The Daily

In this episode, Susan Dominus, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, investigates a heart-wrenching IVF mix-up that intertwined the lives of two families. Parents Daphna and Xander Cardinale share their emotional journey after discovering their child was not biologically theirs. They recount the devastating realization, legal battles, and their first meeting with the other family. Ultimately, both families navigate this complex reality, forming an unexpected, supportive bond that challenges traditional notions of family.

Colby Smith and Glenn Thrush dive into the surprising criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, initiated by the Trump administration. Colby discusses the push for faster rate cuts and the fallout from costly renovations at the Fed, while Glenn explains how political allies influenced the Justice Department's involvement. They unpack Powell's rare public defense of the Fed’s independence and the unexpected Republican backlash. Ultimately, they reveal how this move, aimed at undermining the Fed, may have paradoxically strengthened its institutional power.

Farnaz Fassihi, the United Nations bureau chief for The New York Times and a veteran Iran correspondent, sheds light on the recent explosive protests in Iran. She explains how economic collapse and deep-seated social frustrations have united diverse demographics in the fight against authoritarian rule. Farnaz discusses the government's harsh crackdown, the public's demands for freedom, and the implications of external pressures. With protests escalating, she assesses the potential for change and the resilience of those risking everything for a better future.

Anatoly Kurmanaev, a journalist for The New York Times, shares his insights on Venezuela's tumultuous oil industry. He highlights the historical ties between U.S. interests and Venezuela's oil, tracing back to early American involvement. The discussion reveals the complexities of nationalization and how political instability has led to economic collapse. Kurmanaev explains the massive investment needed to revive oil production and the geopolitical implications for the U.S. Should President Trump succeed, it could reshape oil dynamics and influence global power plays.

Brian O’Hara, Chief of the Minneapolis Police Department, delves into the complexities of policing reforms and community trust. He discusses the aftermath of federal immigration enforcement and its impact on police-community relations. O’Hara highlights the strain of recent protests and staffing shortages, warning of a predictable tragedy involving ICE. He reflects on the shooting of Renee Good, expressing alarm over tactical failures and the erosion of public trust. O’Hara also explores how to rebuild community ties and the challenges of coexisting with federal agents.

Michael Cohen and Gregory Hahn, both residents of Altadena, share their gut-wrenching experiences recovering from the devastating Eaton Fire. Mike recounts losing his home entirely, while Gregory's was damaged, offering insights on community support and disaster preparedness. They emphasize the importance of investing in local networks before calamity strikes and share practical advice on emergency readiness. With climate change intensifying these events, their lessons are both timely and critical for everyone.

George Saunders, an acclaimed novelist celebrated for works like Lincoln in the Bardo, shares his insights on the complexities of kindness and the benefits of meditation. He discusses character motivations in his novel Vigil, revealing how literature fosters empathy and challenges moral perceptions. Saunders reflects on his journey from Ayn Rand to a deeper compassion, and he candidly addresses the burdens of being labeled as 'kind.' His thoughts on death and the impact of capitalism offer a profound view on success and self-awareness.

David E. Sanger, a seasoned White House correspondent for The New York Times, joins President Trump for a revealing conversation. They explore Trump's perspective on the U.S. role in Venezuela, where he expresses a strong view on American intervention. The discussion touches on international law, with Trump asserting his authority over it. Sanger notes Trump's evolving stance on immigration, revealing unexpected support for reform. Additionally, Trump claims artificial intelligence will boost job creation, painting an optimistic picture of the economy.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science reporter at The New York Times, and Benjamin Mueller, a health and medicine reporter, dive into the recent CDC cuts to childhood vaccines under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. They discuss which vaccines have been removed and the rationale behind this shift toward individualized decision-making. The duo also explores the medical community's divided reactions, concerns about clinician time, and potential public health implications. The roots of vaccine skepticism in the broader medical freedom movement are examined, alongside practical advice for parents on vaccine access.

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.