The Daily

Delve into the poignant story of George Bell, who died alone in his Queens apartment, reflecting on the reality of solitary deaths in a bustling city. Explore the complexities that arise when no one is there to mourn or arrange a funeral for those forgotten. Discover the emotional journey of public officials managing unclaimed estates and uncover the profound loneliness that marked Bell's life. This narrative reminds us of the fragile connections we share and the unnoticed lives that slip away in silence.

In this discussion, David E. Sanger, White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times, delves into President Biden's fraught relationship with Saudi Arabia. He highlights the tension between the Biden administration's call for accountability after the Khashoggi murder and the strategic need for alliance. Sanger explains how Biden's cautious stance on punishing the crown prince reflects a balancing act of moral authority and diplomacy amid rising global challenges, including China's influence in the Middle East.

Carl Zimmer, science writer and author of the “Matter” column for The New York Times, dives deep into the complexities of the ongoing pandemic. He discusses the recent approval of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and its impact on vaccination efforts. The conversation highlights the emergence of COVID-19 variants that challenge vaccine efficacy and herd immunity. Zimmer also underscores the necessity for continued safety protocols as vaccination rates rise, alongside the ongoing concerns about how communities can adapt to these evolving threats.

Megan Twohey, an investigative reporter for The New York Times focusing on the pandemic, and Nicholas Kulish, an enterprise correspondent covering philanthropy, explore Bill Gates' influence on global health. They discuss Gates' transition from tech mogul to health philanthropist and the creation of Gavi. The podcast also dives into the challenges of vaccine distribution through COVAX, emphasizing the struggle for equitable access in developing countries. Ghana and Ivory Coast's leadership in vaccination efforts is highlighted, revealing both logistical wins and ongoing inequalities.

Jim Tankersley, a White House correspondent for The New York Times known for his economic insights, discusses the $1.9 trillion stimulus plan under Biden. He examines its monumental provisions aimed at aiding Americans and local governments. Tankersley highlights the debate between Democrats and Republicans, noting strong public support even amid criticisms. He also touches on long-term changes in child poverty and minimum wage, stressing the urgency for governmental action during the ongoing health crisis.

Jack Healy, a national correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the harrowing aftermath of a devastating winter storm in Texas. He shares the poignant stories of Iris Cantu and two other women navigating the wreckage of their homes and lives. The discussion reveals the deep emotional and practical challenges resulting from the storm, shedding light on systemic inequalities and the struggles within marginalized communities. Healy emphasizes resilience and hope as these women confront their new reality while grappling with health and financial strains.

Sigrid E. Johnson's DNA ancestry test challenged her long-held beliefs about her racial identity, leading to a profound emotional journey. The podcast explores the implications of ancestry testing, particularly how skewed data affects non-European individuals. It raises ethical concerns about the reliability of genetic reports and the impact on personal identity. Listeners are taken through the complexities of self-discovery, acceptance, and the surprising connections that can emerge from a simple DNA test.

Naomi Fuentes, a relentlessly cheery college prep teacher at Odessa High School, shares her experiences navigating the challenges of teaching during the pandemic. She discusses the emotional rollercoaster of reopening schools and the delicate balance between safety and community values, particularly regarding high school football. Fuentes highlights the struggles of both students and educators amidst uncertainty, emphasizing the need for connection and support in these unprecedented times. Her insights paint a poignant picture of resilience in the face of adversity.

Mark Leibovich, chief national correspondent for The New York Times Magazine, delves into Merrick Garland's turbulent journey from Supreme Court nominee to Attorney General. They discuss how Garland's experience with the Oklahoma City bombing investigation shapes his current stance on domestic terrorism. The conversation highlights the perilous rise of domestic extremism post-January 6th and scrutinizes Garland's qualifications amidst political challenges. Leibovich's insights bring a compelling perspective to the complexities of justice and security in America today.

In this intriguing discussion, investigative reporter Amy Julia Harris dives into the catastrophic impact of policies during the early COVID-19 pandemic on New York nursing homes. She reveals how discharging COVID-19 patients to these facilities raised alarms over resident safety. The conversation also examines the legal protections for nursing homes amid rising fatalities and scrutinizes the Cuomo administration’s defense against bipartisan criticism. Harris highlights the profound grief families face and the ongoing quest for accountability in this tragic narrative.