Washington Today

Gabby Bierenbaum, a Washington correspondent for the Texas Tribune, dives into the surprising pardon of Texas Democrat Henry Cuellar by Trump, discussing its political fallout. Sean Van Diver, founder of AfghanEVAC, shares insights on resettling Afghan allies and the importance of a robust vetting process amid security concerns. Energy journalist Robinson Meyer explains the troubling rise in electricity prices, attributing it to increased demand and highlighting the need for grid modernization and policy reform.

President Trump discusses the significance of co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico while celebrating soccer's growth in the U.S. He receives FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize amidst remarks about global unity through sports. Meanwhile, the CDC advisory committee votes to reconsider universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns, prompting debate over public health implications. Indiana's redistricting pushes to gain more Republican seats sparks controversy over minority representation. Plus, Melania Trump brings holiday cheer with a hospital reading for children.

Cash Patel, a former FBI Director, discusses the arrest of a man involved in the pipe-bomb incident near the 2021 Capitol attack, emphasizing the teamwork behind the investigation. Jim Himes, a U.S. Representative, expresses concern over a troubling video of a Pentagon strike that may have impacted survivors of a drug boat. Tom Cotton defends that strike as essential against narco-terrorism. Additionally, Donald Trump promotes peace agreements with African leaders, highlighting his support for mineral exploration.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump discusses the GOP's victory in the Tennessee special election and its implications for the 2026 midterms. He also explains his decision to pardon Rep. Henry Cuellar, highlighting concerns over border politics and prosecution. Cuellar expresses his gratitude and reaffirms his reelection plans. Trump further outlines his controversial rollback of Biden-era vehicle fuel economy standards, arguing it will benefit consumers and lower vehicle costs, stirring debates on environmental impacts.

President Donald Trump holds a Cabinet meeting at the White House, where Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says he did not see any survivors in the water when a second strike was ordered and launched on a boat alleging carrying illegal drugs in the Caribbean Sea in September, and President Trump says he does not want Somali immigrants in the United States because they add little to the country, rely on government safety net benefits and complain too much. He calls Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) 'garbage'. Supreme Court hears a case contending faith-based antiabortion pregnancy centers in New Jersey deceived clients and donors by suggesting they offered abortion referrals; Senate leaders discuss plans to vote before Affordable Care Act health insurance enhanced premium tax credits expire; Billionaires Michael and Susan Dell donate over $6-and-a-quarter billion to put $250 in the individual investment accounts for 25 million children, an extension of the Trump Accounts created under the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill signed into law earlier this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt discusses recent claims regarding a lawful follow-up strike on a drug boat, clarifying the administration's position. Senator John Thune shares insights on Thanksgiving travel and the pressing legislative agenda as Congress reconvenes, emphasizing national safety. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries presses for investigations into potential war crimes tied to the strike while seeking bipartisan efforts to extend health care subsidies. The dialogue continues on the administration's handling of Venezuela and broader defense strategies.

Heather Long, chief economist for Navy Federal Credit Union, shares insights on the U.S. economy and the ongoing affordability crisis, highlighting the divide between the top 20% and the bottom 80%. Frank Luntz, pollster and strategist, reveals the national mood this Thanksgiving and how it may affect upcoming elections. Ted Johnson, political editor for Deadline, delves into FCC actions under the Trump administration, discussing media regulation and the implications of the agency's oversight on broadcasters.

Aisha Bagchi, a Justice Department reporter for USA Today, analyzes the dismissal of a criminal election interference case against President Trump, shedding light on intricate legal dynamics. Meanwhile, Cash Patel, the FBI Director, details the shooting of two National Guardsmen in D.C., emphasizing the collaborative federal response and urging public support. Jeff Carroll from the MPD provides gripping insights into the shooting scene and the swift police actions that followed. Discussions also touch on broader implications for the electoral process and public safety.

Muriel Bowser, the longtime Mayor of Washington, D.C., announces she won't run for a fourth term, reflecting on her city's achievements in housing and education. Former attorney general Pam Bondi discusses the success of a federal law enforcement surge in Memphis, emphasizing reduced crime rates. Meanwhile, President Trump shares amusing insights on Thanksgiving turkey pardons while asserting that food prices are dropping. He also suggests a Russia-Ukraine peace deal is nearing, highlighting a potential diplomatic breakthrough.

Sen. Mark Kelly, a Democratic U.S. Senator from Arizona and retired Navy captain, passionately defends a video urging troops to disobey illegal orders amid a Pentagon investigation. He addresses the threats against him, vehemently rejecting intimidation. Kelly also critiques the violent rhetoric from political leaders, emphasizing the seriousness of such words and the growing threats faced by Congress members. His insights highlight the tension between military law and political discourse, shedding light on a significant moment in current events.