a renowned New York Times columnist, shares his insights on President Trump's recent address to Congress and the Democrats' muddled response. He discusses Trump's charismatic rhetorical style and the emotional connection it creates with the public. Brooks highlights the Democrats' struggle to redefine their identity while addressing the challenges of populism. He raises provocative questions about urgent issues like the war in Ukraine and critiques the current administration's accountability. Finally, he emphasizes the need for empathy to navigate America's current divisions.

Jessica Riedl, a fiscal conservative and expert on America's budgetary matters, joins for a lively discussion about Elon Musk's DOGE initiative. They critique Musk’s approach to government efficiency and question its real impact on spending cuts. The conversation navigates the contradictions of fiscal conservatism during the Trump era, emphasizing the challenges of reducing the deficit through social program cuts. They also forecast economic trends amid rising interest rates and dwindling consumer confidence, offering a nuanced view on the future.

Tressie McMillan Cottom, a renowned columnist for the New York Times and sociologist, dives into how Donald Trump's hyper-masculine image has captivated a diverse range of voters, including men of color. She discusses the societal implications of his rhetoric, the transactional nature of his politics on LGBTQ issues, and explores the competitive dynamics of masculinity in politics. Cottom reveals how Trump's brand of masculinity reshapes political landscapes and influences perceptions of male identity while pondering the future impact on American society.

A surprising cinema outing sparks a mother's reflections on her daughter's lack of sex education. She highlights the need for schools to teach consent and create a safe space for discussions. The episode stresses the urgency of involving parents in these conversations to demand better educational resources. The comparison with classic film narratives underlines a generational gap in sex ed, pushing for a curriculum that truly prepares young people for adulthood.