The Daily

Julie Hirschfeld Davis, a Congressional editor for The New York Times, delves into the political turmoil following Justice Ginsburg's passing. The conversation uncovers President Trump's urgent push to fill the Supreme Court seat before the election, potentially tipping the balance towards conservatism. Davis explores the emotional reactions from voters, the implications for health care, and the surge in Democratic donations. The episode also highlights the historical changes in confirmation battles, revealing the current polarization in U.S. politics.

Explore the shadowy world of the Internet Research Agency, where employees relentlessly churn out propaganda from a St. Petersburg office. Hear gripping firsthand accounts of trolling tactics that shaped opinions on crucial issues like Russia and Ukraine. Discover the chaos wrought by disinformation, including a false alarm that sent shockwaves through society. Delve into the personal toll faced by those targeted by online smear campaigns and the psychological effects of relentless misinformation in today’s digital landscape.

Terry Tempest Williams, a renowned writer from Utah, shares her profound connection to the American West and its fleeting yet resilient landscapes. She recounts a harrowing family experience escaping a wildfire, intertwining themes of grief and connection to nature. Together with producer Bianca Giaever, they explore the emotional toll of environmental changes and craft a hopeful eulogy for the land that highlights nature’s remarkable ability to regenerate, shedding light on both loss and resilience amidst devastation.

Join Lisa Chow, an audio editor for The New York Times, as she speaks with Iolani Grullon, a dedicated dual-language kindergarten teacher from Washington Heights. They discuss the emotional turmoil surrounding the return to in-person schooling amidst rising COVID-19 cases. Iolani shares her anxiety about safety for her students and her vulnerable daughter, reflecting the uncertainties many families face. The conversation also uncovers the frustrations with unclear communication from school officials, revealing the broader challenges of navigating education during a pandemic.

In this discussion, Matina Stevis-Gridneff, a New York Times journalist and expert on the European refugee crisis, sheds light on the harrowing conditions faced by asylum seekers in Moria, Greece. She recounts how a devastating fire exacerbated an already dire situation for over 20,000 refugees. As frustrations boiled over due to squalid conditions and pandemic restrictions, tensions ignited chaos. Matina emphasizes the human stories behind the statistics, including the plight of families and children amidst this humanitarian crisis.

Natasha Singer, a technology reporter for The New York Times, speaks with Zoie Terry, a University of Alabama sophomore, about her tough experience in COVID-19 quarantine. They discuss the challenges college students faced, including inadequate supplies and isolation. Zoie shares her viral TikTok moments that highlight issues like disappointing meals and mental health struggles. Together, they examine the broader implications of reopening colleges during a pandemic, showcasing resilience amidst fear and uncertainty.

Jack Healy, a national correspondent for The New York Times, sheds light on the catastrophic Oregon wildfires, describing how dry conditions and climate change have created a 'deadly tinderbox.' He shares poignant stories from displaced residents facing loss and turmoil amidst the chaos. Misinformation complicates the crisis, with rumors about arsonists spreading anxiety. Healy emphasizes the resilience of communities and the long-term recovery challenges they face, making it clear that the effects of these wildfires will linger for years to come.

Christina Clusiau, a filmmaker known for her work on the documentary series "Immigration Nation," dives deep into the behind-the-scenes of ICE operations during the Trump administration. She discusses the rare access granted to them, revealing the emotional toll immigration policies had on both agents and communities. Clusiau highlights conflicts with the Trump administration regarding the film's release, and the ethical dilemmas faced by enforcement officers caught between duty and personal beliefs, making for a gripping exploration of immigration struggles.

Samantha M. Shapiro, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, sheds light on the often invisible lives of over 100,000 homeless schoolchildren in New York City. She shares the story of Prince, a bright 9-year-old navigating his education during the pandemic, and discusses the profound impact of housing instability on families. Through personal narratives, Shapiro reveals the emotional struggles of parents and children living in shelters, as well as the systemic barriers that hinder access to education and support during these challenging times.

Christopher Flavelle, a New York Times reporter specializing in the effects of global warming, discusses the devastating wildfires in California. He illuminates how climate change and urban development create a hazardous cycle, with rebuilding in fire zones leading to repeated destruction. The conversation delves into the role of insurance companies in managing risks and coverage challenges for homeowners in these vulnerable areas. Flavelle emphasizes the emotional pull to restore communities, often at the expense of implementing safer, more resilient building practices.