The Daily

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, dives into the staggering statistic that around 60% of Americans have been infected with COVID-19. She discusses the elusive nature of herd immunity and the ongoing risks faced by the population, especially children. The conversation also touches on the complexity of vaccination strategies, personal risk assessments, and the ethical challenges surrounding post-exposure testing. Mandavilli emphasizes the shift in public health goals towards preventing severe illness rather than simply counting infections.

Joseph A. Kennedy, a former high school football coach, shares his journey of fighting for the right to pray on the field after being fired. Adam Liptak, Supreme Court reporter for The New York Times, provides insights into the implications of this landmark case on First Amendment rights. They discuss the tensions between personal faith and public school policies, the legal complexities surrounding religious expression, and how this case might reshape the boundaries of faith in public life.

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, a health policy correspondent for The New York Times, and Heather Murphy, a travel reporter, dive into the fallout from a Florida judge's unexpected ruling that overturned the CDC's mask mandate for travelers. They discuss the chaos that ensued among passengers, the legal challenges against the mandate, and the potential lasting effects on the CDC’s authority. Insights into how this decision could impact future public health responses, especially in emergencies, highlight the delicate balance between individual rights and governmental power.

David D. Kirkpatrick, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, delves into the alarming reality of traffic stops that can turn deadly, especially impacting marginalized communities. He discusses legislative efforts and community pushback against reform, highlighting case studies from cities like Philadelphia and Fayetteville. The conversation brings to light the tension between the need for accountability and concerns over rising crime rates. Kirkpatrick's insights reveal the complexities of rethinking traffic enforcement practices in America.

Join Willy Staley, Story Editor at The New York Times Magazine and author probing America’s billionaire landscape. He discusses the staggering growth of billionaires, now totaling 735 with a combined wealth exceeding $4.7 trillion. Staley examines the factors behind this surge, including policy shifts and globalization. He delves into the elusive world of these tycoons, questioning why many prefer to keep their wealth hidden. With insights into public perceptions, he highlights the complex relationship between vast riches and societal inequality.

Roger Cohen, the Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, provides an in-depth analysis of the high-stakes French presidential runoff between Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen. He discusses how the Ukraine conflict and rising economic inequality have intensified political tensions. Cohen explores the normalization of far-right politics through media influence and the implications of voter apathy. The conversation underscores the significance of this election for France’s future, especially regarding NATO and international relations.

J. David Goodman, the Houston bureau chief for The New York Times, discusses the intense political battleground in Texas regarding transgender care. The conversation highlights a high-profile custody battle that has become emblematic of broader legislative conflicts over parental rights. Personal stories, like that of Grayson and his mother, reveal the emotional turmoil families face amidst these legislative pressures. Goodman addresses the implications of proposed restrictions on gender-affirming treatments, emphasizing the vulnerability of transgender youth and the impact of political decisions on healthcare.

Azeen Ghorayshi, a New York Times reporter specializing in sex, gender, and science, sheds light on Texas's political landscape regarding transgender care. The discussion reveals a sharp increase in young people identifying as transgender and seeking medical support, amidst stringent laws limiting their access. Personal stories from families navigating this complex situation highlight the impact of restrictive policies on mental health and identity. Ghorayshi emphasizes the emotional journeys of parents and children as they face significant societal and political pressures.

Join Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, as he delves into the shifting sentiments of the Russian populace during the Ukraine conflict. The discussion highlights how state narratives have transformed shock into acceptance, while paranoia and societal divisions deepen against dissenters. Explore chilling stories of individuals facing repression and the economic strains from Western sanctions, all wrapped in a narrative of patriotism. It's an eye-opening look at life under Putin's regime and the price of dissent.

Stacy Cowley, a finance reporter for The New York Times, dives into the staggering $1.6 trillion student debt crisis affecting 45 million borrowers. The discussion reveals how the pandemic pause on payments has complicated President Biden's political landscape and explores its unexpected implications on inflation. Cowley highlights the racial wealth gap exacerbated by student loans and critiques the proposal for cancellation, urging a focus on deeper systemic issues. The challenges of restarting payments and the psychological effects on borrowers are also examined.