The Daily

Luke Broadwater, a Congressional reporter for The New York Times, dives into the complexities of mail-in voting during this crucial election year. He discusses the diverse rules for mail-in voting across all 50 states and the rampant legal challenges that could reshape the process. With over 300 lawsuits pending, Broadwater warns voters to prepare for a lengthy election night due to potential delays in counting ballots. He highlights the 'red mirage' phenomenon that could mislead the public about election results, sparking debates about democratic integrity.

Alexander Burns, a national political correspondent for The New York Times, offers sharp insights into the tumultuous first presidential debate. He discusses how Biden aimed to solidify his lead while Trump sought to disrupt the narrative with aggressive tactics. The conversation highlights the chaotic atmosphere, marked by personal attacks and a lack of substantive discussions on key issues like healthcare and extremism. Burns also analyzes the broader implications of this chaotic exchange on voter perceptions and the future of political discourse.

Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig, both investigative reporters for The New York Times, uncover startling revelations about Donald Trump's tax history. They discuss two decades of documents revealing Trump’s significant financial losses, including a staggering $1.2 billion over ten years. The duo highlights the implications of a decade-long IRS audit and questions the legitimacy of a $72.9 million tax refund. As they navigate through Trump's financial turmoil, they raise urgent concerns about transparency and how his debts could impact national leadership.

Adam Liptak, Supreme Court correspondent for The New York Times, provides insightful commentary on Judge Amy Coney Barrett's nomination. He discusses Barrett's conservative roots and influence from Justice Scalia, highlighting her potential to reshape the Supreme Court's ideology. The conversation contrasts her judicial philosophy with that of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, raising questions about women's rights and abortion. Liptak also examines the politicization of the Court and the implications for public trust, offering a timely perspective on a crucial moment in American jurisprudence.

Abrahm Lustgarten, a climate change reporter for ProPublica, dives into the pressing issue of climate migration in America. He shares personal experiences as wildfires threaten his home, sparking the question of mobility. The discussion highlights the accelerating impacts of climate change on migration patterns, particularly the displacement of vulnerable communities. Lustgarten warns of economic challenges and the urgent need for policymakers to address resource allocation and community resilience as urban areas brace for an influx of climate migrants.

In the wake of George Floyd's death, Minneapolis is grappling with profound calls for police reform. The city council is exploring the radical idea of dismantling the police department entirely. Activists and residents share their diverse perspectives on public safety, revealing a community deeply divided yet yearning for change. Political narratives intersect as national figures weigh in, complicating local discussions. The urgent need for a reimagined approach to safety is echoed by grassroots movements seeking to reshape policing in America.

Rukmini Callimachi, a New York Times correspondent known for her incisive reporting, shares insights from Louisville amidst the fallout of the Breonna Taylor case. She discusses the intense community reactions to the grand jury’s decisions, highlighting the emotional unrest that followed the announcement. Callimachi dives into the complexities of the legal landscape, touching on Kentucky's self-defense laws and the outrage stemming from inadequate charges against the officers involved. The podcast captures the city's struggles for justice against a backdrop of ongoing protests and rising tensions.

In this engaging discussion, Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of the Susan B. Anthony List, shares her insights on the seismic shifts in anti-abortion activism. She describes a newfound optimism within the movement, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships with political figures like President Trump. The conversation delves into the complexities of aligning moral beliefs with political realities, especially as the Supreme Court's dynamics shift. Dannenfelser also addresses the urgent implications of judicial appointments and grassroots unity for the future of abortion rights.

Nate Cohn, a domestic correspondent for The Upshot at The New York Times, dives deep into the political chaos following Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death. He discusses how swing state voters are shifting their allegiances, showing more trust in Biden for the Supreme Court vacancy. The conversation explores the tension between law and order and pandemic concerns affecting Trump's campaign. Voter sentiments on Ginsburg's legacy reveal nuanced attitudes toward major issues, painting a complex picture of the upcoming election.

Linda Greenhouse, a Supreme Court reporter for The New York Times, dives into the remarkable journey of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She recounts how Ginsburg, despite facing gender bias, transformed from an overlooked law graduate to a groundbreaking advocate for women's rights. Greenhouse highlights Ginsburg's unique strategies, her poignant dissents on key issues like pay discrimination, and her evolution into a cultural icon. Their discussion emphasizes Ginsburg's lasting legacy and the importance of her fight for gender equality.