Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast

Arno Rosenfeld, an enterprise reporter at the Forward and author of Antisemitism Decoded, delves into the controversial definition of antisemitism adopted by Columbia University, shaped by Trump-era politics. He and fellow guest Katie J.M. Baker of The New York Times discuss Project Esther, which targets pro-Palestinian activism and complicates free speech. They explore the blurred lines between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, highlighting generational divides among American Jews and the implications of these definitions on public discourse.

LaFontaine Oliver, the President and CEO of New York Public Radio, brings a wealth of experience from leading public radio stations. He discusses the recent Senate decision to cut federal funding for NPR and PBS, highlighting the intense financial repercussions for both large and small stations. The conversation dives into the necessity of community support in advocating for public media and the urgent need for listener involvement. Oliver emphasizes the challenges these cuts pose to quality journalism and programming, urging listeners to rally for change.

Garry Kasparov, a former world chess champion and democracy activist, discusses the dangerous implications of Donald Trump's admiration for Vladimir Putin. He highlights how this relationship could undermine American democracy amidst growing autocratic tendencies. Kasparov delves into the historical context of Russia's warfare and Putin's ambitions, emphasizing the perilous situation in Ukraine. He warns that as critical elections approach, the fight to defend democracy becomes ever more urgent, especially with the potential threat of continued Republican influence.

Senator Andy Kim, a New Jersey lawmaker with a rich background in the State Department and Pentagon, discusses vital issues affecting his state. He highlights the inadequacies in FEMA's response to recent flooding and calls for urgent reforms in disaster management. The Senator also addresses the upcoming vote on a rescission bill that threatens foreign aid funding, and critiques the shifting narratives of U.S. leadership in response to the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of maintaining global alliances.

Arya Sundaram, a dedicated reporter from WNYC and Gothamist, focuses on race and immigration, while Congressman Adriano Espaillat advocates for immigrant rights in Upper Manhattan. They discuss alarming allegations of inhumane conditions at the 26 Federal Plaza ICE facility, including overcrowding and severe inadequacies in basic needs like food and shelter. With personal accounts shedding light on the struggles faced by immigrants, they emphasize the urgent need for inspection and accountability within the immigration detention system.

Susan Kang, a political science professor and Democratic Socialists of America member, explores democratic socialism's essence and its relevance in the mayoral campaign of Zohran Mamdani. She discusses the local DSA's strategies for affordable housing and mental health-focused public safety. Furthermore, Kang highlights generational attitudes towards socialism, clarifying its democratic foundations compared to communism. The conversation also touches on evolving DSA perspectives on Palestinian rights and their implications for local politics, making for a thought-provoking discussion.

Big changes are coming to student loans as a result of President Trump's domestic spending law. On Today's Show:Ayelet Sheffey, senior economic policy reporter at Business Insider, explains how the new law will make it harder for some borrowers to afford medical or law school, and how repayment plans for federal student loans will change.

On today's show:Austin Kocher, assistant research professor in the office of research and creative activity in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication at Syracuse University, and Substack writer, shares the data he's collected from the Trump Administration's mass deportation policy, particularly the increasing numbers of migrants arrested by ICE and living in detention facilities across the country.

Trump's so-called 'Big Beautiful Bill' would cut clean energy subsidies, and other programs aimed at mitigating climate change.On Today's Show:Zack Colman, Climate and energy reporter for POLITICO, reports on new analysis that show the Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act will raise greenhouse gas emissions and scale back U.S. environmental goals. 

Over the holiday weekend, political voices across the spectrum, from a Trump advisor to a leading congressional Democrat, weighed in on the national implications of Zohran Mamdani's primary win in NYC.On Today's Show:Susan Page, USA Today Washington bureau chief and the author of several books, including The Rulebreaker: The Life and Times of Barbara Walters (Simon & Schuster, 2024), talks about the latest national political new including the latest on the budget bill and the president's agenda, and more.