The Daily

In this discussion, Shane Goldmacher, a national political reporter for The New York Times, delves into the shocking resignation of New York's Andrew Cuomo. He unveils the immediate effects of a damning harassment report and the pressure that drove Cuomo to step down. The conversation touches on Cuomo's controversial defense, the implications of Kathy Hochul becoming the state’s first female governor, and the complexities of political accountability. Goldmacher also reflects on Cuomo's complicated legacy amid a backdrop of scandal and leadership challenges.

Carlotta Gall, the Istanbul bureau chief for The New York Times, shares her extensive experience reporting from Afghanistan as the Taliban rapidly seizes control of cities. She discusses the Taliban's strategic maneuvers and the fear they instill among locals with the re-enforcement of harsh Sharia law. Gall highlights the stark contrast between American optimism for the Afghan government and the grim reality on the ground. The conversation reveals the critical challenges facing Afghan forces and the aspirations of a people yearning for peace amid chaos.

Richard Fausset, a New York Times correspondent focusing on the American South, discusses the challenging return to in-person classes amid the Delta variant surge. He delves into Arkansas's conflicting regulations on mask mandates, where state bans clash with school safety needs. Fausset highlights how governors navigate this political tug-of-war, while educators worry about health risks. He also addresses the misinformation surrounding vaccines and masks, capturing the emotional experiences of families grappling with these issues.

Explore the story of Albert Dytch, a 71-year-old man with muscular dystrophy who has filed over 180 ADA lawsuits, raising questions about justice versus profiteering. Discover the emotional and financial challenges faced by small business owners as they navigate the intricacies of ADA compliance. Delve into the rise of accessibility lawsuits and the implications for disability rights, shedding light on the ongoing fight for equitable access in public spaces. This narrative invites critical reflection on the balance between advocating for rights and the potential for exploitation.

A deep dive into the personal stories of the unvaccinated reveals complex emotions and hesitations. A single father expresses his struggle against societal labels, while a teacher stands firm in her decision not to vaccinate her son. Heartfelt accounts emerge, like a woman mourning her grandmother’s death from COVID-19 and regretting the lack of vaccination. The discussion intertwines personal health with broader societal fears and political implications, showing that vaccine hesitancy is shaped by diverse experiences and beliefs.

Shane Goldmacher, a national political reporter for The New York Times, delves into the unfolding scandal surrounding Andrew Cuomo. They discuss the chilling details of the independent investigation that corroborated accusations from 11 women, revealing a troubling culture of fear. With increasing pressure for Cuomo's resignation from key Democratic lawmakers, the podcast examines the broader implications of this political crisis. Goldmacher offers insights into Cuomo's dwindling support and the potential for impeachment, igniting a complex conversation about accountability in leadership.

Vivian Yee, the Cairo bureau chief for The New York Times, shares insights on Tunisia's political turmoil. Once a beacon of hope after the Arab Spring, the country now grapples with a president consolidating power amid mass protests. Yee highlights citizens' frustrations over unaddressed crises and the rise of authoritarianism. The podcast explores the harsh reality for journalists in Tunisia and reflects on the precarious balance between democracy and oppression, raising critical questions about the nation’s political future.

The hospitality industry is facing a significant labor shortage as managers scramble to fill roles like bartenders and wait staff. Many workers are reevaluating their career choices, challenging traditional ideas of job security in favor of personal fulfillment. The impact of pandemic unemployment benefits on hiring is a hot topic, along with rising wage expectations and a need for businesses to adapt. Personal stories reveal the struggles of culinary professionals and the emotional toll of labor shortages, reshaping the workforce landscape.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, dives into the latest on COVID-19 and the Delta variant. She reveals that vaccinated individuals can still carry high viral loads, raising concerns about their potential to transmit the virus. The conversation explores how the CDC's findings impact public health policies, corporate vaccine mandates, and office return strategies. Mandavilli emphasizes the need for continued vigilance as the pandemic landscape evolves, highlighting the complexities of navigating public health amidst breakthrough infections.

Activists discuss the controversy surrounding the casting of a sighted actress in the blind lead role of the show 'In the Dark.' Is blindness simply a role to play? Personal accounts highlight the complexities of living with visual impairment and the challenges of representation in media. A notable blind actress's performance showcases how her experience enriches emotional depth. The podcast navigates the cultural implications of blindness in entertainment, provoking thought about identity, inclusivity, and the art of storytelling.