The Daily

Nikole Hannah-Jones, an award-winning journalist and creator of the 1619 Project, and Ta-Nehisi Coates, acclaimed author and thinker on race, dive deep into America's historical narratives. They discuss the tumultuous debates surrounding the 1619 Project and critical race theory, emphasizing the importance of nuanced storytelling in understanding democracy. The pair illuminates the complexities of African American identity and the ongoing evolution of America's democratic nature, urging for a balance of historical achievements and shortcomings to foster genuine progress.

Juliet Macur, a sports reporter for The New York Times, shares insights into the life of Simone Biles, hailed as one of the greatest gymnasts ever. They discuss Biles's rise to fame, her struggles with mental health, and the immense pressure she faced at the Tokyo Olympics. Macur reveals how Biles's courageous withdrawal from competition sparked a significant conversation about athletes' mental well-being. The podcast highlights the powerful message Biles sends by prioritizing her mental health over expectations in her journey as a champion.

David E. Sanger, a White House correspondent for The New York Times with expertise in national security, discusses China's significant nuclear arsenal expansion. Recent satellite images reveal over 100 new missile silos, signaling a shift from a minimal deterrent strategy. Sanger explores the reasons behind this change, including concerns about U.S. missile defenses and regional threats. He delves into how these developments impact global military dynamics and reflect China's ambitions for superpower status in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

Luke Broadwater, a Congressional reporter for The New York Times, delves into the emotional first hearing of the special committee investigating the January 6th Capitol riot. He discusses the powerful testimonies from law enforcement officers recounting their harrowing experiences, juxtaposed with the stark partisan tensions hampering a truly nonpartisan investigation. The conversation also covers the Senate's decision against forming an independent commission, and how political dynamics have shaped the accountability process in the wake of this tumultuous event.

Jennifer Steinhauer, a Washington reporter for The New York Times, dives into the contentious world of vaccine mandates. She discusses how federal and local governments are tackling low vaccination rates, particularly in healthcare settings. The conversation highlights the historical significance of mandates and the political backlash they incite. Steinhauer also sheds light on the Department of Veterans Affairs' vaccine policies and their impact on vulnerable populations, revealing the complexities of balancing public health and individual rights.

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, dives into the surge of breakthrough COVID-19 infections among vaccinated individuals. She discusses how these cases, while often mild, raise concerns about transmission, especially amid the Delta variant. The conversation covers the need for clearer tracking of infections and evolving strategies to enhance vaccination rates. Mandavilli also addresses the contentious debate around mask mandates and the necessity for boosters as cases rise, highlighting the dynamic nature of the pandemic.

An activist investment firm has taken on ExxonMobil in a bold bid to promote climate accountability. The story unfolds with a dramatic proxy battle, where emotional stakes run high as shareholders demand urgent changes. Tensions escalate during a contentious shareholder meeting, spotlighting the tug-of-war between traditional fossil fuel practices and the call for sustainability. The evolving landscape of corporate activism is explored, revealing the challenges activists face in pushing major companies towards responsible environmental practices.

Somini Sengupta, an international climate reporter for The New York Times, delves into the pressing realities of climate change. She discusses the unexpected impacts extreme weather is having on wealthier nations, revealing their vulnerability. The conversation highlights bold European legislation aimed at cutting emissions by 55% by 2030, including banning gasoline cars and implementing a carbon tax. Sengupta emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation to tackle the root causes of climate change and the challenges of achieving political will.

Julie Turkewitz, Andes bureau chief for The New York Times, and Frances Robles, a national correspondent based in Florida, delve into the intricate assassination of Haiti’s President Jovenel Moïse. They unravel the web of retired Colombian soldiers lured by job opportunities, exposing the shocking realities behind their mission. With a mysterious Miami security firm and a Haitian-American pastor, the discussion highlights betrayal and ambition amid Haiti's turmoil. Insights into the motivations of misguided soldiers and the dire political context paint a vivid picture of this tragic event.

In this discussion, David E. Sanger, a White House correspondent for The New York Times and an expert on cybersecurity, dives into the complexities of U.S.-China cyber relations. He examines the bold Chinese hacking of Microsoft and the resulting global condemnation. Sanger highlights the U.S. approach to cyber threats, contrasting responses to Russia and China. He also delves into the implications of economic sanctions, the digital cold war parallels, and the evolving nature of cyber warfare, revealing just how intricate and challenging these international dynamics are.