The Daily

Christopher Flavelle, a keen New York Times reporter, dives into the complexities of Biden's immigration strategy and its fallout. He reveals how early warnings were overlooked, leading to a chaotic policy landscape. Flavelle addresses the confusion within the administration, highlighting a lack of clear leadership and strategy. As public sentiment soured, he dissects the political miscalculations that alienated key voter groups. The discussion also touches on recent policy shifts and the lasting impact on the Democratic Party's immigration agenda.

Join Caryn Ganz, pop music editor at The New York Times, and Lindsay Zoladz, pop critic and author of The Amplifier, as they dissect the highs and lows of 2025 music. Caryn calls the year disappointing, while Lindsay finds gems among mainstream hits. They explore the resurgence of Lady Gaga, Bad Bunny's cultural roots, and Justin Bieber's experimental turn. With insights on Taylor Swift's controversial album and praise for artists like Doechii, Geese, and PinkPantheress, the conversation highlights a transformative year in music.

In a lively discussion, Ben Shapiro, a conservative commentator known for his sharp analysis, highlights the erosion of trust in media and critiques legacy outlets. David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, emphasizes the historical and cultural impacts of current press challenges, while comedian Andrew Schulz points out how algorithms distort audience engagement and sensationalism in news. Together, they discuss the implications of corporate ownership, the rise of partisanship, and the need for audience discernment in a fragmented media landscape.

Former Senators Jeff Flake and Joe Manchin join current Senator Tina Smith for a candid discussion on the broken state of the Senate. Flake warns about the dangers of growing presidential power, while Manchin highlights the disconnect with working-class voters. Smith candidly reveals her reasons for stepping down, citing safety concerns amid political violence. They debate the increasing partisanship and the role of the filibuster. The trio also explores potential reforms like term limits and the need for a return to bipartisan cooperation.

David E. Sanger, a White House correspondent for The New York Times, dives into Trump's bold new national security strategy, which shifts focus from promoting democracy to prioritizing wealth. He critiques the harsh stance on Europe, noting its portrayal as a declining partner and the strategy's surprising omissions regarding North Korea and Iran. Sanger discusses the pivot back to the Americas, including military actions in the Caribbean and efforts to curb Chinese influence. This deep analysis raises questions about the future of U.S. foreign policy and its impact on global alliances.

Robert Draper, a journalist from The New York Times, delves into the fractures within the MAGA movement since Trump returned to power. He discusses the fallout from Tucker Carlson's controversial interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes and its implications for conservative unity. Draper also highlights Marjorie Taylor Greene's political shift from Trump loyalist to critic, revealing growing discontent with unfulfilled promises. The conversation explores how these tensions may shape the future of the American right in a post-Trump landscape.

Jodi Kantor, a New York Times reporter renowned for her investigative prowess, dives into the simmering tensions among the Supreme Court's liberal justices. She highlights Elena Kagan's diplomatic approach, aiming for narrow compromises, contrasted with Ketanji Brown Jackson's bold, public dissenting strategy. Kantor unpacks the implications of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's passing and how Amy Coney Barrett's unexpected independence creates further complexity within the court's dynamics. The clash between Kagan's and Jackson's methods showcases a divided bench grappling with major ideological shifts.

Join Nicole Sperling, Kyle Buchanan, and Lauren Hirsch as they dive into the escalating battle for Warner Bros. Sperling reveals Netflix's aggressive strategy to dominate streaming, while Buchanan shares insights on the potential impact on theaters. Hirsch unpacks Paramount's surprising hostile bid and its implications for the industry. The trio debates whether this merger would enhance or diminish content quality and the significance of subscriber pricing. Get ready for a thrilling exploration of Hollywood's shifting landscape!

Julie Turkewitz, the Andes bureau chief for The New York Times, investigates the harrowing experiences of Venezuelan men deported to a notorious Salvadoran prison. She reveals shocking accounts of torture and abuse, including physical and sexual violence. Julie shares how these men were labeled as gang members based on tattoos, and discusses their desperate protests against inhumane conditions. The podcast explores the U.S. government's complicity in this crisis and the long-term impacts on survivors, highlighting the dire consequences of harsh immigration policies.

Join food reporter Melissa Clark, known for her recipe expertise and holiday cooking, alongside Vaughn Vreeland, a video producer focused on cookie culture. They dive into the creative world of Cookie Week, discussing unconventional flavors inspired by drinks and snacks. Delight in stories of peculiar cookies like the mortadella treat and a tasty Popcorn Bucket Cookie. Plus, learn tips for gluten-free baking, cookie storage, and unique holiday gifting ideas. Get ready for a merry mix of culinary innovation and festive fun!