The Daily

Adam Liptak, a Supreme Court reporter for The New York Times, joins to discuss Justice Stephen Breyer's unexpected retirement. The conversation delves into Breyer's legacy and the implications of his decision for the conservative majority on the court. Liptak highlights the urgency for President Biden to select a successor, emphasizing his commitment to nominating the first Black woman. They also explore the complexities of the Supreme Court confirmation process and the political landscape influencing potential nominees.

David Leonhardt, a Senior writer at The New York Times, shares insights on the evolving attitudes toward COVID-19 as the U.S. reaches a turning point. He discusses a recent poll that reveals how Americans, particularly across different age groups and political beliefs, are coming to terms with the pandemic. The conversation highlights the divides between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, the political misjudgments of risk, and the surprising consensus on school closures’ impact on children as society grapples with returning to normal.

Mark Landler, the London bureau chief for The New York Times, delves into the explosive scandal surrounding Boris Johnson's alleged lockdown parties at Downing Street. The conversation highlights the growing public outrage and its potential impact on Johnson's leadership. Landler explores how this scandal contrasts with Johnson's earlier Brexit promises and examines the political consequences of his recent apologies. The discussion also touches on the implications of these events for the UK's handling of both the pandemic and ongoing international tensions.

In this thought-provoking discussion, award-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario shares her transformative experience documenting the life of Marieke Vervoort, a Belgian Paralympic champion. Marieke faced a progressive disease that led her to choose euthanasia, a decision that not only shaped her athletic identity but also her relationships. Lynsey reflects on the emotional weight of capturing Marieke's story, contrasting her desire for peace with the ongoing struggles of those she typically photographs. This exploration sheds light on profound life and death choices.

In this episode, Paul Rozin, an eminent psychologist renowned for his work on disgust, joins to explore the multifaceted nature of this powerful emotion. Together with journalist Molly Young, they unravel how disgust shapes our behavior, technology, and even political views. They dive into its evolutionary roots, its cultural significance, and how it plays a role in everything from personal hygiene to interpersonal relationships. With humor and historical context, they reveal disgust as both a primal instinct and a societal construct that reflects our morality.

Damien Cave, the Australia bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into the controversy surrounding Novak Djokovic's deportation. He explores how this incident sparked a national dialogue about Australia's strict border policies and vaccine mandates. Cave highlights the stark contrast between Djokovic's celebrity treatment and the plight of refugees. The discussion also reflects on how this case challenges perceptions of national identity and fairness in the context of public health and immigration policies. It’s a gripping exploration of sport, politics, and societal values.

Kevin Roose, a technology columnist for The New York Times, dives into Microsoft's game-changing $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. He explores how this monumental deal positions Microsoft in the metaverse landscape. The discussion also unpacks the evolving concept of the metaverse, from science fiction roots to real-world implications. Roose raises critical questions about corporate influence, the potential for an immersive utopia, and the risks of a dystopian reality, making this a fascinating look at our digital future.

Astead W. Herndon, a national political reporter for The New York Times, dives into the critical state of voting rights legislation. He shares insights on the near impossibility of passing pivotal bills like the Freedom to Vote Act. Herndon discusses the frustrations from activists over the Biden administration's delayed action and the role of the Senate filibuster. Key political ramifications for democracy are explored, emphasizing the urgent need to confront voter suppression as the midterms approach.

Azmat Khan, an investigative reporter for The Times Magazine, delves into the devastating impact of U.S. airstrikes on civilians in Iraq. She reflects on Basim Razzo's heart-wrenching story of family loss due to flawed military intelligence. The podcast underscores the alarming gap between reported and actual civilian casualties, revealing a system that often prioritizes legitimacy over accountability. With on-the-ground reporting, Khan brings to light the emotional turmoil faced by families affected by these conflicts, challenging the narratives presented by the military.

Elizabeth Weil, an insightful author, reflects on her complex relationship with California amidst its climate crisis. She vividly recounts the unsettling changes brought by wildfires, transforming the state's beauty into a haunting reality. Weil explores the roots of California's environmental challenges, including the impact of colonization and the erasure of Indigenous practices. Despite the overwhelming climate anxiety, she finds glimmers of hope, urging a new perspective that balances despair with the potential for resilience and renewal.