Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast

David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker and host of The New Yorker Radio Hour, shares insights from his recent reporting in Israel, delving into the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He discusses the stark contrast between military achievements and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The conversation highlights media narratives that often overlook Palestinian suffering, the denialism surrounding the conflict, and the crucial role of Israeli writers in shaping public consciousness and moral discourse amidst ongoing crises.

Avril Benoît, the Executive Director of Doctors Without Borders in the U.S., shares harrowing insights into the medical crises in Gaza. She highlights the alarming malnutrition rates among children and pregnant women, stressing the urgent need for international aid. Benoît details the challenges faced by aid workers as they navigate chaotic food distribution efforts, advocating for safer methods. The conversation underscores the critical impact of ongoing conflict on access to basic necessities, calling for immediate humanitarian intervention.

Alexandra Svokos, digital managing editor of Kiplinger, dives into the financial ramifications of tariffs on the auto industry. She reveals how General Motors is absorbing a staggering $1.1 billion loss yet choosing not to raise prices. The discussion also touches on the complexities of trade negotiations and their ripple effects on other sectors, like beauty products. Svokos analyzes the new U.S.-EU tariff deal and what it means for future pricing and manufacturing strategies, highlighting the delicate balance in global trade.

Annie Karni, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times and co-author of "Mad House," dives into the political upheaval stemming from the Epstein scandal. She discusses how the controversy is unsettling Republicans while energizing Democrats, framing the upcoming midterms in a new light. The podcast explores the pressure on Congress around Epstein files and the split within GOP ranks over transparency. Additionally, listeners raise questions about Ghislaine Maxwell's interview and its potential fallout on the political landscape.

In this discussion, Mehdi Hasan, a prominent journalist and former MSNBC host, shares insights from his high-profile debate against 20 far-right conservatives. He reflects on the challenges of addressing extremist rhetoric and the polarization of American political discourse. The conversation delves into the impact of these debates on immigrant identity and the troubling normalization of radical ideologies. Hasan also emphasizes the importance of empathy in fostering constructive dialogue amidst heated political tensions.

Matthew Choi, co-writer of The Washington Post's Early Brief politics newsletter, dives into the ongoing redistricting efforts in Texas influenced by President Trump. He discusses the special legislative session aimed at bolstering GOP power, the challenges posed by Democrats like Gavin Newsom, and the complexities of gerrymandering. Choi highlights the urgency for Texas to reshape its congressional maps, revealing how political maneuvering could reshape the state’s electoral landscape and impact urban areas leaning Democratic.

Brian Stelter, CNN's chief media analyst and author of Network of Lies, dives into gripping topics shaping today's media landscape. He discusses the precarious funding situation for public media and its implications for local news, especially in rural areas. The conversation also covers the intertwining narratives of Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, exploring MAGA media's reactions. Additionally, Stelter critiques the rapid-fire nature of media today, which challenges accountability while highlighting a hilarious viral moment that encapsulates modern culture.

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.