The Daily

Annie Karni, a congressional correspondent at The New York Times, and Shane Goldmacher, a national political correspondent for the same outlet, dive into the pivotal stakes of the 2026 elections. They discuss the challenges facing Republicans, such as rising costs and low morale, while analyzing the Democrats' cautious optimism after recent special elections. Intriguingly, they explore the impact of redistricting and candidate quality on both parties' strategies. Ultimately, they lay out the best and worst-case scenarios for controlling Congress.

Anatoly Kurmanaev, a New York Times reporter with deep insight into Venezuela's dynamics, dives into the controversial selection of Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader over opposition figure María Corina Machado. He discusses the surreal atmosphere in Caracas post-Maduro and why elites prefer Delcy's technocratic approach. Kurmanaev unpacks the implications of her market-oriented reforms and how they're aimed at stabilizing the economy. Venezuelans hold a tempered hope for the future, reflecting both resilience and fatigue.

Charlie Savage, a national security and legal policy reporter for The New York Times, breaks down the complex legal issues surrounding Nicolás Maduro's recent capture. He discusses the legality of the operation, exploring tensions between U.S. domestic law and international law. Savage highlights past precedents, such as the Noriega case, and delves into the implications of Maduro's cocaine trafficking indictment. He also examines possible defenses against head-of-state immunity and the potential long-term consequences of this unprecedented legal situation.

Eric Schmitt, a national security correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the audacious U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He details the meticulous planning behind 'Operation Absolute Resolve,' including CIA spies embedded within Maduro’s circle. Schmitt explains the tactical strikes on oil tankers and drug trafficking boats aimed at crippling Venezuela's economy. The discussion also covers the potential consequences for U.S.-Venezuela relations and the complexities of nation-building in a politically fraught environment.

A major U.S. military operation has led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. President Trump outlines a plan for U.S. control during the transition. Maduro and his wife now face serious charges, including narco-terrorism. The operation caused significant destruction in Caracas, affecting military sites. With the U.S. aiming for Venezuelan oil reserves, international reactions are mixed, prompting discussions at the U.N. Republicans celebrate the capture, while Democrats raise legal concerns.

Cara Buckley and Catrin Einhorn, reporters at The New York Times, share insights from their groundbreaking project documenting environmental successes across all 50 states. They explore local climate actions springing up despite federal policy shifts, highlighting stories like Missouri's wind turbine initiative and Montana's guardian dogs that protect both livestock and bears. Their findings underscore the significance of grassroots efforts and the nuanced approaches communities take toward climate solutions, sparking cautious optimism for the future.

Kashmir Hill, a tech and privacy reporter for The New York Times, delves into the intriguing story of Irene, who formed a deep bond with her chatbot, Leo. She explores how Irene personalized Leo and integrated him into her daily life, leading to escalating emotional and sexual attachments. Their relationship sparked debates on infidelity and AI companionship's therapeutic potential. Following Irene's journey, Kashmir highlights the growth of a community around AI love stories and the transition from virtual partners to real connections.

Jessica Cheung, a senior producer at The New York Times, and Isla Gomez, the daughter of a deported immigrant, share a poignant perspective on family separation. They recount Isla's father's journey from Brazil to becoming a beloved family figure, only to be detained during a routine ICE check-in. Isla opens up about the emotional toll of her father's deportation, their close bond, and fears for their future. The conversation highlights the harsh realities of immigration enforcement and the impact on families, calling for empathy and understanding.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Thomas Sipp, a former lawyer at Skadden Arps, shares his journey from a promising legal career to taking a stand against his firm's controversial deal with the Trump administration. He reflects on the moral dilemmas faced by lawyers in the current political climate and reveals the emotional weight of his resignation. Thomas also emphasizes the importance of legal ethics, the courage to speak up, and the complexities of navigating professional loyalty versus personal beliefs.

Alissa Wilkinson, a film critic for The New York Times, teams up with Nicole Sperling, a culture reporter based in Los Angeles, to reflect on the cinematic highlights of 2025. They delve into notable films like 'Sinners' and 'One Battle After Another,' exploring themes of activism and cultural impact. The conversation also examines industry trends, including Warner Brothers' successes and the implications of consolidation in Hollywood. Don't miss their critics’ picks and insights into the future of cinema!