The Daily

Wesley Morris, a critic at large for The New York Times and author of the essay "My Mustache, My Self," explores his humorous journey of growing a mustache during pandemic isolation. His mixed reactions from friends reveal how this choice sparked deeper reflections on identity and self-expression. Morris discusses the cultural significance of mustaches in the African-American community, linking personal experiences to themes of respectability and resilience. He also touches on racial identity as depicted in popular culture, revealing the complexities of navigating self-perception.

Joining the discussion is Alexander Burns, a national political correspondent for The New York Times. He provides insights on the final presidential debate, highlighting President Trump's strategic restraint compared to previous debates. The candidates presented contrasting views on the coronavirus and immigration, with Biden emphasizing his plans for the American family. Burns also touches on the evolving political dynamics within Latino communities and the significant issues of race and climate that emerged in their exchanges. His analysis dives deep into the implications of these debates for the upcoming election.

Jesse Wegman, a member of The New York Times’s editorial board, delves into the controversial Electoral College, a system that appears nowhere in the Constitution. He discusses its winner-take-all approach, which can ignore millions of votes, and traces its origins and evolution over the decades. Wegman highlights the electoral dilemmas seen in the 2000 and 2016 elections, where presidents were elected without winning the popular vote. He also explores potential reforms like the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact that could reshape U.S. democracy.

Kevin Roose, a technology columnist for The New York Times, delves into the challenges social media companies face in combatting misinformation, particularly during elections. He discusses the tensions between safeguarding free speech and controlling false narratives, highlighted by a controversial story regarding Hunter Biden. Roose also analyzes the complexities of content moderation, the impact of social media on journalism, and the enduring debate over censorship in the digital space. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on technology's role in society!

Jonathan Martin, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the fierce Senate race in North Carolina between incumbent Thom Tillis and challenger Cal Cunningham. The discussion highlights North Carolina's purple political identity and the key controversies shaping the race, including Tillis's COVID-19 diagnosis and Cunningham’s extramarital affair. Martin analyzes how these scandals impact voter sentiment and the strategic maneuvering necessary to appeal to a diverse electorate in this pivotal battleground state.

Jennifer Medina, a national politics reporter for The New York Times, joins Tomas Robles, co-executive director of Lucha, to discuss the evolving Latino vote in Arizona. They dive into grassroots activism, emphasizing young canvassers' crucial roles in boosting voter engagement. The conversation also explores the complexities of Latino identity and political beliefs, highlighting the division among Hispanic voters, some of whom support Trump. Tensions around race, faith, and personal experiences are revealed, showcasing the intricate landscape of political expression in the Latino community.

Jim Dwyer's legacy as a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist is celebrated through poignant reflections on his impactful storytelling. The podcast delves into harrowing accounts of those trapped in the World Trade Center on 9/11, showcasing their desperate fight for survival. It also explores themes of trauma and injustice, highlighting historical police violence and its long-lasting effects on communities. The heartbreaking story of a young boy killed by police further emphasizes the ongoing struggle for accountability and race relations in society.

In this engaging discussion, national political reporter Alexander Burns from The New York Times dives into Joe Biden's comprehensive plans amidst a health and economic crisis. They explore Biden's proactive public health strategies and how the pandemic has shaped his agenda. Burns highlights Biden's emphasis on infrastructure, child care, and union protections, while contrasting his approach with Trump's. The conversation also touches on the importance of restoring national unity and the challenges of navigating political opposition in these unprecedented times.

Peter Baker, Chief White House Correspondent for The New York Times, joins former president Donald Trump to delve into his four-year journey from promises to policies. They scrutinize Trump's accomplishments in deregulation and military spending while unpacking unfulfilled commitments like healthcare reform and immigration policy. The conversation highlights the impact of these dynamics on public sentiment and the political landscape, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic's influence on voter perceptions.

Adam Liptak, Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, provides keen insights into the gripping confirmation hearings of Judge Amy Coney Barrett. He discusses the intense questioning by senators, particularly on hot-button issues like abortion rights and the Affordable Care Act. Barrett’s artful responses showcase a delicate balance of legal acumen and strategic evasion. Liptak also highlights the political ramifications of her confirmation in the lead-up to the election and how this process reflects broader societal debates and concerns.